Quick insights
- ISO 17299-3 is a recognized test to evaluate the deodorant performance of textile products using Gas chromatography (GC) method
- The test measures how effectively a textile can reduce odor-generating chemicals
- It is applied to a wide range of textiles such as woven fabric, knit, yarns and more
- This test uses 2 methods, Method A and Method, depending on the intended application and product characteristics
- ISO 17299-3 provides quantitative results in the form of Odor Reduction Rate (ORR), allowing for a comparison of product performance and efficacy demonstration
Summary
ISO 17299-3 is an international test used to evaluate the deodorizing performance of textiles by measuring their ability to reduce specific odor-causing gases under controlled laboratory conditions. It provides quantitative results that help manufacturers validate odor-control claims, compare product performance and improve formulations.
What is ISO 17299-3 testing?
ISO 17299-3, established by International Organization for Standardization (ISO), is an internationally recognized test method used to assess deodorant efficacy of textiles. This test specifies a gas chromatography testing method to determine the deodorant property of textiles. The quantitative results under ISO 17299-3 are reported as Odor Reduction Rate (ORR), providing manufacturers with data on odor control performance, helping support product claims. Differentiating quality and acceptance across both European and US markets.
Why Is Odor Control No Longer Optional in Modern Textiles?
Consumers increasingly expect textiles to stay fresh, even after prolonged wear, repeated use, or exposure to sweat. As a result, odor control has become an important quality attribute for sportswear, workwear, medical textiles, socks, footwear, and everyday apparel. For manufacturers, demonstrating odor-control performance through standardized testing helps validate product claims, differentiate products in the market, and meet growing customer and regulatory expectations. Demonstrating these performance claims through standardized methods such as ISO 17299-3 also helps support product validation and customer confidence.
Also read – Frequently Asked Questions About ISO 17299-3 Testing
Which textile products can be tested?
The wide range of textile products that can be tested under ISO 17299-3 include:
- Woven fabric
- Knit
- Non-woven
- Yarns
- Braiding products
- Tapes
- And slings
Which odor compounds does 17299-3 measure?
ISO 17299-3A uses representative volatile odor-causing compounds, typically including:
- Isovaleric acid
- Indole
- Nonenal
- Acetic acid
How does ISO 17299-3 textile odor testing work?
- Sample preparation – Textile test samples and control samples are cut to specific dimensions as per standard guidelines
- Exposure to odor compound – The test and control samples are exposed to a defined odor-causing agent
- Contact time – The flasks are maintained under specified environmental conditions for a defined contact period, allowing the textile to interact with the odor compound.
- Gas chromatography analysis – After incubation, flasks are shaken vigorously the remaining concentration of the odor compound is measured using gas chromatography (GC).
- Results – The concentration of odor compounds in the test and control flasks is compared to calculate the Odor Reduction Rate (ORR)
Also read – Frequently Asked Questions About ISO 17299-3 Testing
Understanding Method A and Method B
|
Parameter |
Method A |
Method B |
|
Odor chemical application |
Odor chemical is introduced into the test container without direct contact with the textile specimen |
Odor chemical mixture is applied directly onto the textile specimen |
|
Odor chemicals used |
Individual odor components (example – Indole, Isovaleric acid or Nonenal) |
Mixture of acetic acid and Sodium chloride (NaCl) |
|
Odor compounds tested |
Individual odor compounds are tested separately |
A mixture of odor compounds is tested together |
How can MIS help with anti-odor textile testing?
At MIS, We offer comprehensive odor testing services that support product development, quality assurance and market entry. Our microbiology team performs Odor testing in accordance with ISO 17299-3 using fully equipped Gas Chromatography setup under controlled conditions, generating reliable and reproducible results that help manufacturers claim deodorizing performance of their textile products, meet regulatory requirements to launch their product across both US and Europe markets.
To get a quote on ISO 17299-3, contact our experts now.
FAQs
1. Is ISO 17299-3 mandatory for textile manufacturers?
While not mandatory, ISO 17299-3A is preferred by many brands, retailers, and buyers to verify odour-control performance and support product claims.
2. Can ISO 17299-3 be used to validate deodorizing claims on finished products?
Yes.
3. What factors can influence the odour reduction performance of a textile?
Performance can vary depending on the fibre type, textile construction, finishing treatment, active ingredients, washing durability, and environmental conditions.
4. Can ISO 17299-3 be performed on both treated and untreated fabrics?
Yes. Manufacturers often compare treated and untreated textiles to evaluate the effectiveness of deodorizing technologies.
5. Does repeated washing affect odour-control performance?
It may effect. The durability of odour-control treatments depends on the technology used. Many manufacturers perform wash durability testing before repeating ISO 17299-3 to assess long-term performance.
7. Can one textile be t ested against multiple odour compounds?
Yes. Depending on the product application and testing requirements, evaluation of deodorizing performance against one or more representative odour compounds can be done.
8. Which apparel brands are using anti-odour technologies in their products?
Many leading apparel brands such as Jack Wolfskin, Sciessent, Adidas and PUMA (Polygiene), Lululemon (Silverscent), and Under Armour (UA Fresh), use anti-odor technologies to help garments stay fresher for longer.
