AATCC Test Method 194-2013: Anti-House Dust Mite Testing for Treated Textiles

Overview

Airmid Health Labs offers a comprehensive evaluation of textiles treated for anti-house dust mite properties using the AATCC Test Method 194-2013. This long-term test method is designed to assess the effectiveness of treated textiles in reducing house dust mite populations under controlled conditions. The process involves inoculating treated and untreated textile samples with house dust mites (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus) and necessary nutrients. After six weeks of incubation, the mite populations are quantified by heat extraction, allowing for an accurate measurement of the treatment’s efficacy. Results are reported as a percentage reduction in mite presence on treated textiles compared to untreated controls.

Products That Can Be Tested

AATCC 194-2013 is specifically tailored for textiles with anti-mite treatments, making it ideal for manufacturers seeking validation for anti-allergy or anti-dust mite claims on:

• Bedding and pillow protectors
• Mattress covers
• Upholstery fabrics
• Clothing and protective garments
  These textile products are commonly used in homes, healthcare settings, and environments where allergy control is a priority.

Description of the AATCC 194-2013 Test Process

1. Specimen Preparation: Both treated and untreated textile samples (1 square meter each) are prepared and inoculated with house dust mites and nutrients to support mite colony growth.
2. Incubation Phase: The samples are incubated for six weeks under optimal conditions to allow mite populations to establish and flourish on the untreated textile.
3. Population Assessment: After incubation, samples are evaluated using heat extraction to count viable dust mites. This approach provides a precise measure of the effectiveness of the anti-mite treatment.
4. Data Analysis: Results are expressed as a percentage reduction in mite numbers on treated textiles compared to the untreated control.

Benefits of Anti-Dust Mite Testing with Airmid Health Labs

• Validated Claims: Successful testing with Airmid Health Labs provides scientifically backed support for anti-house dust mite claims, enhancing the credibility of your textile products in the marketplace.
• Relevance to Real-World Use: Testing under controlled but realistic conditions ensures your products perform effectively in environments where mite control is essential, such as households with asthma and allergy sufferers.
• Competitive Advantage: Independent validation from Airmid Health Labs differentiates your products in the highly competitive textile market, providing confidence to allergy-conscious consumers.

Limitations of AATCC 194-2013

While this test effectively evaluates the anti-mite treatment on textile samples, it does not predict the performance of a fully constructed product if only a single component is tested. Additionally, it does not assess allergen removal, as allergens may remain even after mite elimination.

Third-Party Validation and Market Advantages

Passing the anti-house dust mite test allows your fabric to be labeled as independently tested by Airmid Health Las. This label can support product claims related to mite reduction, enhancing consumer trust and helping your product stand out.

Turnaround Time and Sample Requirements

Testing requires approximately eight weeks from sample receipt. This timeline supports manufacturers’ development and marketing schedules, ensuring timely validation for new product launches. We require 1 square metre sample of both treated and untreated fabric.

Get in Touch

Ready to validate the anti-house dust mite properties of your textile products? Contact Airmid Health Labs to discuss your testing needs and request a quote for our anti-dust mite evaluation services.