What is a common outcome of cleaning agitation on fabrics?

Cleaning agitation refers to the mechanical action applied to fabrics during the cleaning process, which can involve scrubbing, brushing, or other forms of movement. This action serves various purposes, including loosening dirt and grime from the fibers and encouraging the cleaning solution to penetrate deeper into the material.

One of the common outcomes associated with this agitation is the potential for color transfer or crocking. This occurs because the physical action can disturb the dye in the fabric, especially if the dye is not well-set or if the fabric is prone to bleeding. As a result, agitation may cause some of the color to rub off onto other areas of the fabric or transfer onto surrounding surfaces.

While agitation may enhance effectiveness in removing dirt and stains, it also carries the risk of damaging the appearance of the fabric through color loss or transfer. Understanding this outcome is crucial for technicians, as they must balance the need for effective cleaning with the potential risks involved. This awareness allows for informed decision-making in cleaning practices, ensuring the integrity of the fabric is maintained as much as possible.