Button pull test

The tensile strength of a button refers to the maximum strength that it can withstand when subjected to a tensile force, which may cause a certain degree of deformation where the button contacts the fabric, or cause the button to fall off the fabric. Therefore, the measurement of tensile strength is a key test procedure in the design and manufacture of garments in the textile industry.

In order to ensure that the buttons are secure and not fall off, all clothing buttons should be tested for tension. In particular, buttons used in infant and toddler clothing can be injured if swallowed accidentally, which is critical.

The testing method and procedures may vary from one standard to another. And different fixtures are used based on the type of buttons, ranging from eyelets, rivets/studs, snap fasteners, snap buttons to prong snap buttons.

Below are a couple of internationally acknowledged standards which most button manufacturers and testing organizations conform to.

ASTM D7142-2/ASTM F963/ASTM PS79-96/ASTM D1776/ASTM D4846-88
CFR 1500.51-53
EN 71-Part 1
GB 6675
ISO 8124
M&P P115A
Regardless of the testing standard or testing organization, the pull strength of buttons attached to the garments can be measured in terms of N/KG(1KG=9.8N). As per AATCC (American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists), the buttons subjected to testing should withstand a minimum pull force of 7.72KG and stay secured and intact without unfastening, breakage or damage for 10s. Generally speaking, buttons intended for the child wear should withstand a minimum pull of 90N, while button products designed for the adult clothing should withstand a minimum pull of 70N.