COLOR FASTNESS TO WASHING MACHINE

COLOR FASTNESS TO WASH MACHINE

Color fastness to washing machine refers to a fabric’s resistance to fading or bleeding when subjected to washing processes. This test measures how well the dye or colorant stays on the fabric when exposed to water, detergent, heat, and mechanical action—conditions typically found in household or industrial washing machines.

Purpose of Color fastness to washing machine – To evaluate the durability of dyed or printed textiles during laundering.- Essential for determining fabric quality and suitability for end-use (e.g., clothing, upholstery).

Test Method Usually based on international standards such as: – ISO 105-C06 – AATCC 61- IS 3361- AATCC 28/61/132/151/190, BS 1006 C01-C05, ISO 105 Part C01-C06/C08/D01, M&S C4/C5/C10A/P3B, FTMS 191-5610, NEXT TM2/3/5, GB/T 5711/3921

Procedure (Simplified)1. Sample Preparation:   – A fabric specimen is stitched with undyed adjacent fabrics (usually cotton or wool).2. Washing:   – Washed in a laboratory washing machine using standard detergent, water, and specific temperature/time settings (e.g., 40°C for 30 minutes).

3. Drying: – After washing, the sample is dried, typically air-dried or tumble-dried.4. Evaluation: – Color change and staining on adjacent fabrics are assessed using a gray scale (1 to 5 scale; 5 = no change, 1 = severe change).   – Results may also be evaluated visually under standard lighting.

Types of Color fastness to washing machine Tests Domestic laundering (home washing conditions)- Industrial laundering (more intense, commercial cleaning)- Accelerated washing (to simulate multiple washes in less time)

Applications- Apparel (especially colored garments)- Home textiles (bed linens, curtains)- Industrial fabrics Would you like to know how to perform this test in a lab setting or check color fastness ratings for specific fabrics?

Benefits of Color fastness to washing machine: Ensures Product Quality     – Confirms the durability of dyes and prints during laundering, maintaining the fabric’s original appearance.2. Enhances Customer Satisfaction – Reduces complaints and returns caused by fading, bleeding, or color transfer.

3. Supports Brand Reputation – Reliable color fastness contributes to a premium product image and consistent performance.4. Compliance with Standards – Meets industry requirements (e.g., ISO, AATCC), crucial for export, certifications, and regulatory compliance.
4. Improves Process Control- Helps identify dyeing or finishing process issues early, leading to better production control.6. Reduces Rework and Waste – Minimizes production losses due to color defects after washing.
5. Essential for Specific End Uses – Critical for items subject to frequent washing (e.g., uniforms, baby clothes, hospital linens).8. Supports Material Selection – Guides textile manufacturers in choosing appropriate dyes and fabrics for specific applications.

Features of Color Fastness to Washing Machine Test:1. Standardized Testing Methods – Follows international standards like ISO 105-C06, AATCC 61, ensuring consistency and comparability of results.2. Simulated Washing Conditions – Replicates real-world laundering (water, detergent, temperature, mechanical action) in a controlled lab environment.

3. Assessment of Color Change and Staining- Evaluates both the fabric’s color retention and the staining of adjacent fabrics using grey scales (1 to 5 rating).4. Multi-Fiber Fabric Use – Tests include fabric stitched with adjacent test strips (cotton, wool, etc.) to assess color bleeding onto different fibers.
4. Multiple Test Options – Includes domestic, accelerated, and industrial washing conditions depending on the end-use of the fabric.6. Temperature and Time Control – Precise control over wash temperature (e.g., 40°C, 60°C) and duration (e.g., 30 mins), simulating specific washing cycles.
5. Detergent and Additive Use – Uses standardized detergent formulations with/without optical brighteners, and sometimes alkaline or oxidizing agents.8. Reproducible and Quantifiable – Provides repeatable results that can be objectively measured and documented.
6. Applicability to All Textile Types – Suitable for dyed, printed, or coated fabrics across various fibers (cotton, polyester, blends, etc.).

Model: WF-12
Brand: Dunlin
Origin: China
Beaker Capacity: 12
Test Scope: Dyed textile product
Consumables of Color fastness to washing machine: Specimen Container, Stainless Steel Ball, Stainless Steel Disc, Container Sealing Gasket

Specification of Color fastness to washing machine:
1. Test dock: 6 unit 550mL containers + 6 unit 1200mL containers
2. Specimen rack rotation speed: 40±2rpm
3. Capacity of container: 550mL, 1200mL
4. Temperature range: Room temperature to 97ºC
5. Temperature accuracy: ± 0.5ºC

6. Rate of temperature rise: Maximum speed for 2ºC/min
   7. Internal materials: Imported Stainless Steel 316L
   8. Control panel: Touch screen
7. Rack point control function helps to replace containers easily
   10. Safety device: Safety door switch, over-temperature protector and dry heating protector
   11. Heating media: Distilled water
   12. Power supply: AC220V 50Hz 30A