ZHEJIANG DEXIANG SPECIAL FABRIC & CLOTHING CO., LTD.
ZHEJIANG DEXIANG SPECIAL FABRIC & CLOTHING CO., LTD.

GARMENT SHRINKAGE & COLOR STABILITY EXPLAINED: ISO 5077 AND ISO 105 TESTING GUIDE

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    Garment performance does not end after production — it is proven over time through washing and daily use. For industrial workwear, shrinkage control and color stability are critical factors that affect fit, comfort, safety, and professional appearance. ISO 5077 and ISO 105 are two key international standards used to evaluate these properties.

     

    Understanding these tests helps buyers and safety managers choose workwear that performs reliably throughout its service life.

     

    WHAT IS ISO 5077?

    ISO 5077 specifies test methods for measuring dimensional change (shrinkage or growth) of fabrics and garments after washing and drying. It helps determine how much a garment’s length and width change under defined laundering conditions.

     

    This standard is widely used to ensure consistent sizing and predictable fit in industrial workwear.

     

    WHAT IS ISO 105?

    ISO 105 is a series of standards that evaluate color fastness under different conditions such as washing, rubbing, perspiration, and light exposure. It assesses how well fabrics retain their color during normal use and maintenance.

    Color fastness is especially important for:

     

    • High-visibility garments

    • Corporate image and uniform consistency

    • Long-term garment appearance

     

    WHY SHRINKAGE AND COLOR FASTNESS MATTER

    Poor performance in these areas can lead to:

     

    • Ill-fitting garments after washing

    • Reduced comfort and mobility

    • Faded or uneven colors

    • Loss of visibility or professional appearance

     

    For protective clothing, dimensional stability also helps ensure full coverage and proper protection.

     

    HOW ISO 5077 AND ISO 105 WORK TOGETHER

    ISO 5077 focuses on size and shape stability, while ISO 105 ensures visual and color durability. Together, they provide a complete picture of how garments behave after repeated laundering.

     

    These tests are commonly used alongside industrial washing standards to validate long-term garment performance.

     

    WHAT BUYERS SHOULD LOOK FOR

    When selecting industrial workwear:

     

    • Request ISO 5077 shrinkage data

    • Check ISO 105 color fastness ratings

    • Ensure results align with industrial washing requirements

    • Choose garments designed with proper shrinkage allowance

     

    This approach helps reduce replacement costs and improve wearer satisfaction.

     

    FINAL THOUGHTS

    ISO 5077 and ISO 105 play a vital role in evaluating garment shrinkage and color stability. Workwear tested to these standards delivers consistent fit, appearance, and performance — wash after wash. Choosing garments that meet these requirements supports long-term safety, comfort, and value.


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