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Waking up with frizzed ends, flattened roots, or a creased face from your pillow is a familiar frustration, which is exactly why the best silk pillowcases have become an essential part of our nighttime hair-care (and skin-care) routines. Unlike cotton, which can grip hair and absorb moisture overnight, silk creates a smoother sleep surface that helps strands glide, and skin stay comfortable as you move. But not all silk pillowcases are created equal, and they don't have to cost a fortune.
The key difference often comes down to momme, the measure of silk's weight and density that determines how well your pillowcase will actually perform. Higher momme numbers mean more tightly woven fibers and a smoother, more durable pillowcase. Entry-level options range from 16 to 19 momme, while premium pillowcases range from 22 to 25 momme. That added density delivers better slip, less friction-related breakage and tangling, and improved temperature regulation, making it an investment in a fabric that actually performs night after night.
Our Top Silk Pillowcases
- Best Overall: Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase, $115
- Best for Hot Sleepers: Blissy Mulberry Silk Pillowcase, $80
- Best Budget Silk: Quince 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase, $45
- Best Organic Silk: Clementine Sleepwear Organic Silk Pillowcase, $82
- Best Satin: Kitsch Satin Pillowcase, $15
- Best Design: Lilysilk 22 Momme Oxford Envelope Silk Pillowcase, $151 (2-Pack)
- Best Heavyweight Silk: Fishers Finery 100% Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase Set, $113
- Best Machine-Washable Silk: Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Pillowcase, $64
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What are the benefits of silk pillowcases for your hair?
- Are silk pillowcases more effective than silk bonnets for protecting hair overnight, or do they serve different purposes depending on hair type or current style?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase
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Slip
Pure Silk Pillowcase
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: Waking up to a pillowcase that's twisted, bunched, or slipped partway off is a recipe for a bedhead disaster. Slip's Pure Silk Pillowcase was designed to address exactly that problem with a fit that prioritizes a secure fit and high-quality fabric. "Silk pillowcases have the tendency to slide, especially for side sleepers, causing the pillow to either slide out of the envelope case. If there is a zipper closure, it often slides to one side and bunches up, leaving the pillow itself disproportionate, which can alter your hairstyle and disturb the curls," says Cataanda James, a hairstylist based in New York City. "The way Slip Silk Pillowcases hug your pillow, it creates a silky-smooth cloud for your strands to cascade without friction."
Constructed from 100% real silk, the fabric reduces hair pulling and absorbs less moisture than cotton. The low-friction surface also minimizes strain on facial skin, limiting the stretching and pulling that occurs with rougher materials. Care requires a gentle approach; handwashing or using a mesh laundry bag protects the fibers, and air-drying away from direct sunlight to maintain the silk's structure over time.
Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino
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"I swear by Slip silk pillowcases, and having two of these initialed versions on my bed makes me feel like I live in an upscale hotel. I’ve been using these religiously for over a year now and can say that my hair is less frizzy, my ends have less breakage, and when I accidentally go to sleep with damp hair, it’s not the end of the world. It’s a bonus that they make crawling into bed feel more luxurious, too." —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer
More to know
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- Material: 100% silk
- Momme: 22
- Machine-washable: yes
- Sizes: queen, king
Best for Hot Sleepers: Blissy Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
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Blissy
Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: If you’re constantly looking for the cool side of the pillow, fabric choice matters, and in this case, the choice should be Blissy’s Mulberry Silk Pillowcase. It features 100% mulberry silk with a 22-momme weight, giving it a smooth, dense handfeel while remaining naturally thermoregulating. Silk’s breathable fiber structure helps release excess heat rather than trap it, making this a strong option for hot sleepers worried about sweating out their style overnight. At the same time, the silky surface reduces tugging and tangling, especially for curly, thick, or color-treated textures. A hidden zipper closure keeps the pillow securely in place, and unlike many high-momme silk pillowcases, this one is machine-washable on a gentle cycle.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“Despite having relatively straight hair (with just the slightest bends), my hair is flyaway central, and I notice a huge difference whenever I use a cotton pillowcase versus a silk pillowcase. Blissy’s Mulberry Silk Pillowcase comes in such chic colorways (I have Plum and Lavender) and has been the easiest way to upgrade my sleep routine. I may live in a one-bedroom apartment in a pre-war building, but I feel a little fancier with this on my bed—and the naturally cooling material is a big bonus as someone who experiences sleep sweats. Also, as someone who avoids hand-wash materials whenever possible (I’m lazy and not afraid to admit it!), I’m really glad you can toss this into the washer, ideally with a mesh bag.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Material: 100% mulberry silk
- Momme: 22
- Machine-washable: yes
- Sizes: standard, queen, king
Best Budget Silk: Quince 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
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Quince
100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
Quince
Why we love it: The 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase by Quince makes stocking your linen closet with quality silk bedding feel realistic. Woven from 22-momme mulberry silk, it delivers a dense, smooth hand-feel that minimizes friction on hair and skin throughout the night. The naturally hypoallergenic fiber contains amino acids that support skin comfort, making it well-suited for sensitive or reactive skin types. Unlike many high-momme silk pillowcases, it’s designed to tolerate machine washing on a cold, gentle cycle when used with a garment bag, striking a balance between luxury and everyday practicality.
Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen
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“When I think of silk pillowcases, I don't think of Quince. Like, ever. But after recently discovering the hidden luxury of its sleep masks, I had a feeling the pillowcases would offer the same sort of satin-y softness. And I was right! They're great; my nighttime skin-care routine doesn't transfer, my wet hair never snags, and they're so cozy my cat even likes curling up on them.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director
More to know
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- Material: 100% mulberry silk
- Momme: 22
- Machine-washable: yes
- Sizes: standard, queen, king
Best Organic Silk: Clementine Sleepwear Organic Silk Pillowcase
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Clementine Sleepwear
Organic Silk Pillowcase
Amazon
Clementine Sleepwear
Why we love it: Clementine Sleepwear's Organic Silk Pillowcase stands out for its material purity and construction. Made from 100% organic mulberry silk at a 22-momme weight, the silk is produced from silkworms raised on pesticide-free mulberry leaves and processed without harsh chemical finishes. In contrast, non-organic silk may involve chemical treatments during farming or finishing that can leave behind residue.
"When sleeping on a Clementine silk pillowcase sans a bonnet or any other protective headwrap, your hair glides seamlessly, even on the most coily 4C curls," says James. The silk is processed without harsh chemicals, while the white option remains completely undyed, reducing exposure for sensitive scalps that react to residue transfer. An envelope enclosure keeps the pillow secure without zippers or hardware that could snag strands, and the breathable, temperature-regulating fabric supports scalp comfort while helping hair retain moisture overnight.
Tester feedback from contributor Jailynn Taylor
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“I’m the type of person who can fall asleep at the drop of a hat, which means my bonnet doesn’t always make it onto my head. That’s why I love having my Clementine Sleepwear Organic Silk Pillowcase already on my pillow. It’s my built-in backup when sleep takes over. When I wake up, my locs aren’t tangled, there’s noticeably less shedding than I’d see with cotton, and I don’t have to deal with lint getting trapped in my hair. It gives me peace of mind knowing my hair is still protected, even on nights when I drift off faster than planned.” —Jailynn Taylor, contributor
More to know
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- Material: 100% organic mulberry silk
- Momme: 22
- Machine-washable: no
- Sizes: queen, king
Best Satin: Kitsch Satin Pillowcase
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Kitsch
Satin Pillowcase
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: You can get the friction-free benefits of silk without having to actually splurge on silk. At a significantly lower price point, satin is the most accessible entry point, and the Kitsch Satin Pillowcase delivers on the basics. Made from polyester satin, the smooth surface offers less resistance than cotton, reducing frizz, tangling, and breakage while being gentler on skin prone to sleep lines and wrinkles. Its concealed zipper keeps the pillow evenly positioned while avoiding hair snags. The fabric is breathable and cool, and absorbs less sweat and dirt than cotton, helping minimize irritation and breakouts.
Tester feedback from senior manager of analytics & audience development Monica Perry
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“A [satin] pillowcase is a must if you have curly hair and the habit of forgetting to put on your bonnet after an exhausting day. I prefer this one because it has the zipper closure, so the pillow isn't constantly slipping out, and because even though it's less than $20, it doesn't feel low quality.” —Monica Perry, senior manager of analytics & audience development
More to know
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- Material: polyester satin
- Momme: n/a
- Machine-washable: yes (turn inside out, wash in cool water on the gentle cycle with mild detergent, tumble low dry or air dry)
- Sizes: standard, king
Best Design: Lilysilk 22 Momme Oxford Envelope Silk Pillowcase
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LilySilk
22 Momme Oxford Envelope Silk Pillowcase
Amazon (2-Pack)
Lilysilk (Single)
Why we love it: Lilysilk’s 22 Momme Oxford Envelope Silk Pillowcase is crafted from 100% mulberry silk charmeuse, finished with a refined 2-inch Oxford flange that gives it an elevated look while featuring a smooth sleep surface for hair. That envelope-style side closure eliminates metal or plastic zippers entirely, reducing wear on the silk itself and preventing snagging or scratching. Woven using Lilysilk’s signature charmeuse technique, the fabric has a glossy, pearl-like face and a matte underside that drapes softly and remains breathable across seasons. The 22-momme weight provides enough density to hold its shape night after night while still allowing hair to move freely.
Tester feedback from Taylor
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"I’ll be honest, with locs, I do get a bit lazy and sometimes fall asleep without a bonnet, so having Lilysilk’s 22 Momme Oxford Envelope Silk Pillowcase as my second line of defense makes a real difference. The smooth mulberry silk surface gives my hair room to roam without restriction, minimizing friction and snags. Plus, the envelope closure means there’s no hardware getting caught in my hair or scalp while I sleep.” —Jailynn Taylor, contributor
More to know
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- Material: 100% mulberry silk charmeuse
- Momme: 22
- Machine-washable: no
- Sizes: standard, king, queen
Best Heavyweight Silk: Fishers Finery 100% Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase Set
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Fishers Finery
100% Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase Set
Amazon
Fishers Finery
Why we love it: Waking up with flattened hair or pronounced sleep lines often comes down to friction and fabric density, which is where heavyweight silk makes a measurable difference. The Fishers Finery Mulberry Silk Pillowcase Set is a duo crafted from 100% mulberry silk at a substantial 25-momme weight, creating a denser, more stable surface that resists shifting. “25mm is the perfect mid-range if you go from curly to straight or if you’re transitioning from cotton pillowcases to silk,” says James, noting that the weight is a great transition from cotton and ideal for all hair types. It also features an oversized envelope closure with a slightly offset side entry for easy on-and-off.
More to know
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- Material: mulberry silk
- Momme: 25
- Machine-washable: yes
- Sizes: queen
Best Machine-Washable: Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
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Brooklinen
Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
Amazon
Brooklinen
Why we love it: Sleeping on silk doesn’t have to mean committing to delicate, dry-clean-only care, and Brooklinen’s Mulberry Silk Pillowcase proves it. Made from 100% mulberry silk, the fabric feels cool to the touch while remaining breathable, helping prevent heat and moisture from building up at the scalp. “Although silk is moisture-wicking, it brings the sweat from the scalp to the surface of the fabric and quickly dries because of the temperature regulation property of silk,” explains James, noting that silk manages moisture differently than cotton even when it doesn’t appear visibly damp. She adds that rotation is key for hair health, and “Brooklinen makes it possible to build up your collection with a more budget-friendly collection while still protecting your tresses.” Finished with an envelope closure and care instructions that allow for cold, gentle machine washing.
More to know
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- Material: mulberry silk
- Momme: 22
- Machine-washable: yes
- Sizes: standard, king
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of silk pillowcases for your hair?
“Silk pillowcases simply protect your hair from friction while sleeping,” says James. They function similarly to silk bonnets and scarves by creating a smoother barrier between hair and the pillow. Because silk is gentler on the cuticle layer than cotton, “it helps prevent split ends and breakage, preserves moisture, minimizes frizz, and decreases tangles,” she explains, making it especially beneficial for textured, curly, or chemically-treated hair.
James also notes that silk’s material properties directly influence how hair looks and feels over time. “Silk is a natural protein fiber,” and its breathable, smooth, and slip-rich qualities allow hair to glide rather than snag overnight, she explains. When silk becomes part of a regular sleep routine, “these attributes are mirrored in your hair and become part of its personality,” supporting smoother texture, improved shine, and healthier-looking strands from root to tip, she adds.
Are silk pillowcases more effective than silk bonnets for protecting hair overnight, or do they serve different purposes depending on hair type or current style?
“Silk pillowcases aren’t necessarily more effective than silk bonnets, but they complement one another like besties,” says James. For people with fine, straight, or loose wavy hair, James explains that a silk pillowcase alone is often enough because “it allows your strands to flow freely throughout the night, while still preventing friction and preserving moisture.” In those cases, confining hair under a bonnet can actually work against volume and movement, since “when fine or straight textures are confined in a bonnet, it tends to eliminate body and movement in the hair.”
For curlier textures, the strategy shifts. James notes that “for higher curl patterns, tucking your ends at night is best,” since it helps maintain curl definition and prevents the ends from separating and creating frizz. That’s where layering protection becomes useful. “For the curlies, I highly recommend doubling or tripling up for extra protection,” she says, especially for anyone whose bonnet tends to slip off overnight. Her advice is to secure curls with a silk scarf first, then add a bonnet, and still sleep on a silk pillowcase as backup. Because “silk is lightweight and breathable,” James explains, it helps regulate temperature so “your scalp doesn’t overheat,” making the combination particularly helpful for people who experience night sweats. In those cases, “the duality of the silk bonnet plus silk pillowcase” can offer better protection than relying on a single layer alone.
Meet the experts
- Cataanda James, a licensed cosmetologist in New York City
How we test and review products
We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While certain products can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn’t want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls — right?
For our review of the best silk pillowcases, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, dermatologists, and stylists—who spoke to silk pillowcases' hair and skin benefits. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: texture, experience, value, and momme (where relevant). For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
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