Soft products, also known as consumables, have a shelf life of less than three years and require replacement due to wear and tear or changes in taste or body type. Examples include clothing, fabrics, footwear, office supplies, personal hygiene products, and small appliances.
Also known as consumables or non-durable goods, soft products are any products that are expected to have a shelf life of less than three years. This is in contrast to durable goods which are expected to remain useful for a period of time longer than three years. Both soft and durable goods are essential components in the economy of most nations and are regularly purchased by consumers on an ongoing basis.
One of the best examples of soft products is clothing. While it is true that some clothing items can last more than three years, most manufacturers do not guarantee clothing for more than a year or so, assuming the clothing is subjected to normal wear and tear. Consumables of this type require replacement from time to time, either due to changes in consumer taste, changes in the owner’s body type, or because a favorite item is worn until it begins to show signs of age.
Other forms of fabrics are also expected to last no more than three years. Sheets, especially sheet sets, shouldn’t normally last as long. Tablecloths, napkins, towels and many types of drapes and curtains are usually classified as soft.
Clothing accessories are sometimes considered soft products. Shoes, boots and other forms of footwear are rarely produced with the idea of lasting more than three years. The same goes for gloves, scarves, baseball caps, and other items that are usually selected to accentuate your clothing selection.
Any type of product that is consumed in a short period of time can rightfully be considered a soft product. Office supplies are a prime example. Paper products such as copy paper, file folders and notepads wear out regularly and need to be replaced. Markers, pens, and materials used to create visual aids are often used up within a few months to a year. Rubber products, such as rubber bands, are classified as soft products, as they tend to break after several cycles of use over the years.
Personal products are another type of soft products. All forms of cosmetics are considered consumables, along with products such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash and any personal hygiene products. Lotions or creams used for skin care or body cleansing are also considered soft or non-strength products.
There are many other types of soft products that are used on a daily basis. Small appliances like toasters, hair dryers, and other items that are used at least several times a week rarely carry a warranty that lasts longer than a couple of years. Petroleum products, such as petrol or petroleum, are consumables. Essentially, if the product is manufactured with the understanding that it has a shelf life of less than three years, it can be classified as a non-durable good.
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