Silk versus 'Silky Satin'

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When looking at buying silk bedding, it can be confusing to know what the difference is between silk bedding and ‘silky satin’ bedding, and why they differ so much in price.

They have distinct differences in terms of material, texture, durability, and care, and understanding these will have you to make an informed choice on your purchase.

Material

Silk is a natural fibre produced by silkworms.

It’s known for its softness, strength, and natural sheen.

Silk bedding is associated with luxury as well as skin and hair care.

People also value it for it’s hypoallergenic properties.

Confusingly, ‘Silky Satin’ is not a fibre but a type of weave.

Satin can be made from various materials, including polyester, nylon, or a blend.

While it mimics the glossy appearance of silk, it is usually synthetic and cheaper.

Texture & Feel

Silk bedding has a smooth texture that feels very soft against the skin.

It is breathable and helps regulate body temperature, helping you to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

‘Silky Satin’ bedding can offer a smooth texture and glossy finish on one side of the fabric, but feels quite slippery and snaggy.

Due to it being a synthetic fibre, it is also not as breathable as silk.

Durability

Silk is a delicate material that requires careful handling.

We always recommend hand-washing our silk bedding, but it can also be machine washed at 30 degrees celsius or lower on a delicate cycle.

Our silk bedding is 25 momme where "momme" is the unit of measurement used for the weight of the silk.

This means that it will have an increased strength and durability compared to lower momme silks - but don’t worry, it won’t feel too heavy in the night.

‘Silky Satin’ can be durable, but again, it is prone to snagging and can wear quite quickly.

However, it is easier to take care of, and is seen and the lower maintenance option.

Price

The quality difference between silk bedding and ‘Silky Satin’ bedding is therefore always going to be reflected on it’s price.

Silk bedding is expensive, and the higher the momme of bedding you get, the higher the cost.

‘Silky Satin’ is the cheaper option, but is by no means at the standard of silk.

At that point, I’d say you’d be better to have a cotton versus silk discussion, as ‘Silky Satin’ doesn't seem like a worth while contender.

Which Is Better, Silk Or Satin?

Silk and satin may look similar at first, but they are very different materials.

Silk is a natural fibre, while satin refers to a type of weave that is often made from synthetic materials such as polyester.

Because silk is natural, it is more breathable, smoother, and gentler on skin and hair.

Satin can imitate the shine of silk, but it does not have the same softness or temperature regulating properties.

Silk bedding is usually chosen by those looking for comfort, durability, and long-term quality, while satin is often chosen as a lower-cost alternative.

For those who want the feel of real luxury and the practical benefits for skin and hair, mulberry silk is generally considered the better option.