Overview
EN ISO 15700:1999 (ISO 15700:1998) specifies a standardized method for evaluating colour fastness to water spotting on leather. Prepared by the IULTCS Fastness Tests Commission and adopted by CEN, the standard describes how small water droplets affect the appearance and colour of leather surfaces, including a specific procedure for patent and plastic-coated leathers. It is used to assess both immediate physical effects (swelling, loss of lustre) and residual colour change using the standard grey scale.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Test principle: Two drops of distilled water are placed on the leather; one drop is blotted after 30 minutes to observe physical effects, the other is left to evaporate (≈16 hours) to assess colour change.
- Specimen: Representative leather at least 100 mm × 50 mm.
- Water volume and quality: Drops of approximately 0.15 ml; water conforming to ISO 3696 (grade 3).
- Assessment of colour change: Visual assessment using the ISO 105-A02 grey scale or instrumental assessment per ISO 105-A05.
- Physical effects: Record observed swelling, loss of lustre or other surface changes and rate severity (slight, moderate, severe).
- Patent/plastic-coated leathers: Alternative procedure - wet the inside surface and continue until water penetrates or swelling occurs, then assess as above.
- Optional wear simulation: Specimens may be subjected to simulated wear (e.g., repeated flexing) before testing to evaluate practical durability.
- Test report requirements: Must include reference to the standard, leather type and surface tested, physical effects and severity, grey scale ratings before/after manual treatment (and simulated wear if applicable), any deviations, and test date.
- Informative material: Annex A gives background; method is based on IUF 420.
Applications and who uses it
- Leather manufacturers use EN ISO 15700 to validate finishing processes and ensure product quality for footwear, upholstery, garments, and accessories.
- Quality control laboratories apply the test in routine QC and batch acceptance testing.
- Leather chemical and finish formulators evaluate dye and coating resistance to localized water exposure.
- Product specifiers and procurement teams reference the standard to ensure leather items meet performance requirements against water spotting.
- Useful for assessing end-user concerns such as accidental water exposure, cleaning effects, and long-term appearance retention.
Related standards
- ISO 105-A01: General principles of colour fastness testing
- ISO 105-A02: Grey scale for assessing colour change
- ISO 105-A05: Instrumental assessment of colour change
- ISO 3696: Water for analytical laboratory use
Keywords: EN ISO 15700, ISO 15700, colour fastness to water spotting, leather testing, water spotting test, grey scale, leather colour fastness.
