The invention relates to a test means and to the use of a corresponding test material for detecting the mechanical load in different assemblies, such as, for example, washing, cleaning and drying machines. The basic idea of the invention is to use a substrate which, under mechanical stress, loses part of its volume, of its weight and/or of its area and is then put in relation to the treatment or processing in the assemblies. A test means consisting of a fabric composite is preferably proposed.
