Effect of Industrial Bleach Wash and Softening on the Physical, Mechanical and Color Properties of Denim Garments

Garments washing is a novel process to impart worn-out look, to modify the appearance and to
improve the comfort ability of the garments. Bleach wash is used to fade the color of denim in a higher degree
as well as bleach wash has effect on the physical and mechanical properties of the denim also. This paper
presents the impact of bleach wash and subsequent softening treatment on 100% cotton denim dyed with indigo
dye. Garments were washed using a bleach concentration of 10 g/l for 30 minutes in 50oC temperature and then
softened using standard recipe. The physical, mechanical and color properties were analyzed in before wash,
after desizing, after bleaching and after softening. The properties that were analyzed include hand feel, tensile
strength, seam strength, fabric weight, stiffness, dimensional stability and color fading. Bleach washed and
softened garments exhibit a great difference in the physical, mechanical and color properties than the unwashed
garments.