Shop

Silk Sheets for the Summer!

Ah, summer - a season beloved by many for its warmth and sunshine. However, even the most ardent summer enthusiasts may find themselves dreading the hot, sleepless nights spent tossing and turning in search of a cool spot on their sheets.

Luxury Silk Sheets from Belledorm and Bedlinen Direct

Thankfully, there is a solution to this common problem. By switching to pure mulberry silk sheets, you can greatly improve your comfort and avoid the overheating that often disrupts a good night's rest. Bedlinen Direct offer silk sheets and pillowcases from Belledorm that are perfect for staying cool and sleeping soundly during the summer months. Discover the benefits of silk sheets and elevate your sleep experience with our luxury Belledorm Mulberry Silk bedlinen, duvets and pillows. The exceptional qualities of pure mulberry silk make it an excellent choice for cooling sheets during the summer months. Firstly, silk is a protein-based fibre that is highly breathable and has the ability to regulate body temperature while you sleep, ensuring you stay cool in hot weather. This makes silk sheets ideal for individuals who tend to sleep hot or experience night sweats or hot flashes.

Additionally, the unique cellular structure of silk allows it to wick moisture away from the body, unlike cotton sheets which tend to absorb sweat and remain damp. This moisture-wicking property of silk sheets helps keep you dry and comfortable throughout the night. Furthermore, high-quality silk bedding is smooth, lightweight and softer to the touch compared to cotton sheets. Moreover, silk is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, mould and other allergens, making it a perfect choice for individuals with allergies or sensitivities who are looking for a hygienic and healthy sleep environment. For centuries, silk has been renowned for its comfort and luxury, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a peaceful night's sleep. In conclusion, when it comes to bedding, do not settle for anything less than genuine silk for the ultimate sleeping experience.

Silk really is the ideal choice for warm weather, as the demand for silk bedding continues to rise (it seems impossible to scroll through social media without encountering an advertisement for a silk pillowcase), it is important to understand the distinction between satin and silk. Contrary to popular belief, these two materials are not interchangeable. While the term "satin weave" may refer to fabric that is glossy on one side and dull on the other, satin bed sheets are typically composed of synthetic materials such as nylon or polyester. Consequently, satin sheets do not offer the same cooling properties as authentic silk sheets. For those seeking the ultimate cooling experience, genuine silk is the way to go. So, what sets silk apart from satin? We are here to provide clarity on this matter. We will also explain why it is crucial to opt for 100% pure mulberry silk of the highest calibre when purchasing silk pillowcases or sheets. Let's delve into the key distinctions between silk and satin.

differences between silk and sateen

1. Silk, a natural fibre, stands in stark contrast to satin, a type of weave crafted from manmade materials such as polyester or nylon. These synthetic fabrics, derived from petroleum, lack the sustainability and environmental friendliness of silk. Real silk, being biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals or fossil fuels, is a superior choice for those seeking a more eco-conscious option.

2. The benefits of silk extend beyond its environmental advantages. Silk thread contains amino acids and a unique protein called sericin, which is removed during processing. The remaining protein, fibroin, is rich in 18 amino acids that naturally condition hair and skin. Many luxury body lotions and hair treatments utilize silk protein for its nourishing properties. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase is like receiving an overnight beauty treatment for your hair and skin.

3. Silk's natural temperature-regulating properties make it a standout choice for bedding. The hollow structure of silk fibres allows them to absorb moisture and retain heat, effectively regulating body temperature. Whether you're sweating or feeling chilly, silk adjusts accordingly to keep you comfortable. In contrast, satin lacks the breathability and comfort of silk, making it less ideal for year-round use.

4. In addition to its environmental and comfort benefits, silk is also hypoallergenic and resistant to mould and dust mites. Sericin, the protein coating silk fibres, naturally repels allergens, fungus and dust mites, making silk one of the most hypoallergenic fabrics available. For those with sensitivities or allergies, silk bedding offers a luxurious and health-conscious option.

5. Silk is gentle on even the most sensitive skin. In addition to being hypoallergenic, pure mulberry silk is crafted from long, smooth fibres that are renowned for their strength and softness. This makes silk an ideal choice for individuals with sensitive skin, including babies, or those with skin conditions such as acne, eczema and contact dermatitis.

6. Silk epitomises luxury. In addition to its numerous beauty and wellness benefits, nothing can quite match the luxurious feel of genuine silk. For centuries, genuine silk has been prized for its appearance, texture and natural properties. A satin weave pillowcase or sheet set made from synthetic materials simply cannot rival the elegance and comfort of authentic silk.

Ensuring that you are purchasing genuine silk bedding requires some diligence on your part. Historically, silk has held a higher price point than satin due to its superior quality. However, authentic silk can still be affordable. First and foremost, it is crucial to only purchase products made from 100 percent mulberry silk. Some dishonest sellers may try to pass off synthetic fibres or silk blends as genuine silk. Always carefully examine the label of any silk product you are considering to ensure it is labelled as pure silk. Additionally, pay close attention to the quality of the silk. Silk fibres are graded on a scale of 1-6, with Grade 6A silk being the highest quality available. Grade 6A silk is characterized by long, strong fibres of uniform colour. Consider the momme weight of the silk as well. Momme weight is equivalent to thread count in cotton fabric, with higher momme counts indicating a denser weave and thicker silk fibres. For example, a 19 momme silk pillowcase is roughly equivalent to a 600 thread count cotton pillowcase, while a 22 momme silk pillowcase is equivalent to a 900 thread count cotton pillowcase.

Mulberry Silk Bedding

Ensure the silk you purchase is environmentally friendly and safe. While silk is a natural fibre, it is crucial to verify that it has been produced safely throughout the entire manufacturing process. Seek out silk that has been tested and certified by an independent agency. All of our products are Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 certified. This certification guarantees that our silk has undergone rigorous lab testing to ensure it is free of harmful substances, such as toxins and irritants. Look for this certification label to ensure the product you are purchasing is safe. If you do not see the Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 or another certification clearly marked, the product may not be certified to be free of harmful substances. Attention to detail is key. Our Silk bedlinen range is crafted with a charmeuse weave, known for its luxurious lustre and smooth texture on one side, with a matte finish on the reverse. This weave helps reduce hair breakage, frizz and bedhead, particularly beneficial for curly hair, while also preventing sleep wrinkles. Our mulberry silk pillowcases feature a hidden French seam for a polished appearance.

Silk is a luxurious fabric that is not only beautiful but also quite easy to care for. Contrary to popular belief, silk bedding does not need to be dry cleaned. In fact, Mulberry Silk sheets and pillowcases can be laundered right at home in your washing machine on a gentle cycle. To ensure the best results when washing your pure silk sheets and bedding, follow these recommendations:

  1. Use a specialised silk detergent and wash your bedding in a silk-only load.
  2. Turn your silk pillowcase inside out and place it in a fine mesh laundry bag. Similarly, your flat sheet and fitted sheet should each be placed in their own individual mesh laundry bags to prevent damage during the washing process.
  3. Add the appropriate amount of detergent and run your machine on a delicate or silk cycle. Avoid using fabric softener on pure silk.
  4. After washing, hang your silk items to dry indoors or outside, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
  5. Silk bedding does not require ironing; simply smooth it by hand when putting it back on the bed, and any wrinkles will naturally release within a day or two. If desired, you can iron silk using the lowest setting on your iron, taking care not to burn the fabric.