In times gone by, silk was used for comforters in China- but could only be afforded if you were of the wealthy, noble class.

But those days are gone, and now almost anyone can own a gorgeous silk comforter!

What were silk comforters so coveted by the Chinese?

Most comforters were filled with cotton fiber, but the longer fiber of silk were combed, aligned and stitched into thin layers of fabric which were then stacked and sealed inside silk shells to form comforters that were warm but allowed moisture to pass through easily.

In fact, silk summer comforters were simply thinner versions with less layers of filling. The comforters were placed inside a washable envelop, much like the duvet of today. Even today, in Chinese culture the comforter of 100% silk is considered a status symbol. It remains much the same even now.

Silk is a natural fiber taken from the cocoons of silk worms. A cocoon can produce up to 1,300 yards of continuous fiber. Talk about working hard!

Synthetic fiber can be produced as continuous filaments as well, but silk is the only natural fiber that has the luster, feel and look unique to the fiber produced by the silk worm. The fiber is strong, as durable as equally sized steel wire, repels mildew and dirt naturally and absorbs perspiration. Sometimes you just can't improve on mother nature! Your comforter, if taken care of, could become an heirloom because they're so durable and soft at the same time.

Another great advantage of choosing comforters that are silk, is that the filling will not seep through the outer shell as often happens with other fillings. Silk fabric provides a dense weave and the smooth silk filling result in a product that simply won't leave fibers in the air from the filling of the bedding.

This naturally makes silk comforters great for those who have allergies.

Prices for comforters made of 100% silk are not significantly different than those comforters that are filled with high quality down.

These comforters are investments, whether you select down, silk or microfiber.

Of course, silk must be dry cleaned. To extend the time between cleanings and to protect your investment in such luxury, many people choose to encase their comforters of pure silk in a duvet that matches their bedding and can be changed frequently as their moods change.

Let's look at some of the most popular ones:

Dreamsack makes comforters that are 100% silk both inside and out. These are the lightest, warmest, softest and most luxurious comforters available. The silk is held in place by baffling so that you will feel as if you are wrapped in a cloud. Spun silk floss is used for the filling and the cover is pure Habotai silk. Because people are turning toward more healthy, natural living, there is no natural fiber that has the same luxurious shimmer and hand of 100% pure silk. Cream, white, tan and gold are the available colors.

Ming Dynasty Mulberry Comforters are 100% silk both inside and out and are filled with mulberry silk fiber. Mulberry silk fiber is extra long, grade "A" silk that comes only from silk worms that are feed nothing but mulberry leaves. There are no cut silk or short fibers used to extend the silk fiber filling as with many discount comforters of silk. These comforters are considered to be three-season weight and the filling is held in place with the use of sewn in baffles which prevents the silk from moving and bunching. This comforter is available in white or honey and use of a duvet is strongly recommended.

Kumi Kookoon comforters are made from 100% silk. The filling is 100% mulberry silk and contained in box stitched baffles to ensure proper placement so the filling can not shift. These lightweight comforters are meant for year round use. Sizes from baby to king are available. A feature of the Kumi Kookoon products are the loops on each comforter that match with the tie duvets produced by Kumi Kookoon that ensure you comforter doesn't shift inside the duvet.

You can also find comforters filled with 100% silk that are encased in cotton covers.

These cost a bit less, and don't have the distinctive luxury feel of silk shells. If you personally find silk too slippery for your personal tastes, these comforters might be great for you.

No matter which style of comforter you choose, you'll definitely find the best selections and prices online. Not many typical retailers could afford to carry such luxury bedding in house, but you'll be thrilled at the silk comforters you'll find online!