What the Martindale Rub Test Actually Is: Understanding Fabric Durability
When it comes to choosing upholstery fabric, durability is just as important as design. One key measure of fabric durability is the Martindale Rub Test. Whether you’re selecting fabric for a busy family home or a high-traffic commercial space, understanding this test can help you make an informed decision.
At Saint and Poet Upholstery Fabrics, we proudly achieve Martindale rub counts of 35,000+, ensuring our printed fabrics meet contract-level standards of durability. But what does this test actually involve? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is the Martindale Rub Test?
The Martindale Rub Test is a standardized method used to assess the durability of upholstery fabrics. This test measures how resistant a fabric is to wear and tear caused by friction. A specially designed machine rubs the fabric against a standard abrasive surface in a figure-eight motion until visible signs of wear, such as threads breaking or the fabric losing its texture, are detected.
The result of the test is measured in rubs, with higher numbers indicating greater durability. Fabrics with rub counts exceeding 30,000 are considered suitable for heavy use in commercial or residential settings.
Why Is the Martindale Rub Test Important?
The Martindale Rub Test provides valuable insights into a fabric’s performance over time. It’s especially important for applications where furniture will experience frequent use, such as in offices, restaurants, or busy living rooms. A high rub count ensures that your upholstery fabric will maintain its appearance and structure, even under significant stress.
At Saint and Poet, our fabrics are designed to withstand daily wear while maintaining their vibrant colours and luxurious feel. With a rub count of 35,000+, our printed upholstery fabrics offer the perfect balance of style and strength.
How Does the Test Relate to Fabric Choices?
The rub count isn’t just a number—it’s a guide to selecting the right fabric for your needs:
• 10,000 to 15,000 rubs: Suitable for decorative use, such as cushions or light-use furniture.
• 15,000 to 30,000 rubs: Ideal for general domestic use, like sofas or chairs in a typical home.
• 30,000+ rubs: Considered contract-grade, perfect for high-traffic areas and commercial settings.
When choosing fabric, consider both the rub count and the environment it will be used in. For example, a family room sofa or hotel lobby seating will benefit from a fabric with a high Martindale rub count.
How Saint and Poet Upholds Durability Standards
At Saint and Poet, we take durability seriously. Our upholstery fabrics undergo rigorous testing, including the Martindale Rub Test, to ensure they meet the demands of everyday use. Thanks to our advanced manufacturing techniques, including fixing the ink to the basecloth with a high-heat Monti machine, we not only achieve contract-level rub counts but also Grade A resistance to tearing and Grade A colour fastness.
This means that our fabrics are designed to last—making them a practical yet luxurious choice for both residential and commercial interiors.
The Martindale Rub Test is a reliable measure of a fabric’s durability, helping designers, retailers, and customers choose materials that stand the test of time. At Saint and Poet, we combine the highest durability standards with exquisite printed designs, offering fabrics that are as functional as they are beautiful.
To explore our collection of high-performance printed upholstery fabrics, visit Saint and Poet Upholstery Fabrics today.
