Source: Alan Henderson & Son Upholstery
When choosing upholstery fabric, what truly determines its lifespan lies beneath the surface. Over time, friction from sitting, brushing, or shifting wears down the fibres, affecting both look and feel.
That’s where abrasion testing comes in. Two main methods, Martindale and Wyzenbeek, put fabrics to the test by simulating the wear and tear of real-world use.
Understanding how these tests differ, and what their scores really mean, can make all the difference between a sofa that lasts a season and one that lasts a lifetime. Continue reading to learn more.
What is Upholstery Fabric Abrasion Testing?
Source: Fibreguard
Abrasion testing involves placing a fabric sample in a testing machine that rubs it against a standard surface (like wool or cotton) under controlled pressure.
The test continues until visible wear, yarn breakage, or a set number of cycles (rubs) is reached. Two main abrasion testing standards are used globally: the Wyzenbeek and Martindale tests.
1. What is the Martindale Test?
The Martindale Test, widely used in Europe and internationally under ISO 12947, measures abrasion resistance through an oscillating, figure-eight (Lissajous curve) motion.
The fabric sample is rubbed against a worsted wool or sandpaper abradant in multiple directions, simulating the random friction that occurs during everyday use.
Results are recorded in cycles or rubs. The higher the number of cycles a fabric withstands before showing wear, the more durable it is.
Here’s how you can interpret Martindale fabric abrasion testing scores:
- 6,000–10,000 cycles: Decorative use only. Best for cushions or accent pieces that don’t see daily wear.
- 10,000–15,000 cycles: Light domestic use. Not suitable for upholstery that’s frequently used.
- 15,000–25,000 cycles: General domestic use. Ideal for sofas or chairs used occasionally, though not recommended for high-traffic areas.
- 25,000–30,000 cycles: Heavy domestic use. Durable enough for everyday family furniture, like living room sofas or barstool cushions.
- 30,000+ cycles: Commercial-grade durability. Designed for hotels, offices, and public spaces where furniture must withstand constant wear and tear.
2. What is the Wyzenbeek Test?
The Wyzenbeek Test, the preferred standard in North America (ASTM D4157), measures abrasion resistance using a straight-line, back-and-forth motion along the warp and weft of the fabric.
A strip of cotton duck fabric or wire mesh acts as the abradant. Each complete back-and-forth motion is counted as one double rub, the standard unit of measurement.
The test continues until two adjacent yarns break or there’s an obvious change in the fabric’s appearance, such as pilling or surface wear.
In simple terms, the higher the Wyzenbeek score, the tougher the fabric. Fabrics rated at 15,000 double rubs are best suited for low-traffic applications.
Meanwhile those exceeding 30,000 double rubs are recommended for heavy-use environments where durability is essential.
Whether you’re furnishing a home or outfitting a commercial space, knowing how your fabric has been tested ensures it’s built to last — and look good doing it.
However, it’s important to note that abrasion resistance is just one aspect of durability. To fully understand a fabric’s long-term performance, additional tests are often required.
While both abrasion testing methods aim to predict how long a fabric might last, they assess different factors under varying conditions.
A fabric that performs exceptionally well in one test may not achieve the same result in the other, as each measures wear in its own unique way.
Read more: What Is Performance Fabric? A Complete Guide
Why is it Important to Understand the Difference Between Abrasion Testing Methods?
Source: NextGen Material Testing
When it comes to choosing upholstery fabric, durability matters as much as design. That’s why understanding the difference between abrasion testing methods is essential.
Each test evaluates how a fabric withstands wear, but they do so in distinct ways that reflect different real-world conditions.
The Martindale Test, for example, uses an oscillating, figure-eight motion to simulate everyday, multi-directional wear. The kind caused by people sitting, shifting, or brushing against furniture from different angles.
The Wyzenbeek Test, on the other hand, employs a straight back-and-forth motion that better represents the friction experienced in high-traffic, commercial environments such as offices, hotels, and public seating areas.
Both methods end when the fabric reaches a failure point, whether that’s visible damage, broken yarns, or significant wear.
The final abrasion rating helps determine if a material is suited for light residential, heavy domestic, or commercial-grade use.
By understanding these differences, designers, manufacturers, and homeowners can make informed choices.
They can select fabrics that not only look good but also perform reliably in their intended settings. After all, the right test ensures the right fabric for the right purpose.
Read more: Upholstery in Interior Design: Elevating Spaces & More
Beyond Looks — Why Abrasion Testing Determines Furniture Longevity
Understanding fabric abrasion testing isn’t just for manufacturers. It’s for anyone who values quality, longevity, and comfort in their furniture.
Whether you’re comparing Martindale or Wyzenbeek results, knowing what each test measures helps you make smarter decisions about the materials you choose.
Ultimately, both tests provide valuable insights into how a fabric will perform over time. They help you strike the right balance between aesthetic appeal and lasting durability.
As a trusted name in the upholstery fabric industry, Kintex is dedicated to supplying fabrics that deliver exceptional quality and long-lasting performance.
Explore our full range of fabrics, including our PU and PVC leather collection, and find the perfect match for your next furniture project.
