A popular way of cooking over a heat source in the early 20th century was to use an asbestos mat. A 1927 article discusses how asbestos could be a "real asset in the home." This included using the asbestos mat because when it was placed on the stove, it would not burn due to asbestos being fireproof. The use of asbestos mats was even extended to table covers that were embroidered and decorated. Asbestos was so popular because of its "resistance to chemicals, heat, water and electricity." These properties made it ideal for use with ovens as well as other industrial products.