Investigation of yellowing perception: comparison of whitish, yellowish, yellowing, yellowed, aged and dirty colors

Perceptions of yellowing, aging and dirtiness in textile products affect consumer satisfaction and sustainable use. Customers often decide whether to use a product based on its color, even if it is functionally usable. It is difficult to avoid the yellowing of objects; consequently, many scales have been developed to evaluate this phenomenon. This study examined consumers' perceptions of various colors associated with yellowing, aging and dirtiness using the terms whitish, yellowish, yellowing, yellowed, aged and dirty, and the differences between them. The applicability of the commonly used yellowness index (YI) was also examined. The results showed perceptual similarities among yellowish, yellowing and yellowed, but there were also notable differences. The boundary between whitish and yellowish was clear, but near-white colors were included for yellowing and yellowed colors. The yellow component was a major factor in aged and dirty, but not the only characteristic. Similarities and differences between aged and dirty perceptions were demonstrated. The aged colors were distributed in a wider range than the dirty colors, and most of the dirty colors were within the aged color range. This suggests that even colors perceived as aged are not necessarily dirty. The YI did not adequately assess the perceptions. Consumers' perceptions of colors ranged more widely than those of the YI. As the need for sustainability and creating products that meet consumers' needs for long-term use continues to grow, it would be valuable to understand not only yellow-associated colors but also aged and dirty and their differences.

Automated summary

Perceptions of yellowing, aging, and dirtiness in textile products have a significant impact on consumer satisfaction and sustainable use. This study investigates consumers' perceptions of various colors associated with yellowing, aging, and dirtiness, and examines the applicability of the commonly used yellowness index (YI). The results reveal similarities and differences in perceptions among yellowish, yellowing, and yellowed colors, and emphasize the importance of understanding these color perceptions for creating sustainable products that meet consumers' long-term needs.