Overview
ISO 16847:2016 defines a standardized test method for assessing the matting appearance of napped (fleece) fabrics after cleansing. The method simulates domestic, professional or industrial laundering to evaluate how the raised fibres of napped fabrics change visually (matting) after one or several cleaning cycles. It is designed primarily for use with Type B domestic washing machines (ISO 6330) but can be applied with Type A machines or other agreed cleansing processes.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope: Assessment of matting appearance of napped/fleece fabrics after cleansing cycles (domestic, professional or industrial).
- Referenced standards: ISO 6330 (domestic washing), ISO 3175 (professional care), ISO 15797 (industrial laundering), ISO 139 (conditioning), ISO 105‑A03 (grey scale).
- Specimen preparation: Three specimens, 38 × 38 cm, cut parallel to length, pinked edges, marked for length direction and front face when required.
- Cleansing procedure: Use an agreed washing/drying procedure from ISO 6330/3175/15797; optional repetition up to five cycles (one wash + one dry = one cycle).
- Conditioning: Standard atmosphere per ISO 139 for at least 4 hours; specimens hung unfolded with length vertical.
- Viewing and lighting: Darkened room with overhead CW fluorescent lamps, enamel reflector, grey viewing board matched to grade 2 of ISO 105‑A03; side reflections minimized (black walls/curtains recommended).
- Assessment protocol: Three independent observers rate each specimen at 1.2 m from the board. Ratings use a 1–5 matting grading scheme:
- 5 = No change | 4 = Slight matting | 3 = Moderate matting | 2 = Distinct matting | 1 = Dense matting
- Result expression: Median of nine observations (three observers × three specimens) reported to the nearest half rating.
- Test report: Must reference ISO 16847:2016 and include sample details, cleansing procedure, number of cycles, matting rating per face, and deviations.
Applications
ISO 16847:2016 is practical for:
- Textile manufacturers and R&D teams assessing fleece durability and appearance retention
- Quality control and textile testing laboratories performing matting tests
- Garment and technical textile suppliers validating laundering performance for specifications
- Retailers and brands requiring standardized evaluation for product care labeling and claims
- Laundering and finishing service providers comparing process effects on napped surfaces
Related standards
- ISO 6330 - Domestic washing and drying procedures
- ISO 3175 - Professional care (drycleaning/wetcleaning)
- ISO 15797 - Industrial washing/finishing for workwear
- ISO 139 - Conditioning and testing atmospheres
- ISO 105‑A03 - Grey scale for assessing staining
Keywords: ISO 16847:2016, matting appearance, napped fabrics, fleece fabrics, test method, ISO 6330, laundering test, textile testing, fabric matting assessment.
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