"Silk" on a label can mean several different things. Two pillowcases can both be called silk and feel nothing alike. Knowing three terms, mulberry, grade and momme, is enough to buy well.
The short answer: mulberry silk comes from silkworms raised on mulberry leaves. Its fibers are longer, finer and more even than other silks, which is why it is the smoothest and the standard for bedding.
What makes silk "mulberry"
Mulberry silk is produced by one species of silkworm, raised indoors and fed only mulberry leaves. That controlled diet gives a filament that is naturally pale, round and remarkably uniform. Each cocoon is a single continuous thread, which can be unwound in one piece. You can follow the whole journey in how mulberry silk is made.
What "standard" silk usually means
There is no official "standard silk". When a label says only "silk", it is usually one of these:
- Wild silk, such as tussah. The silkworms live outdoors and eat different leaves. The fiber is shorter, coarser and naturally beige, with a textured, matte look. Beautiful for clothing, less smooth on a pillow.
- Spun silk. Made from short or broken fibers twisted together, a little like cotton yarn. Softer sheen, more prone to pilling.
- Blends. Silk mixed with polyester or other fibers. Check the percentage.
Side by side
| Mulberry silk | Wild or spun silk | |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre | Long, continuous, even | Shorter, less regular |
| Surface | Very smooth | More texture |
| Color | Naturally white, dyes evenly | Naturally beige or golden |
| Sheen | Soft, pearl-like | Matte |
| Best for | Pillowcases, bedding, sleep masks | Jackets, upholstery, textured fabrics |
The two numbers worth reading
Grade
Raw silk is graded on a scale from A to 6A according to the length and evenness of the fiber. 6A is the top of the scale: the longest, cleanest filaments. Long fibers mean a smoother fabric that holds up better over time.
Momme
Momme is the weight of the silk. The higher the number, the more silk is woven into the same area. Bedding usually sits between 19 and 25 momme. 19 is light and fluid; 22 is fuller; 25 is the heaviest. All are good silk. The choice is about feel.
A quick buying checklist
- 100% mulberry silk, stated plainly
- Grade 6A long fiber
- A momme weight between 19 and 25
- Silk on both sides, not only the top
- Tested for harmful substances, for example OEKO-TEX® Standard 100
Questions people ask
Is mulberry silk real silk?
Yes. It is the most widely produced silk in the world and the finest for anything worn against the skin.
Is higher momme always better?
Not always. Heavier silk feels more substantial and lasts longer; lighter silk is airier. If you sleep warm, 19 momme can be the better choice.
Every KINT piece is 100% Grade 6A mulberry silk. Browse our silk pillowcases, or compare silk and satin pillowcases.
