When it comes to shopping for silk products, the options can be overwhelming – so knowing what to look for is key. With many silk products available across the globe with varying price points and quality, we’ve put together a handy guide to silk momme, which will help you find high quality silk products that suit your needs and budget.
What is momme?
One of our most frequently asked questions here at Jasmine Silk is: What is momme? Silk’s momme is a way of measuring the weight of silk, and therefore indicates how high the quality of the silk is. The higher the momme count, the higher weight and quality the silk carries. This is because the fabric uses more silk threads being tightly woven together to create the end product. You’re probably wondering why silk isn’t just measured by thread count like other products – this is because silk thread counts are 1/10th of the thickness of a human hair, making it an inefficient measurement.
How is momme measured?
Momme (mm) is measured by weighing a piece of silk fabric that is around 114cm x 4m in lbs. The number of lbs the fabric weighs equates to the momme count. For example 22lbs would be 22 momme.
What momme is best for me?
We would always recommend buying high quality silk as it is much more durable and lasts for years to come. Choosing the momme count for your silk products will depend on your preference and budget – for example, if you’re looking for a slightly more affordable yet still luxury and great quality 19 momme is a fantastic option however if you want the epitome of high quality silk then 22 momme would be the best choice for you. Both 19 and 22 momme are great choices for most products and can be used comfortably throughout the year.
If you want to experience the sheer bliss of luxurious silk in the 19-22 momme range, we’ve got some top recommendations for you to enjoy all the benefits it has to offer:
- Silk pillowcases – Silk pillowcases in the 19-22 momme range are the perfect weight to be kind on your skin, flexible, comfortable and durable. This momme count is of a high quality, providing luxury softness for your delicate facial skin, whereas a lower momme count silk wouldn’t be as soft and gentle on the skin, and a higher momme count may be too stiff and uncomfortable.
- Silk pyjamas – A momme between 19-22 is also an ideal range for silk nightwear. Sleepwear needs to be soft, breathable, and lightweight whilst keeping you at a comfortable temperature at all times. Silk naturally regulates your temperature anyway, but having a comfortable momme count is the key to luxurious pyjamas that you’ll wear time and time again.
- Silk eye masks – Much like a silk pillowcase, it is important to choose the right momme silk for your eye mask that will ensure optimum comfort around your eyes. Lower momme counts and therefore lower quality products could be rough on the skin and more sheer, leading to a disturbed sleep. A sleep mask between 19-22 momme is the ideal choice because it will be gentle on the skin, let the area breathe and also block out light effectively.
- Silk bed linen – Silk bed linen offers so many amazing benefits whilst you sleep. Naturally hypoallergenic, temperature regulating and breathable, it is the perfect choice for an unforgettable night’s sleep. At Jasmine Silk we offer flat and fitted sheets, along with duvet covers in 19 or 22 momme weight for ultimate comfort. These can be used all year round and will keep you toasty in the winter and cool in the summer. The high quality momme will mean you get to slip into the softest sheets night after night.
Is higher momme silk harder to care for?
A common misconception is that the higher quality the silk, the more delicate it will be, therefore requiring more TLC when it comes to fabric care – this is not the case at all! Silk of a higher momme count is actually a lot more durable than lower momme silks thanks to its thickness and tight weaving, making it more resilient when it comes to washing.
Of course, with such a luxurious fabric, we would always advise to follow our care guidelines when it comes to washing and always adhere to what your product label recommends. Despite the durability of expensive silks, other factors like direct sunlight, tumble drying and high temperatures could damage your precious fabric.
Understanding the different types of silk
To get an even better understanding of what to expect from various momme weights, we’ve listed some popular silk materials and their momme range. That way, when it comes to shopping for the ideal fabrics for you and your needs, you’ll have an idea of what to expect in thickness, opacity and feel.
| Silk | Typical Momme Range |
| Gauze | 3 to 5 momme |
| Organza | 4 to 6 momme |
| Chiffon | 6 to 8 momme |
| Crepe de Chine | 12 – 16 momme |
| Charmeuse | 12 – 30 momme |
| Raw Silk | 35 – 40 momme |
Pairing the silk types to the momme count is a handy way to know what type of silk to expect. Anything below 16 momme is considered lightweight silk and is often used in clothing for blouses, or as part of an occasion dress for sheer sleeves or skirt overlay. 19 – 28 momme is midweight and most popular when it comes to luxury silk items. Charmeuse silk is especially popular amongst silk suppliers for high quality silk pillowcases, bedding, pyjamas and more. Anything with a momme of over 28 is in the heavy weight category.
Discover your next silk luxury at Jasmine Silk
Now that you’re familiar with the different types of silk and their momme counts, you know exactly what to look for. If you’re looking for high quality silk bedding, clothing, accessories and more, Jasmine Silk has a wide range for you to choose from.
