MOTIF / PRINT DURABILITY TEST METHOD

1 INTRODUCTION
This Method of test is used to assess the durability to washing of applied motifs and
print. It may also be used to assess the durability of washing of products and
components.
The print attached to the fabric base is subjected to a 15 minute wash in a twin tub
washing machine or Roaches Durawash.

2 REAGENTS / EQUIPMENT
2.1 REAGENTS
 Water
 Persil Biological Washing Powder. If Persil is not available an alternative
automatic biological detergent may be used. This must be stated on the
report.
2.2 EQUIPMENT
 Twin Tub Washing Machine
 Polyester Make Weights
 Domestic Tumble Dryer - 4kg load.
 Non-rusting drying trays
 Pan balance capable of weighing up to 2kg.
 Chemical balance accurate to + 0.0 / g
 Scissors
 Calibrated-Timer

3 SAMPLE PREPARATION
3.1 None, this test does not require that the samples are preconditioned in a standard
atmosphere.

4 METHOD / PROCEDURE
4.1 Examine test sample recording any items of note listed on page 3.
4.2 Cut from the test sample where necessary any small areas that are representative
of all the colours etc. present. These will be used as reference samples for
comparison with the washed sample.
4.3 Fill the machine with water to the full mark (approximately 40L).
4.4 Heat water. The temperature used must relate to the wash-care label:- Products
and components labelled: 50°C Wash at 60°C

40°C Wash at 50°C

Hand wash Wash at 40°C
4.5 Weigh test sample and make load up to 1kg with the addition of polyester
makeweights.
4.6 Weigh 30g of detergent and add to the water.
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MOTIF / PRINT DURABILITY TEST METHOD
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4.7 Run the machine for approximately 1 minute to dissolve the washing powder.
4.8 Add any makeweights to the machine.
4.9 Add the test specimen and run the machine at the required temperature for 15
minutes.
4.10 Remove the test sample(s) and any makeweights.
4.11 Examine any coated accessories such as buttons and enamelled metal zips etc.
(this is because the coatings will still be in a softened state.
4.12 Rinse the test sample(s) and makeweights separately, twice in the spinner using
cold water.
4.13 Tumble dry all samples as care label, unless given alternative instructions. The
load should be made up to 1kg adding makeweights if required. The tumble dryer
should be tumbled until dry in accordance with HLCC / BS (Home Laundering
Consultative Council / British Standard) Guidelines.

5 CALCULATION / ASSESSMENT
5.1 Assess the effect of washing by comparison with the examination made prior to
washing.

6 REPORT
6.1 Report the appearance, noting position in the test sample where applicable,
6.2 Where there is no noticeable change in the appearance of the test sample state
’No significant change’ on the report.
6.3 When there are some minor changes in the appearance state ’Borderline / Slight
change’ and give details.
6.4 When there are changes in the appearance, which are not considered satisfactory,
state ’Significant change’ and give specific details.
6.5 Where a sample has been identified as ’Borderline / Slight change’ or where
’Significant change’ has occurred, the sample must be submitted to the relevant
Technical Manager for examination.

7 NOTES
7.1 Motifs must not be ironed. In some instances where appearance is being reported,
it may be necessary to iron and press the test sample. Where this occurs this must
be clearly identified and reported.
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MOTIF / PRINT DURABILITY TEST METHOD
(Page 3 of 3)

GUIDELINES FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF APPEARANCE AFTER PRINT / MOTIF

DURABILITY
The following is not intended to be an exhaustive list, but rather should be used as a
guide only. Items to note may include the following: -

1. Differential shrinkage between components i.e. dropped or tight linings, seam

pucker, distortion of components.
2. Seam breakdown i.e. inadequate seams, partial or non-inclusion, faulty thread or
stitching, fabric slippage, fraying from seam turnings, stitching damage etc.
3. Puckering and roping of seams.
4. Detachment of interlinings / fused components that may have delaminated,
quantified as:-
 No delamination
 Negligible delamination
 Fairly distinct delamination
 Complete delamination.
5. Change in handle or appearance.
6. Effect on accessories such as buttons, zips etc.
7. Wet edge abrasion.
8. Excessive creasing.
9. Spiralling.
10. Cross staining of interlining.
11. Optical Brightening Agents (OBA’s) which occur on certain substrates as a result of
the whitening agents presence in washing powders. A fluorescent suppressor should
be placed over the washed specimen to assess any pick up of the whitening agent.
12. Fraying of ribbons / trims.
13. Percolation of wadding.
14. Detachment of trims.
15. Distortion of shape.
16. Matting of fabric surface.
17. Brushing of fabric surface.
18. Pilling of fabric surface.
19. Breakdown of fabric surface.
20. Loss of elasticity (stretch and recovery) of ribbing.
21. Localized wear.
22. Colourfastness: Shade change, cross staining between components. Apply
standard values as relevant performance test standard.
23. Loss of print. Apply print durability standards as required