Both faults are seen on structured garments where an interlining has been bonded on to the reverse of the fabric to provide stiffness and support. Interlinings are normally found in the front facings of jackets and in the lapel and shoulder areas.
Careful counter inspection will reveal bubbling and rippling and either fault should be brought to the attention of the customer.
Bubbling or delamination happens when the adhesive bond between the outer fabric and the interlining breaks down in localised areas, leaving the outer fabric unsupported to form a bubble. This often results from incorrect manufacturing in terms of the time, temperature or pressure applied during bonding.
Rippling describes the corrugated effect that occurs when the outer fabric and the interlining relax/shrink disproportionately (differential shrinkage). It can result from the use of incompatible materials but research suggests it is often caused by localised pre-spotting to treat stained areas and may be associated with the liberal application of detergent/water mixtures or of wetside-specific pre-spotting chemicals. It can also be caused if a garment is cleaned when it is still damp. The responsibility is likely to lie with the drycleaner in each case.
To prevent rippling, the cleaner should avoid using detergent/water mixtures and water-based pre-spotters on areas supported by interlinings.
Although the small quantities used are unlikely to have any adverse effect, it is sensible to avoid their use altogether, particularly with high value items.
