Fact checked by Jonathan Eilenberg, CPE
Jonathan Eilenberg, CPE
Jonathan Eilenberg is a Certified Professional Ergonomist who is a Senior Ergonomics Engineer at Casper with over 6 years of experience in occupational injury prevention.
Whether you prefer cotton or polyester filling, sleepers all over the world can agree: bedding down on the right type of pillow is key to catching z’s. Yet there’s one element that’s all too easy to overlook: the right pillowcase.
Of the various materials woven into pillowcases, silk and satin are among the most well-known. They might seem similar on the surface, but don’t judge a pillow by its cover. So, what’s the difference between silk and satin pillowcases?
Below, we’ll discuss the difference between silk and satin pillowcases, from origins to price point to how they play into hair care.
While silk and satin may feel or look similar, nothing quite beats the soft and smooth touch of 100% mulberry silk. For a luxuriously soft sleep, you’ll love our Silk Pillowcase + Sleep Mask Set.
Silk pillowcases are made from threads produced by silkworms while satin pillowcases are made from a type of weave that results in a shiny appearance and can be made from several different textiles. To more thoroughly understand the differences between these two kinds of pillowcases, let’s take a closer look at what silk and satin actually are.
Thousands of years ago, China began domesticating silkworms to produce—you guessed it—silk. By weaving several threads together, they could use the material to make everything from clothes to screens to banners. Given time and improved silk-working techniques, trade routes sprouted and spread across the globe.1
No matter where it spread, real silk was considered high-end for both the skill it took to work with and its incomparably smooth feel. Indeed, “silky smooth” products went for a pretty penny — and still do, despite no longer being reserved for the upper echelons of society.
Unlike silk, satin isn’t a material that’s woven into a fabric: it’s the weaving itself! Though there are multiple styles, you can tell it apart from the two other main textile weaves — plain and twill — by its one-sided sheen.2
Once woven exclusively with silk, modern satin mixes and matches a number of materials, most of which are synthetic fibers:3
Sans the intensive process needed to produce silk, satin is cheaper to make and buy. It’s also easier to imitate, with close cousin sateen (woven with shorter fibers) having carved out its own sector in the textile industry.
Instead of answering “which is better, a silk or satin pillowcase?” it might be more beneficial to tweak this question — which is better for you? Whether your answer is a satin or silk pillowcase, each comes with its own share of advantages.
Most of silk’s advantages stem from the fact that it’s a natural material. Let’s take a look at a few of the silk pillowcase benefits:3
When choosing silk pillowcases, the best quality is not determined by thread count but by momme weight, a unique measurement for silk. Ideally, you should look for silk pillowcases with a momme weight between 19 and 25. This range indicates a higher density and better quality. Additionally, check the silk grade, which ranges from A to F, with Grade 6A being the highest quality for a luxurious feel and optimal durability.
Satin does, however, have several unique boons:2,3,5
For satin pillowcases, thread count is a helpful measure of softness and durability. An ideal thread count for satin pillowcases ranges between 200 and 400, ensuring a smooth texture and elegant appearance. Satin is a weave rather than a material, so higher thread counts often mean a tighter weave, leading to better performance and a more luxurious feel. Always consider the material of satin—whether it’s made from silk, polyester, or another fiber—as it influences the overall quality and care requirements.
Deciding between a silk vs satin pillowcase depends on your personal preferences and specific needs. Each offers unique benefits and characteristics that cater to different sleep styles, skin types, and hair concerns. Consider your priorities, such as budget, maintenance, and specific beauty goals, to find the pillowcase that aligns best with your lifestyle.
Silk pillowcases are ideal if you are looking for a luxurious, natural option. They are perfect for those with sensitive skin or allergies, thanks to silk’s hypoallergenic properties. If you’re keen on minimizing hair frizz and maintaining skin moisture, silk’s smooth texture is a great choice. Silk is also recommended for people who want a breathable fabric that regulates temperature, offering a cool and comfortable sleep throughout the night.
Satin pillowcases are excellent if you seek a more affordable yet effective alternative to silk. They offer similar benefits for hair and skin by reducing friction and are easier to care for, as many satin materials can be machine-washed. Satin is also a great choice for those who want a wider range of color and pattern options, as its generally synthetic nature allows for more versatility in design.
Wherever you come down on the great satin vs silk pillowcase debate, one thing is clear: while each comes with a bevy of benefits, your choice should reflect your personal preference. Counting sheep is a matter of comfort, and comfort is a matter of understanding yourself.
Casper’s here to help bridge that gap so you can cross over to dreamland. From pillows to pillowcases, whatever you need, we have you covered.
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