Fabric Wearability Code

Fabric Wearability Code is an intriguing name for standards developed by the government to provide a guideline to tell if a fabric is strong enough for your needs. You can find fabric wearability codes on manufacturers’ swatch samples shown in stores. Ask a salesperson to help if you cannot find the fabric wearability code on your own.

Fabric strength is determined by how it rates on the double rub test, which is a back and forth motion that approximates the wear and tear that comes from someone sitting down or getting up from an upholstered seat.

3,000 double rubs equals one year's worth of use.

HD or Heavy Duty

If a fabric holds up to more than 15,000 double rubs it is classified as heavy duty. It will be stiffer and thicker than most fabrics, but fortunately there are some also some new blends in this rating. They can be supple and soft enough so that it is hard to tell.

MD or Medium Duty

Medium duty fabric can withstand 9,000 to 15,000 double rubs. Usually, the closer the fabric get to 15,000 the stiffer it is. Medium duty fabrics are versatile and can be used for many purposes, and in family rooms as well as living rooms.

LD or Light Duty

A fabric that can take anywhere between 3,000 to 9,000 double rubs, is classified as light duty fabric. These fabrics can withstand one to three years of regular use and are generally very delicate. They are suitable for pieces that get only occasional use, such as sofas that only get used when guests arrive, or an occasional chair that is used more for its looks than any functionality.

DD or Delicate Duty

Delicate duty fabrics with 3,000 double should only be used on furniture that is purely decorative, or in pillows.