Overview
ISO 7769:2009 - Textiles - Test method for assessing the appearance of creases in fabrics after cleansing - specifies a comparative laboratory method to evaluate how well pressed-in creases in fabrics are retained after one or more cleansing cycles. The method is designed primarily for use with type B domestic washing machines (ISO 6330) but can also be applied to professional cleaning procedures. Results are reported as a crease appearance rating using ISO plastic crease replicas (CR‑1 to CR‑5) and averaged across multiple observers.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope: Evaluation of pressed-in crease retention after cleansing; the technique for inserting creases is not included.
- Specimens: Three test specimens, 38 cm × 38 cm, pinked to prevent fraying, each with a central press-in crease.
- Cleansing cycles: Use a specified domestic (ISO 6330) or professional (ISO 3175) procedure; repeat up to five cycles if required.
- Conditioning: Specimens conditioned 4–24 hours according to ISO 139, hung by two corners with crease vertical or clamped full-width.
- Lighting & viewing: Darkened room with two cool‑white fluorescent lamps, a 500 W side flood lamp with shield, and a grey viewing board matched to ISO 105‑A03 (Grey scale No. 2); side reflections should be eliminated (black walls or blackout curtains).
- Comparison standard: Plastic 3D crease replicas (CR‑1 to CR‑5); Annex B provides a digital description of replicas.
- Assessment: Three independent observers rate each specimen; ratings may be given in half‑unit increments. Average the nine observations and report to the nearest 0.5 rating per Table 1 scale.
- Reporting: Include reference to ISO 7769:2009, sample details, cleansing procedure and cycles, crease rating, and any deviations.
Practical applications
- Quality control and acceptance testing for apparel, home textiles and technical fabrics to verify crease resistance after laundering.
- R&D comparison of fabric constructions, finishes (e.g., wrinkle‑resistant treatments), and care instructions.
- Lab verification of supplier claims on laundering performance and consumer care labeling.
- Inter-laboratory comparisons and method harmonization (Annex A discusses precision and observer variability).
Who uses this standard
- Textile testing laboratories and quality assurance teams
- Manufacturers of fabrics, garments and home textiles
- Chemical and finishing product developers (anti-crease finishes)
- Certification bodies and standards compliance professionals
Related standards
- ISO 6330 - Domestic washing and drying procedures for textile testing
- ISO 3175 - Professional care (drycleaning/wetcleaning)
- ISO 139 - Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
- ISO 105‑A03 - Grey scale for assessing staining
Keywords: ISO 7769:2009, crease assessment, textile testing, crease appearance rating, laundering, ISO 6330, ISO 3175, plastic crease replicas.
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