Fabric Finishes

Stain-Resistant

A fabric finish that repels water, oil, and stains, commonly known as '3-proof' treatment in the textile industry.

Also known as: 3-prooftriple protectionwater-oil-stain repellenteasy-clean finish

Stain-resistant finish, widely known as "3-proof" (三防) in the textile industry, creates a comprehensive barrier against water, oil, and stains. This triple protection makes fabrics dramatically easier to clean and maintain, which is why it's become standard for upholstery, hospitality textiles, and any application where spills are likely.

The finish works by modifying surface energy so that liquids cannot wet or penetrate the fabric. Water beads up and rolls off (hydrophobic protection), oils sit on the surface rather than absorbing (oleophobic protection), and particulate stains have difficulty adhering (anti-soiling protection). This allows most spills to be wiped away before they set.

Treatment chemistry has evolved significantly due to environmental regulations. C6 fluorocarbon treatments are now the industry standard, offering excellent performance while avoiding the persistent environmental concerns of legacy C8 formulations. Silicone-based alternatives provide water repellency only, suitable when oil resistance isn't required. Wax-based treatments offer temporary protection for applications where durability isn't critical.

Performance is quantified through standardized testing. Water spray ratings (AATCC 22) of 80-100 indicate good to excellent water repellency. Oil repellency grades of 4-6 on the standard scale demonstrate effective oleophobic properties. Durability testing confirms the finish maintains performance through 20-50 wash cycles depending on the treatment level specified.

Upholstery fabrics, outdoor furniture, tablecloths, children's bedding, and hospitality textiles are the primary applications. For outdoor use, stain-resistant finish is often combined with water-repellent treatments for maximum protection.

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