Silk and cotton are worlds apart, but do you know what the differences between the two materials really are? Fait avec Coeur’s 30 momme silk pillowcase is compared side by side with a traditional cotton pillowcase. Let’s see what makes them so different, and which of these two natural fabrics is best for you.
How did Cotton Become “The Fabric of Our Lives?”
Cotton plants produce soft balls of fiber - literally cotton balls. Cotton balls can be spun into thread and woven into fabric. Since cotton is grown directly from the earth, it is considered a renewable and biodegradable resource. However, while you may think cotton would be eco-friendly, it usually isn’t. While the material does biodegrade, cotton farming is water-intensive and employs a large amount of pesticides. In addition, large tracts of forest are cleared for cotton farming, which has led to habitat destruction and species extinction.
If a brand states explicitly that its cotton is sourced organically, without hurting any wildlife, then the product may be eco-friendly. Otherwise, while sustainable and biodegradable, most cotton is not necessarily an environmentally-friendly fabric.
What is Silk?
Silk is another natural fabric, this time produced by weaving silk threads produced naturally by silkworms. These silk cocoons are harvested, and the silk extracted. The process of gathering the silkworms and harvesting their cocoons is known as sericulture.
Now, what becomes of that silk thread differs based on manufacturer’s standards. A lot of processes go into making the Fait avec Coeur 30 momme silk pillowcase. These include harvesting, thread extraction, dyeing, spinning, weaving, finishing, and finally stitching. At Fait avec Coeur, we have carefully studied the processes involved in the production of silk, and chosen a path that is fully sustainable.
How Are the Two Different?
Apart from the obvious difference – that is, how the two fabrics are made – there are many factors that set the two apart. Silk and cotton are worlds apart, and most people can immediately tell the difference between the two at a mere touch - or even just a glance. Let’s go over some of the key differences between these two fabrics.
Silk looks glossy
Silk has a glossy appearance, while cotton fabric has a matte surface. This is a key difference between the two fabrics, and one which immediately tells the two apart.
Silk has a smooth texture
While cotton is somewhat rough, silk has an ultra-smooth texture. The weight of silk is measured in momme, and the higher the momme value, the finer and more durable the silk. Our 30 momme silk pillowcase, for instance, is extremely fine and soft, and feels completely different from cotton. It is literally the softest fabric on Earth. You’ll feel the difference as soon as you touch it.
Silk requires a higher investment
The production process is complex and time-consuming with silk, so it is a more expensive fabric. Most cotton, on the other hand, is quick and easy to grow and manufacture, and therefore the supply is high and the cost low.
Silk is a good insulator
In simple words, this means that silk is good at absorbing body heat. It’ll keep you nice and warm in the winter, and it’s cool to the touch, so it will also be a welcome relief in the summer. Cotton’s insulation properties aren’t quite up to par, which means you may find it cold in the winter.
Silk is a delicate but durable material
Silk is a delicate fabric, and so it needs careful attention. You’ll need to hand wash or cold wash it strictly according to directions if you want to keep it looking and feeling great for years. Cotton, on the other hand, can take a bit of abuse.
As you can see, cotton and silk are very different, and the experience of using them is quite different as well. Both provide a good experience – but in distinctly different ways.
Similarities Between Cotton and Silk
While the two fabrics are worlds apart, there are some similarities between the two as well – few as they may be! Some similarities between the two fabrics include the fact that they are both naturally-made, and that they are both widely used for clothing and bedding. Both are also breathable, long-lasting, comfortable, and gorgeous in their own way.
Silk Vs Cotton: Which Is Better for Sleeping On?
While the highest quality Egyptian cotton may feel luxurious, it’s nothing compared to high quality silk bed sheets and our unbelievably soft 30 momme silk pillowcase. It isn’t just that they feel better – silk pillowcases actually offer a lot of benefits. Let’s go over some of them.
Silk creates less friction
Silk is a glossy material which creates very little friction. This means that your hair won’t get tangled overnight and be frizzy when you wake up. It also means that your skin conditions won’t be aggravated by rubbing against a rough pillowcase overnight. Silk is ideal for those who have acne, sensitive skin, or damage-prone hair.
Silk is hypoallergenic
Silk is a hypoallergenic fiber, which means it’s a lot less likely to trigger your existing allergies. Cotton, on the other hand, can trigger allergies because it traps dust mites. In addition, allergic sensitivity to cotton is fairly common. So, even if you don’t have an allergy to cotton, stay on the safe side and get yourself a silk pillowcase.
Silk has antimicrobial properties
Silk has antimicrobial properties, and can inhibit the growth of certain disease-causing microbes, so your silk pillowcase is a truly worthwhile investment. Silk also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, and it’s good at resisting mold, mildew and bacteria.
Silk helps your skin retain moisture
Silk does not absorb moisture because of its glossy texture, so your skin will stay hydrated and healthy overnight. Dry skin is prone to wrinkles, so in effect using a silk pillowcase will help minimize wrinkles. In addition, this characteristic of silk means less of your beauty product will be lost to your pillowcase, so you’ll benefit more from your lotions and creams.
Silk is softer
Silk is an unbelievably smooth, soft material, and when you’re up to 30 momme, you get a product that really blows your mind. This means that you’ll relish the experience more than you can imagine, and look forward to it every day. A soft pillowcase may help you sleep better, and since you can carry it with you, you’re assured a good night’s rest no matter where you are!
The Fait avec Coeur Promise
When you purchase something from Fait avec Coeur, you don’t buy; you invest. Our products are of premium quality, and they will last for years with proper care. Our mission is to provide high-quality, sustainable products that elevate your everyday life,
The 30 momme silk pillowcase is among our most popular products, but be sure to check out our silk eye masks, face masks, bed sheet sets, and zero-waste beauty products, all made with heart.
All of Fait avec Coeur's silk products are OEKO-TEX®, BSCI, and ISO certified.
