AATCC 61

Test Method for Colorfastness to Laundering

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Quick understanding of the test

AATCC 61 - Test Method for Colorfastness to Laundering

The AATCC 61 test assesses textile colorfastness to laundering, replicating real-world washing conditions in a controlled environment.

Application

Applicable to textile products such as garments, fabrics, home furnishings, upholstery, and other colored textiles.
  • Fabric samples are loaded in a launderometer with detergent and steel balls to simulate five home launderings.
  • After rinsing and drying, the specimens are assessed for fading and staining against control standards using gray scales

Turnaround Time

It typically takes 5-7 days.
Results are evaluated by comparing color change and staining of test samples against standardized control standards.

Passing criteria

The passing criteria for AATCC 61 require a minimum rating of 4 for color change and 3-4 for staining on the Gray Scales.

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Abstract

AATCC 61, Colorfastness to Laundering, Accelerated, is a standardized test method developed to evaluate the colorfastness of textiles to laundering when subjected to repeated washing.  By simulating multiple home or commercial laundering cycles in a short period of time, the method provides a reliable indication of a fabric’s durability against fading, bleeding, and staining. 

The procedure uses controlled washing conditions, detergent solutions, and abrasive action to replicate real-world laundering stresses, ensuring consistent and reproducible results across textile products.

Test Conditions and Requirements

  1. Temperature Control: 40°C to 60°C
  2. Sample Preparation: Fabric specimens are cut to the standard size outlined in AATCC guidelines and, if required, pre-conditioned before testing.
  3. Control and Test Fabrics: Along with the test fabric, control fabrics are prepared for testing in order to study the degree of colorfastness and dye migration.
  4. Replicates: Multiple replicates are done to ensure test results are not false.

Test Methodology

  1. Fabric specimens are stitched to multifiber test fabrics and placed in stainless steel containers with detergent solution and stainless steel balls. 
  2. The containers are loaded into a launderometer and rotated under controlled temperature and time. This accelerated process is designed to simulate the effect of five home launderings in a single test.
  3.  After washing, the samples are rinsed, dried, and then evaluated for color change and staining using standardized gray scales.
  4. The results are compared against control to determine how much the fabric has faded or stained.

Importance

Colorfastness is a critical quality parameter for textiles, as it directly impacts consumer satisfaction and product lifespan. AATCC 61 testing helps manufacturers and retailers predict how fabrics will perform during regular use and laundering, preventing issues such as premature fading, color transfer, or uneven appearance. Beyond safeguarding brand reputation, AATCC 61 test supports compliance with international standards and facilitates global trade. For product developers, it provides valuable insights for selecting dyes, finishes, and treatments that enhance textile performance, making it an essential step in quality assurance and market readiness.

Conclusion

At Microbe Investigations Switzerland (MIS), we deliver precise textile testing services, including AATCC 61. Our advanced laboratory equipment and expert team ensure fast, reliable, and reproducible results.

Contact our experts to ensure your fabrics meet the highest standards of colorfastness and consumer satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

DR. Martinoz Scholtz

MIS Labs
1. What is AATCC 61 test?

The AATCC 61 is a standard testing procedure for determining the colorfastness to laundering of materials. Accelerated washing conditions have been simulated in real-time laundering to assess the durability of dyes.

2. What are the Products that can be tested with AATCC 61 test?

Applicable to textile products such as garments, fabrics, home furnishings, upholstery, and other colored textiles.

3. What is the Turnaround Time for AATCC 61 test?

Approximately 5-7 working days.

4. On how many microbial strains can your AATCC 61 testing lab perform tests on?

AATCC 61 is not a microbial-based test. It is performed to evaluate textile colorfastness to laundering. It measures how well fabrics resist color change and staining after repeated wash cycles.

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