Is Mulberry Silk A Good Choice For Upholstery?

Opulence, elegance, and luxury — three words closely associated with silk fabric. With a lustrous sheen and incomparable softness, it's no wonder silk is considered one of the most high-end decor fabrics. However, one silk in particular is known for being the preferred choice among silk products and upholstery: mulberry silk.

Mulberry silk is a type of silk fabric made from silkworms of the Bombyx mori moth, which is fed an exclusive diet of mulberry, hence the fabric's name. The Bombyx mori moth has been used in silk production for thousands of years, and originates from China, though they are no longer found in the wild. Due to their exclusive diet and care, mulberry silk is one of the most uniform, soft, durable, and shiny silks available. The fabric also has a much lighter scent than other silks like tussah or dupioni. For these reasons, mulberry silk is a popular choice for upholstery, and its luxe color schemes will make your home look more high-end.

If you've been wondering how to choose the best upholstery for your sofa, consider mulberry silk as an option. Not only is it the softest of all silks, mulberry silk is naturally hypoallergenic due to its resistance to dust mites, mold, and mildew, making it a good choice if you have sensitive skin or bad allergies as it also doesn't use harsh chemicals in its production like some other fibers. Compared to its synthetic counterparts, mulberry silk is lighter and regulates temperature better with its naturally insulating and moisture-wicking properties.

Though mulberry silk is the most durable silk fabric, it is still best for only low- to moderate-traffic areas. It can also be expensive when compared to synthetic or blended fibers. Polyester fabrics are typically more durable and inexpensive, though some blends of silk and cotton or silk and polyester can also be more sturdy and affordable as opposed to pure mulberry silk. If you're planning to upholster with mulberry silk, it will require more maintenance as well. Some of the best ways to clean silk furniture include dusting regularly, avoiding direct sunlight, and getting it professionally cleaned once a year. Though this kind of upholstery does come at a premium price, it can be worth it in the long run for a premium look, feel, and durability.