Is it mandatory to include the google_product_category attribute?

No, it is optional. However, if you omit it, Google will assign a category automatically, which may be inaccurate or too broad for your specific product.

Should I use the numeric ID or the full path for Lubricants?

You can use either. The numeric ID 1753 is generally preferred because it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors in your feed file.

How is this category different from the product_type attribute?

The google_product_category is a mandatory-style taxonomy for Google's internal systems, whereas product_type is a free-form field for your own organizational needs.

Google product category

Lubricants

Category ID1753

Full path for the feedHardware > Building Consumables > Lubricants

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

Loctite Clover Silicon Carbide Grease Mix
Super Lube Multi-Purpose Synthetic Grease
Dynatex Dielectric Grease
Ags Sil-Glyde Brake Lubricant
Mpt Silicone/PTFE High Performance Lubricant/Sealant
Liquid Wrench Silicone Spray
Seymour Tool Crib Silicone Lube
THERMAL SILICONE GREASE
Supco O-Ring Silicone Grease
Seasoft Absilube Pure Silicone Grease
THERMACUT SILICONE GREASE
CRC Heavy Duty Silicone Lubricant
Hercules Plumbers Grease
DuPont Teflon Silicone Lubricant
DUPONT Molykote O-Ring Grease

Understanding the Lubricants Category (ID 1753)

The category Lubricants, identified by the numeric ID 1753, is part of the Building Consumables hierarchy in the Google Product Taxonomy. It is designed to capture specific maintenance agents intended to reduce friction between moving parts or protect surfaces from wear.

This category is intended for various grease and oil-based maintenance products found in the US market. Examples include multi-purpose synthetic greases, specialized dielectric greases, silicone-based sprays, brake lubricants, and high-performance silicone/PTFE sealants. Products designed specifically for technical maintenance, such as o-ring lubricants and heavy-duty silicone sprays for industrial or household tooling, belong here.

Do not use this category for products that fall under the neighboring sections within the Hardware taxonomy. If your items are intended for bonding materials, use Hardware Glue & Adhesives. If you are selling substances used for preparing surfaces, such as Solvents, Strippers & Thinners or Painting Consumables, place them in those respective categories. Likewise, items classified as Plumbing Primer, Solder & Flux, or Protective Coatings & Sealants should be directed to their own specific paths to ensure accurate Google categorization.

As there are no further subcategories, 1753 is the most specific designation for these items.

To assign this category in your feed, use the numeric ID 1753 or the full string: Hardware > Building Consumables > Lubricants. While the attribute is technically optional, providing the ID is recommended to avoid incorrect automated categorization. Remember that product_type is separate and should only reflect your internal shop structure.

Frequently asked questions

Is it mandatory to include the google_product_category attribute?: No, it is optional. However, if you omit it, Google will assign a category automatically, which may be inaccurate or too broad for your specific product.
Should I use the numeric ID or the full path for Lubricants?: You can use either. The numeric ID 1753 is generally preferred because it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors in your feed file.
How is this category different from the product_type attribute?: The google_product_category is a mandatory-style taxonomy for Google's internal systems, whereas product_type is a free-form field for your own organizational needs.

This category in other languages

ru: Оборудование и технические изделия > Расходные строительные материалы > Смазки
uk: Обладнання та технічні вироби > Витратні будівельні матеріали > Мастила