The ability of a fabric to retain or maintain its size and shape when subjected to mechanical action, changes in ambient humidity and/or temperatures, or when soaked with water and dried. In tufted carpet, increased dimensional stability may be accomplished by backcoating with adhesive, or by mechanical means. A secondary backing adds dimensional stability to tufted carpet, as does power stretching during carpet installation. In woven carpet dimensional stability is achieved by choosing stable backing yarns especially the stuffer and filling yarns, as well as by application of latex to the back of the completed carpet. In fabrics, dimensional stability may be achieved by the application of a backcoat. The ability of textile material to maintain or return to its original geometric configuration.

This definition is in context to Carpet. See more contextual defintions for Dimensional Stability.