Pure Silk vs Mulberry Silk: Differences, Uses & Cost Compared

Key Takeaways

• Pure silk is a broad label that covers any fabric spun from natural silk fibres, while mulberry silk is a single specific variety, and confusing the two is the main reason shoppers end up with fabric that feels and wears nothing like what they expected.
  

• Most product labels stop at "100% pure silk" and never mention the silkworm species, diet, or fibre length, which are the details that actually determine softness, sheen, and how many years a piece will last.
  

• For bedding, sleepwear, and anything worn against skin, Mayfairsilk Grade 6A mulberry silk outperforms tussah, eri, and other wild pure silks on smoothness, durability, and consistency of finish.
  

• Mulberry filaments reach up to 900 metres in a single unbroken strand, compared with the shorter, uneven fibres of wild silks, which is why mulberry bedding resists pilling and holds its drape wash after wash.
  

• Mayfairsilk produces 22 momme sheets and 25 momme pillowcases in Grade 6A mulberry silk, British owned and designed, backed by a 30-night sleep guarantee on pillowcases and free next-day UK delivery on orders over £50.

What Is the Difference Between Pure Silk & Mulberry Silk?

Pure silk is the umbrella term for any fabric made from natural silk fibre, and mulberry silk is one specific variety inside that group, produced only by Bombyx mori silkworms raised exclusively on mulberry leaves. That single-source diet yields filaments up to 900 metres long, far exceeding the shorter, uneven fibres of wild silks like tussah or eri. The practical result is a smoother hand, a more even sheen, and fabric that holds up to daily use in a way most other pure silks do not.

In this post, we show you how the difference between the two shows up in texture, price, durability, and how each fabric performs over time. From fibre length and momme weight to the best uses for each type, see what sets mulberry silk apart and when other pure silks make sense.

Quality Differences: Texture, Appearance & Feel

Mulberry silk is known for its exceptionally smooth, buttery texture because its fibres are longer and more uniform than those in most other pure silk varieties. Pure silk, which can include tussah, eri, or other wild silks, often feels slightly rougher or more varied because of natural inconsistencies in the raw fibre.

In appearance, mulberry silk gives a refined, even shimmer, while pure silk can range from matte to slightly textured depending on the silkworm species and its natural environment.

Fibre Length & Uniformity

The most significant technical difference lies in fibre length. Mulberry silk filaments can reach up to 900 metres thanks to controlled cultivation and a mulberry-leaf diet. Pure silk from wild or alternative silkworms tends to have much shorter filaments with more variation in thickness.

These differences result in mulberry silk being smoother, firmer, and more resistant to pilling, while pure silk may show more natural texture and irregularity.

Momme Weight and Fabric Density

When you compare mulberry silk with other pure silks, momme weight is one of the clearest indicators of quality. Mulberry silk typically comes in higher momme ranges, around 19 to 25, which gives it greater durability and a denser, more luxurious drape. Other pure silks usually appear in lighter momme weights that feel softer at first but wear out faster with regular use.

Colour & Lustre Variations

Mulberry silk is naturally white or off-white, making it ideal for achieving vivid, accurate dye colours. Pure silk from other silkworms may have natural golden, tan, or creamy tones, which can affect how colours appear after dyeing.

Mulberry silk’s uniform fibres create a consistent, pearlescent sheen, while pure silk may display more varied or matte finishes depending on the type.

From pillowcases to scarves, mulberry silk improves everyday items with lasting durability and softness.

Durability & Longevity

Due to its long, even fibres, mulberry silk generally outperforms other pure silks in strength and longevity. It maintains its smoothness and structure through washing and everyday use better than pure silk varieties with shorter, less uniform fibres.

While all silk requires careful handling, mulberry silk typically offers superior resilience. This is one of the reasons it remains the preferred choice for luxury bedding, delicate garments, and long-lasting investment pieces.

Price Points: Why Mulberry Silk Costs More

Mulberry silk comes from Bombyx mori silkworms raised in controlled environments with strict temperature and humidity oversight. These silkworms eat only mulberry leaves, which must be grown and harvested specifically for their diet.

Production is highly labour-intensive. Each cocoon must be carefully unwound to preserve its long, continuous filament, requiring trained workers and hours of precise handling. That specialised care raises the final price.

Pure silk varieties like tussah or eri come from wild silkworms with minimal human intervention, reducing production costs but also producing shorter, less uniform fibres.

Mulberry silk typically costs between £22 and £72 per metre. That premium reflects the smoothness, natural lustre, and durability that set it apart from other silk types. Other pure silks start at around £15 to £20 per metre for simpler weaves, with higher-end varieties reaching £25 to £35 or more depending on type and quality.

Where The Best Value Lies

Shoppers looking for substantial value often choose mid-range mulberry silk (19–22 momme), which offers most of the luxury experience. Direct-to-consumer brands and seasonal sales can also make mulberry silk more accessible.

For decorative pieces or items that won’t see heavy use, some pure silk varieties, such as tussah or eri, can be budget-friendly alternatives. However, they won’t offer the same smoothness, longevity, or uniformity as mulberry silk.

Best Uses for Different Silk Types

Different silk types excel in specific applications depending on their texture, durability, and appearance. Understanding these differences helps consumers choose the most suitable silk for their needs.

Mulberry Silk

Mulberry silk's long, uniform fibres produce an exceptionally smooth, soft fabric, which makes it ideal for items that touch skin directly, such as pillowcases, sheets, sleepwear, and loungewear. Its natural protein structure helps reduce friction on hair and skin, and its thermoregulating properties keep you cool in summer and warm in winter.

High-end fashion also benefits from mulberry silk’s superior drape, refined sheen, and excellent dye absorption, making it perfect for dresses, scarves, and delicate blouses. Additionally, its strong, consistent fibres ensure long-lasting durability, making mulberry silk the preferred choice for investment pieces like wedding gowns and premium home textiles.

Natural colour variations in pure silk add rustic charm and a unique, authentic look.

Pure Silk

Pure silk varieties have unique qualities that suit different applications. Tussah silk, with its naturally textured fibres, is highly durable and ideal for home décor items such as drapes, upholstery, and decorative pillows. 

Eri silk offers excellent warmth and ethical production, making it well-suited for cold-weather garments or comfort-focused clothing, though it is less lustrous than mulberry silk. Muga silk, prized for its rare golden colour and exceptional strength, is typically reserved for ceremonial or cultural garments, making it a speciality material due to its limited availability.

Pure Silk vs Mulberry Silk: Comparison Table

Why Grade 6A Mulberry Silk Is the Pure Silk Worth Sleeping On

Mulberry silk’s long, uniform fibres create a luxuriously smooth texture perfect for bedding and sleepwear.

Pure silk and mulberry silk overlap in name, but they behave differently once they are on your skin. For decorative pieces and occasional-use items, tussah, eri, and other wild pure silks offer genuine character at a lower price. For bedding, sleepwear, and anything you plan to use every night, mulberry silk is the one that earns its keep on softness, durability, and finish.

Every Mayfairsilk piece is made from 100% Grade 6A mulberry silk, woven to 22 momme for sheets and 25 momme for pillowcases, British owned and designed, and backed by a 30-night sleep guarantee on pillowcases with free next-day UK delivery on orders over £50. 

Explore the Mayfairsilk mulberry silk collection

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is mulberry silk always pure silk?

Yes. Mulberry silk is always 100% natural silk from Bombyx mori silkworms fed only mulberry leaves. Not all pure silk is mulberry silk; it also includes tussah, eri, and muga varieties, each with unique textures, colours, and durability.

Why does mulberry silk feel different from other silks?

Mulberry silk’s long, fine, and uniform fibres create an exceptionally smooth, soft, and slightly cool feel against the skin. Controlled silkworm diets and gentle processing preserve its natural sheen and protein structure, giving it superior drape and tactile quality compared to other silks.

Can I wash mulberry or pure silk at home?

Yes. Mulberry silk is more resilient due to its uniform fibres. Hand wash in lukewarm water with a silk-specific, pH-neutral detergent. Gentle machine cycles in a mesh bag are possible for some products. Always air-dry away from sunlight and heat; avoid bleach and tumble-drying.

How can I tell if I’m buying real mulberry silk?

Look for clear labelling of “100% mulberry silk” with grade and momme weight. Authentic mulberry silk feels smooth and calm, and it rustles slightly when handled. Extremely low prices may indicate blends or synthetic fibres.

Is mulberry silk worth the higher price?

For items used directly on skin, such as bedding or sleepwear, mulberry silk provides unmatched comfort, moisture regulation, and long-lasting durability, making the premium cost worthwhile. 

Mayfairsilk’s 100% mulberry silk products exemplify these benefits, offering exceptional softness, luxurious drape, and skin-friendly properties that improve everyday routines. 

For decorative or occasional-use items, other pure silks can still provide unique textures and charm at lower prices. Still, for everyday indulgence and lasting quality, Mayfairsilk remains the gold standard.

*Note: The prices and product listings mentioned above are approximate and may vary over time or by location. Actual costs can differ based on pricing policies, provider experience, and market conditions.