ASTM D7019-20

Standard Performance Specification for Brassiere, Slip, Lingerie and Underwear Fabrics

ABSTRACT
This performance specification covers fabrics used in brassieres underwear, slips, and lingerie. The requirements apply to the length and width directions for those properties where each fabric direction is pertinent. The fabric shall conform to the required breaking strength, tearing strength, resistance to yarn slippage, bursting strength, dimensional change, colorfastness, appearance, and flammability.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Fabrics intended for this end-use should meet all of the requirements listed in Table 1. (A) There is more than one method that can be used to measure breaking strength, tearing strength, bursting strength and lightfastness. These methods cannot be used interchangeably since there may be no overall correlation between them (see Note 2, Note 3, Note 4, and Note 6).(B) See Note 5.  
4.2 It should be recognized that fabric can be produced utilizing an almost infinite number of combinations of construction variables (e.g., type of fibers, percentage of fibers, yarn twist, yarn number, warp and pick count, chemical and mechanical finishes). Additionally, fashion or aesthetics dictate that the ultimate consumer may find acceptable articles made from fabrics that do not conform to all of the requirements in Table 1.  
4.2.1 Hence, no single performance specification can possibly apply to all the various fabrics that could be utilized for this end-use.  
4.3 The uses and significance of particular properties and test methods are discussed in the appropriate sections of the specified test methods.
SCOPE
1.1 This performance specification covers fabrics used in brassieres underwear, slips, and lingerie.  
1.2 These requirements apply to the length and width directions for those properties where each fabric direction is pertinent.  
1.3 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods described in this performance specification: This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Jun-2020
• ICS: 61.020 - Clothes
• Technical Committee: D13 - Textiles
• Drafting Committee: D13.61 - Apparel

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D7019-14 - Standard Performance Specification for Brassiere, Slip, Lingerie and Underwear Fabrics
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2020
• Refers: ASTM D2261-13(2024) - Standard Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by the Tongue (Single Rip) Procedure (Constant-Rate-of-Extension Tensile Testing Machine)
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM D3787-16(2020) - Standard Test Method for Bursting Strength of Textiles—Constant-Rate-of-Traverse (CRT) Ball Burst Test
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2020
• Refers: ASTM D1336-07(2019) - Standard Test Method for Distortion of Yarn in Woven Fabrics
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM D2261-13(2017)e1 - Standard Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by the Tongue (Single Rip) Procedure (Constant-Rate-of-Extension Tensile Testing Machine)
• Effective Date: 15-Jul-2017
• Refers: ASTM D2261-13(2017) - Standard Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by the Tongue (Single Rip) Procedure (Constant-Rate-of-Extension Tensile Testing Machine)
• Effective Date: 15-Jul-2017
• Refers: ASTM D123-17 - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2017
• Refers: ASTM D3787-16 - Standard Test Method for Bursting Strength of Textiles—Constant-Rate-of-Traverse (CRT) Ball Burst Test
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2016
• Refers: ASTM D123-15b - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2015
• Refers: ASTM D123-15a - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2015
• Refers: ASTM D3787-15 - Standard Test Method for Bursting Strength of Textiles—Constant-Rate-of-Traverse (CRT) Ball Burst Test
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2015
• Refers: ASTM D1336-07(2015) - Standard Test Method for Distortion of Yarn in Woven Fabrics
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2015
• Refers: ASTM D123-15 - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2015
• Refers: ASTM D7022-13e1 - Standard Terminology Relating to Apparel
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2013
• Refers: ASTM D7022-13 - Standard Terminology Relating to Apparel
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2013

Overview

ASTM D7019-20 is the Standard Performance Specification for Brassiere, Slip, Lingerie, and Underwear Fabrics developed by ASTM International. This specification sets essential requirements for woven and knit fabrics commonly used in intimate apparel. By defining criteria for breaking strength, tearing strength, yarn slippage resistance, bursting strength, dimensional stability, colorfastness, appearance, and flammability, the standard helps ensure fabric performance and safety in end-use applications.

This specification is widely referenced by textile manufacturers, quality assurance teams, and apparel brands to guide product development, procurement, and testing protocols for lingerie, underwear, brassieres, and slips.

Key Topics

• Physical Performance Requirements:

  • Breaking strength
  • Tearing resistance
  • Bursting strength (for knit fabrics)
  • Resistance to yarn slippage and yarn distortion

• Dimensional Stability:

  • Limits on dimensional change due to laundering and drycleaning

• Colorfastness Testing:

  • Laundering and drycleaning
  • Crocking (rubbing)
  • Perspiration
  • Bleaching (sodium hypochlorite and non-chlorine)
  • Burnt gas fumes
  • Light exposure

• Fabric Appearance:

  • Smoothness appearance after care processes

• Flammability:

  • Compliance with US federal flammability standards (16 CFR 1610)

• Testing Directionality:

  • Requirements apply to both length and width (warp and weft) directions where relevant

• Safety and Compliance:

  • Adherence to proper laboratory safety and regulatory practices

Applications

Adoption of ASTM D7019-20 adds assurance of fitness for purpose in critical applications, including:

• Product Specification and Sourcing: Textile mills and apparel brands use this standard to evaluate and select fabrics for bras, slips, panties, lingerie, and similar intimate wear to meet durability, safety, and performance expectations.

• Quality Control: Enables manufacturers and laboratories to systematically test and verify fabric properties using established protocols, minimizing failures in appearance, wear, or launderability during actual consumer use.

• Regulatory Compliance: Assures that fabrics meet strict flammability regulations and international guidelines, supporting global distribution and consumer safety.

• Design and Development: Assists designers and product developers in specifying material requirements, enabling informed choices among diverse fiber blends, fabric constructions, and finishing processes while balancing performance and aesthetics.

• Supplier Specifications: Forms the technical foundation for supplier agreements, minimizing disputes over fabric performance.

Related Standards

For comprehensive quality management, ASTM D7019-20 should be used alongside other relevant standards, including:

• ASTM D5034: Breaking Strength and Elongation of Textile Fabrics (Grab Test)
• ASTM D1424: Tearing Strength of Fabrics by Falling-Pendulum (Elmendorf) Apparatus
• ASTM D3786 / D3787: Bursting Strength of Textile Fabrics
• AATCC TM61, TM135, TM132, TM15, TM16.3, TM23, TM8, TM116: Various test methods for colorfastness, dimensional change, laundering, drycleaning, and appearance
• 16 CFR 1610: Flammable Fabrics Act Regulations

Additionally, terminology standards such as ASTM D123 and ASTM D7022 support consistent interpretation across textile applications.

Practical Value

By specifying performance parameters for fabrics used in intimate apparel, ASTM D7019-20 supports improved consumer satisfaction, enhances product safety, and streamlines the supply chain. The standard's comprehensive approach ensures that fabrics withstand the demands of daily wear, repeated laundering, and various environmental exposures, making it indispensable for the global underwear, lingerie, and foundation garment industry.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:D7019 −20
Standard Performance Specification for
Brassiere, Slip, Lingerie and Underwear Fabrics
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7019; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope D3786 Test Method for Bursting Strength of Textile
Fabrics—Diaphragm Bursting Strength Tester Method
1.1 This performance specification covers fabrics used in
D3787 Test Method for Bursting Strength of Textiles—
brassieres underwear, slips, and lingerie.
Constant-Rate-of-Traverse (CRT) Ball Burst Test
1.2 These requirements apply to the length and width
D5034 TestMethodforBreakingStrengthandElongationof
directions for those properties where each fabric direction is
Textile Fabrics (Grab Test)
pertinent.
D7022 Terminology Relating to Apparel
1.3 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the
2.2 AATCC Test Methods:
test methods described in this performance specification: This
TM8 Colorfastness to Crocking: Crockmeter Method
standarddoesnotpurporttoaddressallofthesafetyconcerns,
TM15 Colorfastness to Perspiration
ifany,associatedwithitsuse.Itistheresponsibilityoftheuser
TM16.3 Colorfastness to Light
of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and
TM23 Colorfastness to Burnt Gas Fumes
environmental practices and determine the applicability of
TM61 Colorfastness to Laundering: Accelerated
regulatory limitations prior to use.
TM116 Colorfastness to Crocking: Rotary Vertical Crock-
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
meter Method
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
TM124 Smoothness Appearance of Fabrics after Repeated
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Home Laundering
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
TM132 Colorfastness to Drycleaning
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
TM135 Dimensional Changes of Fabrics after Home Laun-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. dering
TM158 Dimensional Changes on Drycleaning in Perchloro-
2. Referenced Documents
ethylene: Machine Method
TM172 Colorfastness to Powdered Non-Chlorine Bleach in
2.1 ASTM Standards:
Home Laundering
D123 Terminology Relating to Textiles
TM188 Colorfastness to Sodium Hypochlorite Bleach in
D434 Test Method for Resistance to Slippage of Yarns in
Home Laundering
Woven Fabrics Using a Standard Seam (Withdrawn
2.3 Federal Standard:
2003)
16 CFR 1610 - Flammable Fabrics Act Regulations
D1336 Test Method for Distortion ofYarn in Woven Fabrics
D1424 Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by
NOTE 1—Reference to test methods in this specification give only the
Falling-Pendulum (Elmendorf-Type) Apparatus
permanent part of the designation of ASTM, AATCC, or other test
methods. The current editions of each test method cited shall prevail.
D2261 Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by the
Tongue (Single Rip) Procedure (Constant-Rate-of-
3. Terminology
Extension Tensile Testing Machine)
3.1 For definitions of textile terms used in this specification
refer to Terminologies D123 and D7022. For terms relating to
chemical and colorfastness testing refer to specificAATCC test
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D13 on
methods.
Textiles and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D13.61 on Apparel.
Current edition approved July 1, 2020. Published August 2020. Originally
3.2 Definitions found in a dictionary of common usage are
approved in 2005. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as D7019-14. DOI:
suitable for this specification.
10.1520/D7019-20.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Available from American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, P.O.
the ASTM website. Box 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709.
3 5
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on Available from Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office,
www.astm.org. Washington, DC 20402.
Copyright ©ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA19428-2959. United States
D7019−20
4. Significance and Use Test Method D5034 using a constant-rate-of-extension (CRE)
tensile testing machine.
4.1 Fabrics intended for this end-use should meet all of the
requirements listed in Table 1.
NOTE 2—If preferred a constant-rate-of-traverse (CRT) tensile testing
4.2 It should be recognized that fabric can be produced machine may be used. There may be no overall correlation between the
results obtained with the CRT machine and the CRE machine.
utilizing an almost infinite number of combinations of con-
Consequently, these two testers cannot be used interchangeably. In case of
struction variables (e.g., type of fibers, percentage of fibers,
controversy, the CRE method, Test Method D5034, shall prevail.
yarn twist, yarn number, warp and pick count, chemical and
mechanical finishes).Additionally, fashion or aesthetics dictate
5.2 Tearing Resistance (woven fabrics only)—Determine
that the ultimate consumer may find acceptable articles made
the tear resistance as directed in Test Method D1424.
from fabrics that do not conform to all of the requirements in
NOTE 3—If preferred, use of the tensile testing machine is permitted as
Table 1.
directed in Test Method D2261. There may be no overall correlation
4.2.1 Hence, no single performance specification can possi-
between the results obtained with the Elmendorf machine (Test Method
blyapplytoallthevariousfabricsthatcouldbeutilizedforthis
D1424) and with the tongue tear machines (Test Method D2261).
end-use.
Consequently, these two testers cannot be used interchangeably. In case of
controversy, Test Method D1424 shall prevail.
4.3 The uses and significance of particular properties and
test methods are discussed in the appropriate sections of the
5.3 Resistance to Yarn Slippage (wo
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D7019 − 14 D7019 − 20
Standard Performance Specification for
Brassiere, Slip, Lingerie and Underwear Fabrics
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7019; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This performance specification covers fabrics used in brassieres underwear, slips, and lingerie.
1.2 These requirements apply to the length and width directions for those properties where each fabric direction is pertinent.
1.3 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods described in this performance specification: This
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,safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D123 Terminology Relating to Textiles
D434 Test Method for Resistance to Slippage of Yarns in Woven Fabrics Using a Standard Seam (Withdrawn 2003)
D1336 Test Method for Distortion of Yarn in Woven Fabrics
D1424 Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by Falling-Pendulum (Elmendorf-Type) Apparatus
D2261 Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by the Tongue (Single Rip) Procedure (Constant-Rate-of-Extension Tensile
Testing Machine)
D3786 Test Method for Bursting Strength of Textile Fabrics—Diaphragm Bursting Strength Tester Method
D3787 Test Method for Bursting Strength of Textiles—Constant-Rate-of-Traverse (CRT) Ball Burst Test
D5034 Test Method for Breaking Strength and Elongation of Textile Fabrics (Grab Test)
D7022 Terminology Relating to Apparel
2.2 AATCC Test Methods:
8TM8 Colorfastness to Crocking: AATCC Crockmeter Method
15TM15 Colorfastness to Perspiration
16TM16.3 Colorfastness to Light
23TM23 Colorfastness to Burnt Gas Fumes
61TM61 Colorfastness to Laundering, Home and Commercial: Laundering: Accelerated
116TM116 Colorfastness to Crocking: Rotary Vertical Crockmeter Method
124TM124 Smoothness Appearance of Fabrics after Repeated Home LaunderingsLaundering
132TM132 Colorfastness to Drycleaning
135TM135 Dimensional Changes of Fabrics after Home Laundering
158TM158 Dimensional Changes on Drycleaning in Perchloroethylene: Machine Method
172TM172 Colorfastness to Powdered Non-Chlorine Bleach in Home Laundering
188TM188 Colorfastness to Sodium Hypochlorite Bleach in Home Laundering
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D13 on Textiles and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D13.61 on Apparel.
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2014July 1, 2020. Published March 2014August 2020. Originally approved in 2005. Last previous edition approved in 20102014 as
D7019-05(2010).D7019-14. DOI: 10.1520/D7019-14.10.1520/D7019-20.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Available from American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, P.O. Box 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D7019 − 20
2.3 Federal Standard:
16 CFR 1610 - Flammable Fabrics Act Regulations
NOTE 1—Reference to test methods in this specification give only the permanent part of the designation of ASTM, AATCC, or other test methods. The
current editions of each test method cited shall prevail.
3. Terminology
3.1 For definitions of textile terms used in this specification refer to Terminologies D123 and D7022. For terms relating to
chemical and colorfastness testing refer to specific AATCC test methods.
3.2 Definitions found in a dictionary of common usage are suitable for this specification.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 Fabrics intended for this end-use should meet all of the requirements listed in Table 1.
TABLE 1 Specification Requirements
Characteristic Minimum Requirements Section
Sheer Non-Sheer
A
Breaking strength (CRE) 67 N (15 lbf) 111 N (25 lbf) 5.1
Tearing strength 4.4 N (1 lbf) 6.7 N (1.5 lbf) 5.2
Resistance to Yarn slippage
6 mm ( ⁄4 in.) separation, 45 N (10 lbf) 67 N (15 lbf) 5.3
Brassierres - 133 N (30 lbf)
Yarn distortion 5.4
at 4.4 N (1 lbf) load
Satins 2.5 mm (0.1 in.), max
All other 1 mm (0.05 in.), max
Bursting strength 133 N (30 lbf) 222 N (50 lbf) 5.5
Dimensional Change - Woven
Laundering 3 %, max 5.6.1
Drycleaning 2 %, max 5.6.2
Dimensional Change – Knit
Laundering 5 % max 5.6.1
Drycleaning 5 % max 5.6.2
Colorfastness:
B
Laundering 5.7.2
Shade change Grade 4
Shade Change Grade 4
Staining Grade 3
Drycleaning 5.7.3
Shade change Grade 4
Shade Change Grade 4
Staining Grade 3
Sodium Hypochlorite Bleach 5.7.4
Shade Change Grade 4
Non-Chlorine Bleach 5.7.4
Shade Change Grade 4
Burnt gas fumes—2 cycles: 5.7.1
Burnt Gas Fumes—2 cycles: 5.7.1
Shade change, original fabric Grade 4
Shade Change, original fabric Grade 4
Shade change, after one cleaning Grade 4
Shade Change, after one cleaning Grade 4
B
Crocking: 5.7.5
Dry Grade 4
Wet Grade 3
B
Perspiration: 5.7.6
Shade change Grade 4
Shade Change Grade 4
Staining Grade 3
Light (10 AFU) (xenon-arc) Grade 4 5.7.7
Fabric appearance SA 3.5 5.8
Fabric Appearance SA 3.5 5.8
Flammability Class I 5.9
A
There There is more than one method that can be used to measure breaking strength, tearing strength, bursting strength and lightfastness. These methods cannot be
used interchangeably since there may be no overall correlation between them (see Note 2, Note 3, Note 4, and Note 6).
B
See See Note 5.
Available from Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.
D7019 − 20
4.2 It should be recognized that fabric can be produced utilizing an almost infinite number of combinations of construction
variables (e.g., type of fibers, percent
...