Background
For many years, laundering conditions and washing machine specifications were included in various AATCC test methods. They were updated by the test method committees as needed.
In 1984, machine parameters were moved to AATCC M6 and maintained by AATCC Research Committee RA88, Home Laundering Technology. From 1984 to 2017, M6 was gradually expanded to include parameters for a wide range of home washing machines. There was no clear correlation among these machines. As technology changed, it became difficult for labs to obtain washers meeting the published specifications.
In 2018, several research committees approved revised test methods with aligned, standard laundering conditions that are not expected to change for some time. Also in 2018, two new Laboratory Procedures were published with standard and alternate laundering conditions. AATCC LP1 and AATCC LP2 are complete laundering protocols that may be used in coordination with appearance evaluation, flammability preparation, or other procedures. AATCC LP1 replaces AATCC M6, but provides considerable additional information.