Washability Standard
Laboratory assessment of textile resistance to domestic or commercial laundering uses standardised chemical and mechanical actions. The test defined by ISO 105 C06 color fastness evaluates the change in color of textile products and the staining of adjacent multi-fibre fabrics during a washing cycle. This standard simulates various household and commercial laundry conditions from mild to severe.
It provides a reliable benchmark for retail quality specifications.
Testing Protocol
Specimens are sewn to multi-fibre adjacent fabrics before being placed in a wash container with a specified detergent solution. The container is agitated in a wash wheel at a controlled temperature, ranging from forty to ninety-five degrees Celsius depending on the chosen test method. Sodium perborate or steel balls are added to simulate the mechanical abrasion and bleaching action of modern washing machines.
This mechanical action ensures the test mimics multiple domestic washes in a single cycle.
Grading Procedure
Evaluation of color change and staining utilizes the standard grey scale. The evaluated specimen is compared to the original fabric under a standardized D65 light source to determine the rating. A grade of five indicates no change, while a grade of one represents severe color loss or staining.
Retailers often demand a minimum grade of three or four for bulk production approval.
Quality Control
Mills rely on these ratings to verify formulation stability. A poor result necessitates reformulating the dye recipe.
