SIST EN 14976:2006

Overview

SIST EN 14976:2006 is a European standard developed by CEN that defines the specifications and test methods for mattress ticking fabrics. Mattress ticking refers to the primary covering fabric used on mattresses, divans, and bed bases. This standard covers woven, nonwoven, or knitted textiles intended for residential, public sector, and contract market applications. It sets minimum performance requirements and testing protocols-excluding flammability-that ensure mattress coverings meet consistent quality, durability, and usability standards throughout Europe.

This standard is crucial for manufacturers, suppliers, and quality control professionals involved in producing mattress textiles, helping them meet regulatory expectations while supporting safe, comfortable, and long-lasting mattress construction.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability
  EN 14976 addresses mattress ticking production for domestic and contract markets, emphasizing textiles suitable for mattress covers in various environments.

• Essential Properties and Testing
  The standard specifies mandatory requirements covering:

  • Fabric width and roll length measurements
  • Mass per unit area (fabric weight)
  • Colour fastness to wet/dry rubbing, perspiration, light exposure, and washing
  • Mechanical properties including tear strength, seam slippage, tensile strength, and bursting strength
  • Dimensional stability after washing and drying cycles
  • Additional fabric-specific properties such as flexing and bias behavior

• Test Methods Referenced
  EN 14976 incorporates various internationally recognized procedures, such as ISO and EN test methods for colour fastness, tensile strength, and dimensional change, ensuring reliable and standardized evaluation.

• Marking and Labelling Requirements
  Manufacturers must provide detailed product information including fibre composition, roll length, mass, and optionally, washable status and care instructions aligned with this standard.

• Production Environment Controls
  Annexes offer guidance on assessing fabric roll lengths in production and evaluating fabric flexing and bias, helping maintain factory quality control.

Applications

• Mattress Manufacturing and Upholstery
  Manufacturers utilize EN 14976 compliant fabrics as mattress ticking to ensure product durability, comfort, and consumer safety.

• Public and Contract Furnishing
  Mattress covers used in hotels, hospitals, and other public spaces benefit from fabrics meeting these standards to withstand heavy use and frequent cleaning.

• Quality Assurance and Compliance
  Textile producers and mattress makers implement the standard’s test methods as part of routine quality checks to maintain consistent fabric performance and comply with market regulations.

• Retail and Distribution
  Clear labelling according to EN 14976 supports retail transparency about product characteristics, enhancing consumer trust and informed decision-making.

Related Standards

• EN 1773 – Determination of fabric width and length
• EN 12127 – Measurement of fabric mass per unit area
• EN ISO 105 Series – Colour fastness testing (including light, rubbing, perspiration, and washing)
• EN ISO 13934-1 – Tensile strength tests for fabrics
• EN ISO 13937-2 / EN ISO 9073-4 – Tear resistance methods for woven and nonwoven materials
• EN ISO 13938-1 – Bursting strength evaluation
• EN 25077 (ISO 5077) – Determination of dimensional change in washing and drying

Compliance with EN 14976 should be coordinated with relevant fire safety regulations, as fire behavior standards for mattresses vary by country and are not covered within this document.

By aligning mattress ticking production and testing with SIST EN 14976:2006, textile manufacturers ensure that their products meet high European quality standards, enhancing durability, consumer safety, and market compliance. This standard is essential for fostering consistent mattress textile performance across residential and commercial sectors.