The Washing Test is a common quality inspection item in the export trade of textiles, apparel, and home textiles. It is used to evaluate dimensional stability, color fastness, appearance changes, and physical properties after specific washing procedures. Use cases include: buyers requiring suppliers to provide test reports, contracts stipulating shrinkage standards after washing, or as a basis for pre-shipment quality confirmation. Precautions: The test must specify the washing method (e.g., ISO 6330, AATCC 135), water temperature, detergent, drying method, and number of cycles, as results vary greatly between standards. Test reports must be issued by qualified third-party laboratories, and reports are typically valid for one year. Difference from 'color fastness test': The washing test comprehensively evaluates shrinkage, pilling, fading, etc., while the color fastness test only addresses color transfer or staining. Difference from 'dry cleaning test': Washing simulates home or commercial laundering, while dry cleaning simulates organic solvent cleaning. In foreign trade, if no specific standard is agreed upon, disputes easily arise; it is recommended to specify the test method and acceptance range in the contract.
📝 Examples
1. Please provide the washing test report for this batch of 100% cotton T-shirts, according to AATCC 135, with a shrinkage rate not exceeding 3%. (Note: The buyer requires the supplier to provide a test report and specifies the standard and shrinkage limit.)
2. The contract stipulates that a washing test must be conducted before shipment; if the dimensional change after testing exceeds 5%, the buyer has the right to reject the goods. (Note: The contract uses the washing test result as a quality acceptance condition.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner