What Is Mulberry Silk — And Why Does It Matter for Sleep?

If you've ever slipped into a silk chemise and thought why don't I sleep in this every night? — you're not alone. There's something about silk that feels different. Not just luxurious, but genuinely, physically better.

The secret is in the fibre. And not just any silk — specifically, mulberry silk: the kind we use in every piece at Love & Lustre.

Here's everything you need to know about what mulberry silk actually is, why it's a cut above other fabrics for sleep, and why investing in it is one of the kindest things you can do for your body (and the planet).

What is mulberry silk?

Silk has been made for thousands of years, but not all silk is created equal. The variety you'll find in luxury sleepwear — and in everything Love & Lustre makes — is mulberry silk, named after the mulberry leaves that silkworms feed on exclusively.

Mulberry silkworms (Bombyx mori) are raised in carefully controlled conditions and fed a diet of only white mulberry leaves. This singular diet produces a filament that is extraordinarily fine, uniform, and smooth — quite different from the coarser, irregular fibres produced by wild silkworms.

The result is a fabric with a natural lustre, a breathtakingly soft hand feel, and performance properties that synthetic fabrics have spent decades trying — and failing — to replicate.

Why mulberry silk is exceptional for sleep

1. It regulates your body temperature

One of silk's most remarkable properties is its ability to help your body maintain a stable temperature throughout the night. The natural protein structure of mulberry silk fibres makes it an effective thermal regulator — keeping you cool when it's warm, and gently insulating you when the temperature drops.

This makes it ideal for Australian seasons, where nights can swing dramatically, and for anyone who runs hot, experiences hormonal temperature changes, or simply finds themselves kicking off the covers at 2am.

2. It's naturally moisture-wicking

Silk can absorb a meaningful amount of moisture before it even begins to feel damp — and it draws perspiration away from your skin rather than holding it against you. For night sweats, warm summers, or anyone who simply sleeps warm, this is a genuine comfort advantage.

Unlike synthetic fabrics, which trap moisture and can leave you feeling clammy, silk keeps your skin feeling dry and comfortable all night long.

3. It's exceptionally gentle on skin and hair

The smooth, tightly woven surface of mulberry silk creates almost no friction. This matters more than you might think.

Rougher fabrics — including many cottons — can tug at delicate skin overnight, contributing to sleep lines and irritation. Silk moves with you. It's why silk pillowcases have become a staple of skincare routines, and why a silk chemise or pyjama set feels so different against the body.

For hair, the same principle applies. Silk causes far less friction than cotton, meaning less breakage, less frizz, and smoother hair in the morning. It's a small thing that makes a real difference.

4. It's naturally hypoallergenic

Mulberry silk is made from sericin — a natural protein — which is inherently resistant to dust mites, mould, and many common allergens. If you have sensitive skin, eczema, or find yourself reactive to synthetic fibres, silk is often recommended by dermatologists as a gentler alternative.

5. It gets better with age

Quality mulberry silk, properly cared for, doesn't degrade the way synthetic fabrics do. The fibres are strong and resilient. A well-loved silk robe or chemise can last years — even decades — and often becomes softer and more supple with gentle wear and washing.

Mulberry silk vs other fabrics: how does it compare?

Is mulberry silk sustainable?

This is a question we hear often — and the answer is genuinely encouraging.

Mulberry silk is a natural, renewable, and biodegradable fibre. Silkworms require no pesticides, and the mulberry trees they feed on are hardy plants that need very little water. Compared to cotton (which is one of the world's most water-intensive crops) and especially compared to synthetics derived from petroleum, silk has a significantly smaller environmental footprint.

At Love & Lustre, we believe that choosing natural fibres is an act of care — for your body, and for the world. A piece of mulberry silk sleepwear that lasts for years is a far more sustainable choice than fast-fashion alternatives that end up in landfill within a season.

Can you wash mulberry silk at home?

Yes — and this is one of the most common misconceptions about silk.

Our mulberry silk is machine washable. Here's how to care for it properly:

• Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water
• Use a mild, pH-neutral detergent — avoid anything with enzymes or bleach
• Place your silk in a mesh laundry bag to protect it from snagging
• Lay flat or hang to dry away from direct sunlight — never tumble dry
• If ironing, use a cool setting and place a cloth between the iron and the fabric

Treat it with a little care, and your silk pieces will reward you for years.

How to choose the right silk piece for you

Not sure where to start? Here's a simple guide:

If you run warm at night: Look for a silk chemise or cami — lightweight, breathable, and beautifully flattering. Our Mono Silk range is a great starting point.

If you love a full set: Our silk pyjama sets offer the full temperature-regulating benefit with the comfort of coverage.

If you want something versatile: A silk robe works at home, over intimates, or even styled over a cami for a relaxed evening look. Browse our robes collection.

If you're looking for a gift: Silk is one of the most universally loved gift options — timeless, indulgent, and genuinely useful. See our full silk collection for ideas.

The bottom line

Sleep is when your body repairs itself. The fabric you spend those hours in matters more than most of us realise — for temperature, for skin, for comfort, and for how you feel when you wake up.

Mulberry silk isn't just beautiful. It's functional, sustainable, and made to last. It's the kind of investment that pays for itself, night after night.

If you've been curious about trying silk, there's genuinely no better time to start.

Explore Love & Lustre's mulberry silk sleepwear collection at loveandlustre.com.au/collections/silk