In textile products, phenolic yellowing may occur due to phenol compounds present in the medium or a slightly alkaline environment. Phenolic yellowing is generally characterized by a very bright yellow color, which can be easily removed from the fabric surface with a delicate wash. It also disappears rapidly when exposed to sunlight. Jaundice begins to darken in an alkaline environment, jaundice decreases in an acidic environment.

Years ago, fabric and garment products had more yellowing problems during storage. This problem was more common especially in white and pastel colors. In the studies carried out in order to solve this problem, it is understood that this situation is caused by polyethylene film or bags in which the fabric is wrapped. Phenolic antioxidants constitute the basis of the studies on this subject. The best known is Buthylatedhydroxy Toluene (BHT). This chemical is found in polyethylene films and bags, cartons and similar transport products. This chemical reacts with nitrogen oxides in the air and makes the fabrics yellow. In textile production, this kind of antioxidants are used in fiber spinning process at the finishing stage, yarn and bobbin oils, knitting oils, textile softeners as preservatives and various textile finishing processes. Therefore, phenolic yellow fastness is important in textile products.

Phenolic yellowing fastness tests performed by authorized laboratories comply with the following standards:

• KS K 0190 Test method for phenolic yellowing of textiles: Courtaulds method
• TS EN ISO 105-X18 Textiles - Color fastness tests - Part X18: Evaluation of the phenolic yellowing potential of materials

In textile products, chemical substances containing phenolic antioxidants should not be used to prevent yellowing. However, it is not easy to avoid because they have a wide range of uses. At least nitrogen dioxide must be kept away from storage areas, well ventilated and temperature controlled.