Buzz
Image Credit: MytourSilk pillowcases have gained immense popularity for several compelling reasons. Beyond their smooth and opulent texture, they offer numerous advantages for both hair and skin. As someone with naturally curly hair, I can attest that cotton pillowcases are far from ideal for maintaining curl integrity. Without fail, I wake up to frizzy, knotted, and often unruly hair—issues that silk pillowcases effectively mitigate.
Thanks to their inherent cooling properties, silk pillowcases help retain moisture near your skin instead of absorbing it. This makes them exceptional for minimizing bedhead and even shielding your skin from friction, which some experts believe can help diminish the appearance of fine lines.
Whether you’re drawn to their beauty-enhancing qualities or simply adore their lustrous appeal, we’ve rigorously evaluated 40 silk pillowcases to identify those with superior quality and breathability. Our curated list highlights the top contenders, and we’ve also sought the expertise of Kristopher M. Day, MD, FACS, a board-certified plastic surgeon and skincare specialist, to provide deeper insights into the benefits of silk pillowcases.
Top Choice Overall
Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase
IMAGE: SephoraOur hair felt noticeably softer and was easier to manage after use.
It demands additional care during washing and drying.
This silk pillowcase emerged as our top choice during testing for numerous reasons. Its soft, silky texture provided a cool and comfortable feel all night long. Testers with sensitive, acne-prone skin reported a significant decrease in breakouts and skin irritation after switching to the Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase.
It ensured our hair remained smooth and free of tangles, and although some frizz persisted, our hair became significantly easier to brush and manage. The only downside is that these pillowcases need a bit more attention during care, such as washing in a mesh bag (suggested but not mandatory) and air drying to preserve their softness.
Material: Mulberry silk | Fabric Weight: 22 | Sizes: Standard and king | Closure Type: Envelope | Colors: 7 | Care: Hand or machine wash (mesh wash bag recommended)
Mytour / Eric BrockobTop Affordable Pick
Ravmix 100% Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
IMAGE: AmazonIt remained cool all night long.
The fabric feels a bit rougher compared to other silk pillowcases.
While silk pillowcases can often be expensive, Ravmix offers an affordable option without compromising on quality. This pillowcase maintained a cool and comfortable feel throughout the night, making it ideal for those who tend to sleep hot.
Although the fabric has a slightly rough texture (reminiscent of linen), it remains softer and smoother than most non-silk pillowcases we’ve tested. It also effectively kept our hair smooth and manageable in the morning. While more expensive silk pillowcases may offer superior quality, this affordable option still delivers significant benefits. Additionally, it’s simple to wash and dry.
Material: Mulberry silk | Fabric Weight: 21 | Sizes: Standard, queen, and king | Closure Type: Zipper | Colors: 21 | Care: Machine wash
IMAGE: Mytour / Eric Brockob
IMAGE: Mytour / Eric BrockobTop Heavyweight Pick
Fishers Finery Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
IMAGE: AmazonIt’s soft, breathable, and gentle to the touch.
Ironing was necessary after washing to eliminate wrinkles.
With a higher fabric weight (25 momme), this silk pillowcase is heavier and ideal for colder climates, though it can be used throughout the year. Despite its weight, it remains silky, smooth, and breathable.
During testing, we never experienced overheating, and we consistently woke up with smooth skin and frizz-free hair. While hand-washing was simple and convenient, the pillowcase developed slight wrinkles afterward. While this may not bother everyone, those who prefer a wrinkle-free finish will need to iron or steam it.
Material: Mulberry silk | Fabric Weight: 25 | Sizes: Standard, queen, and king | Closure Type: Envelope | Colors: 15 | Care: Hand or machine wash with lukewarm water
IMAGE: Mytour / Eric Brockob
IMAGE: Mytour / Eric BrockobAdditional Silk Pillowcases We Recommend
Final Verdict
Our top choice is the Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase, praised for its luxurious feel and ability to remain cool all night. It significantly improved our skin and hair, reducing breakouts and leaving our hair smooth and free of tangles. For a budget-friendly alternative, we also recommend the Ravmix 100 Percent Pure Mulberry Slip Silk Pillowcase, which offered excellent breathability and a softer, smoother texture compared to most non-silk options.
Our Testing Process
We evaluated 40 silk pillowcases in both lab and home settings, focusing on quality, breathability, ease of maintenance, and comfort. We assessed changes in our hair and skin texture after use to determine any beauty benefits, as well as the overall sleeping experience.
We also adhered to the care instructions provided by manufacturers to evaluate how easy the silk pillowcases were to clean and how they appeared and felt post-wash and drying. Additionally, we considered the value to ensure the quality justified the price.
Mytour / Erica SnyderExpert Tips for Buying Silk Pillowcases
Silk Type
Most silk pillowcases are crafted from mulberry silk, produced by silkworms that consume mulberry leaves. While our recommendations focus on mulberry silk, silk can also be sourced from other silkworms, spiders, and mussels.
Momme
When shopping for silk pillowcases, you’ll encounter the term “momme,” which refers to the weight of the silk. Lower momme values indicate a lighter, finer fabric, while higher values signify a denser, heavier material.
“For optimal quality, I recommend choosing 100% mulberry silk pillowcases with a momme weight between 19 and 25,” advises Day. All the pillowcases on our list adhere to this standard.
Closure
Pillowcases feature various closure types, including drawstring and bag styles. During testing, zipper closures performed exceptionally well, securely holding pillows in place and preventing slippage during sleep. Envelope or frenchback closures also proved effective at keeping pillows stable.
While open-end pillowcases aren’t necessarily a deal-breaker, they tend to shift more than those with closures. However, we questioned whether a specific closure type is better for skin and hair. According to Day, “Envelope closures are ideal as they eliminate the need for zippers, which can be abrasive on hair and skin.”
Care Instructions
Silk pillowcases, like all bedding, require proper care to maintain their quality and longevity. While silk is more delicate than materials like cotton, many modern silk pillowcases are machine washable on delicate cycles, making maintenance easier.
Some silk pillowcases can even be tumble-dried on low heat. However, it’s essential to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure proper washing and drying. We’ve included the care instructions for each pillowcase we tested.
Mytour / Erica SnyderCommon Questions
What Are the Benefits of Silk Pillowcases?
As previously noted, silk pillowcases are celebrated for their ability to reduce bedhead and keep hair, especially curls, free of frizz. They also offer numerous benefits for the skin.
“As a plastic surgeon, I prioritize skin health and rejuvenation,” Day explains. “Silk pillowcases reduce friction, which can help prevent sleep-induced wrinkles and hair damage. Their smooth surface also helps retain skin moisture, as they don’t absorb as much as cotton.”
What Is the Difference Between Silk and Satin?
Silk and satin are often confused due to their similar feel, but they are fundamentally different. Satin refers to a weaving technique, while mulberry silk is a natural fiber.
While satin pillowcases may feel like silk, they typically don’t offer the same hair and skin benefits. Silk is also hypoallergenic and resistant to odors when cared for properly, so it’s important to distinguish between the two when shopping.
How Often Should You Replace a Silk Pillowcase?
Day advises replacing silk pillowcases every one to two years. “This ensures they continue to provide a smooth, non-irritating surface for both skin and hair,” he explains.
However, a high-quality silk pillowcase that is well-maintained can last for several years. Pillowcases with a higher momme count are generally more durable and long-lasting.
Trust Our Expertise
This article was authored by Ashley Zlatopolsky, a bedding and bath expert for Mytour and a Certified Sleep Science Coach. To identify the best silk pillowcases, we assessed factors such as material, breathability, fabric weight, and more. For expert insights, Ashley consulted Kristopher M. Day, MD, FACS, a board-certified plastic surgeon.
