Overview
EN ISO 19954:2003 - Footwear: Test methods for whole shoe - Washability in a domestic washing machine (ISO 19954:2003) is a CEN/ISO standard that specifies a reproducible laboratory method to evaluate how complete footwear items behave when subjected to domestic washing. The test determines changes in appearance, dimensions and performance after a defined washing and drying cycle, enabling objective assessment of washability, durability and product claims.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope: Method adapted to all types of footwear; evaluation is based on differences measured before and after washing.
- Sample and conditioning: At least two pairs (each shoe is a test piece); condition samples for 24 h in a standard atmosphere per EN 12222.
- Washing equipment and program: Use a type A1 washing machine per EN ISO 6330. Key cycle parameters:
- Water volume: 18 ± 1 L (wash); rinse 15 ± 1 L
- Temperature: 30–35 °C
- Washing time: 30 ± 2 min
- Drum rotation (wash): 5.4 ± 0.5 rad/s; wringing and final spin speeds specified
- Detergent: reference ECE detergent per EN ISO 6330 (4 g/L)
- Textile component: Ten white 100% cotton rectangles (50×50 cm nominal) placed in the drum to simulate normal washing load and reduce abrasion.
- Assessments and measurements:
- Visual inspection for cuts, tears, accessory loss, staining or colour transfer (ISO 105-A03)
- Colour change evaluated with the grey scale (ISO 105-A02)
- Dimensional change: internal length (L) and width (B) measured on insole/insock; report changes R1 = L1–L2 and R2 = B1–B2
- Toe spring measured with a toe spring gauge
- Upper-to-sole adhesion tested before and after washing according to EN ISO 17708 (reported as N/mm)
- Test cycle: Three washings and three dryings constitute a complete test cycle; drying must ensure the specimen is truly dry (mass change ≤1% within 1 h).
Applications and users
This standard is intended for:
- Footwear manufacturers and product developers validating washability claims
- Quality control and testing laboratories performing routine conformity and durability testing
- Retailers and certification bodies assessing product performance and labeling
- R&D teams optimizing materials, adhesives and constructions for machine-washable footwear
Practical uses include establishing manufacturing controls, supporting marketing claims (washable/cleanable), and comparing material or construction options for washable footwear.
Related standards
- EN 12222 - conditioning atmospheres for footwear
- EN ISO 6330 - domestic washing and drying procedures for textiles
- EN ISO 17708 - upper-to-sole adhesion test for whole shoe
- ISO 105-A02 / ISO 105-A03 - grey scales for colour change and staining
- EN 13400 - sampling and conditioning (bibliography)
Keywords: EN ISO 19954:2003, footwear washability, domestic washing machine test, whole shoe test methods, washability standard, textile grey scale, upper-to-sole adhesion.
