Current Edition Checked October 24, 2026
Each method carries its own year or edition; quote it on the specification and the test report.
What It Covers
The test methods US buyers name for colorfastness, dimensional change, appearance, and performance of textiles and apparel.
Who It Applies To
Mills, garment makers, brands, and testing laboratories working to US buyer specifications.
Key Requirements
- Colorfastness to crocking (TM8), light (TM16.3), accelerated laundering (TM61) and perspiration (TM15).
- Dimensional changes on home laundering (TM135 for fabrics, TM150 for garments).
- Evaluation against the AATCC gray scales or by instrument, with the procedure stated.
- The method’s year cited, because conditions and ratings change between revisions.
What an Auditor Asks to See
- The buyer’s specification, and test reports that cite the same methods and years.
Where Systems Fall Short
- Reports citing “AATCC 61” with no option or year, so the result cannot be compared.
How QES Helps
Specification and test-plan reviews that line up the buyer’s methods with the laboratory’s.
Related Standards
Sources. AATCC — Test methods and the Technical Manual (opens in a new tab). Status checked October 24, 2026. This page summarizes AATCC Methods; it does not reproduce or replace it. Buy the standard from its publisher, or read the regulation in its official text, before relying on a detail. Not legal advice.