In a recently published guide, Mayfairsilk explains how silk quality is quantified and what momme measurements represent in the silk industry. Readers interested in buying silk can refer to the guide for insight on which fabrics are most suitable for clothing, accessories, or bedding, especially for pillowcases.
For more information, please visit https://mayfairsilk.com/blogs/general/what-momme-silk-is-the-best-for-pillowcases-fabric-weight-explained
While other textiles, such as cotton, are measured by thread count, this metric is not sufficient for evaluating the quality of silk, says the team. Silk fabrics with the same number of threads can still differ vastly in quality; furthermore, silk yarns are typically very fine, often resulting in inflated thread counts that may mislead the buyer. For this reason, the quality of silk fabric is evaluated using the momme, a unit of measurement that originated in Japan; this number is more precise, as it measures the density of silk per square meter rather than the thread count.
One momme is equal to 4.3056 g/m2 of silk, and a three-momme difference is roughly equivalent to a 20% difference in silk density, explains the guide. Silk fabrics of higher momme weights are more expensive because the material is softer, more opaque, and more hardwearing and is therefore considered to be of higher quality.
According to Mayfairsilk’s resource, silks under 12 momme are lightweight and typically fashioned into delicate accessories such as scarves, while any fabric in the range between 12 and 16 momme may be used for lingerie and pajamas.
For bedding, most manufacturers use silk fabrics that are 19 momme and above, as these fabrics can withstand daily use and regular washing while remaining soft to the touch. Mayfairsilk’s guide notes that 19 momme options are the most affordable but the least durable. On the other hand, premium pillowcases will be made of silk between 25 and 30 momme, which is especially soft, long-lasting, and lustrous; these are best suited for colder climates or simply for individuals who prefer the highest quality on the market.
In the in-between range, 22 momme pillowcases offer a middle ground between 19 momme and 25 to 30 momme pillowcases, balancing affordability with softness and longevity. Mayfairsilk’s guide notes that these pillowcases are the most popular choice among consumers, as they are suited for long-term everyday use without the premium prices attached to higher-momme options.
More information is available at https://mayfairsilk.com/
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