Editor’s tip: Mulberry silk is made from silkworms fed exclusively on mulberry leaves, resulting in longer, smoother, and more uniform fibers than regular silk. This creates a gentler, more frictionless surface that helps reduce dryness, hair loss, and frizz. It’s also more durable and hypoallergenic, offering long-term benefits for hair health and sensitive scalps.
Material: mulberry silk | Colors available: pink, brown, black, green, and more | Sizes: one size
Best Bonnet in Disguise: Yanibest Silk Satin Bonnet Hair Wrap
Why we love it: Better than a hat, this Yanibest Silk Satin Bonnet Hair Wrap protects curls without snagging, drying, or flattening them like traditional headwear. Its slouchy, beanie-like silhouette passes as a cute cap you can wear in public while protecting your hair from harsh winds or rain. The outer layer is breathable and stretchy, while the interior is lined with premium satin. It’s got a non-slip band that features an adjustable design for a customized fit, and it comes in two sizes (medium and large). Stylish, functional, and inconspicuous, this bonnet proves you can protect your hair and look good.
Material: satin, spandex | Colors available: black, heather gray, green, navy, and more | Sizes: medium, large
Most Versatile Design: Glow By Daye Satin Bonnet
Why we love it: When you wear a bonnet every day, it should be something you look forward to putting on, and Glow By Daye’s Satin Bonnets offer just that—thanks to their bold, vibrant prints and thoughtful design. The Black-owned brand offers a double-layered, reversible bonnet design with a high-grade satin interior to preserve styles like braids, twist-outs, or updos. The extra-large 23-inch size fits nearly all hair types and thicknesses, while the drawstring allows you to customize the fit further. Plus, it features a sleek satin-edge perimeter to minimize abrasion along your hairline.
Material: polyester satin | Colors available: navy, tropical print, purple, abstract brushstrokes, and more | Sizes: one size
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should you sleep with a silk bonnet?
All of our experts agree that silk and satin bonnets protect hair from the harsh friction caused by cotton pillowcases, which can lead to dryness, tangles, frizz, and breakage over time. “Cotton pillowcases absorb moisture from your hair, along with any products you apply,” says Maya Smith. Bonnets also maintain styles longer by minimizing overnight disruption, Mika Smith adds, while James states, “Tossing and turning while sleeping causes friction, which results in breakage, thinning, and dehydrated strands.”
When should you wear a silk bonnet?
All three experts agree: A silk or satin bonnet should be part of your daily routine, and not just reserved for freshly-styled hair. “Unless you’re using a silk pillowcase, you should sleep nightly with a bonnet to protect your scalp and hair follicles,” says Maya Smith. Mika Smith notes it’s ideal for all hair types, especially braids, curls, or protective styles. James adds that even for daytime naps, a bonnet helps preserve the integrity of your hair. “Silky hair plus a silk bonnet equals smooth, healthy hair that flows,” says James.
How do you keep a silk bonnet on overnight?
Finding the right fit is essential for making sure your bonnet stays put. Maya Smith recommends looking for bonnets with adjustable bands or a snug, secure fit. Mika Smith suggests drawstrings or tying the bonnet at the base of your head for extra hold, and even using a silk scarf or headband on top for backup. James offers another hack: “Pulling your hair into a loose pineapple or three to four ponytails helps the bonnet fit better and stay on throughout the night.”
Meet the experts
How we test and review products
We always enlist a range of testers for any review, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While some can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind. When reviewing tools, we also take into account testers’ experience levels. For instance, an innovative new hair dryer may feature industry-leading technology, but if the only people who find it intuitive to use are professional hairstylists, we have to consider this when determining whether it is worthy of a recommendation.
