Why the Martindale Test Matters for Commercial Furniture in Australia

The Martindale Test: Why 80,000 Cycles Makes a Difference

When furnishing commercial spaces like hotels, motels, and serviced apartments, it’s not just about aesthetics and price—it’s about choosing furniture that lasts. With constant wear from guests, spilt drinks, and moving luggage, upholstery in hospitality settings needs to go the distance. That’s where the Martindale Test comes in.

What is the Martindale Test?

Developed in the UK during WWII by Dr J.G. Martindale, this test was initially created to assess the durability of military-grade fabrics. Today, it’s the global benchmark for measuring fabric abrasion resistance.

The process? A fabric sample is rubbed in circular motions by abrasive discs in intervals of 5,000 cycles. The number of cycles a fabric withstands before showing wear gives it a Martindale score. The higher the score, the more durable the material.

Commercial vs. Residential Requirements

Residential fabrics typically need to reach 15,000–25,000 cycles. But for commercial furniture in Australia, 30,000+ cycles is the gold standard. That’s the minimum you want in your lobby couches, dining chairs, and in-room seating.

At Vendella, many of our pieces—like the Makers Cooper Chair—rate at 80,000 Martindale cycles. Our Frankfurt Lounge Furniture boasts an impressive 160,000. That’s peace of mind for busy accommodation providers managing heavy guest turnover.

Built to Last

Martindale scores are listed in our product descriptions so you can make informed choices. A higher rating means fewer replacements, better long-term value, and more sustainable purchasing. Combine that with commercial-grade cushioning and durable framing, and you’ve got furniture that performs under pressure.

Why Does It Matter?

Because your guests deserve comfort—and you deserve durability. As Shakespeare wrote, “To sleep, perchance to dream: ay, there’s the rub.” At Vendella, we make sure your furniture stands up to the rub—and everything else.

For more information on Vendella’s hospitality furniture solutions, visit www.vendella.com.au.