Durability Testing

How do I find out the durability of fabric?

What is an abrasion test?

What's Wyzenbeek and Martindale?

What's the difference between Wyzenbeek and Martindale?

A fabrics durability is based on the abrasion tests, Wyzenbeek and Martindale. These tests are a multitude of different tests conducted on a fabric to test its durability. A “double rub” is a method carried out in an abrasion test and it is one back and forth motion, which is one double rub to test the durability of that fabric. Being that friction is the predominant factor in causing the decay of materials, like fabric, these tests can help you better predict the lifespan of the products you purchase. Although they do help, one should not depend on them too much for the environment one places them in will vary in temperatures, humidity, and other conditions which the testing lab does not mimic. These varying factors will also impact the lifespan of one's material and the owner must take this into account.

There are two different types of abrasion tests, Wyzenbeek and Martindale, which should not be compared for the score of one cannot aid in predicting the score of the other. Wyzenbeek conducts its test along the warp and weft of the fabric, meaning it runs parallel to the horizontal and vertical weaves of the fabric. Whereas Martindale conducts its test in a figure 8 motion. For both Wyzenbeek and Martindale the abrasion rating is decided by how many double rubs the fabric can take before the fabric shows a noticeable change in appearance. For heavy duty usage 30,000 double rubs Wyzenbeek or 40,000 for Martindale are the ratings one should go for. Heavy duty ratings like this are often used in places like hotels, 24-hour hospitals, frequently used dining rooms, restaurants, casinos, etc. For general domestic use one should look to 15,000-25,000 Martindale and similar numbers for Wyzenbeek. However, for more frequently used items, like sofas, chair cushions, armchairs, etc., one should stick to numbers 25,000 and up. For further help on what fabrics might be best suited for the environment of your choosing, you can consult one of our interior designers for advice.