Silk vs Satin - What No One
Is Telling You
You've seen them everywhere. Smooth, shiny pillowcases marketed as 'satin' or 'silk' with very little to tell them apart — except the price. But the difference between satin and true mulberry silk isn't a matter of degree. It's a matter of category. One is a synthetic. One is a natural protein fibre that has been temperature-regulating skin and hair for thousands of years. Here's what you need to know before you buy.
01 What is satin?
Satin is a weave, not a material. Most pillowcases sold as 'satin' are made from polyester — a synthetic that doesn't breathe, traps heat against the skin, and leaves moisture sitting on the surface.
It can feel smooth. It is not silk.
The distinction that matters
Weave ≠ Fabric
'Satin' describes a type of weave — the same weave can be applied to polyester, nylon, or silk. When a label reads 'satin' without naming the fibre, assume polyester. Brands rely on the ambiguity.
02 What is mulberry silk?
Mulberry silk is a natural protein fibre produced by silkworms fed exclusively on mulberry leaves. It's hygroscopic — it absorbs up to 30% of its weight in moisture and releases it into the air rather than holding it against your face.
It has a lattice structure that vents excess heat when you're warm and insulates when you're cold. For hot sleepers and women in hormonal transition, this bidirectional regulation is the difference between a good night and a bad one.
| Property | Polyester Satin | Mulberry Silk |
|---|---|---|
| Natural fibre | ✕ | ✓ |
| Temperature regulating | ✕ | ✓ |
| Breathable | ✕ | ✓ |
| Moisture wicking | ✕ | ✓ |
| Hypoallergenic | ✕ | ✓ |
| Protein fibre (skin-friendly) | ✕ | ✓ |
| Feels smooth | ✓ | ✓ |
03 Why momme weight matters
Not all silk is equal. Momme (mm) is the weight measure of silk — the higher the momme, the denser and more durable the weave.
22-momme is the gold standard for pillowcases: substantial enough to feel luxurious, light enough to breathe. Anything below 15mm is likely to pill or lose structural integrity quickly — and you'll feel the difference within weeks of use.
04 What SILVADUR® changes
LATRAVLA's PillowWrap™ adds one more layer: SILVADUR® silver-ion antimicrobial technology. During sleep, the face sweats. Bacteria accumulate. For women experiencing night sweats, this happens at an accelerated rate.
Silver-ion technology keeps the surface hygienically clean even between washes — which matters more than most pillowcase brands acknowledge. Combined with OEKO-TEX® certification, every fibre has been tested for harmful substances. The care behind the product is measurable.
The PillowWrap™
Not a satin.
Not a compromise.
22-momme Grade 6A mulberry silk with SILVADUR® antimicrobial technology and OEKO-TEX® certification. Engineered for the woman who knows the difference — and refuses to settle for less.
22-Momme Grade 6A Silk SILVADUR® OEKO-TEX® Certified
Shop at LATRAVLA.com
