Silk vs Velvet Sheets: Cost, Differences & Skin Benefits

Key Takeaways

• Silk sheets offer exceptional temperature regulation and moisture-wicking, keeping you comfortable year-round, while velvet provides plush warmth ideal for colder months.

• Silk's smooth surface reduces friction on skin and hair, helping prevent sleep lines and breakage, whereas velvet's dense pile creates a soft, insulating cocoon.

• Velvet sheets typically range from £17–£120 per sheet, depending on quality and blend, while silk bedding made from premium Mulberry silk starts at around £230 per sheet.

• Silk requires gentle care but rewards you with hypoallergenic, breathable comfort that supports skin health, making it particularly beneficial for those with sensitive skin or beauty concerns.

• Mayfairsilk's Grade 6A Mulberry silk sheets (22 momme) and pillowcases (25 momme) deliver superior durability, thermoregulation, and skin-friendly benefits with OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification.

Silk & Velvet: Two Distinct Luxury Fabrics

Silk is a natural protein fibre created by Bombyx mori silkworms as they spin their cocoons. In traditional sericulture, these delicate creatures feed exclusively on mulberry leaves, producing long, continuous strands that are harvested and woven into lustrous fabric prized for millennia. The finest Mulberry silk, particularly Grade 6A varieties, provides an exceptionally smooth surface with remarkable breathability.

Velvet is a woven fabric distinguished by its characteristic dense pile, which creates that signature plush texture. The fabric involves an extra set of yarns that form upright loops, which are then sheared evenly to create a soft, raised surface. Velvet can be made from various fibres, including cotton, polyester, or blended materials, each having different properties.

The difference lies not just in construction but in how these fabrics interact with your body during sleep. Silk's protein-based fibres are naturally compatible with human hair and skin, creating a gentle, friction-reducing surface, while velvet's dense pile provides cushioning that traps warmth.

Mayfairsilk: Luxurious Slumber in Matte Silk As Featured in Marie Claire, Harper's Bazaar & Vanity Fair Experience True Silk Luxury: Silk Pillowcases · 25 Momme: Transform your beauty sleep with our signature pillowcases that help reduce friction on hair and skin while regulating temperature throughout the night. Silk Sheets · 22 Momme: Envelop yourself in the ultimate bedding experience with our thermoregulating complete sets, crafted from lustrous Grade 6A Mulberry silk with an exquisite matte finish. Exclusive Limited Edition Prints: Elevate your bedroom aesthetic with our designer patterns, created in small batches for those who appreciate distinctive luxury. The Mayfairsilk Difference: ✓ Grade 6A Mulberry silk (the highest quality available) ✓ Thicker, more durable weave (22–25 Momme vs. standard 19) ✓ Natural thermoregulation for year-round comfort ✓ British owned and designed ✓ UK-based warehouse for fast, reliable delivery ✓ 30-night sleep guarantee on pillowcases Luxury Without Compromise: Free Next-Day Delivery on orders over £50 to the UK and €180/$180 to the EU/US. All taxes and duties calculated upfront—no surprise charges. Discover Mayfairsilk Today →

Key Differences Between Silk & Velvet Sheets

Texture & Feel

Gliding across your skin with minimal friction, silk creates a cooling, fluid sensation that feels almost weightless. The fabric drapes beautifully across your body, moving with you rather than against you. High-quality Mulberry silk, particularly Grade 6A varieties like those used by Mayfairsilk, has an exceptionally smooth surface with a sophisticated matte finish that elegantly catches light.

Velvet delivers an entirely different sensory experience. The dense pile creates a plush, cushioned feel that envelops you in softness. It's notably heavier and more substantial, providing that cosy, embracing sensation many crave during colder months. The raised fibres create texture that feels luxurious to the touch but lacks silk's frictionless glide.

Silk's smooth, lustrous surface glides effortlessly across your skin, creating an indulgent sleep experience.

Temperature Regulation & Breathability

Silk regulates temperature naturally through its unique protein structure. It keeps you cool when warm and provides gentle insulation when cool, adapting to your body's needs throughout the night. Silk has a moisture regain rate of approximately 11%, allowing it to effectively wick away perspiration while maintaining a dry, comfortable feel against your skin throughout the night.

Velvet's temperature performance depends heavily on its composition. The dense pile naturally traps heat, making velvet sheets particularly suited to winter months or those who tend to feel cold at night. However, this same insulating property can lead to overheating during warmer seasons. Natural fibre velvets with breathable backings perform better, but they still can't match silk's adaptive thermoregulation.

Durability & Care Requirements

Silk requires thoughtful care to maintain its beauty. Handwashing with pH-neutral detergent, or machine washing on delicate cycles in a mesh bag, preserves the fibres. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, and high heat. When used nightly and cared for properly, high-quality silk bedding typically lasts between 2 and 4 years before showing noticeable wear. However, exceptional care and less frequent use can significantly extend this. Mayfairsilk's thicker 22–25 momme weave has enhanced durability compared to standard 19 momme products.

Velvet's care depends on its fibre composition. Synthetic velvet blends, particularly polyester, are easier to maintain and machine-washable on gentle cycles. Natural fibre velvets may require more delicate handling. The pile can flatten over time with use, though gentle brushing helps restore its texture. Velvet generally withstands regular washing better than silk, though it may lose some lustre over time.

Skin & Hair Benefits

This is where silk truly excels. The smooth surface creates minimal friction as you move during sleep, helping prevent those telltale sleep lines that can deepen into wrinkles over time. Dermatologists frequently recommend silk pillowcases specifically for this anti-ageing benefit. For hair, silk's frictionless surface reduces breakage, split ends, and morning frizz, particularly beneficial for textured, curled, or chemically treated hair.

Velvet provides softness and comfort, but doesn't have the same friction-reducing properties. Its pile, while plush, can absorb moisture from your skin, potentially contributing to dryness. The texture, though pleasant, creates more drag on skin and hair than silk's gliding surface.

Silk's friction-reducing properties help maintain skin hydration and prevent hair breakage throughout the night.

Environmental & Ethical Considerations

Silk production, when done responsibly, is remarkably eco-friendly. Silkworms feed exclusively on mulberry leaves, which grow on trees requiring no pesticides, while supporting reforestation. The production generates significantly less CO₂ compared to synthetics and many natural fibres. Silk is entirely biodegradable, breaking down naturally without environmental harm.

Velvet's environmental impact varies depending on its composition. Synthetic velvet, typically polyester-based, derives from petroleum and isn't biodegradable. Natural fibre velvets made from cotton or bamboo offer better sustainability credentials, though cotton farming faces challenges related to water consumption and pesticide use.

Cost Comparison Between Silk & Velvet Sheets

Silk occupies the premium end of luxury bedding. The labour-intensive production process, from carefully raising silkworms on controlled mulberry leaf diets to processing delicate fibres, justifies the investment. Quality silk bedding typically starts around £230 per sheet, with complete sets ranging considerably higher depending on momme count and brand. Mayfairsilk's Grade 6A Mulberry silk offers exceptional value in the premium segment, providing superior quality at transparent pricing.

Velvet sheets provide a more accessible entry into luxury bedding. Prices typically range from £17 per sheet, depending on fibre composition, weave quality, and brand. Synthetic velvet blends sit at the lower end, while natural fibre velvets cost more.

Consider cost-per-wear when evaluating either fabric. Silk's durability and timeless appeal, combined with its skin and hair benefits, often justify the higher initial investment. Velvet's seasonal nature may lead to less frequent use, affecting its long-term value.

Silk vs Velvet Sheets Comparison Table

*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.

Mayfairsilk: Where Design Meets Mulberry Silk Excellence

Luxury bedding should enhance your life through genuine quality, not just marketing promises. That's why at Mayfairsilk, we deliver authentic excellence with every piece, crafted from Grade 6A long-fibre Mulberry silk in thicker 22–25 momme weights compared to the industry standard 19 momme. This commitment to superior materials creates bedding that performs better and lasts longer.

Recognition speaks volumes about quality, and we have earned distinction as Best Luxury Silk Bedding & Accessories Company at The Perfect Gift Awards and Best Luxury Silk Bedding Brand by the UK Enterprise Awards. These accolades reflect both exceptional product quality and outstanding customer satisfaction.

Experience bedroom luxury that combines British design sensibility with the finest Mulberry silk craftsmanship.

Our collection spans essentials and indulgences, featuring silk pillowcases in 25 momme weights, complete duvet sets, duvet covers, cushion covers, sleep eye masks, silk scrunchies for hair care, and thoughtfully curated gift sets. Every item carries OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification, confirming it's free from harmful substances and safe for even the most sensitive skin.

As a British-owned and designed company, we maintain exceptional standards through transparency and reliability. Fast shipping from a UK-based warehouse ensures next-day delivery, straightforward pricing eliminates surprise costs, and a 30-night sleep guarantee on pillowcases demonstrates confidence in quality. 

This risk-free trial allows you to experience the transformative difference of premium silk bedding in your own home.

Shop our collections today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are velvet sheets suitable for year-round use, or only in winter?

Velvet sheets work best during cooler months due to their naturally insulating properties. The dense pile effectively traps heat, making it ideal for autumn and winter. However, they can cause overheating during warmer seasons. Some natural fibre velvets with breathable backings provide better temperature management.

How do I choose between silk and velvet if I have sensitive skin?

Silk is typically the better choice for sensitive skin. Its hypoallergenic properties, smooth surface, and moisture-wicking capabilities create an ideal environment for delicate skin. Silk doesn't absorb your skin's natural oils or skincare products, helping maintain hydration throughout the night. Velvet can be soft but may irritate some sensitive skin types depending on the fibre composition.

Can I wash silk sheets in a washing machine, or must I hand-wash?

High-quality silk sheets can be machine-washed with proper care. Use a delicate cycle with cool water and place items in a mesh laundry bag for protection. Always use a pH-neutral silk detergent, avoiding harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners. Hand washing is gentler and may extend the fabric's life, but machine washing on delicate settings is perfectly acceptable. Air-dry flat away from direct sunlight.

Do silk sheets really help prevent wrinkles and hair damage?

Yes, silk's smooth surface creates minimal friction as you move during sleep, reducing creasing that contributes to sleep lines and eventual wrinkles. For hair, the reduced friction means less breakage, fewer split ends, and significantly less frizz upon waking. This benefit is particularly noticeable for textured, curled, or chemically treated hair. Many dermatologists and hairstylists recommend silk pillowcases specifically for these protective benefits.

What makes Mayfairsilk different from other silk bedding brands?

Mayfairsilk uses 25 momme Grade 6A Mulberry silk for pillowcases and 22 momme for sheets, offering unmatched softness, durability, and skin-loving benefits. The signature matte finish is elegant, and our products are certified under OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, which ensures safety. As a British-owned company, we combine sustainable practices with exceptional craftsmanship.