Mulberry Silk: History, Habitat, and Lifestyle

Mulberry silk is changing the way we sleep and dress. While wearing and sleeping on silk might be a somewhat newer trend for us, people have been using this ultra-soft fabric for over 3,000 years.

Thanks to its luxurious feel and natural production method, silk is deemed the finest material in the world. Here’s a quick look at the history of Mulberry silk, where it comes from, and how the fabric has stood the test of time.

 History of Mulberry Silk

 The silk industry has been thriving for thousands of years.The Chinese are credited with discovering Mulberry leaves, silkworms and ultimately inventing silk production around 3500 B.C. The Chinese perfected methods for cultivating silk and working with the fibers, and ultimately creating various types of cloth from the material.

Silk was becoming such a commodity that China threatened death to anyone who revealed the secrets to sourcing, harvesting, and manufacturing silk. Historians say that there were many failed attempts to export eggs or living cocoons. However, silk eventually made its way out of Asia. It was allegedly introduced to the Europeans by two monks, who were sent to China as spies under orders from Emperor Justinian in 552 A.D. The story goes that the two monks buried silkworm eggs inside a bamboo pole and smuggled the eggs out of China. This marked the beginning of silk production in the West. The rest is history.

 Where Does Mulberry Silk Come From?

 Mulberry silk is the most prestigious quality silk available for purchase.Silkworms that eat Mulberry leaves produce Mulberry silk. ​​Mulberry silk originated in China, where local farmers still grow Mulberry trees and harvest the leaves for silkworms to feed on today. Silkworms fed a diet of Mulberry leaves produce longer silk strands that are pure white and more radiant than other types of silk.

Today, Mulberry silkworms are domesticated, meaning they are grown and cared for in controlled environments. Farmers grow Mulberry trees exclusively for the worms to feed on.

 Mulberry Silk & Bedding

Silk was once an exclusive fabric preserved for royalty. Emperors would receive gifts, artifacts, and garments crafted in luxurious silk as a token of respect or mutual friendship. Today, silk is a lot more accessible and affordable but still holds the same luxurious quality as silks crafted thousands of years ago.

One of the more common lifestyle items crafted from Mulberry silk is bedding. Why? Because pure Mulberry silk boasts incredible health and wellness benefits. Silk is naturally antibacterial, anti-allergy, helps regulate body temperature, and helps protect your hair and skin as you toss and turn all night.

 Where to Buy Silk Pillowcases?

 At Winssy, we exclusively use 100% authentic 6A 22 momme Mulberry silk to craft our OEKO-TEX® labeled Silk Pillowcases. The high-quality silk and our unique coloring process leave the pillowcases feeling softer and smoother than most silks on the market.

 Get better, healthier sleep with Winssy. Browse our entire collection of silky-soft and buttery Mulberry silk pillowcases here.