A Complete Guide to Momme Weight in Silk

If you've shopped for silk pillowcases, you've encountered momme weight—those numbers like 19, 22, or 25 that appear in product descriptions. Unlike thread count in cotton, which most of us understand intuitively, momme remains mysterious to many shoppers. This guide explains exactly what momme weight means, how it affects your sleeping experience, and which momme weight is right for your needs and budget.

What Is Momme Weight?

Momme (pronounced "moe-me" and abbreviated as "mm") is the traditional Japanese unit used to measure silk weight and density. Specifically, one momme equals the weight in pounds of a piece of silk 45 inches wide and 100 yards long. Higher momme numbers indicate denser, heavier silk fabric.

Think of it this way: if you had two silk pillowcases of identical size, the one with higher momme weight would feel heavier in your hand because it contains more silk fibres per square centimetre.

Why Momme Matters More Than Thread Count

With cotton, we use thread count to gauge quality—the number of threads per square inch. Cotton thread count has become so inflated through marketing tricks that it's now practically meaningless, with some brands claiming absurdly high numbers.

Momme weight, by contrast, remains an honest measurement. You can't inflate it through marketing trickery because it's based on actual weight. When a product claims 22 momme, it either weighs that much or it doesn't. This makes momme a reliable quality indicator for comparing silk products.

The Momme Scale Explained

Silk products generally range from 6 momme (very lightweight) to 30 momme (extremely heavy). For pillowcases specifically, you'll typically encounter these ranges:

12-16 Momme: Lightweight Silk

This range is commonly used for silk scarves, linings, and decorative items rather than bedding. Pillowcases at this weight exist but are quite delicate:

• Feel noticeably thin and almost gauzy
• Wear through more quickly with regular use
• May not provide the full friction-reducing benefits
• Generally not recommended for pillowcases

19 Momme: Entry-Level for Bedding

This is the minimum weight typically recommended for silk bedding and represents excellent value for many users:

• Provides genuine silk benefits at accessible price points
• Feels smooth and comfortable against skin
• Suitable for gentle hand washing and careful machine washing
• Good durability with proper care (2-3 years typical lifespan)
• Ideal for those new to silk or on a budget

22 Momme: The Sweet Spot

Widely considered the optimal weight for silk pillowcases, 22 momme offers the ideal balance between luxury and practicality:

• Noticeably more substantial than 19 momme
• Excellent durability—can last 5+ years with proper care
• Better resistance to pulls, snags, and wear
• Handles washing better than lighter weights
• The standard for premium silk bedding brands
• Often described as having the perfect "body" and drape

25 Momme: Luxury Weight

The thickest commonly available weight for pillowcases, 25 momme represents true luxury:

• Exceptionally substantial feel—almost buttery
• Maximum durability and longevity
• Slightly more opaque than lighter weights
• Premium price point reflecting the extra silk content
• May feel too heavy or warm for some users

How Momme Affects Performance

Beyond feel and durability, momme weight influences several practical factors:

Temperature Regulation

Higher momme silk is denser and slightly less breathable. While all silk naturally thermoregulates, those in very warm climates or who sleep hot might prefer 19-22 momme over 25 momme. Conversely, 25 momme provides more warmth in cooler conditions.

Moisture Management

Denser silk can absorb slightly less moisture per unit area, meaning higher momme pillowcases may feel a bit drier against the skin. For those with oily skin, this can be beneficial. Those with very dry skin might not notice any difference.

Wash Durability

Higher momme silk withstands washing better. The additional fibre density means less structural stress during the washing process. If you prefer frequent washing or plan to machine wash, 22+ momme is advisable.

Colour Richness

Denser weaves hold dye differently, often resulting in deeper, more saturated colours. If you're choosing a bold colour like navy or burgundy, higher momme may produce richer results.

The Relationship Between Momme and Price

Silk is sold by weight, so higher momme products cost more. A 25 momme pillowcase contains approximately 25% more silk than a 19 momme version of identical size. Expect pricing to reflect this:

• 19 momme: Generally $30-50 AUD for quality products
• 22 momme: Typically $45-90 AUD depending on brand
• 25 momme: Usually $55-100+ AUD for genuine products

How to Verify Momme Claims

Unfortunately, some sellers exaggerate momme weight. While you can't measure momme precisely at home, you can spot obvious discrepancies:

• Weight test: A genuine 22 momme queen pillowcase should weigh approximately 90-100 grams. Significantly lighter weight suggests lower momme.
• Light test: Hold the pillowcase up to light. Higher momme silk is more opaque. If a claimed 25 momme pillowcase is quite translucent, it's likely mislabelled.
• Feel test: Experienced hands can feel the difference. 22+ momme silk feels substantial and flows heavily, almost like liquid.
• Price reality: Genuine high-momme silk from reputable brands carries premium pricing. Suspiciously cheap products warrant scepticism.

Choosing Your Ideal Momme

Consider these factors when selecting your momme weight:

Choose 19 Momme If:

• You're new to silk and want to try it affordably
• You sleep very hot and prioritise maximum breathability
• You have multiple pillows to cover and need to manage costs
• You'll upgrade later once convinced of silk's benefits

Choose 22 Momme If:

• You want the best balance of quality and value
• You plan to use the pillowcase for years
• You wash frequently and need durability
• You want what most experts recommend

Choose 25 Momme If:

• You prioritise luxury and want the most substantial feel
• Longevity is your primary concern
• You appreciate subtle quality differences
• Budget isn't a primary consideration

Common Momme Misconceptions

Let's address some myths about momme weight:

Myth: Higher momme is always better.
Reality: 25 momme isn't inherently "better" than 22 momme—it's different. Some people prefer the slightly lighter feel of 22 momme, and beyond 25 momme, pillowcases can feel too heavy for bedding purposes.

Myth: Low momme silk isn't "real" silk.
Reality: All genuine silk is real silk regardless of momme. Lower momme simply means less dense weave, not a different material.

Myth: Momme affects softness.
Reality: Silk grade and fibre quality determine softness. You can have rough 25 momme silk and incredibly soft 19 momme silk depending on the source materials.

Momme in Context: The Complete Picture

Remember that momme is just one quality indicator. For the complete picture, also consider:

• Silk grade (A, 6A, etc.)
• Type of silk (mulberry is preferred for bedding)
• Weave type (charmeuse is most common for pillowcases)
• Brand reputation and quality control
• Certifications (OEKO-TEX indicates safety testing)

A 22 momme, Grade 6A, mulberry silk pillowcase from a reputable brand represents an excellent choice for most users—combining optimal density with premium fibre quality.

Conclusion

Momme weight demystified comes down to this: it's a reliable measure of silk density, with higher numbers meaning more silk per square centimetre. For pillowcases, 19-25 momme is the relevant range, with 22 momme offering the sweet spot of quality, durability, and value that most users will find ideal.

Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently evaluate silk pillowcase options and choose the momme weight that matches your priorities—whether that's affordability, longevity, or luxury feel.