Fire-retardant and flame-resistant fabrics are critical safety precautions in many commercial, industrial and municipal settings. Over the years, chemical advancements have allowed manufacturers and chemists to improve flame-resistant and flame-retardant properties for textile products, such as:

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• Sheets
• Towels
• Curtains
• Blankets
• Pillowcases
• Table cloths
• Rugs and carpets
• Furniture upholstery

A common misconception is that the terms &#;fire-retardant&#; and &#;fire-resistant&#; are interchangeable. While these two fabric classifications are similar, there are some key differences. This article compares fire-resistant and fire-retardant fabrics and covers some essential considerations before investing in either of these fabrics. 

Flame-Resistant vs. Flame-Retardant

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards legally require flame-retardant fabrics and materials in most public spaces, including schools, churches and theaters.

When a house fire occurs, upholstered furniture is usually the first thing to catch fire. That&#;s why, as of June , the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) requires upholstered furniture to comply with federal flammability standards.

Manufacturers must specify on the product labels that the upholstered furniture complies with CPSC flammability requirements. Additionally, the CPSC advises manufacturers to make it easy for consumers to locate these labels.

It is important to know the difference between fire-retardant and flame-resistant fabrics. This helps people understand how much protection they&#;ll receive when purchasing upholstered furniture and other fabric-based items. Learn the differences between flame-resistant and fire-retardant materials to understand exactly what these labels entail.

Fire-Retardant Fabric Overview

Flame retardants are chemical substances that offer flame resistance when applied to a fabric. Flame-retardant or fire-retardant fabrics include a special finish with these chemical fibers.

This coating helps resist the spreading of flames. Additionally, fire-retardant fabrics burn at a much slower rate than their standard untreated counterparts. Over time, however, these chemicals will wear off when the fabric is washed. This renders them ineffective unless the chemicals are reapplied.

There are three classifications of flame retardancy.

1. Flame Retardant (FR)

FR fabrics are woven from threads treated with a flame-retardant chemical, meeting fire safety codes in the NFPA 701 Test. NFPA 701 measures a material&#;s flammability when exposed to specific ignition sources. It also measures a fabric&#;s ignition resistance after 12 seconds of flame exposure.

The fabric is considered &#;non-flame retardant&#; (NFR) before treatment. The manufacturer dissolves the FR chemicals in water and applies them to the fabric by dipping or spraying.

Once the textile dries, the chemicals remain adhered to the fibers. This renders the fabric flame-retardant, at least for a short period. Contact with water can gradually dissolve and remove these chemicals until the fabric is NFR again. When this occurs, the fabric should be thoroughly washed and chemically treated to restore its flame retardance. Alternatively, you can replace the fabric altogether.

2. Inherently Flame Retardant (IFR)

IFR fabrics are woven with threads to uphold NFPA 701 Test standards. However, they do not require additional chemical treatments after frequent washings. IFR fabrics contain noncombustible elements. They should retain their fame retardance permanently, even when exposed to water.

3. Durably Flame Retardant (DFR)

DFR fabrics also meet the minimum requirements in NFPA 701. However, unlike FR fabrics with topically applied chemicals, DFR fabrics use non-water-soluble chemical compounds that attach to the fibers. This creates a flame-retardant fabric that can withstand up to 25 washes when properly laundered.

Because contaminants like oil and airborne dust can diminish flame retardance, annual testing based on NFPA 705 standards is strongly recommended for FR, IFR and DFR fabrics.

Fire-Resistant Fabric Overview

Flame-resistant materials contain synthetic fibers that resist ignition and self-extinguish under prolonged heat or flame exposure. Because these fabrics are woven from inherently fire-resistant fibers, they are often called IFR fabrics.

These fabrics will eventually start to melt rather than burn. IFR fibers can make up a small portion of the fabric or the whole cloth, depending on the manufacturer.

A fabric must be tested and rated using ASTM F standards to verify its flame resistance. This testing involves suspending the fabric over a vertical flame for 12 seconds, then removing it.

The fabric should self-extinguish in two seconds or less to pass the test. Additionally, it should have a minimal length of 6 inches or less when used for arc flash protection and 4 inches or less if used for flash fire protection.

In summary, flame-retardant fabrics undergo chemical treatment to give them fire-resistant and self-extinguishing properties. Conversely, flame-resistant fabrics are constructed with fibers that resist burning when they come into contact with flames.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Fire-Retardant or Flame-Resistant Fabrics

There are a few important considerations before investing in a fire-retardant or flame-resistant fabric.

1. Cost

Flame-resistant fabric tends to cost more than flame-retardant fabric, as it lasts longer and doesn&#;t lose its integrity with regular washes. That means you&#;ll have to decide whether to spend less on fire-retardant gear and replace it more frequently or spend more on flame-resistant options that last much longer.

2. Protection Level

Consider the circumstances your employees work in and the level of fire protection they will require. The NFPA has a guide that outlines the differences between flame-retardant and flame-resistant classifications, helping guide employers&#; decisions in protecting staff from short-term flame exposure.

The NFPA&#;s guidelines rank hazard risks from Category 1 to Category 4. The higher the category, the higher the protection level. Low-hazard applications typically only warrant Category 1 or 2 protection, while more hazardous tasks require Category 3 or 4.

3. Laundering Requirements

Chemically treated flame-retardant fabrics only retain their flame-retardant qualities temporarily. The chemicals start to fade after a certain number of washes. Additionally, there are stringent guidelines for laundering flame-retardant fabrics. Check the tag and follow the manufacturer&#;s care and maintenance instructions.

Flame-resistant fabrics have rigorous laundering requirements, as well. However, these materials are inherently fire-resistant. That means they will maintain their performance far longer than treated fabrics, regardless of how frequently you launder them. Be sure to factor these laundering requirements into your decision.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Fireproof Woven Textile Supplier.

Contact Swavelle Group for Fabrics and Textiles

High-quality fabric is a must for many markets, including residential, outdoor, contract and RV. If you are looking for durable, long-lasting textile products for your customers, Swavelle Group can help. We are a proud leader in the textile industry and can work with you to create beautiful fabrics tailored to your specifications.

Swavelle Group produces various fabric products, from delicate embroideries to bold prints and textures. We also prioritize sustainability in our manufacturing processes, so you can feel confident you&#;re choosing a company that values the environment.

You can trust Swavelle Group to deliver personalized attention, exceptional designs and prompt services for every project. Contact our team to learn more about our custom fabric products and services today.

Flame Retardant and Fire Retardant Fabrics: What&#;s the Difference?

Flame retardant fabrics are essential to use for a number of residential and commercial applications. Fire retardant fabrics are often a necessary safety feature to incorporate within any venue, from bars and restaurants to hotel rooms. Flame retardant fabric is considered safer as it takes a longer time to burn than normal, combustible fabrics. The longer the flame takes to burn through the fabric, the higher the flame retardant properties of the textile. Flame retardant fabric works to protect both your customers and staff, while enhancing your health and safety approach.

In this guide to understanding flame retardant and fire retardant fabrics, we&#;ll discuss the different types of fabric options available. We&#;ll discuss their individual properties, and how they work to resist fire.

Tests for Flame Retardant and Fire Retardant Upholstery Fabrics

There are certain laws in place that ensure all upholstery fabrics are relatively fire resistant. These regulations are there to prevent unnecessary fires, and tests such as the &#;match test&#; are undertaken in order to confirm that all regulations are met. The following is an overview of the types of tests for certain flame retardant fabrics.

&#; Match Test &#; This is where the fabric must be able to withstand a naked flame. The match test is carried out to ensure fabrics meet the regulations for use in domestic or residential settings, such as in the home.

&#; Cigarette Test &#; This is where fabrics can be used without special fire retardant treatments. Cigarette tested fabric only meets domestic guidelines if it is accompanied with a Schedule 3 Fire Barrier or interliner fabric. Upholstery fabrics accompanied with thicker fire barrier textiles are often not suitable for use as curtains, as the draping properties of the fabric will be altered. Some flame resistant interlinings, however, are specifically manufactured to improve the look and feel of draped curtains.

&#; Crib 5 &#; a Crib 5 test for flame retardant fabrics is done within a lab. This ensures the fabric is suitable for settings where fires are more likely to start due to the nature of the venue, such as in restaurants, bars and hotels. This is the most common fire retardant rating found when shopping with commercial upholstery and curtain fabric suppliers in the UK.

&#; Crib 7 &#; The highest of the fire rating tests, the Crib 7 test is for high risk applications where fires are much more likely to occur. In particular, the crib 7 test is used for fabrics in places where it would be difficult to evacuate everyone if a fire was to break out. Hospitals and prisons may choose to incorporate crib 7 tested fabrics.

What is the Difference Between Flame Retardant and Fire Retardant Fabrics?

&#; Fire retardant fabrics are manufactured to be more resistant to fire and flames. Fire retardant fabrics aim to reduce the fire hazard, rather than actively stop it from spreading. Fire retardant fabrics are not usually as effective as flame retardant fabrics, as fires can still burn on without the special chemical additions often found in flame retardant fabrics.

&#; Flame retardant fabric is often made to actively stop fire from spreading further. These are often woven from flame resistant yarns from the beginning. This is can be done by adding special chemical coatings that enable the textile to &#;self-extinguish&#; when exposed to a flame. The flame ignites a reaction within the chemical products that actually leads to extinguishing the flame itself.

Flame retardant textiles are made in two ways, which we&#;ll discuss in further detail below.

What are the 2 Types of Flame Retardant Fabric?

There are two types of fire retardant fabric used today. Non durable flame retardant finishing fabric, and permanent, or inherently flame retardant fabric are the two types of fire resistant fabrics. Here, we&#;ll discuss the properties between the two, and which fabric may be more suitable for your project.

Non-Durable Flame Retardant Finishing Fabric

Non durable fire retardant fabrics are made from cotton or polyester. These are actually combustible fabrics, that are simply treated with flame retardant substances after manufacturing.

&#; Coating: Coating techniques can be used to carefully cover the textile with the flame retardant chemicals. When fabric has been made using coating technique for non durable flame retardant finishing fabrics, the extra layer leads to a more structured fabric. This means coated non durable flame retardant finishing fabrics are less appropriate for curtains, as we want curtains to fall into a soft drape.

&#; Dipping: The dipping technique is where fabrics (often made from more natural fibers) are dipped into the chemical solution. This allows the fabric to absorb the flame retardant chemicals, which then work to put out any flames if a fire does begin. The dipping technique is great for non durable flame retardant finishing fabrics for use as curtains, as the process does not stiffen the fabric. This means you can achieve a natural draping look, while benefitting from flame resistant curtains.

These types of fabrics are labelled as &#;non durable&#; flame retardant fabrics, as they do not withstand plenty of washing. After the non durable fire retardant fabrics are washed a number of times, they begin to lose their flame retardant properties.

Permanent Flame Retardant Fabric

In comparison with non durable flame retardant fabric and fire retardant finishing fabric, permanent flame retardant fabric can be washed without losing its effectiveness. This is because the fabric itself is inherently flame retardant, due to the yarns used when weaving the fabric together from the very beginning. Permanent flame resistant fabric is therefore used in venues where fabric requires frequent washing, such as in hospitals or hotels.

Why do I Need Fire Retardant Curtains and Fire Retardant Upholstery?

Businesses have a high level of responsibility when it comes to ensuring their customers are safe from potential harm. If you&#;re reading this because you&#;re looking for upholstery and curtain fabrics for a commercial venture, you need to consider the health and safety implications with regards to taking care of your customers and visitors.

Bars and restaurants frequently use fire retardant curtains and upholstery. This is because they are venues with a higher chance of fires breaking out. Any fire from restaurant kitchens has the potential to grow and spread to other areas of the venue, such as the dining area. Alongside this, restaurants and bars often use candles and other fire-based decorations in order to uplift the ambience of the room.

Fire retardant fabrics used for curtains and upholstery can protect your furnishings from potential fire damage. Whether it&#;s a commercial kitchen fire that spreads throughout the seating area, or a customer accidentally knocks over a small candle; flame retardant fabrics are extremely useful in both situations. Without fire retardant fabrics, the potential for fire to spread as it burns through fabric is higher. You&#;ll also see more damage on your curtains and upholstery, due to small burns caused by candle lit accidents.

Flame Retardant Upholstery and Curtain Fabrics by Edmund Bell

One of the UK&#;s leading upholstery and curtain textiles manufacturers, Edmund Bell have spent years refining and perfecting their approach to flame retardant fabrics. From the luxurious Lustre fabric, with its metallic sheen and crushed velvet appearance, to the beautifully textured Eclipse fabric with its charming country feel, Edmund Bell offer a variety of fire and flame retardant fabrics for all commercial purposes.

Their Enduracare coating technology ensures fabrics are both flame retardant and stain resistant, maintaining a quality standard within your surroundings for years to come.

For more information, please visit Fireproof Woven Textile China.