The Definitive Guide to Testing Antimicrobial & Mold Resistance in Faux Leather
An overview of ASTM G21 and ISO test methods for evaluating antimicrobial and mold resistance in faux leather, including procedures, key fungi tested, and performance criteria for hospitality, healthcare, and commercial use.
Why Antimold Protection Matters in Faux Leather？
Mold doesn’t just affect how a product looks—it can create odors, surface damage, and even cause health risks in enclosed or humid spaces.
That’s why mold resistance is a major concern for manufacturers in industries like automotive, hospitality, and healthcare.
Faux leather is often used in high-traffic areas, where microbial buildup is common. Testing your material for anti-mold properties helps verify that it won’t deteriorate under moisture or warmth.
Our faux leathers are engineered for enhanced resistance and compatible with major testing protocols, giving you confidence during certification and customer evaluations.
Antimicrobial & Anti-Mold Test Standard for Faux Leather
Our faux leather is tested to ASTM G21 and equivalent standards to ensure long-lasting hygiene and durability, even in humid or high-traffic environments.
Fungi Tested:
Aspergillus brasiliensis
Talaromyces pinophilus
Chaetomium globosum
Trichoderma virens
Aureobasidium pullulans
Benefits:
Proven resistance to mold and fungal growth
Ideal for hotels, restaurants, marine, and healthcare applications
Meets international antimicrobial performance standards
Choose our antimicrobial, mold-resistant faux leather for cleaner, safer, and longer-lasting surfaces.
What the Mold Resistance Grading Means (0–4 Scale)?
The ASTM G21 grading system ranks mold growth from 0 to 4:
Grade 0: No growth
Grade 1: Trace growth
Grade 2: Light growth
Grade 3: Moderate growth
Grade 4: Heavy growth
A lower number reflects superior resistance.Test report includes photos and technician comments for each sample. Aiming for Grade 0 or 1 is ideal for products with high hygiene expectations or regulatory scrutiny.
Our team can also advise on improving your score through material formulation, coatings, or design changes.
Science-Backed Protection for Automotive, Medical & Luxury Artificial Leather
Expert Consulting for Antimold Artificial Leather Solutions
Common Mold Types Used in Syntetic Leather Testing
Our standard test panel includes five common fungi known for attacking synthetic polymers and coatings:
Aspergillus brasiliensis (black mold)
Talaromyces pinophilus (formerly Penicillium)
Chaetomium globosum
Trichoderma virens
Aureobasidium pullulans
Each strain plays a role in mimicking real-world mold exposure in various environments—from basements to car interiors. Special strains like Trichophyton rubrum are available for industries with dermatological risks. Understanding these microbes helps companies anticipate potential vulnerabilities and adapt formulations or coatings accordingly. We recommend this test for all export-grade faux leather, especially those used in damp climates or high-risk sectors.
From Automotive to Hospitality—Who Needs Mold-Resistant Faux Leather?
Mold resistance testing is essential across multiple industries using synthetic leather:
Automotive: Seat covers and dashboards
Furniture: Upholstered chairs and sofas
Fashion: Bags, belts, and shoes
Healthcare: Medical beds and wheelchair cushions
Hospitality: Hotel headboards and public seating
These sectors demand high material integrity and hygiene. With mold testing, you avoid recalls, improve safety, and comply with market-entry requirements in different markets.
