For centuries, silk has been the undisputed king of luxury textiles. But when shopping for the best quality, a specific term dominates the market: Mulberry Silk.
This guide explores the true mulberry silk meaning, answers questions like “what is mulberry silk made of,” and explains why this single fiber is the gold standard across fashion, beauty, and bedding.
1.What is Mulberry Silk? The Definitive Answer
The most important distinction to understand in the world of silk is that “silk vs mulberry silk” is not a competition between two different materials—it’s a distinction between quality and source.
What is Mulberry Silk?
Mulberry silk is the highest quality silk available globally. It is defined as a natural protein fiber that comes exclusively from the silkworm species Bombyx mori (the mulberry silkworm).
Where Does Mulberry Silk Come From?
The mulberry silkworm is a fully domesticated insect that has been selectively bred over 5,000 years, with its history of silk production starting in China. The “mulberry” name is crucial because this silkworm feeds only on the leaves of the white mulberry tree. This controlled diet, combined with centralized, professional rearing (how is silk made), results in a consistently pure and superior fiber.
Mulberry Silk Definition:
Mulberry Silk is the highest-grade silk filament harvested from the cocoons of Bombyx mori silkworms fed exclusively on mulberry leaves. The fiber is renowned for its smooth, uniform texture, exceptional luster, and luxurious length.
The key question, “is mulberry silk real silk?”, can be definitively answered with a yes. It is pure, natural silk. The difference between mulberry silk vs real silk (like wild silk) lies in its superior, uniform quality.
2.Beyond Mulberry: Understanding the Types of Silk
While Mulberry Silk sets the quality benchmark, there are other natural silks, often called ‘wild silks,’ that you may encounter.
| Silk Type | Source & Key Feature | Primary Production Location |
| Mulberry Silk | Domesticated silkworm ($Bombyx\ mori$). Fine, long, white filament. | China, India (high-volume) |
| Tussah Silk (or Oak Tasar Silk) | Wild silkworm ($Antheraea\ mylitta$) that feeds on oak/juniper leaves. Coarser, uneven, and naturally brownish/tannish. | China, India |
| Eri Silk | Semi-domesticated silkworm ($Samia\ ricini$) that feeds on castor/cassava leaves. Known as “Peace Silk” (is mulberry silk ethical is less debated as Bombyx mori must be killed), it’s woolly and dull. | India (Assam), Thailand, China |
| Muga Silk | Wild silkworm ($Antheraea\ assamensis$). Famous for its unique, rich golden color and extreme durability. | India (Assam state) |
3.The Benefits of Mulberry Silk: Is Mulberry Silk Good?
The properties of Mulberry Silk are not just about luxury; they deliver tangible benefits for beauty and comfort, answering “what is mulberry silk good for.”
1. Good For Skin and Hair
The fiber is composed of two primary proteins, Sericin and Fibroin, containing amino acids similar to those found in human skin. This allows it to:
- Reduce Friction: The incredibly smooth texture (like charmeuse silk fabric) prevents friction, reducing sleep wrinkles and minimizing hair breakage and frizz (“bed head”).
- Retain Moisture: It doesn’t absorb moisture and oils like cotton does, helping skin and hair retain their natural hydration, making it ideal for the question “is mulberry silk good for skin?”.
2. Enhanced Comfort and Sleep
The fine, long filaments are is mulberry silk breathable, offering exceptional comfort:
- Temperature Regulation: It naturally wicks moisture and adjusts to body temperature, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter.
- Hypoallergenic: The Sericin protein naturally repels dust mites, mold, and fungus, making mulberry silk bedding a clean choice for allergy sufferers.
3. Eco-Friendly Aspect
While is mulberry silk ethical is often debated (the process involves killing the pupa), the fiber itself is natural, biodegradable, and requires less water than materials like cotton.
4.Shopping for Silk: Understanding Quality (Momme Definition)
When buying mulberry silk sheets or mulberry silk pajamas, you will see the word “momme.” This is the key quality indicator:
- Momme Definition: Momme (mm) is a traditional unit of weight used to measure silk density. It tells you the weight in pounds of a piece of silk fabric 45 inches wide and 100 yards long.
- Quality Standard: The higher the momme count, the denser, more durable, and softer the silk. What quality is mulberry silk? 19-25 momme is generally considered the best quality for mulberry silk bedding and accessories.
5.Using and Caring for Your Mulberry Silk
From a mulberry silk scarf to mulberry silk bedding, proper care ensures the longevity of your investment.
Mulberry Silk Uses:
- Bedding: Mulberry silk sheets and pillowcases are the most common luxury purchase.
- Apparel: Mulberry silk pajamas, nightgowns, and lingerie are favored for their comfort and drape.
- Accessories: Mulberry silk scarf and scrunchies capitalize on the anti-frizz, anti-crease benefits.
How to Wash Mulberry Silk (Washing Your Luxury Item):
- Preparation: Always turn mulberry silk pajamas and pillowcases inside out.
- Detergent: Use a mild, pH-neutral, non-biological detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics.
- Washing:
- Machine: Use a mesh laundry bag on the delicate or silk cycle at a cool temperature (30°C/86°F or less).
- Hand Wash: Soak in cool water for 5 minutes, gently squeeze out excess water, and avoid twisting or wringing.
- Drying: Hang or lay flat to air dry. Keep silk out of direct sunlight, as this can damage the protein structure and fade the color.
6.よくある質問
Mulberry Silk vs Regular Silk？
Mulberry silk is a type of real silk, distinguished by its higher quality, uniformity, and smoother texture compared to “wild silks” (like Tussah).
Is Mulberry Silk Breathable?
Yes, absolutely. It naturally regulates temperature and wicks moisture, making it much more breathable than synthetic silk (polyester).
What is Mulberry Silk Made Of?
It is made of pure, continuous protein filaments (what is mulberry silk made of is Fibroin そして Sericin) produced by the domesticated silkworm.
Is Mulberry Silk Vegan?
No. Is mulberry silk vegan? Since the silkworm pupa must be killed inside the cocoon to harvest the long, continuous filament, it is generally not considered vegan.
Mulberry Silk Price Point?
The mulberry silk price is higher than wild silk or synthetic alternatives due to its superior quality, complex production process, and desirable benefits.
What is Charmeuse Silk Fabric?
Charmeuse is a weave (a method of knitting) that gives a fabric a satin finish and a beautiful drape. It is a very common weave used with mulberry silk thread to create luxurious items.
What is the Difference between Mulberry Silk and Other Kinds of Silk
