The proposed standard aims to support sustainable manufacturing and reliable performance.
Jul 28, 2025
ASTM International is developing a proposed standard, (WK95744), aimed at harmonizing European and American test methods for recycled content in vacuum cleaners.
WK95744 is being developed by the durability-reliability subcommittee (F11.30), part of the vacuum cleaners committee (F11).
According to ASTM member and F11.30 sub-chairman, Mike Schutte, the proposed standard will align test methods between ASTM and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), based in Geneva, Switzerland. This harmonization effort will establish a unified global standard applicable across the Americas, Europe, and Africa.
"As the vacuum cleaning industry operates within a global marketplace, international harmonization of test methods is essential to ensure consistency, transparency, and comparability across regions," Schutte explains.
He adds that the standard will support decision-making across the supply chain—from manufacturers to consumers—by enabling more accurate assessment of recycled content while maintaining product performance.
“The proposed WK95744 standard on recycled material is one component of a broader initiative,” says Schutte. “The mission is to encompass all categories of cleaning appliances, including wet-dry, robotic, and above-floor appliances. We are also working to align with the IEC to incorporate additional criteria, such as repairability scoring.”
ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Become a member at www.astm.org/JOIN.
September / October 2025
