How to Choose the Best Silk Pillowcases

June 28, 2023

Silk pillowcases are a luxurious addition to any bedroom, offering a soft and smooth surface for a comfortable night’s sleep. When paired with silk bed sheets, they create a cohesive sleep environment that feels indulgent yet practical, offering consistent comfort throughout the night.

Beyond their luxurious touch, silk pillowcases are valued for their gentle interaction with the skin and hair, helping to reduce friction during sleep. This makes them a popular choice for those seeking a refined bedding upgrade that balances comfort with everyday benefits. To choose the right silk pillowcase, it is important to understand the key factors that influence quality, durability, and overall sleep experience.

Here are some factors to consider to help you choose the best silk pillowcases.

How do you pick a good silk pillowcase?

There are so many factors to consider when trying to choose the best silk pillowcase – fabric, quality, closure, size, colour, oh my!  But no need to get overwhelmed… Robinsons is here to make the decision-making process so much easier.

First, is it worth buying a silk pillowcase?

Absolutely!  Silk pillowcases are not only soft and luxe but have a host of other benefits that make them worth their price tag. Silk is super-smooth, so it allows your face and hair to glide across the pillow. With less friction, you’ll develop fewer fine lines and wrinkles (a magic anti-aging elixir!) and reduce hair frizz and breakage.
Silk is also hypoallergenic, naturally temperature regulating and, of course, incredibly luxurious, making our Hotel Silks Pillowcase Twin Pack a perfect choice for hair care and sensitive skin.

Which silk pillowcases are best?

Look for a pillowcase made from 100% pure mulberry silk.  Mulberry Silk is the highest quality silk available. Silk quality is graded A, B or C, with (yep, you guessed it) Grade A being the best.  And the best of the best, the A+ of silk if you will, is Grade 6A, the highest and finest quality, and the quality we use here at Robinson’s.

What is Momme count and why is it important?

Momme count describes the silk weight and density used. The higher the momme weight, the heavier and denser the silk weave will be. At Robinsons we use 16 momme. This is a super soft, luxurious and affordable option.  Being a delicate silk fabric, we always advise washing these items in a delicates wash bag to protect them during the wash cycle.

Things to Consider When Buying a Silk Pillowcase

Silk pillowcases are often chosen for their smooth texture and luxurious feel, but not all options offer the same benefits. Understanding a few key factors can help you select a silk pillowcase that suits your sleep habits, skin needs, and long-term comfort expectations.

 

1. Type of Silk Used

Not all silk is created equal. Mulberry silk is widely regarded as the highest quality due to its long fibres, smooth finish, and durability. Lower-grade silks may feel less smooth and wear out more quickly over time.

2. Momme Weight (Fabric Density)

Momme (mm) indicates the weight and density of the silk. A higher momme count generally means a thicker, more durable pillowcase. For everyday use, a momme range of 19–25 offers a good balance of softness, longevity, and comfort.

3. Breathability and Temperature Regulation

A good silk pillowcase should feel cool to the touch and allow airflow throughout the night. This helps regulate sleep temperature and reduces heat build-up, making silk a suitable option for warm or humid environments.

4. Smoothness and Weave Quality

High-quality silk has a smooth, tightly woven surface that reduces friction against the skin and hair. Poor weaving can lead to snagging, uneven texture, and faster wear.

5. Skin and Hair Sensitivity

Silk is naturally gentle on the skin and hair, helping reduce irritation, sleep creases, and hair friction. This makes it a popular choice for individuals with sensitive skin or those seeking a softer sleep surface.

6. Care and Maintenance Requirements

Silk pillowcases typically require gentle washing and careful handling. Checking care instructions before purchase ensures the pillowcase fits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.

7. Fit and Closure Design

Ensure the pillowcase fits your pillow properly. Features such as envelope closures or hidden zips help keep the pillow securely in place while maintaining a neat appearance.

By considering fabric quality, durability, comfort, and care needs, it becomes easier to choose a silk pillowcase that enhances sleep comfort while maintaining its look and feel over time.

What is the best type of silk pillowcase?

One of the most common complaints we hear about silk pillowcases is that they are slippery little suckers.  But never fear!  Our pillowcases are cleverly crafted with a 100% cotton percale reverse so the pillowcase doesn't slip around on (or off!) the bed.

This factor also makes our Hotel Silks range a more affordable option for those wanting to try silk pillowcases for the first time, without the much higher price tag of 100% silk front and back.

Why an envelope closure is best

Our pillowcases are made with an envelope closure to conceal your pillow and keep the pillowcase in place for a comfortable night's sleep. By considering these factors, you can choose the best silk pillowcase to help you enjoy a comfortable and rejuvenating sleep. 

Whether you’re looking to protect your hair and skin, improve your sleep quality, or add a touch of luxury to your bed, a high-quality silk pillowcase is a great investment in an even better night’s sleep.

Conclusion

Choosing the right silk pillowcase comes down to understanding quality, comfort, and practicality. From silk type and momme weight to closure design and care requirements, these details play an important role in how well a pillowcase performs over time.

When thoughtfully selected, a silk pillowcase can elevate your sleep experience—offering a smoother surface for skin and hair, better temperature comfort, and a refined finishing touch to your bedding. Paired with silk bed sheets, TENCEL™ fabrics, or other cooling bed sheets, it is a small upgrade that can make a noticeable difference to how you rest each night.

By focusing on the features that matter most to you, it becomes easier to enjoy both the comfort and lasting value of silk bedding.

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