Introduction to Soft Goods
Soft goods are a category of merchandise characterized by their soft texture, primarily made from textiles or similar materials. In the context of the merchandising industry, soft goods include items such as clothing, bed linens, towels, and other fabric-based products. These are distinguished from hard goods, which refer to durable items like appliances and furniture.
Examples of Soft Goods
- Clothing: Apparel for men, women, and children such as shirts, pants, dresses, and outerwear.
- Bedding: Items like bed sheets, pillowcases, and comforters.
- Towels: Bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths.
- Upholstery: Fabric covers for furniture like sofas and chairs.
- Curtains and Drapes: Textile window coverings.
- Rugs and Carpets: Floor coverings made from woven materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are soft goods?
Soft goods are merchandise items that are soft to the touch, made primarily from textiles. This includes clothing, bed linens, towels, and other fabric-based products.
How are soft goods different from hard goods?
Soft goods are nondurable and primarily made from textiles, whereas hard goods are durable items like appliances, furniture, and electronics.
Are soft goods considered durable or nondurable?
Soft goods are considered nondurable because they generally have a shorter lifespan and are subject to wear and tear.
What industries primarily deal with soft goods?
Industries that deal primarily with soft goods include retail clothing, home furnishing, and textile manufacturing.
Can soft goods be recycled?
Yes, many soft goods can be recycled or repurposed. For example, old clothing can be donated, or textile waste can be recycled into new fabrics.
Related Terms
- Hard Goods: Durable items such as appliances, furniture, and electronics that are not made from textiles.
- Nondurable Goods: Products with a shorter lifespan that are consumed or worn out quickly, including food, clothing, and paper products.
- Textile Goods: Products made from woven, knitted, or otherwise manufactured fabrics.
- Merchandising: The activity of promoting and selling products, particularly in retail.
Online References
- Investopedia on Durable vs. Nondurable Goods
- Wikipedia on Textile
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on Consumer Goods
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Textile Science” by E.P.G. Gohl and L.D. Vilensky - A comprehensive introduction to the science of textiles.
- “The Merchandising Handbook: Techniques and Strategies for Retail Success” by Lucinda A. Olson - A detailed guide on merchandising techniques and strategies.
- “Clothing and Textiles: Learning and Application” by Phyllis G. Tortora - A textbook that covers various aspects of clothing and textiles.
Fundamentals of Soft Goods: Merchandising Basics Quiz
Thank you for learning about soft goods and testing your knowledge with our quiz! Continue exploring the vast world of merchandising and textiles.
