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CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 30.1-M89 (2013): Colourfastness to Washing – Test Method and Compliance Guide
A comprehensive guide to the Canadian General Standards Board standard for evaluating colourfastness of textiles to laundering
The CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 30.1-M89 (2013), part of the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) 4.2 series of textile test methods, provides a standardized procedure for evaluating the resistance of textile colours to the combined action of detergent, elevated temperature, and mechanical agitation during a simulated domestic or commercial washing process. This method assesses both the colour change of the original specimen and the staining of adjacent fabrics, thereby indicating the overall fastness of a textile colour to laundering.
Scope and Application
This standard is applicable to all textile products, including dyed, printed, or otherwise coloured fibres, yarns, and fabrics. It is designed to simulate the effects of a single wash cycle under specified conditions. The results obtained serve as an indicator of the product’s durability and suitability for its intended end-use. The method covers a range of test conditions that can be selected to represent different laundering scenarios, such as hand washing, machine washing at various temperatures, and the use of different detergents and bleaching agents.
The primary purpose of this test is to produce data that can be used to compare the colourfastness of different samples, to control production quality, and to predict performance in consumer use. It is often referenced in textile product specifications and procurement contracts.
Technical Requirements
Apparatus and Reagents
The standard requires specific apparatus, including a suitable washing machine or launder-ometer capable of maintaining the prescribed temperature and agitation. Additional equipment includes:
- Stainless steel balls (optional, depending on the severity of the test)
- Glass jars or containers for the wash-liquor
- Thermometers accurate to ±1°C
- Grey scales for assessing colour change (e.g., ISO 105-A02) and staining (e.g., ISO 105-A03)
- Standard adjacent fabrics (multifibre strip or single-fibre fabrics as specified)
- Heated drying oven or flat-bed press for drying specimens
- Reference detergent without optical brighteners
- If required, sodium perborate (bleach)
Test Conditions
The standard provides several test conditions, denoted by a test number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.). Each condition specifies the temperature, washing time, liquor volume, detergent concentration, and the number of steel balls. The table below summarizes the most commonly used test conditions:
| Test No. | Temperature (°C) | Time (min) | Liquor Volume (mL) | Detergent (g/L) | Steel Balls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 40 ± 2 | 30 | 150 | 4 | 0 |
| 2 | 60 ± 2 | 30 | 150 | 4 | 10 |
| 3 | 95 ± 2 | 30 | 50 | 1 | 20 |
| 4 | 40 ± 2 | 45 | 200 | 5 | 0 |
Note: These values are illustrative. Refer to the actual standard for definitive values.
Tip: Always verify the test condition according to the product specification or the applicable regulatory requirement. The selection of the appropriate test condition directly influences the outcome and comparability of results.
Implementation and Procedure
Specimen Preparation
Test specimens are cut to a specified size (typically 40 mm × 100 mm) and preconditioned in a standard atmosphere (21 ± 1°C, 65 ± 4% RH) for at least four hours. Each test specimen is assembled with adjacent fabrics: either a multifibre strip or separate single-fibre fabrics (cotton, wool, polyester, nylon, acrylic, etc.) depending on the intended use. The composite specimen is stitched or stapled along the edges to ensure intimate contact during the test.
Washing Procedure
Preheat the wash-liquor to the specified temperature in the container. Add the detergent and, if required, sodium perborate. Place the composite specimen in the container along with the specified number of stainless steel balls. Close the container and place it in the washing apparatus. Maintain the specified temperature for the defined time while agitating continuously. At the end of the wash period, remove the specimen and rinse it thoroughly in cold water. Remove the adjacent fabrics, dry them separately in a warm air oven at a temperature not exceeding 60°C, and condition them.
Assessment
Assess the colour change of the original specimen and the staining of each adjacent fabric using the respective grey scales under standard viewing conditions (northern daylight or D65 illuminant). Rating scores range from 5 (excellent fastness) to 1 (poor fastness). The results are reported for each fabric in the composite assembly.
Warning: Common errors leading to invalid test results include inadequate preconditioning, incorrect liquor volume, and failure to properly seal the container. Ensure all apparatus is calibrated and maintained.
Compliance Note: For certification purposes, the test must be performed in a laboratory accredited according to ISO 17025. All reagents should be of specified grade, and the grey scales must be traceable to national standards.
Compliance and Quality Assurance
Consistent compliance with CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 30.1-M89 (2013) requires strict adherence to the defined test parameters. Laboratories should establish a quality control programme that includes regular verification of oven temperatures, weighing devices, and the performance of reference detergents and adjacent fabrics. Inter-laboratory proficiency testing is recommended to ensure reproducibility.
When the standard is referenced in a contract or regulation, any deviation from the specified procedure must be documented and agreed upon by all parties. The use of alternative detergents or washing equipment may affect the validity of the results and should be carefully evaluated.
Caution: This standard does not purport to address all safety concerns. It is the responsibility of the user to establish appropriate safety and health practices. Avoid exposure to chemicals and use appropriate personal protective equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 30.1-M89 (2013) and similar international standards like ISO 105-C06?
A: While the principles are similar, the specific test conditions, detergent formulation, and assessment criteria may differ. This standard is tailored for the Canadian market and may be referenced specifically in Canadian regulations or procurement documents. Care should be taken when comparing results between standards.
A: While the principles are similar, the specific test conditions, detergent formulation, and assessment criteria may differ. This standard is tailored for the Canadian market and may be referenced specifically in Canadian regulations or procurement documents. Care should be taken when comparing results between standards.
Q: Can this test method be used for all textile products?
A: The method is applicable to a broad range of textile materials. However, for specific products such as carpets, coated fabrics, or those containing special finishes, additional or alternative test methods may be required. The user must determine the suitability of this method for the intended purpose.
A: The method is applicable to a broad range of textile materials. However, for specific products such as carpets, coated fabrics, or those containing special finishes, additional or alternative test methods may be required. The user must determine the suitability of this method for the intended purpose.
Q: What grey scales are used for assessment?
A: Colour change is assessed using the grey scale for colour change (e.g., ISO 105-A02) and staining is assessed using the grey scale for staining (e.g., ISO 105-A03). These scales are identical to those used in many international standards.
A: Colour change is assessed using the grey scale for colour change (e.g., ISO 105-A02) and staining is assessed using the grey scale for staining (e.g., ISO 105-A03). These scales are identical to those used in many international standards.
Q: How often should the reference detergent and adjacent fabrics be revalidated?
A: It is recommended to check the consistency of each new batch against a reference standard. Adjacent fabrics should be stored in a cool, dark place and used within the specified shelf life. Typical practice is to verify performance every six months or upon change of lot number.
A: It is recommended to check the consistency of each new batch against a reference standard. Adjacent fabrics should be stored in a cool, dark place and used within the specified shelf life. Typical practice is to verify performance every six months or upon change of lot number.
© 2026. This article provides general guidance on CAN CGSB 4.2 No. 30.1-M89 (2013) and does not substitute for the official standard. Always refer to the most recent version published by the Canadian General Standards Board.