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  3. 8 Best Silk Pillowcases UK 2023 | Interior Designer Reviewed
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8 Best Silk Pillowcases UK 2023 | Interior Designer Reviewed

Silk pillowcases are fast becoming the go-to for acne prone skin, promoting a healthy complexion, and preventing frizz and damage for curly hair types, all due to their antibacterial, friction-reducing, and moisture-retaining properties. You don’t have to be royal to reap the rewards of silk with so many affordable options online, but you may be wondering where to begin when choosing. 

In this guide we’ll examine the benefits of mulberry silk, the optimum mommes and other deciding factors, as well as divulging our top picks from John Lewis and Amazon. Beauty sleep guaranteed! Moreover, we partnered with interior designer Belen Dakak to review and fact-check the article to deliver the best information.

Last updated 20/07/2023
Belen Dakak
Expert
Interior Designer
Belen Dakak

Belen is an interior designer (residential and retail design), having worked for top retail brands including Estee Lauder, Seasalt and John Lewis, as well as working with private clients on residential projects and RoomLab, an online interior design platform.

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Fact-Checked & Approved by Interior Designer Belen Dakak

Fact-Checked & Approved by Interior Designer Belen Dakak

Belen is an interior designer (residential and retail design), having worked for top retail brands including Estee Lauder, Seasalt and John Lewis, as well as working with private clients on residential projects and RoomLab, an online interior design platform.

How to Choose a Silk Pillowcase in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Go for a Pillowcase With Mommes Ranging From 19 to 25 for Quality
  2. Choose a Pillowcase with 400 thread count or More for Softness and Durability
  3. Those With Sensitive or Acne-Prone Skin Should Opt for Mulberry Silk
  4. For Curly or Dry Hair Consider Charmeuse Weave 
  5. Pick a Double-sided Pillowcase or a Non-slip Cotton Bottom
1

Look For Pillowcases Between 19 - 25 Mommes to Ensure They’re Made From High Quality Silk

Look For Pillowcases Between 19 - 25 Mommes to Ensure They’re Made From High Quality Silk
Just like other bedding materials, you can judge the silk by its unit of measurement, which is referred to as mommes. A higher number of mommes does not equate to a higher quality per se, but a heavier weight – so a high number is not necessarily the prime choice for those wanting a lightweight and breathable pillowcase.

In terms of numbers, 8-16 mommes is considered too thin for pillowcases but ideal for clothing. On the other end of the scale, 30 mommes are more suited for heavyweight furnishings such as drapes and upholstery. The optimum count for bedding is 19-25 mommes, so stick to somewhere in between for the perfect balance of durability and a soft, light feeling for your pillowcase.


If you're on the lookout for the best bed sheets and duvet covers, we've got suggestions for you too!

2

Pick a 400 Thread Count or Above for a Soft and Durable Pillowcase

Pick a 400 Thread Count or Above for a Soft and Durable Pillowcase

Although not as commonly noted as mommes, some brands do state the thread count of the silk, which indicates how coarse or fine the fabric is due to how tightly it is woven. As you can guess, the tighter the weave, the stronger the silk will be, and the longer it will last.


If you are choosing between silk pillowcases, always go for the option with the higher thread count. As a guide, a 400 thread count is considered to be the desired minimum, and anything above that will be even more luxurious and will withstand more washing and usage.

Explore our top picks for linen and room sprays here.

3

Opt for Mulberry Silk if You Have Sensitive or Acne Prone Skin

Opt for Mulberry Silk if You Have Sensitive or Acne Prone Skin
Mulberry silk is made by silkworms that are fed the leaves of the mulberry plant, which results in a strong, high quality silk made up of long, individual fibres. As well as being odourless, the purity of mulberry silk means it is ideal for allergy-prone and sensitive skin types.


Mulberry silk fabric has special properties that help fight acne-causing bacteria and allow the skin to retain its natural moisture, and repel allergens, dust mites, and irritants.


It also contains the natural protein sericin which promotes skin elasticity and smoothness, and is said to have anti-ageing qualities. Other silk or polyester-satin blends will not be as durable and beneficial to the skin, and will be less soft, so we recommend plumping for pillowcases that are 100% mulberry silk.

4

For Those With Curly or Dry Hair, Pillowcases With Charmeuse Weave Reduce Friction to Prevent Breakage and Frizz

For Those With Curly or Dry Hair, Pillowcases With Charmeuse Weave Reduce Friction to Prevent Breakage and Frizz
Charmeuse, which is a French word meaning "charmer", is a special weave of silk that is shiny and lustrous on one side with a matte finish on the reverse. It is the most popular weave of silk for pillowcases, sheets and bedding. 

This traditional method of weaving makes for a robust yet lightweight silk that is lustrous and shiny, with an underside that is duller and rougher. It’s a great thermal regulator, so it will cool you when hot and keep you warm when temperatures drop.


If you are looking for a silk pillowcase to help with reducing bedhead and hair breakage, charmeuse is an excellent choice as it reduces friction. Those with dull or dry skin will also appreciate charmeuse as it is less absorbent and especially proficient at maintaining the natural oils on your skin. Less sweat absorption also means less bacteria, which is ideal for acne-prone skin types. 

5

Choose a Double-Sided Pillowcase if You Flip Your Pillow During the Night, or One With a Non-slip Cotton Underside to Stop It Sliding off the Bed

Choose a Double-Sided Pillowcase if You Flip Your Pillow During the Night, or One With a Non-slip Cotton Underside to Stop It Sliding off the Bed
Source:amazon.co.uk
You will find some pillowcases have only one side of silk, with an underside made of cotton. They are designed this way to prevent the pillow sliding around the bed, so opt for these if you move around a lot at night, or even if you just like having the option of both. Because less silk is used, cotton-mix pillowcases are often cheaper to buy.


Better yet, you could select a double-sided silk pillow, which is more luxurious in appearance and touch, and will suit those who like to flip their pillow over throughout the night – no matter how many times you turn it, you'll reap the rewards of silk!

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8 Best Silk Pillowcases in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Slip®

Pure Silk Zippered PillowcaseMarble

Slip® Pure Silk Zippered Pillowcase 1枚目

Decadent Silk Pillowcase for Acne Prone Skin

2

Alaska Bear

Natural Silk Pillowcase

Alaska Bear  Natural Silk Pillowcase 1枚目

Perfect for King-Sized Pillows and Beds

3

Jasmine Silk

Pair of Mulberry Silk PillowcasesIvory

Jasmine Silk  Pair of Mulberry Silk Pillowcases 1枚目

Elegant Ivory Cases Available as Part of a Matching Set

4

LilySilk

Silk Oxford PillowcaseSilver Grey

LilySilk Silk Oxford Pillowcase 1枚目

A Smart Silk Pillowcase in an Oxford Style

5

John Lewis & Partners

The Ultimate Collection Silk PillowcaseTea Rose

John Lewis & Partners The Ultimate Collection Silk Pillowcase 1枚目

An Elegant Pillowcase for Balanced Skin and Smoother Hair

6

Jasmine Silk

Mulberry Silk and Cotton PillowcaseBlack

Jasmine Silk  Mulberry Silk and Cotton Pillowcase 1枚目

Good Value Silk Pillowcase With Non-slip Cotton Backing

7

Dreamzie

Silk Pillowcase

Dreamzie Silk Pillowcase 1枚目

A Stylish Design in a Range of Sizes and Colours

8

Since Silk

Silk Pillowcase Set

Since Silk Silk Pillowcase Set 1枚目

An Affordable Pair of Cotton-Lined Charmeuse Cases

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Slip®Pure Silk Zippered PillowcaseMarble

Pure Silk Zippered Pillowcase Image 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Pure Silk Zippered Pillowcase Image 2
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£85.00
Reference price
£85.00

Decadent Silk Pillowcase for Acne Prone Skin

Born out of a need for an alternative to harsh acne medication by the company's owner, Slip's silk products have been developed and refined for over ten years, with each item made to incredibly high standards.

Using pure, long fibre mulberry silk of the highest grade with a thickness of 22 momme, (optimum weight for bedding) this is about as decadent as it gets. It has a hidden zipper closure too, and can be machine washed unlike some other silks. The gorgeous marble design just makes it even more covetable! 

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No.2

Alaska Bear Natural Silk Pillowcase

Natural Silk Pillowcase Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£29.99
Reference price
£29.99

Perfect for King-Sized Pillows and Beds

If your bed is on the large side, or you just like to cuddle up with large pillows – this 50 x 90 cm case from Alaska Bear is your pick. Get the most out of your beauty sleep with this luxurious silk pillowcase that is perfect for all hair and skin types.

As well as its beautiful naturally-dyed pale blue hue, this case combines 600 thread count silk with handmade, careful workmanship for bedding that promises to last. An easy zipper closure adds a finishing touch of functionality. 

No.3

Jasmine Silk Pair of Mulberry Silk PillowcasesIvory

Pair of Mulberry Silk Pillowcases Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£37.99
Reference price
£37.99

Elegant Ivory Cases Available as Part of a Matching Set

Many silk pillowcases come in single packages, but luckily Jasmine Silk offers this elegant ivory option for those who take pride in dressing their bed and prefer a matching set. This superb anti-wrinkle product prevents your face and hair from drying out.

With a seam-free 19 momme silk and a charmeuse weave, this would be a great option for those wanting both quality and style for a good price. The cases can also be machine washed, so long as you choose a cool temperature and use a silk detergent. 

No.4

LilySilkSilk Oxford PillowcaseSilver Grey

Silk Oxford Pillowcase Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£35.99
Reference price
£35.99

A Smart Silk Pillowcase in an Oxford Style

As well as a 600 thread count and 19 momme silk, this pillowcase has also been certified to be completely natural and chemical-free. It would make a great gift too, as it arrives in a pretty box.

The Oxford-style border gives it an elegant edge over most silk cases, and an extended envelope closure ensures pillows stay firmly inside. You can’t go wrong for a touch of class with this stunning grey, but there are other colours available if you’d prefer.
No.5

John Lewis & PartnersThe Ultimate Collection Silk PillowcaseTea Rose

The Ultimate Collection Silk Pillowcase Image 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£45.00
Reference price
£45.00

An Elegant Pillowcase for Balanced Skin and Smoother Hair

If you want to invest in some bedding that'll last but isn't too expensive, why not treat yourself to this gorgeous dusky rose pillowcase? It's made of wonderfully smooth and naturally breathable silk bed linen known for its skin and hair benefits.

While there is no mention of the thread count or type of weave, it is 100% mulberry silk so it feels wonderful, and as a product it is very highly rated for its superb quality. Non-absorbent silk locks in skin and hair's moisture levels overnight, minimising wrinkles and hair static.
No.6

Jasmine Silk Mulberry Silk and Cotton PillowcaseBlack

Mulberry Silk and Cotton Pillowcase Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£15.99
Reference price
£15.99

Good Value Silk Pillowcase With Non-slip Cotton Backing

A great value choice for those wanting to try out silk for the first time. Lay your head on 400 thread count charmeuse silk safe in the knowledge that the 300 thread count cotton will keep your hair in place. You can also use the cotton side in winter if you find silk to be too cooling.

Though of course not as luxurious as double-sided silk, this case offers great quality for the price and it can be machine washed and ironed on a low heat so it's practical, too. Choose from 11 colours including this sultry black. 
No.7

DreamzieSilk Pillowcase

Silk Pillowcase Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£19.99
Reference price
£19.99

A Stylish Design in a Range of Sizes and Colours

A great choice for anyone with small, large or long pillows (or a combination of the three!) Dreamzie's cases come in six different sizes, both rectangular and square. The silk used is certified to be completely natural and free of any harsh chemicals, including the dye. 

As well as a good range of sizes, these cases also come in five stylish colours including taupe, blue and silver. The only downside is that the weave is not charmeuse, so it may not be as beneficial for the skin and hair as some. 

No.8

Since SilkSilk Pillowcase Set

Silk Pillowcase Set Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£40.99
Reference price
£40.99

An Affordable Pair of Cotton-Lined Charmeuse Cases

This pair of pillowcases will feel lovely and look great on the bed without breaking the bank. They're made with 20 momme silk with a charmeuse weave, and feature an envelope closure for easy removal. 

Uniquely, they're lined with 100% cotton, in an effort to reduce the case slipping from the cover during the night. While this is certainly practical, if you're looking for pure silk specifically to tend to skin and hair issues, this may not be the duo for you. 

Taking Care of Your Silk Pillowcases

Taking Care of Your Silk Pillowcases

Because of its antibacterial properties and non-absorbent nature, silk doesn’t need to be washed as much as other bedding materials, but try to wash them once a week. It also requires a little more care, and you need to check the washing, drying, and ironing instructions of the pillowcase before you buy, as they vary between brands.


Typically, it can be washed by hand or machine with cold water. Silk fabric is much weaker when its fibers are wet. So if you are washing your silk pillowcase in the washer, use the gentle cycle and put it in a mesh laundry bag to prevent it from getting caught or tugged. If you choose to hand-wash, use a gentle touch without twisting or wringing.

Furthermore, choose a soft detergent that can cleanse effectively while protecting the fibres. If your silk pillowcases become wrinkly, they can be ironed on the lowest setting with the use a pressing cloth or a clean white cotton cloth between the iron and the silk to prevent it from getting burned.


Frequently Asked Questions

Are Silk Pillowcases Good For Black Hair?

Silk pillowcases are great for afro hair types as they reduce friction on your hair while you sleep thus helping to reduce frizz and breakage. The reason for this is because silk pillowcases aren’t as porous as your regular pillows so they won’t absorb the moisture out of your hair.

How Long Do Silk Pillowcases Last?

Silk is known to be a delicate material so you won’t be getting multiple years out of your silk pillowcases. That said, if you properly care for them by washing them as instructed, you should be able to get a good 18 months of use before you start to see a decline in quality.

How Often Should You Wash Silk Pillowcases?

Just like your other bedding, you should aim to wash your silk pillowcases once a week. Ideally, you’ll want to wash them by hand or machine using cold water and without any bleaching agents. Also ensure that you wash your pillowcase separately from your other sheets if they are not made of silk too.


Written and researched by Natasha Dziubajlo

Top 5 Silk Pillowcases

No. 1: Slip®Pure Silk Zippered PillowcaseMarble

No. 2: Alaska Bear Natural Silk Pillowcase

No. 3: Jasmine Silk Pair of Mulberry Silk PillowcasesIvory

No. 4: LilySilkSilk Oxford PillowcaseSilver Grey

No. 5: John Lewis & PartnersThe Ultimate Collection Silk PillowcaseTea Rose

View Full Ranking

When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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