What is a Fabric Rub Test
At Spruce London we have a section in each product called Abrasion Test (Martindale Rub Test), this refers to a result obtained by testing the fabric with The Martindale Abrasion and Pilling Tester, this test is performed by our weavers the result is commonly known as a Rub Test, Abrasion Test or a Martindale Rub Test.
"The Martindale Abrasion and Pilling Tester is employed, throughout the world, for testing the abrasion resistance and pilling properties of textiles." James Heal
What do the figures mean;
The results span around 5,000 to over 100,000
As a guide see below
6,000 Occasional domestic use, display pieces
15,000 Light domestic
20,000 General Domestic
25,000 Heavy Domestic
30,000 Severe Domestic
40,000 General Contract
50,000 Severe Contract
A Martindale test is for abrasion only. There are many other factors that can affect the wear and tear of upholstery on a piece of furniture, including chemicals used in cleaning the fabric, UV exposure, and embedded dirt. or grit.
A high rub count does not mean the fabric will be resistant to cat claws, buckles, rivets etc.
Resources, https://www.james-heal.co.uk/en/martindale#section-7
