In the world of events and trade fairs, the choice of materials is not merely an aesthetic consideration. Fabrics are used in temporary structures, sets, wall coverings and curtains, often in environments where large numbers of people gather. Fire safety is therefore not an option, but a prerequisite. Deco Molton has been a widely used fabric in this sector for decades, but not every Deco Molton is automatically suitable for professional use.
In this blog, we explain exactly what fire-retardant Deco Molton exactly is, how certification works and what you, as a buyer or technician, need to look out for.
What exactly is Deco Molton actually?
Deco Molton is a woven cotton fabric with a slightly textured surface. This texture gives it a matt finish and good light absorption – properties that make flannel popular for:
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backdrops and wall coverings
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curtains and screens
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set design and stand construction
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temporary applications at events and trade fairs
Cotton is naturally flammable. This means that untreated Deco Molton does not meet the safety requirements applicable in professional environments.
What does ‘fire-resistant’ mean in the context of Deco Molton?
Fire-retardant Deco Molton has been treated with a fire-retardant agent. This treatment ensures that:
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the fabric is less likely to catch fire
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flames do not spread, or spread only to a very limited extent
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the fabric self-extinguishes as soon as the ignition source is removed
Important to note: fire-retardant does not mean non-flammable. It means that the fire behaviour is controlled and delayed, thereby significantly reducing risks.
How is Deco Molton made fire-retardant?
In professional Deco Molton, this is achieved through chemical impregnation. The fire-retardant agent penetrates deep into the fibres and alters the combustion process of the cotton. When heated, charring occurs before flame formation.
For applications in the events sector, it is essential that:
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the treatment is durable
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the fabric retains its properties (colour, suppleness)
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the treatment is tested and verifiable
Certification: not just paperwork, but proof
In the Netherlands and the EU, there are clear standards for the fire safety of textiles. For Deco Molton used at events and trade fairs, the following standards are particularly relevant:
Netherlands / EU
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NEN-EN 13773 (fire behaviour of textiles)
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EN 13501-1 (European fire classification)
International (commonly required for productions)
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DIN 4102 (Germany)
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NF P92-507 (France)
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BS 5867 / BS 5438 (United Kingdom)
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NFPA 701
- California 1237 (small state)
A certificate is not a marketing document. It is a test result linked to that exact type of fabric.
That is why, at 3BUTE, Deco Molton that has been demonstrably tested and certified for professional use.
Where do things often go wrong in practice?
Many problems arise because:
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untreated cotton is used
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treatments being washed out by washing or moisture
During inspections or in the event of incidents, this can lead to shutdowns, rejection or liability. These are risks that, as a professional organisation, you simply do not want to run.
The Deco Molton from 3BUTE: developed for professional use
The Deco Molton that we supply at 3BUTE is manufactured for the events and trade fair sector. This means:
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cotton of consistent quality
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professionally treated to be fire-retardant
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suitable for décor, wall coverings and curtains
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available in rich, deep colours
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certified
Not a hobby-grade fabric, not a compromise solution, but a material suited to professional productions.