By The Eye desk · Last verified 12 October 2026
Mulberry silk is the smooth, even silk spun by domesticated Bombyx silkworms, which feed on mulberry leaves; Britannica notes that commercial silk comes almost entirely from these cultivated worms. Momme (pronounced “mommy”, written mm) is silk’s unit of weight: 1 momme is about 4.34 grams per square metre. Higher momme means more silk in the cloth, so 22-momme pillowcases are denser than 16-momme scarves, but a higher number does not automatically mean better quality. For care, read the label first, then wash gently in cool water with a mild soap, never wring, and dry away from sunlight, which fades colours and yellows white silk.
Silk is lovely in the tropics: light, soft and breathable. It simply asks for a little kindness, especially when sweat and strong sun are part of daily life.
Quick facts
- Silk production most likely began in China before the middle of the 3rd millennium BCE.
- Mulberry silk comes from domesticated Bombyx silkworms fed on mulberry leaves.
- 1 momme ≈ 4.34 g/m²; 8 momme is roughly 1 oz per square yard.
- Common weights: 12–16 momme for scarves, 19–22 for pillowcases, 22–25 for bedding.
- Silk is weaker when wet and is weakened by perspiration, deodorant and sunlight.
- Never use chlorine bleach or presoak products on silk.
What makes mulberry silk different?
Domesticated silkworms are raised on mulberry leaves and spin long, fine, even filaments, which gives mulberry silk its smooth hand and soft sheen. Other silks, sometimes sold as “wild” or tussah silk, come from different moths and usually have a coarser, more textured look. Neither is wrong; they suit different uses. When a label says “100% mulberry silk”, it is telling you the fibre; the momme and the weave tell you how the fabric will feel.
What does momme weight mean?
Momme comes from the Japanese way of weighing silk and is defined as the weight in pounds of a piece 45 inches wide and 100 yards long. In practice, you only need the conversion: multiply the momme by 4.34 to get grams per square metre.
| Momme | Approx. weight | Typical uses |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 26 g/m² | Linings, chiffon |
| 12 | 52 g/m² | Summer scarves, lightweight crepe de chine |
| 16 | 69 g/m² | Scarves, blouses |
| 19 | 82 g/m² | Pillowcases |
| 22 | 95 g/m² | Premium pillowcases, bonnets, bedding |
| 25 | 109 g/m² | Luxury bedding |
Worked example: a 22-momme pillowcase works out at 22 × 4.34 = 95.5 g/m², while a 16-momme scarf is 16 × 4.34 = 69.4 g/m². The pillowcase has about 38% more silk per square metre, which usually means a denser, longer-wearing cloth. For a breezy scarf in Singapore’s heat, lighter is often nicer.
How to wash and care for silk
This routine follows a silk care fact sheet from Ohio State University Extension. Always check the care label first: some silks must be dry cleaned because of their dye, finish or construction.
- Wash separately in cool or lukewarm water with a mild soap; strong alkaline detergents weaken silk. Reds, greens, blues and purples are most likely to bleed.
- Handle gently. Do not wring or twist, because silk is weaker when wet.
- Roll it in a towel to press out the water.
- Dry in the shade on a padded or plastic hanger. Sunlight fades silk and yellows white pieces.
- Iron on the reverse while slightly damp, on the silk setting, with a press cloth for the right side.
Silk in Singapore’s climate
| Risk | Why it matters | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Perspiration | Salts in sweat and deodorant can weaken fibres and stain underarms | Let deodorant dry first; wash soon after wearing |
| Sun | Fades colour, yellows white silk | Dry indoors or in shade; store away from windows |
| Perfume and hairspray | Alcohol-based mists can mark silk | Apply before dressing |
| Spills | Water can set a stain or leave a ring | Do not dab with water; take it to a dry cleaner quickly |
The WahLiao Verdict
Buy silk by use, not by the biggest number. For scarves and blouses in our climate, 12 to 16 momme feels light and lovely; for pillowcases, 19 to 22 momme gives a denser cloth that should last. Look for a clear fibre label and a stated momme, and be wary of “silky” or “satin”, which describe a finish or weave, not the fibre. Then wash it gently, keep it out of the sun, and it will reward you for years.
Questions people ask
Is higher momme always better?
No. It means more silk per square metre, which adds durability and body, but a lighter momme can be the right choice for scarves and summer clothes.
Can I machine wash silk?
Only if the care label allows it. If it does, use a delicate cycle, cool water, a mesh bag and a mild detergent, and skip the spin if you can.
Is satin the same as silk?
No. Satin is a weave that can be made from silk or from synthetics such as polyester. Check the fibre content on the label.
Why has my white silk turned yellow?
Sunlight and perspiration both yellow white silk. Dry and store it out of the sun, and wash it soon after wearing.
Sources: Encyclopædia Britannica, silk and its origins; Apparel Search, momme definition and conversion; Murier Silk, momme weights by product; Ohio State University Extension (via Apparel Search), silk fabric care fact sheet. The Eye explains; it does not endorse.
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