Go Straight to Cloud Nine with the Best Silk Bed Sheets

There is a wide range of silk fabrics available with varying characteristics and quality. The non-abrasive, skin-friendly nature of silk as well as its durability makes it a great investment.

To determine the quality of genuine silk, momme weight is a measurement that determines the weight, and thereby value, of items like silk and pearls. Silk is measured 100 yards long and 45 inches wide. It is then weighed in pounds to determine the momme weight. If the fabric has a weight of 16 pounds, for example, the momme weight is 16. Genuine silk should have this figure stated on the product label. Silk bedding should ideally have a momme weight higher than 14.

Charmeuse silk generally has a momme weight between 12 and 30. It is one of the most commonly used silk types, especially for clothing, scarves, and bedding. It has a natural elasticity with a satin sheen on the front side and a muted appearance on the back. Silkworms used in producing charmeuse are specifically farmed for silk production.

On the other hand, habotai silk has a momme weight between five and 15 and is the cheaper version of charmeuse. Also a popular choice for bedding, a sand washing process gives it the same softness as charmeuse but decreases longevity as it reduces the fiber quality.

Other types of silk are mulberry, tussah, and dupioni silk. The silkworms producing mulberry silk are carefully bred and given a specific mulberry leaf diet. They produce some of the highest quality silk. Tussah silk, on the other hand, is made by wild silkworms with no specific diet. The silk is not quite as soft or durable as other types.

Although satin is not genuine silk, it is designed to mimic the qualities and appearance of silk. It is made from polyester with a smooth and shiny finish, is durable, non-abrasive, and breathable, yet is much more affordable. Like silk bed sheets, satin is suitable for year-round use and doesn’t have to be swapped out with different bedding for summer or winter.

Traditional types of bedding are not as breathable and trap air causing body temperature to build up during the night. The structure of silk, however, allows a small amount of air through to naturally provide even temperature regulation. It is breathable, allowing moisture to escape. This wicking effect allows consistent temperature maintenance, which means less chance of night sweats and uncomfortably hot sleeping conditions.

When it’s cold, the natural heat retention properties of silk are enough to keep you warm, without the itch of wool fabric.

When choosing the color of your silk bed sheets remember that colors in your bedroom can affect your mood and sleep. Blue and green are popular colors promoting calm and relaxation. Although you want to choose colors you love that complement your bedroom décor; purple, brown, and gray are said to be best kept to smaller accents and accessories if enhancing sleep is your ultimate goal.

No one likes spending hours doing laundry, especially when it comes to large items such as bedding. You do however want to make sure you give your silk bed sheets the best care possible to ensure they last. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions to avoid damage.

Silk naturally repels dust, oil, allergens, and dirt, making it easy to clean. Handwashing is the most delicate way of handling fabrics but most silk, and especially satin, can be machine washed in cold water on a gentle cycle. Never use warm water to wash satin or silk bed sheets.

Silk should always be air dried, whereas satin, silk's more affordable look-alike, can usually be tumble dried on a low heat setting.

Regardless of whether you choose genuine silk or satin, never bleach the fabric or use other harsh chemicals as it will damage the sheets and reduce its lifespan. In addition, you want to try and avoid ironing silk. If you really need to iron silk fabric, a light steam is best, or use the cool setting on the iron and only apply it on the fabric inside as opposed to the sheen side. Satin is wrinkle-resistant.

Silk Bed Sheet FAQ

Q: Why are silk sheets better for your skin?

A: Silk repels oils and allergens and does not absorb moisture like cotton. This helps your skin stay hydrated and is especially good for people who live in very dry climates or who have dry skin.

Q: How often should silk bedding be washed?

A: Silk bedding should ideally be washed at least every seven to ten days. If you have satin sheets, they can be machine washed on a gentle cycle in cold water.

Q: Can I use silk sheets in summer and winter?

A: Yes, the great thing about silk is that it is suitable for all seasons and very versatile. The sheets are breathable yet offer the right amount of insulation. If you live in an extremely cold climate you can keep the silk sheets and just swap out a duvet during colder months.