Silk vs Bamboo Viscose: Differences, Prices, Pros & Cons

Key Takeaways

• Silk and bamboo viscose come from very different beginnings; silk is spun by silkworms, while bamboo viscose is made by chemically breaking down bamboo pulp into fibres.

• Silk feels incredibly luxurious, with a natural shine and lasting durability, but it’s a splurge and needs some extra TLC.

• Bamboo viscose gives you a soft, breathable feel similar to silk, but it's more budget-friendly and eco-conscious, though it doesn't quite match silk’s rich glow.

• Expect to pay more for silk, usually two to five times more than bamboo viscose for similar items.

• Mayfairsilk leads with 100% pure Grade 6A Mulberry silk, loved for its ultra-soft touch, long-lasting quality, and skin-loving benefits, all ethically made and OEKO-TEX certified for peace of mind.

Origins and Production

Silk

Silk has been prized for centuries, and it all starts with the humble Bombyx mori silkworm. These little creatures spin cocoons packed with incredibly fine threads. To make silk, those cocoons are carefully boiled and unwound into long, smooth fibres, then spun into thread. It’s a time-consuming process, but the result is that unmistakable, glossy fabric we all know and love.

Bamboo Viscose

Bamboo viscose takes a more modern route. It begins with bamboo, a fast-growing, eco-friendly plant, turned into pulp and then treated with chemicals like caustic soda to extract its cellulose. That cellulose is transformed into soft, silky fibres through the viscose method. While bamboo itself is green, the chemical process behind bamboo viscose brings up some environmental concerns.

Physical Properties

Silk is famously soft and naturally shiny, giving it that luxurious look and feel. It’s surprisingly strong for how delicate it seems and has just the right amount of stretch to let clothes flow and drape beautifully. It keeps you cool in the heat and warm when it’s chilly, thanks to its built-in temperature control. It also breathes well, wicks away moisture, and resists allergens, perfect for sensitive skin. Plus, it soaks up dye like a dream, making colors pop.

Bamboo viscose also feels smooth and is super breathable, which makes it a great pick for hot, humid days. It adjusts to your body temperature, fights off odors and bacteria naturally, and is gentle on skin. While it’s fairly durable, it does need some TLC to avoid wrinkling or shrinking.

Bamboo viscose looks and feels like silk, but it’s more breathable, easier on the wallet, and great for sweaty, sticky weather.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Silk, especially the Mulberry silk used by Mayfairsilk, is one of the most sustainable fabrics out there when made with care. The trees that feed our silkworms grow without pesticides or chemical fertilisers and mostly thrive on rainwater. They also help clean the air by absorbing carbon dioxide. Once the silkworms have spun their silk cocoons, they become part of the cycle too, used as delicacies in some cultures, leaving little to no waste behind.

At Mayfairsilk, we’ve designed our production process with the planet in mind. Wastewater is responsibly treated, leftover mulberry branches and leaves are turned into natural fertiliser or animal feed, and every bit of silk is put to use. Lower-grade fibres become duvet fillings, and even the sericin protein extracted during processing is reused in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceutical products. It’s all part of our zero-waste philosophy.

Compared to bamboo, silk has a lighter environmental footprint. It needs less water, fewer chemicals, and far less energy to produce. Plus, our high momme silk lasts for years, longer than most cotton or synthetic fabrics. And when it’s finally time to say goodbye, silk biodegrades naturally without shedding harmful microplastics, making it as gentle on the earth as it is luxurious to wear.

Bamboo is also sustainable, fast-growing, low-maintenance, and pesticide-free. But turning it into fabric is another story. The viscose process uses harsh chemicals that can harm the environment if not properly contained. Some brands use closed-loop systems to recycle these chemicals, but it's not the norm. The process also uses a lot of energy, especially when fossil fuels are involved.

Comfort and Performance

Silk is the gold standard for luxury; soft, sleek, and breathable. It adapts to your body temperature and is gentle on sensitive skin, making it as practical as it is elegant.

Bamboo viscose feels smooth and does a solid job keeping you cool, dry, and odor-free. It’s comfy year-round and naturally resists bacteria, making it a solid pick for everyday wear.

Durability and Care

Silk is delicate and needs a little extra love. Hand-washing or dry cleaning is best, and it should be stored away from sunlight and moisture. With the right care, it can last a long time.

Bamboo viscose is a bit easier to handle; just wash gently and avoid heat to prevent shrinking or wrinkling. It doesn’t need as much fuss as silk.

Common Uses

Silk brings elegance to the table; it’s used in gowns, lingerie, ties, scarves, and other luxury fashion staples. At home, it shows up in high-end bedding, pillowcases, and flowing curtains. It’s also strong and skin-friendly enough for medical sutures and dressings. In the world of decor, it adds a rich touch to embroidery, artwork, and upscale interiors.

Bamboo viscose keeps things soft, breathable, and comfortable. You’ll find it in everyday outfits, baby clothes, underwear, loungewear, and activewear. It’s also a favorite for sheets, duvet covers, towels, and bathrobes. Parents love it for baby blankets and sleepwear thanks to its gentle, skin-friendly nature.

Silk is a go-to for luxe bedding. Soft, smooth, and undeniably elegant, it adds that extra layer of comfort and style.

Price Comparison

Silk sits at the top of the price range, with costs usually between £13.95 and £36.50 per metre, depending on the type. Its luxurious quality is reflected in the price. Bamboo viscose is a much more affordable option, often priced between £7.70 and £10.20 per metre.

Note: The price ranges mentioned above are approximate and subject to change over time and across different locations. Costs may vary based on factors such as pricing policies, the provider's experience, and evolving market conditions.

Pros and Cons

Silk

Pros

• Ultimate luxury and sheen

• Excellent temperature regulation

• Naturally hypoallergenic and breathable

• Mayfairsilk’s eco-friendly practices minimise chemical use and water pollution through sustainable mulberry cultivation, wastewater treatment, and waste recycling.

• Strong and long-lasting with proper care.

Cons

• High cost

• Delicate and high-maintenance

• Sensitive to sunlight and abrasion

• Resource-intensive 

Bamboo Viscose

Pros

• Affordable luxury with silk-like softness

• Highly breathable, moisture-wicking, and antibacterial

• Hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin

• Easier to care for than silk

• Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource

Cons

• Chemical-intensive manufacturing process can harm the environment if not properly managed

• Not as lustrous or prestigious as silk

• Can wrinkle and shrink if not washed carefully

• Durability may not match that of well-cared-for silk

Comparison Table: Silk vs. Bamboo Viscose

Your Silk Journey Begins with Mayfairsilk

Mayfairsilk makes it easy to bring true luxury into your everyday routine with 100% pure Grade 6A Mulberry silk. This premium silk stands out for its softness, durability, and natural glow. It's also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, so it’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin.

Mayfairsilk turns everyday sleep into a luxury experience with rich, skin-loving silk that feels as good as it looks. It’s comfort, care, and elegance, all in one dreamy package.

The collection features 25 Momme pillowcases, silky-smooth bed sheets and duvet covers, breathable eye masks, cushion covers that add a touch of elegance to your space, and scrunchies and hair ties that care for your hair while keeping you stylish. Every item is crafted to support better sleep, reduce frizz, and regulate temperature, all while feeling effortlessly soft.

Our quality has been recognised by top awards and praised in leading publications like Vanity Fair and Harper’s Bazaar. Dermatologists and skincare pros also love what we offer.

With fast delivery options and a flexible return policy, you can enjoy peace of mind while exploring our silk essentials.

Shop our collections today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is bamboo viscose actually as soft as real silk?

Bamboo viscose is incredibly soft, just in a different way. While silk feels cool, smooth, and a bit slippery, bamboo viscose has a more cottony softness that many find cozier and less slick. In blind tests, people often can’t tell them apart, especially in bedding. So it’s not about one being softer, just a different kind of soft.

How long do silk and bamboo viscose products typically last?

Silk can last an incredibly long time with proper care, especially for items that aren’t washed often. But with frequent washing, it gradually breaks down. Bamboo viscose usually handles washing much better. 

Can people with allergies use both silk and bamboo viscose safely?

Yes, both are great for sensitive skin. Silk naturally resists dust mites, mold, and allergens, thanks to its tight weave and protein structure. Bamboo viscose is hypoallergenic too, with some built-in antimicrobial properties and no animal proteins, making it a safe option for anyone with silk sensitivities.

What's the difference between bamboo viscose and regular viscose?

It comes down to the source. Regular viscose is made using wood pulp, while bamboo viscose starts with bamboo. The process is mostly the same, but bamboo brings a few perks: better moisture control, a softer feel, and added odour resistance. That’s why bamboo viscose is becoming a favorite over standard rayon.

What types of silk products does Mayfairsilk offer?

We provide a curated range of silk essentials, including pillowcases, duvet covers, bed sheets, eye masks, cushion covers, and hair accessories like scrunchies and slim hair ties, all made from the finest Grade 6A Mulberry silk to enhance your comfort and wellbeing. Check out our collection here!