Effect of Washing and Drying on Liquid Moisture Transport Properties for Knit Fabrics

Five fabrics differing in knit structure, fiber content, and finishing chemistries were subjected to eight different wash and dry methods before measurement with a moisture management tester. Large differences in overall moisture management properties were observed for each fabric type. Overall liquid moisture transport capabilities for two of the five fabrics were significantly altered after five washes. In another fabric, the distance and rate at which liquid spread within the fabric significantly decreased after five wash and tumble dry cycles, despite no change in overall moisture management indices. Based on these results, the authors recommend that fabrics be washed a minimum of five times prior to testing with a moisture management tester.