Dimensional stability (fabric)

It is a required parameter of quality control to ensure the sizes of the products to avoid any complaints regarding deformation or change in dimensions after domestic laundry.

This procedure[6] provides standard and alternate home laundering conditions using an automatic washing machine.

The test is applicable to all fabrics and end products suitable for home laundering.

[7] Secondly, in the garment-making industry, consumption of the fabric is calculated in yards, so any variance than permissible limits is unacceptable.

Test Method(s):[10] AATCC Test Method 135, dimensional change of fabrics after home laundering Scope: determines the dimensional changes of garments when subjected to home laundering procedures used by consumers.

Shrinkage resistance is the term used to describe the ability of a fabric to retain its initial dimensions after undergoing the care process.

Fabrics that shrink during laundering or after exposure to heat may lose their aesthetic appeal and may not be suitable for their intended purpose.

Residual shrinkage pertains to any further shrinking that may occur after the initial care cycle.

[1] Preshrinking is a process in which fabric is intentionally shrunk before it is cut and sewn into a garment or other textile product.

[11][12] Manufacturers use the term "pre-shrunk" to describe fabric or garments that have undergone processing, which is expected to limit shrinkage to less than 3% in either direction during standard wash tests or laundering.

[13] Woolen fabrics have a natural tendency to shrink, which can lead to deformation in the final garments.

To prevent this, the London shrunk process was applied to specific woolen materials, resulting in fabrics with enhanced dimensional stability and improved resistance to shrinkage.