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More and more people are swapping out their regular cotton pillowcase for a silk one. But while sleeping on silk is great for your hair, skin and sleep, not all silk pillowcases are created equal. Here are 6 things you should consider when buying a silk pillowcase to ensure the highest quality and the best results.
Momme
While other bedding uses thread count to determine its quality, silk threads are so fine, so this method is not suitable. Instead, silk is measured in momme, which measures the density of silk. One momme equates to about 4.3 grams per square meter. Silk with a higher momme weight are better quality, thicker, can be washed repeatedly and will last longer. Our silk pillowcases at Shhh Silk are 22 momme, making them high quality and durable.
Silk Cotton Blend
Some fabrics are a blend of both silk and cotton fibres. While this can significantly reduce the price, it also reduces the quality of the silk and the benefits that come with it. Silk cotton blend pillowcases are not hypoallergenic, can be irritating on skin and rough on hair.
Mulberry Silk
Mulberry silk has been around for thousands of years and is the finest, strongest and softest silk you can obtain. Other silk fibres and methods of weaving vary in colour and texture and are not nearly as high quality as Mulberry Silk.
Finish
Some brands use silk with a lower momme weights and then apply an artificial finish to make is soft. However, when these kinds of pillowcases are washed, the finish is removed, and the pillowcase loses it’s apparent quality. You can usually tell if a pillowcase has been coated in this finish if the silk feels stiff.
Satin
Satin is a synthetic material that usually mimics silk with its glossy finish. However, satin is not as soft, less breathable and isn’t temperature regulating like silk is.
Price
Long-time lovers of sleeping on silk know that a silk pillowcase is an investment worth every penny. But for first time buyers it may be tempting to choose the cheaper option. However, you get what you pay for. So, while a pillowcase may be significantly cheaper than others, it’s probably poor quality and you won’t enjoy the benefits of silk. You’d be better off waiting a little longer to save for a better-quality pillowcase, instead of wasting your money of a poor-quality silk pillowcase that is no better than cotton.
Author: Brittany Nash