Silk bedding has a reputation for luxury, and it’s easy to see why. It feels smooth and cool, it drapes beautifully and it looks lovely on a made bed. But silk is also expensive and needs gentle care, so it helps to know what you’re buying. This guide covers the terms you’ll see on labels and how to look after silk once it’s home.
What silk is
Silk is a natural protein fiber spun by silkworms to make their cocoons. The cocoons are softened, and the long fine threads are unwound and woven into fabric. Because each filament is very long and smooth, silk fabric has a natural sheen and a slippery feel that cotton doesn’t have.
Mulberry silk
Most silk bedding is made from mulberry silk. It comes from silkworms that are raised on a diet of mulberry leaves, which produces long, even, pale fibers. That’s why mulberry silk is the standard for sheets and pillowcases. If a listing just says “silk” with no detail, check the fiber content carefully.
Momme: the silk version of fabric weight
Silk isn’t measured by thread count. Instead, you’ll see momme (pronounced “mommy”), a Japanese unit that describes the weight of the fabric. A higher momme means a heavier, denser silk that usually feels more substantial and lasts longer. Pillowcases and sheets are commonly sold in the high teens to mid twenties. Lighter silk can feel lovely but may wear through faster.
If you’re curious why thread count isn’t the whole story for cotton either, read our guide to thread count.
Silk vs satin
This is the most common mix-up. Silk is a fiber. Satin is a weave, a way of interlacing threads so one side is shiny and smooth. Satin can be woven from silk, but it’s often made from polyester or other synthetics. Silk woven in a satin weave is usually called silk charmeuse.
So a “satin pillowcase” is not necessarily silk. Polyester satin can look similar, costs much less and is easy to wash, but it doesn’t breathe like silk and can feel warmer. Our post on satin sheets covers satin in more detail.
Why people like silk pillowcases
The pillowcase is where most people start with silk, because it’s affordable compared with a full sheet set and you feel the difference right away. People often choose silk pillowcases because:
- The smooth surface creates less friction, so hair may tangle less overnight.
- It feels cool and soft against the face.
- It makes an easy, nice-looking gift.
Silk isn’t a medical product, and results vary from person to person. Choose it because you enjoy how it feels.
What to check before you buy
- Fiber content: Look for 100% mulberry silk if you want real silk. Be wary of very low prices for “silk” sheets, which are often satin-weave polyester.
- Momme: A listed momme weight is a good sign the seller knows their product.
- Closure: Pillowcases with an envelope or hidden zipper stay on better.
- Care label: Some silk is machine washable on a delicate cycle; some is hand-wash only.
- Size: Silk sheets are slippery, so a fitted sheet with a good deep pocket matters. See our bedding sizes guide.
How to wash silk bedding
Gentle care keeps silk smooth and shiny:
- Follow the care label first.
- Wash cool, by hand or on a delicate cycle inside a mesh laundry bag.
- Use a mild detergent made for delicates or silk. Skip bleach and regular fabric softener.
- Don’t wring. Press out water gently, or roll the item in a towel.
- Air dry away from direct sun, which can fade and weaken silk. Avoid the dryer unless the label allows it.
- Iron on a low silk setting, on the reverse side, if needed.
For broader bedding care, see how to make your bedding last longer.
Silk or Egyptian cotton?
If you love smooth sheets but want something easier to wash, long-staple cotton is a good alternative. It’s durable, breathable and handles regular hot washes much better than silk. Read our guide to Egyptian cotton bedding to compare.
FAQ
Is silk bedding hot or cool?
Silk usually feels cool to the touch and breathes well, so many people find it comfortable year-round.
How long do silk sheets last?
It depends on the momme weight, how often you use them and how gently you wash them. Heavier silk washed with care lasts longest.
Can I put silk in the washing machine?
Only if the care label allows it. Use a cold, delicate cycle, a mesh bag and a silk-safe detergent.
Is satin as good as silk?
They’re different. Polyester satin is cheaper and easy to care for, while silk breathes better and is a natural fiber.