Silk vs Microfiber Sheets: Differences, Cost, Pros & Cons

Key Takeaways

• Silk sheets bring a touch of true luxury with natural breathability, temperature control, and skin-loving softness, great for sensitive skin and hair.

• Microfiber sheets are budget-friendly, durable, and easy to care for, making them good for everyday use.

• Silk naturally keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter. Microfiber, while cosy, can trap heat more easily.

• Expect to spend anywhere from £150 to £740 for silk, depending on quality. Microfiber sets typically cost £15 to £45, offering softness at a much lower price.

• Mayfairsilk delivers top-tier 100% Grade 6A long-fibre Mulberry silk with a matte finish, which is luxurious, durable, and surprisingly easy to care for.

Fabric Composition & Production

Silk is a natural fiber made by silkworms, and its production is a careful, time-consuming process that involves unraveling delicate cocoons to get those fine, shimmering threads. That’s part of what gives silk its signature feel and natural performance benefits, like breathability and temperature control.

Microfiber, on the other hand, is fully man-made. It's made using ultra-fine strands of polyester, nylon, or a mix of both. These fibers are tightly woven to create a soft, durable fabric that’s built for everyday practicality. Its synthetic makeup also means it's more resistant to wear and tear.

Texture & Feel

Silk sheets have that unmistakable buttery feel; ultra-smooth, gentle on the skin, and naturally sleek. They glide over your body and help prevent hair breakage and skin irritation, which is why they’re a favorite for anyone focused on beauty sleep.

Microfiber sheets are soft in a different way; more plush than glossy. They often have a “peach skin” feel that’s cosy and smooth, though not quite as luxurious as real silk. Still, many people find them comfortable and inviting.

Silk sheets feel cool, smooth, and effortlessly gentle on your skin. They’re the kind of fabric that not only looks good but actually cares for your hair and skin while you sleep.

Breathability & Temperature Regulation

Silk naturally adjusts to your body temperature, keeping you cool when it’s warm and cosy when it’s chilly. It also does a great job of wicking moisture without ever feeling damp, which makes it perfect for year-round comfort.

Microfiber doesn’t breathe as well due to its dense weave. It can wick moisture but tends to trap heat, which may not be ideal if you sleep hot or live in a warmer climate.

Durability & Longevity

Silk is strong, but it’s also delicate. It needs gentle care and can be damaged by rough washing or harsh detergents. When cared for properly, high momme silk is durable enough for everyday use and will outlast cotton and most other fabrics.

Microfiber is also built for everyday use. It handles frequent washes without fading or pilling and keeps its shape well. 

Maintenance & Care

Silk needs a little extra love; gentle detergent, delicate cycles, and air drying are all part of keeping it in top shape. It’s not difficult, but it does require some care.

Microfiber is much easier to deal with. Toss it in the washer and dryer, and you’re good to go. It resists wrinkles, doesn’t shrink, and rarely needs ironing.

Hypoallergenic Properties

Silk naturally stands out for being hypoallergenic. It resists dust mites, mold, and common allergens, which makes it a great option if you’ve got sensitive skin or deal with allergies.

Microfiber can also be considered hypoallergenic because of its tight weave, which helps block out allergens. But since it’s synthetic, it might not sit well with people who have extra-sensitive skin or fabric sensitivities.

Microfiber’s tight weave helps block allergens, making it a decent hypoallergenic option. But for those with sensitive skin, silk’s natural resistance to dust mites and irritation offers a gentler, more breathable alternative.

Cost Considerations

Silk sheets fall on the luxury end of the spectrum, with prices starting around £150 and climbing well above £740 depending on the silk type, density (known as Momme weight), and how it’s made. Mulberry silk and higher momme counts are usually on the pricier side, and you’ll definitely pay more for ethically sourced, high-quality sets.

Microfiber, on the other hand, is a wallet-friendly alternative. You can easily find a full set for £15 to £45. It doesn’t have that same natural opulence, but for everyday bedding that’s durable and low-maintenance, microfiber delivers. 

The price difference really comes down to the nature of silk’s time-consuming production versus the efficiency of synthetic manufacturing.

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.

Environmental Impact

Silk and microfiber have very different stories when it comes to the environment. 

Silk, like the kind used by Mayfairsilk, is a natural, renewable fiber that breaks down harmlessly at the end of its life. The mulberry trees that feed the silkworms grow without pesticides or chemical fertilisers and mostly rely on rainwater. They even help clean the air by absorbing carbon. 

Most silk production processes are designed to be as eco-friendly as possible by treating wastewater, repurposing mulberry leaves for cattle feed, and recovering sericin protein for use in other industries. It’s a clean, thoughtful cycle from start to finish.

Microfiber, on the other hand, is synthetic and made using petrochemicals. It doesn’t break down naturally and sheds microplastics that end up in waterways and soil. Producing microfiber also requires harsh chemicals and a lot of energy, making it far less appealing for those who care about sustainability. While it may last a long time, its environmental cost is much higher.

Pros & Cons

Pros of Silk Sheets

• Luxuriously soft and smooth with a natural sheen

• Excellent breathability and temperature regulation

• Naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and allergens

• Highly sustainable: pesticide-free mulberry cultivation, circular waste use, and biodegradable

• Moisture-wicking and hydrating for skin

• Reduces friction, benefiting hair and skin health

• Durable when cared for properly

• Long-lasting, reducing environmental impact over time

• Sericin protein recovery adds to zero-waste production

• Naturally antimicrobial, resisting bacteria, mold, and mildew

Cons of Silk Sheets

• Higher initial cost

• Requires delicate care

Pros of Microfiber Sheets

• Affordable and budget-friendly

• Soft and smooth with a silky feel

• Highly durable and resistant to pilling, wrinkles, and stains

• Easy to care for; machine washable and quick drying

• Hypoallergenic and good for sensitive skin in most cases

• Colour-fast and maintains shape over time

• Low maintenance, suitable for busy lifestyles

Cons of Microfiber Sheets

• Less breathable; can trap heat and cause sweating

• Synthetic fibers may irritate very sensitive skin

• Less luxurious feel compared to natural silk

• Environmental concerns due to synthetic production and microplastic shedding

• Can develop static cling

Comparison Table: Silk vs. Microfiber Sheets

Why Choose Mayfairsilk for Your Silk Bedding?

Mayfairsilk’s light green bedding set brings a calm, polished look with all the benefits of pure Mulberry silk. It’s breathable, matte-finished, and made for comfort without compromising style or skin sensitivity.

Mayfairsilk delivers the finest in silk bedding using 100% Grade 6A long-fibre Mulberry silk. Each piece is made using a custom weave and finishing process that creates a smooth, matte texture that feels rich and refined, without the high-gloss look you might find elsewhere. 

Our collection covers everything needed for a full silk sleep setup: duvet sets, pillowcases in 25 momme, fitted and flat sheets, and accessories like eye masks and scrunchies. Every item is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, which means it’s gentle on the skin and free of harmful substances.

Not only that, we also partnered with Eden Reforestation Projects to plant a tree with every Mayfairsilk purchase, creating a positive impact beyond beautiful bedding.

Silk naturally helps regulate temperature, lock in skin moisture, and reduce friction, which makes a real difference in how you sleep and how your skin and hair feel when you wake up. These benefits, paired with the premium feel of our fabric, are what keep customers coming back and what’s earned Mayfairsilk several industry awards.

Luxury and care go hand in hand here. When you bring Mayfairsilk into your bedroom, you’re getting quality that’s built to last and comfort you’ll look forward to every night.

Shop our collections today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are silk sheets worth the high price tag?

Yes! If you value cool, breathable sleep, a soft touch on your skin, and fewer creases in your hair and face, silk sheets are a solid investment. They last a long time with good care too! While the upfront cost is high, the payoff can be worth it over time. If you’re not after those perks or prefer low-maintenance bedding, the price may feel harder to justify.

Do microfiber sheets make you sweat at night?

They can, especially for hot sleepers or in humid weather. Microfiber doesn't breathe as easily as natural fabrics, which can trap heat. That said, lighter microfiber and versions with cooling tech can perform better, especially in air-conditioned spaces or for those who sleep cooler.

Can silk sheets help with allergies and skin conditions?

Yes. Silk naturally repels dust mites, mold, and mildew, which makes it a great pick for allergy sufferers. It’s also super gentle on sensitive skin and can reduce irritation for conditions like eczema or rosacea. The smooth surface helps skin retain moisture and cuts down on friction..

What types of silk bedding products does Mayfairsilk offer?

Mayfairsilk offers a full range of silk essentials: duvet sets, fitted and flat sheets, pillowcases, eye masks, and scrunchies, all made with pure Mulberry silk to bring a touch of everyday luxury to your routine.