Overview
EN ISO 11378-2:2026, titled Textile floor coverings - Laboratory soiling - Part 2: Drum test (ISO 11378-2:2026), is a European and International Standard published by CEN and ISO. This document defines a standardized laboratory method for evaluating the propensity of unused textile floor coverings to soiling, specifically in the absence of abrasive wear and texture changes, using a standard artificial soil composition.
The drum test is an essential procedure for textile floor covering manufacturers, testing laboratories, and cleaning product developers to objectively assess soiling behavior under controlled conditions. This standard can also be extended to evaluate the performance of fibre finishes, cleaning chemicals, and equipment.
Key Topics
- Scope: Assessment of soiling tendency in unused textile floor coverings of all types using artificial soiling mixtures.
- Test Method: Use of a drum test apparatus and artificial soil to simulate real-world soiling without introducing abrasive wear or texture deformation.
- Color Assessment: Post-test evaluation of soiling impact by measuring color changes or using large grey scales to quantify soiling visually.
- Sample Preparation:
- Selection and conditioning of test specimens in a standardized environment
- Use of polyamide polymer pellets and standard soiling compounds
- Cleaning Assessment (Annex A): Extended procedures for determining the influence of cleaning chemicals and equipment on soiled specimens, facilitating comparative product performance evaluations.
Applications
EN ISO 11378-2:2026 is widely relevant for:
- Quality Control: Manufacturers of textile floor coverings use this method to verify product resistance to soiling before market release.
- Product Development: R&D teams assess the effectiveness of new fibre finishes or surface treatments designed to resist soiling.
- Comparative Testing: Cleaning chemical and equipment manufacturers use the test method to benchmark and validate cleaning efficacy.
- Accredited Laboratories: Independent testing organizations apply the standard for official certification, product labeling, or consumer information.
- Specification Compliance: Facility managers and architects may reference this standard in project documentation to ensure flooring materials meet soiling resistance requirements in commercial or public environments.
The drum test described in EN ISO 11378-2:2026 enables a reproducible and unbiased assessment of how likely a textile floor covering is to retain visible soil. It aids in material selection for high-traffic environments and supports claims regarding easier maintenance and cleaning.
Related Standards
A series of international and European standards complement EN ISO 11378-2:2026 in the assessment of textile floor coverings:
- EN ISO 11378-1:2000: Textile floor coverings - Laboratory soiling tests - Part 1: Kappasoil test
- ISO 105-A02: Textiles - Tests for colour fastness - Part A02: Grey scale for assessing change in colour
- ISO 105-J01: Textiles - Tests for colour fastness - Part J01: General principles for measurement of surface colour
- ISO 139: Textiles - Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
- ISO 1957: Machine-made textile floor coverings - Selection and cutting of specimens for physical tests
- ISO 9405: Textile floor coverings - Assessment of changes in appearance
- ISO 23122: Textile floor coverings - Production of changes in appearance by means of a hexapod tumbler tester
By following EN ISO 11378-2:2026 and its related standards, stakeholders ensure reliable, comparable data on soiling behavior, supporting product improvement and informed purchasing decisions in the textile flooring industry.
