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Key takeaways
- Momme is a measure of silk fabric weight. Around 19 momme is entry level, 22 is the common premium standard, and 25 or more is heavier and more durable.
- Look for 100% mulberry silk. "Satin" is a weave, not a fiber, and many satin pillowcases are polyester.
- "Grade 6A" is a seller grading term for raw silk quality, not a regulated standard. Treat it as a claim, not a guarantee.
- A hidden zipper keeps the pillow in place better than an envelope closure, but envelope closures have no hardware to snag.
- Silk lasts longest with gentle washing: cool water, a silk-safe detergent, no bleach or softener, and air drying.
Why people buy silk pillowcases
Silk has a smooth, cool-to-the-touch feel that many people like against their face. It's also a natural protein fiber that's lightweight and breathable. Some people prefer silk because it feels less rough than cotton when they move around at night, and some simply like the way it looks on a made bed.
You'll see a lot of beauty claims attached to silk pillowcases online. We don't make those here. We're a bedding site, not a dermatology site, and the evidence behind many of those claims is thin. If you're buying silk for a specific skin or hair concern, ask a dermatologist. If you're buying it because it feels good, you'll find plenty to like, and that's what this guide is about.
We haven't lab-tested these pillowcases. Our picks are well-known, widely sold silk pillowcases chosen based on the materials and construction their makers list. Specs change, so check the current listing before you buy.
What to look for on the label
Momme weight
Momme (abbreviated "mm") is the traditional unit for silk fabric weight. Higher momme means more silk per square yard, which generally means a denser, more opaque, more durable fabric.
| Momme | What it feels like | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 16–19 | Light, thin, can be slightly sheer in pale colors | Trying silk on a budget, travel |
| 22 | Smooth and substantial, the common premium standard | Most buyers |
| 25 | Heavier, more opaque, very smooth | Buyers who want durability |
| 30 | Heavy and luxurious | Splurge gifts |
Heavier isn't always better for everyone. Some people prefer the lighter, cooler feel of 19 momme. But for durability through regular washing, 22 momme or higher is the safer pick.
Mulberry silk
Mulberry silk comes from silkworms raised on mulberry leaves, and it's the most common silk used in bedding. It's known for long, even fibers that make a smooth fabric. Most good silk pillowcases list "100% mulberry silk." If a listing just says "silky," "satin" or "silk feel," it's probably not silk at all.
"Grade 6A"
Many listings claim "Grade 6A" silk. It's a grading term sellers use to describe raw silk quality, and 6A is presented as the top grade. There's no single regulated standard behind it, so treat it as a seller's claim. Momme weight, fiber content and certifications are more useful to compare.
Certifications
Some silk pillowcases carry OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, which means the finished textile was tested for certain harmful substances. It's a useful signal, and it's easy to verify on the OEKO-TEX website using the certificate number in the listing.
Closure
- Hidden zipper: Keeps the pillow snug and the case from sliding off. The zipper can snag if it isn't well covered.
- Envelope: No hardware to snag or break, and easy to wash. The pillow can work loose if you move a lot.
Size
Measure your pillow. Standard, queen and king pillowcases differ in length. A case that's too big wrinkles and bunches, which defeats the point of a smooth surface. Silk can shrink slightly if washed warm, so don't count on it shrinking to fit.
Quick picks
| Pick | Tier | Momme (per maker) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase | $$$ | 22 | Brand-name gift |
| Blissy Pillowcase | $$–$$$ | 22 | Gift sets and many colors |
| Fishers Finery 25mm | $$ | 25 | Heavier silk for the money |
| ZIMASILK | $–$$ | Several weights | Choosing your own momme |
| LilySilk | $–$$ | Several weights | Wide range of colors and closures |
| Alaska Bear | $ | 19 | Trying silk for the first time |
| Kitsch Satin Pillowcase | $ | Not silk | The polyester satin alternative |
The best silk pillowcases
Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase
$$$Slip is one of the best-known silk pillowcase brands and lists its pillowcases as 22 momme mulberry silk. It's often the one people ask for by name, which makes it an easy gift. You're paying partly for the brand.
Why we like it
- Recognizable gift brand
- 22 momme mulberry silk per the maker
- Many colors and sizes
Keep in mind
- Premium price tier
- Similar specs are available for less
Blissy Pillowcase
$$–$$$Blissy lists its pillowcases as 100% mulberry silk at 22 momme with a hidden zipper. It's widely sold, often bundled in gift boxes, and comes in a large range of colors and patterns.
Why we like it
- 22 momme per the maker
- Hidden zipper
- Gift-ready packaging
Keep in mind
- Frequent "sale" pricing makes the real price hard to judge
- Patterned versions cost more
Fishers Finery 25mm
$$Fishers Finery markets its pillowcase on weight, listing 25 momme mulberry silk. If durability matters to you more than brand name, a heavier momme at a mid tier is a smart way to spend.
Why we like it
- 25 momme per the maker
- Heavier, more opaque fabric
- Mid price tier
Keep in mind
- Fewer colors than bigger brands
- Heavier silk can feel slightly warmer
ZIMASILK Pillowcase
$–$$ZIMASILK sells mulberry silk pillowcases in several momme weights, so you can pick lighter or heavier silk at different price points. A good way to try 22 momme without paying a luxury-brand premium.
Why we like it
- Multiple momme weights
- Many sizes and colors
- Lower tier than big brands
Keep in mind
- Less gift-box polish
- Check which momme the specific listing uses
LilySilk Pillowcase
$–$$LilySilk is a long-running silk bedding and apparel brand selling pillowcases in several momme weights with both zipper and envelope closures. Useful if you want to match a pillowcase to silk sheets or an eye mask.
Why we like it
- Several weights and closures
- Large color range
- Matching silk bedding available
Keep in mind
- Many variants to sort through
- Shipping times vary by region
Alaska Bear Silk Pillowcase
$A popular budget silk option listed as 19 momme mulberry silk. Lighter weight means a lower price, and it's a low-risk way to find out whether you like sleeping on silk before spending more.
Why we like it
- Low price tier for real silk
- Light and cool feel
- Hidden zipper on many versions
Keep in mind
- Lighter silk wears faster
- Pale colors can look slightly sheer
Kitsch Satin Pillowcase
$Kitsch sells polyester satin pillowcases that give you a smooth, slippery surface for much less, and they're machine washable. It isn't silk, and it doesn't breathe the same way, but it's an honest budget alternative if you want a smooth feel and easy care. We cover the difference in silk vs satin pillowcases.
Why we like it
- Very low price tier
- Easy machine washing
- Many colors
Keep in mind
- Polyester, not silk
- Can feel warmer than silk
How to choose
- Decide silk or satin first. If you want a natural fiber and the feel of real silk, buy mulberry silk. If you want a smooth surface that tolerates rough laundry, satin is fine. Our silk vs satin comparison walks through it.
- Pick your momme. 22 is the safe default. Go 19 to save money or test the waters. Go 25 or more for durability.
- Match the size to your pillow. Measure. Don't guess.
- Choose a closure. Zipper for a snug fit, envelope for simplicity.
- Check the care instructions. If you won't hand-wash or use a delicate cycle, buy two and rotate them so each lasts longer, or consider satin.
How to care for silk pillowcases
Silk rewards gentle handling. Always follow the care label first. General guidance from silk makers looks like this:
- Wash cool and gentle. Hand wash, or use a delicate cycle inside a mesh laundry bag.
- Use a silk-safe detergent. Many makers recommend a pH-neutral or silk-specific detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softener.
- Don't wring. Press water out with a towel instead.
- Air dry out of direct sunlight. Sun can fade color and weaken fibers over time. Most makers advise against the dryer.
- Iron low, inside out, only if the label allows it.
- Rotate two cases so neither gets washed every few days.
Mistakes to avoid
- Buying "silky" or "satin" thinking it's silk. Check the fiber content, not the adjective.
- Chasing the highest momme blindly. Heavy silk can feel warmer. The best momme is the one you'll enjoy sleeping on.
- Washing silk with towels and jeans. Zippers, buttons and rough fabric cause snags and pilling.
- Using regular detergent and hot water. Harsh detergents and heat are the fastest way to dull silk.
- Trusting "6A" as proof of quality. It's a claim. Momme, fiber content and certifications tell you more.
Silk pillowcases as gifts
Silk pillowcases are a popular holiday gift because they don't depend on firmness or sleep position, and most people don't buy them for themselves. Gift boxes are common around Black Friday. Know the pillow size, pick a neutral color if you're unsure, and include a gift receipt. More ideas in our best sleep gifts guide.
Frequently asked questions
What momme is best for a silk pillowcase?
22 momme is the common premium standard and a good default. 19 momme is lighter and cheaper but wears faster. 25 momme and above is heavier and more durable.
Is mulberry silk better than other silk?
Mulberry silk is the most common silk in bedding and is known for long, even fibers that produce a smooth fabric. Most quality silk pillowcases use it.
What does Grade 6A silk mean?
It's a grading term sellers use for raw silk quality, with 6A presented as the top grade. There's no single regulated standard behind it, so compare momme weight and fiber content too.
Can you put a silk pillowcase in the washing machine?
Many makers allow a cool delicate cycle inside a mesh bag with a silk-safe detergent. Always check the care label, and air dry rather than using the dryer.
Are silk pillowcases good for hair and skin?
Some people prefer silk for how it feels, but we don't make hair or skin health claims. If you have a specific concern, ask a dermatologist.
Is a satin pillowcase the same as silk?
No. Satin is a weave, and many satin pillowcases are polyester. Silk is a natural fiber. See our silk vs satin comparison for the differences.