Definition
White Goods refer to heavy household appliances that were initially produced with a white enamel finish. The term includes items such as refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, dryers, and stoves. Despite the origin of the name, modern white goods are available in various colors and finishes to match different interior designs.
Examples
- Refrigerators: Used for storing perishable food items to keep them fresh.
- Freezers: Specially designed to store frozen food at lower temperatures than a refrigerator.
- Washing Machines: Appliances that automate clothes washing.
- Dryers: Used to remove moisture from clothes after washing.
- Stoves: Kitchen appliances used for cooking, which include both ovens and cooktops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are microwaves considered white goods?
A: Typically, microwaves are not classified as white goods. White goods generally refer to larger household appliances.
Q: Why are they called ‘white goods’ even when they come in different colors?
A: Historically, these heavy household appliances were manufactured with a white enamel finish, hence the name. Even with the available variety in colors today, the term has persisted.
Q: Can small kitchen appliances be categorized as white goods?
A: No, small kitchen appliances like toasters and blenders are not usually classified as white goods. White goods generally refer to larger, more substantial household appliances.
- Brown Goods: Typically refers to electronic consumer goods such as televisions, radios, and computers.
- Small Appliances: Smaller household gadgets and devices like microwaves, coffee makers, and blenders.
- Major Appliances: Large machines typically used in the home for routine housekeeping tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and food preservation.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Appliance Design” by Josie Taylor
- “The Complete Guide to Home Appliance Repair” by James Allen
- “Building Systems for Interior Designers” by Corky Binggeli
Fundamentals of White Goods: Retailing Basics Quiz
### Which of the following appliances is considered a white good?
- [ ] Microwave
- [x] Washing Machine
- [ ] Toaster
- [ ] Television
> **Explanation:** Washing machines are considered white goods because they are heavy household appliances, whereas microwaves, toasters, and televisions fall into other categories.
### Why were white goods originally given this name?
- [ ] They are lightweight.
- [ ] They were made of stainless steel.
- [x] They were manufactured with a white enamel finish.
- [ ] They were the first household appliances created.
> **Explanation:** The term "white goods" originated because these appliances were traditionally finished in white enamel.
### Which color are modern white goods available in?
- [ ] Only white
- [ ] Only black
- [ ] Only stainless steel
- [x] A variety of colors and finishes
> **Explanation:** Modern white goods are available in various colors and finishes to match different decor styles.
### Are kitchen blenders considered white goods?
- [ ] Yes
- [x] No
- [ ] Sometimes
- [ ] Only if they are white
> **Explanation:** Kitchen blenders are classified as small appliances and are not considered white goods.
### What is an example of a brown good?
- [x] Television
- [ ] Refrigerator
- [ ] Clothes Dryer
- [ ] Dishwasher
> **Explanation:** Televisions fall under the category of brown goods, which generally refers to electronic consumer items.
### Is a stove generally categorized under white goods?
- [x] Yes
- [ ] No
- [ ] Usually not
- [ ] Only if it is white
> **Explanation:** Stoves are considered white goods as they are large household appliances often used for cooking.
### Do white goods include furniture items?
- [ ] Yes, always
- [x] No
- [ ] Sometimes, depending on the context
- [ ] Only wooden furniture
> **Explanation:** White goods exclusively refer to large household appliances and do not include furniture items.
### Which household appliance is not classified as a white good?
- [ ] Freezer
- [x] Microwave
- [ ] Clothes Washer
- [ ] Stove
> **Explanation:** Microwaves generally are considered small appliances and are not classified as white goods.
### Are electronic items like radios classified as white goods?
- [ ] Yes
- [x] No
- [ ] They are both white goods and brown goods
- [ ] Only older models
> **Explanation:** Electronic items like radios are considered brown goods, not white goods.
### Which one of the following household items falls into the white goods category?
- [ ] Blender
- [ ] Television
- [x] Dishwasher
- [ ] Coffee Maker
> **Explanation:** Dishwashers are classified as white goods given that they are large household appliances.
Thank you for exploring the fundamental concepts of white goods and engaging with the quiz to consolidate your understanding of this important retailing category.
