What Is Mulberry Silk, and Is It Real Silk?

August 14, 2026

Introduction

If you have shopped for a silk pillowcase, you have probably seen terms such as Mulberry silk, momme, and satin. But they do not mean the same thing.

So, what is Mulberry silk? It is real silk produced by domesticated Bombyx mori silkworms raised on mulberry leaves. Understanding what the term means—and what 22 momme describes—can help you make sense of what you are actually buying.

Where Does Mulberry Silk Come From?

Mulberry silk comes from the cocoons of domesticated Bombyx mori silkworms. These silkworms feed on mulberry leaves, which is where the silk gets its name. Producers carefully unwind the cocoon filaments, combine them into silk thread, and weave the thread into fabric.

The raw silk fiber contains two main proteins: fibroin and sericin. Fibroin forms the inner structure of the fiber, while sericin acts as a natural coating that holds the filaments together. During processing, manufacturers remove most of the sericin to produce the smooth, soft material used in finished silk textiles.

Is Mulberry Silk Real Silk?

Mulberry silk is real silk. The word silk describes a broad category of natural fibers, while Mulberry silk refers specifically to silk produced by domesticated Bombyx mori silkworms. Other silkworm species produce other varieties of silk, so Mulberry silk and silk are not competing materials. Mulberry silk is one type of silk.

A label that says "100% Mulberry silk" makes a claim about fiber content, but it does not tell you everything about the finished product. You still need to check the momme weight, fabric construction, closure, and whether the pillowcase uses silk on both sides.

Mulberry Silk vs. Satin: What's the Difference?

Mulberry silk and satin do not describe the same thing. Mulberry silk identifies the source of the fiber, while satin describes how a fabric is woven. Manufacturers can make satin from silk, polyester, nylon, or a blend of different fibers.

This means a satin pillowcase can contain real silk, but many affordable satin pillowcases use synthetic fibers. A smooth or shiny surface alone does not prove that a product is silk. Check the fiber content on the label instead of relying only on the word satin.

Why Is Mulberry Silk Used for Pillowcases?

Knowing that a pillowcase contains real silk tells you what it is made from. The next question is how that material behaves during hours of contact with your hair and skin.

Mulberry silk can be woven into a lightweight fabric with a smooth surface and soft drape. This creates a gentler-feeling sleep surface as you move during the night.

However, no single friction percentage applies to every silk pillowcase. Research on skin-to-textile contact shows that friction also depends on fabric construction, moisture, pressure, and movement. That is why the finished pillowcase matters—not just the word silk on its label.

What Does 22 Momme Mean?

Because the finished fabric matters, momme is one of the next specifications to check. Momme, pronounced "mommy," is a unit used to express the weight of silk fabric. Unlike thread count, it tells you how much the fabric weighs across a standardized area. A higher momme number generally indicates a heavier, more substantial silk fabric.

A 22 momme silk pillowcase contains more silk by weight than a comparable lower-momme pillowcase of the same size. However, momme alone does not prove fiber purity or construction quality. Read the number together with the fiber content, whether both sides use silk, and how the pillowcase is made.

How to Choose a Mulberry Silk Pillowcase

Momme is useful, but it should never stand alone. Compare the full set of product specifications before making a decision.

· Check the fiber content. Look for "100% Mulberry silk" rather than vague terms such as silky or satin.

· Review the momme weight. A 22 momme Mulberry silk pillowcase should feel more substantial than a comparable lower-momme option.

· Confirm both sides. Some pillowcases use silk on only one side or combine different materials.

· Check the closure. A zipper or envelope closure helps keep the pillow inside the case.

· Verify the size. Match the listed dimensions to your pillow instead of relying only on "Standard," "Queen," or "King."

· Read the care instructions. Silk requires gentler washing and drying than many common bedding fabrics.

JIMOO 22 Momme Mulberry Silk Pillowcase

JIMOO silk pillowcase lifestyle scenes: travel-friendly, ultra-smooth for skin and hair, reduces frizz overnight, breathable for better sleep

The same checklist explains the specifications behind JIMOO's pillowcase. It uses 100% Mulberry silk in a 22 momme weight, with silk on both sides rather than only one sleep surface. A hidden zipper keeps the pillow inside while maintaining a clean appearance.

JIMOO offers this pillowcase in White, Ivory White, Beige, and Silver Gray, with Standard, Queen, and King size options. Availability can vary by color and size. JIMOO also includes a 100-night guarantee, giving customers time to decide whether the pillowcase fits their sleep routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is 22 momme good for a silk pillowcase?

A 22 momme silk pillowcase offers a more substantial fabric than a comparable lower-momme option. It is a practical weight for regular use, but fiber content and construction still matter.

2. Is Mulberry silk the same as satin?

No. Mulberry silk is a type of fiber, while satin is a weave. Satin can be made from silk or synthetic materials such as polyester.

3. How should you wash a Mulberry silk pillowcase?

Always follow the product's care label. In general, use cold water and a mild detergent suitable for silk. Avoid bleach, high heat, and aggressive drying, which can damage the fabric.

Learn More About JIMOO Mulberry Silk Pillowcase