The methods in this guide can be used for simple screening of fabric softener products or to evaluate the performance, through multiple accumulative cycles, relative to a designated reference product.

A single assessment of each of the product characteristics tested by these methods will not predict overall performance of the softener product. A single test run under specified fixed conditions cannot be expected to reflect the comparative performance under many other possible conditions of use.

1.1 This guide evaluates the performance characteristics of fabric softener products. It provides guidance for treating fabric in the wash, rinse, or dryer cycle in a home laundry and for evaluating the efficacy of the treatment chemicals. This guide can be used for simple screening of fabric softener products, or to evaluate the products through multiple accumulative cycles.

1.2 The relative ranking of products assessed by these procedures may be affected by such factors as fabric load composition and the kind and level of soils, as well as by the washing and drying procedures used.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are provided for information only.

1.4This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.