What Is the Difference Between Satin and Silk Sheets?

Silk or satin sheets are luxurious.

The bedroom is the perfect location in the home to enjoy luxurious furnishings. A bed layered in silk or satin sheets is an example of fine living. Both silk and satin sheets provide a shimmering appearance. However, there is a difference between the two fabrics that is helpful to know when making a purchase.

Satin

Although fabrics are referred to as "satin," the term describes the type of weave rather than the material. The website Fabrics Manufacturers notes that satin is a flexible weave in which the threads are interlaced so that the twill lines are indistinguishable on the face of the cloth, providing for a smooth, lustrous surface. If filament fibers such as silk or nylon is used, the fabric is called "satin." If short-staple yarns like cotton are used, the fabric is referred to as "sateen." Satin fabric varies in quality depending upon whether it is made from synthetic fibers such as rayon, polyester or nylon or the higher-quality natural silk fibers. Satin is used to create a variety of clothing and home furnishing items such as bedding sheets.

Silk

Silk is a natural fiber created by a number of insects but the most abundant producers are the silkworms Bombyx Mori, according to Henry Bertrand. The silkworm extrudes a filament to create its cocoon prior to metamorphosing into a moth. It is this filament (silk) that is primarily used in the production of silk fabrics, including those used to make luxurious bed sheets.

Fabric Differences

Although many silk fabrics bear a surface sheen like satin, not all silks are "silky" in appearance; for example, bourette silk--also called noil--resembles linen or cotton. Satin always has some sheen, even if minimal. Silk sheets will always be made of natural fibers. The consumer should always read the fabric content label to determine the fiber source of any "satin" sheet.

Fabric Care

Washing instructions for satin sheets will vary based on the fiber content; appropriate washing instructions are included on the tag and the packaging. Silk sheets require hand-washing or dry cleaning. Silk sheets with a cotton blend are generally machine washable but the manufacturer's instructions should be followed.

Price Difference

Prices for satin sheet sets with a fitted and bottom sheet and a pair of pillow cases will vary greatly according to fabric content and the location of purchase. However, a comparison conducted in August 2010 showed polyester satin sheet sets selling for about $40. Sateen sets made from cotton fiber in a queen size also sold for around $40. Pure silk sets in a queen size had a regular retail price ranging from $300 to over $600.

References

• FabricsManufacturers: Satin Weave
• Henry Bertrand: How Silk is Produced
• Sue Kayton: Pictures (Silkworm Life Stages)
• Texere Silk: Silk Information and Dictionary
• FabulousYarn: About Silk and Silk Yarn

Resources

• SatinAnn: Ann's Satin Sheets Guide
• Sue Kayton: Silk Thread and Cloth