MARCH/APRIL 2018 37 Disturbance Of Fabric Coatings What Is The Problem? Coatings are applied on the front or back side of some fabrics to enhance luster, beauty, body and style or to impart wind resistance or water repellency. Some of these coatings can be damaged by professional cleaning, which adversely affects the original appearance of the fabric. This type of damage can occur on any type of coated garment or household fabric but is most often seen on wind breakers, insulated jackets and parkas, all-weather coats, ski wear, or similar outer wear. What Does It Look Like? When coatings are softened and dissolved by the cleaning procedure, the fabric takes on a discolored or stained appearance. This can look like uneven general color-loss or appears as spots, splotches, or streaks on the fabric. What Caused It? The manufacturer applied a coating to the fabric that was not completely durable to professional cleaning. During cleaning, the coating softened, dissolved, and was either partially disturbed and reduced or totally removed. Such an objectionable alteration of appearance may not become noticeable until after several cleanings, but in some cases damage occurs during the first care process. Can It Be Prevented? The manufacturer can prevent such damage by selecting better coatings and compatible fabric materials and using more durable methods of application. There is no practical means for a cleaner to predict or prevent this type of damage. Who Is Responsible? It is the responsibility of the manufacturer to ensure all components, dyes, coatings, and fabric finishes can withstand the normally recommended method of cleaning without any adverse change of appearance or texture. If coating disturbance occurs from the cleaning process, then the manufacturer must be held responsible due to isolated mishaps or quality control deficiencies in manufacturing. Is There A Remedy? Once the coating is softened and disturbed there is no restoration. By Jim Kirby, DLI Textile Analyst TABS T E X T I L E A N A LY S I S B U L L E T I N S E R V I C E BULLE TIN NO. 488 This insulated coat is discolored all over the surface after professional cleaning. The coating disturbance on this all-weather jacket is severe but the attached belt fabric that had no coating remains unstained. The shimmery coating on this dress peels off in any professional care procedure.