How to Choose the Best Silk Pillowcase? A 7-Point Guide

The answer to the question "Which is the best silk pillowcase?" lies not so much in the brand as in a few measurable features. Silk pillowcases may look similar on the outside, but the type, weight, stitching, and size of the fabric determine how long the pillowcase will last and how much benefit it will provide to your hair and skin. In this guide, we explain seven things you should check before buying, in order.

1. Is it really silk?

This is the first and most important check. The label should say "100% silk" or "100% mulberry silk". Products labeled "satin," "silky," "silky-soft," or "silk-look" are usually polyester; they may look shiny, but they do not offer the breathability, moisture-wicking, and anti-static properties of silk. We explained the difference in detail in our Silk or satin? article.

2. Mulberry silk?

Almost all high-quality silk pillowcases are made from mulberry silk. Mulberry silk fibers are long and uniform, which means a smoother surface, less pilling, and a longer lifespan. You can find out why this is important in our What is a mulberry silk pillowcase? article.

3. Momme count

Momme indicates the weight and density of silk fabric. It is impossible to assess the quality of a silk pillowcase that does not state its momme count.

• 16–19 momme: Thinner and cheaper; it wears out faster with frequent washing.
• 22 momme: Fuller and more durable, it withstands washing better; it retains its softness and shine. It is a good balance for a pillowcase used daily.

For more about momme, you can check out our What is momme? article.

4. Yarn quality and weight

Mulberry silk is also classified into grades; 6A is the highest grade, made from the longest and most uniform fibers. The easiest way to check the fabric quality at home is to weigh it: the heavier of two pillowcases with the same size and momme count contains more silk. For example, a 52 × 72 cm, 22 momme pillowcase weighs around 80–85 g.

5. Envelope or zippered?

• Envelope: There is no zipper, and the pillow fits into a pocket. It is easier to put on bulky pillows; there is no risk of the zipper face scratching or getting stuck.
• Zippered: It fully wraps around the pillow and does not slip during the night. Make sure the zipper is sewn into the edge of the pillowcase.

6. The right size

If the pillowcase is much larger than your pillow, it will wrinkle and slip; if it is too small, the seams will be strained. The most common pillow size in Turkey is 50 × 70 cm; a 52 × 72 cm pillowcase fits these pillows easily and is also suitable for bulky pillows. For different sizes, you can check our pillowcase sizes guide.

7. Documentation, care, and returns

• Documentation: The seller should be able to provide a laboratory report showing that the fabric is silk.
• Care: A silk pillowcase can last for years if washed correctly. Washing instructions should be provided with the product. For details, you can check our how to wash silk guide.
• Returns: You should be able to return it if it is not the quality you expected.

Quick checklist

1. Does the label say "100% mulberry silk"?
2. Is the momme count stated? (22 momme for daily use)
3. Is the yarn quality 6A?
4. Is the weight appropriate for the size?
5. Is the stitching type suitable for your pillow?
6. Does the size fit your pillow?
7. Is there a laboratory report and return option?

İpekshop silk pillowcases

İpekshop has worked exclusively with silk products since 2011. Our silk pillowcases meet every item on this list: 100% mulberry silk, 6A yarn quality, 22 momme fabric, and 80–85 g at a size of 52 × 72 cm. They are offered in two models, envelope and zippered, with a wide range of colors. The fact that the fabric is real silk is documented with an SGS laboratory analysis report.

Browse silk pillowcases →

Frequently asked questions

What momme should the best silk pillowcase be?

22 momme is a good choice for daily use: it is more durable than thinner fabrics, yet still lightweight and soft.

How long does a silk pillowcase last?

A high-quality, 22 momme mulberry silk pillowcase can last for years when washed with silk-appropriate detergent and on the correct cycle.

Can a silk pillowcase be used every day?

Yes. A silk pillowcase is designed for daily use; washing it once a week is enough.