IFR vs FR-Treated Hotel Curtains: Which Should You Specify?

Hotel curtain specifications often say "FR" without saying how the flame retardancy is achieved. The two main routes behave differently over the life of the curtain, so it is worth being explicit.

What is the difference?

Inherently flame-retardant (IFR) fabrics get their fire behaviour from the fibre itself. The flame-retardant property is part of the polymer, so it is not applied as a finish and does not depend on a finish surviving cleaning.

FR-treated (topical) fabrics are finished with a flame-retardant chemical. Durability then depends on the finish, the fabric construction and how the curtain is cleaned, so the specification should state the cleaning method and the number of cycles the performance must survive.

How to choose

• Cleaning regime: frequent laundering or dry cleaning favours IFR or a finish proven for that process.
• Fabric type: some constructions, such as heavier jacquards, textured draperies and coated blackouts, are available as IFR, as FR-treated, or both. Availability differs by article.
• Handle and appearance: finishes can change drape or feel, so ask for a sample in the actual colour.
• Documentation: either route needs a test report for the exact article.

Do not assume compliance

IFR does not automatically mean a fabric passes every standard, and blackout or lined curtains are not automatically IFR. Fire classifications such as EN 13773, BS 5867-2 and NFPA 701 are separate systems, and passing one does not mean passing another. Ask for the product code, the required standard and class, the destination country and the cleaning durability, then request the current test report.

What Atlas Contract can supply

Atlas Contract supplies IFR sheers and draperies and, where available, FR-treated draperies, with fabrics from our group's weaving background (Melih Aker Textile, founded 1938). Compliance is article-specific: tell us the fabric reference and project requirements and we will provide the relevant report.