Packaging Fabric Refreshing Products

Abstract

The present invention provides a packaged fabric refreshing product for refreshing fabric surfaces and reducing odors therefrom, comprising a liquid fabric refreshing composition and a spray dispenser for dispensing the liquid fabric refreshing composition. The liquid fabric refreshing composition comprises a liquid carrier and 1% to 5% by weight of cyclodextrin. The spray dispenser is a manual trigger spray dispenser that, when activated by a single action of the trigger mechanism, can continuously dispense the liquid fabric refreshing composition for at least 0.4 seconds. An effective amount of such liquid fabric refreshing composition can be sprayed through such a manual trigger spray dispenser onto a fabric surface, such as bedding, mattresses, sofas, or carpets, that is substantially flat and has a minimum dimension of 0.6 meters or more.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a packaged fabric refreshing product for deodorizing and refreshing a surface covered with a fabric, more specifically, a surface covered with a relatively large fabric on household items such as bedding, mattresses, sofas, and carpets.

Background Art

[0002] Household items such as bedding, mattresses, sofas, and carpets have surfaces covered with large fabrics that tend to accumulate dirt / sweat / sebum and emit unpleasant odors over time. Washing or cleaning the fabric covers of these household items is particularly cumbersome because it is difficult to remove and reattach such fabric covers. Therefore, aerosol or trigger sprayer-equipped packaged fabric refreshing products are available for consumers to directly spray a liquid fabric refreshing composition onto the large fabric-covered surfaces of these household items to restore their freshness and reduce unpleasant odors without the need to remove the fabric covers for washing or dry cleaning.

[0003] However, conventional fabric refreshing products with aerosol or trigger sprayers are difficult to use and do not provide rapid and efficient treatment of bedding, mattresses, sofas, and carpets having surfaces covered with such large fabrics. For example, consumers need to spray more than 20 times to treat the entire surface of the bedding with a fabric refreshing product, which is time-consuming and tiring.

[0004] Furthermore, conventional sprayers often fail to evenly or uniformly cover the fabric surface, resulting in intermittent sprays of fabric refreshing products that leave dry, untreated areas while other areas remain wet. As a result, the treated fabric surface cannot be used immediately afterward because the wet areas take some time to dry. The slow drying time and the unpleasant feeling associated with the wet areas are significant concerns that deter or discourage consumers from using such fabric refreshing products as frequently as they would like. More importantly, the uneven distribution of fabric refreshing products on the treated fabric surface may limit its overall deodorizing and refreshing effect; for example, the untreated, dry areas may continue to emit unpleasant odors. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for easy-to-use, improved fabric refreshing products that provide a more efficient method for deodorizing and refreshing large fabric surfaces, such as those typically found on bedding, mattresses, sofas, and carpets.

[0006] There is also a need for improved fabric refreshing products that effectively and evenly coat large fabric surfaces such as bedding, mattresses, sofas, and carpets. Specifically, such improved fabric refreshing products should enable rapid drying of the treated fabric surface, allowing for immediate use of such household products, thereby encouraging consumers to use such products more frequently.

[0007] There is a growing need for improved fabric refreshing products that provide more effective and efficient deodorization and refreshing of fabric-covered surfaces. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] This disclosure relates to a packaged fabric refreshing product, a) Liquid fabric freshening composition, and b) comprising a spray dispenser for dispensing the liquid fabric freshening composition, The present invention relates to a packaged fabric refreshing product in which the liquid fabric refreshing composition comprises a liquid carrier and 1% to 5% by weight of cyclodextrin, and the spray dispenser is a manual trigger spray dispenser that can continuously dispense the liquid fabric refreshing composition for at least 0.4 seconds when activated by a single action of the trigger mechanism.

[0009] Specifically, the liquid fabric freshening composition may contain 1.2% to 3% by weight, or 1.5% to 2.5% by weight, of cyclodextrin. Optionally, the cyclodextrin can be selected from the group consisting of α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, γ-cyclodextrin, and their derivatives and / or mixtures. Optionally, the cyclodextrin can be selected from the group consisting of hydroxy-propyl α-cyclodextrin (HPACD), methylated α-cyclodextrin (MACD), methylated β-cyclodextrin (MBCD), hydroxy-ethyl β-cyclodextrin (MEBCD), hydroxy-propyl β-cyclodextrin (HPBCD), and their derivatives and / or mixtures. The above liquid fabric freshening composition may further contain one or more components selected from the group consisting of fragrances, surfactants compatible with cyclodextrin, antimicrobial substances compatible with cyclodextrin, and any mixtures thereof.

[0010] Specifically, the spray dispenser described above can continuously dispense the liquid fabric freshening composition for a period of 0.4 to 2 seconds, 0.5 to 1.8 seconds, or 0.6 to 1.5 seconds when activated by a single action of the trigger mechanism. Optionally, such a spray dispenser includes (1) a container body containing the liquid fabric freshening composition, (2) a nozzle, and (3) an ejector that is in fluid communication with the container body and the nozzle, draws the liquid fabric freshening composition from the container body, and ejects the liquid fabric freshening composition forward through the nozzle when activated by the trigger mechanism.

[0011] Specifically, the liquid fabric freshening composition dispensed by the manual trigger spray dispenser described above is characterized by an average droplet size (DV50) of 50 to 120 microns, optionally 60 to 110 microns, and optionally 70 to 100 microns.

[0012] This disclosure also relates to a method for refreshing a fabric surface and reducing odor therefrom, (a) A step of providing a liquid fabric freshening composition comprising a liquid carrier and 1% to 5% by weight of cyclodextrin, and (b) The step of spraying an effective amount of such liquid fabric freshening composition onto a fabric surface using a manual trigger spray dispenser, The present invention relates to a method wherein such a fabric surface is substantially flat with a minimum dimension of 0.6 meters or more, and such a manual trigger spray dispenser can continuously dispense a liquid fabric freshening composition for at least 0.4 seconds when activated by a single action of the trigger mechanism.

[0013] Specifically, the above-mentioned fabric surface is selected from the group consisting of bedding, mattresses, sofas, and carpets. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1]This is a front view of a manual trigger spray dispenser according to a particular embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0015] The packaged fabric refreshing product of this disclosure uses a manual trigger spray dispenser having a unique trigger mechanism, which enables continuous and sustained dispensing of the liquid fabric refreshing composition for at least 0.4 seconds, optionally 0.4 to 2 seconds, 0.5 to 1.8 seconds, or 0.6 to 1.5 seconds, with a single activation of the trigger mechanism. The spray dispenser is easy to use and provides a faster and more efficient method for treating large fabric surfaces, such as those typically found on bedding, mattresses, sofas, and carpets. The spray dispenser also enables rapid drying of the treated fabric surface by distributing the liquid fabric refreshing composition in smaller droplet sizes to form a finer mist that effectively and evenly covers the treated fabric surface.

[0016] More importantly, the present disclosure combines such a spray dispenser with a specially designed liquid fabric freshening composition containing a larger amount of odor-absorbing compound, namely 1% to 5% by weight (or 1.2% to 3% by weight, or 1.5% to 2.5% by weight) of cyclodextrin. Surprisingly and unexpectedly, such a combination results in a synergistic improvement in the odor control and odor reduction performance of the resulting packaged fabric freshening product.

[0017] Manual trigger spray dispenser The spray dispenser used in the packaged fabric refreshing product of this disclosure is a manually triggered spray dispenser capable of continuously dispensing a liquid fabric refreshing composition. As used herein, the term “continuous” refers to the dispensing of liquid by the triggered spray dispenser not only when the trigger is pulled, but also at a subsequent point in time (i.e., when the trigger is released).

[0018] Figure 1 is a front view of a manual trigger spray dispenser 100 according to a particular embodiment of the present disclosure, the spray dispenser comprising: (1) a container body 110 containing a liquid fabric freshening composition (not shown); (2) a nozzle 120 provided in an injection hole (not shown) configured to spray the liquid fabric freshening composition forward; and (3) an ejector 140 for spraying the liquid fabric freshening composition forward through the nozzle 120 when activated by a trigger mechanism 160 which is in fluid communication with the container body 110 and configured to draw the liquid fabric freshening composition from the container body 110 and move backward while biased forward.

[0019] The trigger-operated ejector described above can continuously inject relatively large quantities of liquid fabric refreshing composition, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2017 / 0216863(A1), U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018 / 0369842(A1), Japanese Patent No. 6971190(B), and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022 / 0401982(A1). For example, the trigger-operated ejector may comprise an ejector body attached to the container body, a vertical supply tube extending vertically and used to draw in the liquid fabric refreshing composition contained in the container body, and an injection cylinder extending forward from the vertical supply tube, with its internal region communicating with the internal region of the vertical supply tube. The trigger mechanism comprises a trigger extending downward from the injection cylinder and positioned to be movable backward when subjected to a forward force. The trigger mechanism is configured to guide the liquid fabric freshening composition from the internal region of the vertical supply tube into the injection cylinder as the trigger moves backward, and to inject the liquid fabric freshening composition from the internal region of the injection cylinder toward the injection hole. The nozzle also includes a cylinder that extends in the front-rear direction and whose internal region communicates with the internal region of the injection cylinder through the supply hole, a plunger positioned within the cylinder so as to be movable backward when subjected to a forward force, and a communication hole that connects the internal region of the cylinder to the injection hole.

[0020] When the trigger is pulled backward, the liquid fabric freshening composition is drawn from the internal region of the container body through the vertical supply tube and then guided into the injection cylinder, which subsequently injects the liquid fabric freshening composition into the cylinder through the supply hole. Thus, the plunger in the cylinder can be moved backward against a forward force. At this time, the liquid fabric freshening composition can also be supplied from the internal region of the injection cylinder through the communication hole to the injection hole and discharged outward from the injection hole.

[0021] In this way, every time the trigger is pulled, the liquid fabric freshening composition is discharged from the injection hole. By moving the plunger backward, the liquid fabric freshening composition can be stored or filled in the cylinder. When the operation of pulling the trigger is stopped, the supply of the liquid fabric freshening composition to the injection cylinder is stopped. On the other hand, the plunger begins to move forward by the force in the forward direction. Therefore, the liquid fabric freshening composition stored or filled in the cylinder can be continuously and uninterruptedly discharged from the injection hole through the communication hole. Therefore, the liquid fabric freshening composition is discharged not only when the operation of pulling the trigger backward is performed but also when the trigger is not being operated (that is, after the pulling of the trigger has stopped). As a result, continuous discharge of the liquid fabric freshening composition is achieved.

[0022] Furthermore, if the trigger is not pulled again during the forward movement of the plunger, the plunger is configured to move forward to the foremost position. However, it is also possible to repeat the operation of pulling the trigger before the plunger reaches the foremost position. In this case, by repeating the pulling operation of the trigger, the plunger repeats forward and backward movements. In each of the forward and backward movements of the plunger, the plunger retreats little by little at a substantially constant distance as a whole. As a result, the liquid fabric freshening composition can be gradually stored or filled in the cylinder. Then, when the operation of pulling the trigger is stopped but the plunger continues to move forward by the force in the forward direction, it can be discharged from the injection hole to form continuous spraying.

[0023] Specifically, the spray dispenser of the present invention enables continuous and sustained delivery of the liquid fabric freshening composition for at least 0.4 seconds, optionally 0.4 seconds to 2 seconds, or 0.5 seconds to 1.8 seconds, or 0.6 seconds to 1.5 seconds during a single actuation of the trigger. By using such a continuous spray dispenser, the present invention provides a packaged fabric freshening product that enables an easier-to-use and more efficient method for deodorizing and refreshing large fabric surfaces such as typically found on bedding, mattresses, sofas, and carpets. For example, in the case of bedding having a substantially flat fabric surface with a minimum dimension of 0.6 meters or more, optionally 0.8 meters or more, optionally 1 meter or more, optionally 1.3 meters or more, when using a conventional fabric freshening product with a non-continuous trigger-operated spray dispenser, where the consumer may need to spray more than 20 times to treat the entire surface, the consumer only needs to spray about 8 times to cover the same fabric surface when using the packaged fabric freshening product of the present invention with a continuous trigger-operated spray dispenser.

[0024] The spray dispenser of the present invention can be further characterized by an output per stroke of about 0.5 mL to about 2 mL, or about 0.8 mL to about 1.5 mL, or about 1 mL to about 1.2 mL when operating at a speed of 90 strokes per minute (SPM).

[0025] Preferably, such a spray dispenser distributes the liquid fabric freshening composition in the form of a fine mist characterized by an average droplet size (DV50) in the range of about 50 to about 120 microns, optionally about 60 to about 110 microns, or optionally about 70 to about 100 microns. Optionally, the fine mist formed by the distributed fabric freshening composition is also characterized by (a) DV90 in the range of about 80 to about 200 microns, or about 90 to about 180 microns, or about 100 to about 150 microns, and / or (b) DV10 in the range of 30 to 80 microns, or 35 to 70 microns, or 40 to 60 microns. Furthermore, such fine mist can define a spray pattern having a diameter in the range of (1) 14 cm to approximately 20 cm, optionally approximately 15 cm to approximately 18 cm, and optionally approximately 16 cm to approximately 17 cm, and / or (2) a conical angle in the range of 50 to 65 degrees, optionally 55 to 60 degrees. Such fine mist formed by the distributed fabric freshening composition provides effective and uniform coverage of large fabric surfaces on bedding, mattresses, sofas, and carpets. The fine mist also allows for rapid drying of the fabric surface after treatment, enabling immediate use of such household items.

[0026] Liquid fabric freshening composition The liquid fabric refreshing composition used in the present invention contains cyclodextrin, an odor-absorbing active substance, at levels ranging from 1% to 5% by weight, or 1.2% to 3% by weight, or 1.5% to 2.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the liquid fabric refreshing composition. While not bound by any theory, it is believed that a liquid fabric refreshing composition having such relatively high levels of cyclodextrin, when used in combination with the continuous trigger-operated spray dispenser of the present invention, will surprisingly and unexpectedly result in synergistically improved odor control and malodorous odor reduction effects compared to similar packaged products having lower levels of cyclodextrin or having discontinuous trigger-operated spray dispensers.

[0027] The liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention also includes a liquid carrier in which cyclodextrin is dissolved. Optionally, the composition further comprises a fragrance, a surfactant compatible with cyclodextrin, an antimicrobial agent compatible with cyclodextrin, and any mixture thereof, as disclosed below.

[0028] (A) Cyclodextrin As used herein, the term “cyclodextrin” includes any known cyclodextrins, particularly α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, γ-cyclodextrin, and / or their derivatives, and / or mixtures thereof, containing 6 to 12 glucose units. α-cyclodextrin consists of 6 glucose units arranged in a donut-shaped ring, beta-cyclodextrin consists of 7 glucose units, and gamma-cyclodextrin consists of 8 glucose units. The specific binding and conformation of these glucose units gives cyclodextrins a rigid conical molecular structure with a hollow interior of a specific volume. The “lining” of each internal cavity is formed by hydrogen atoms and oxygen atoms of glycosidic bonds, and therefore this surface is more hydrophobic. Due to the unique shape and physical-chemical properties of the cavities, cyclodextrin molecules are able to absorb (form inclusion complexes with) organic molecules or parts of organic molecules that can fit into the cavities. Many odor molecules, including many malodorous and fragrance molecules, can fit into the cavities. Therefore, cyclodextrins, especially mixtures of cyclodextrins with cavities of different sizes, can be used to control odors caused by a wide range of organic odor substances, with or without reactive functional groups. Complex formation between cyclodextrins and odor molecules occurs rapidly in the presence of water. However, the degree of complex formation also depends on the polarity of the absorbed molecule. In aqueous solutions, strongly hydrophilic molecules (molecules with high water solubility) are absorbed, if at all, only partially. Therefore, cyclodextrins do not effectively complex with certain very low molecular weight organic amines and acids when they are present at low levels on a damp fabric. However, as water is removed, for example as the fabric dries, some low molecular weight organic amines and acids have a higher affinity and more readily form complexes with cyclodextrin.

[0029] The cavities within the cyclodextrin in the solution of the present invention should remain essentially unfilled while in the solution (i.e., the cyclodextrin should not form complexes) in order to allow the cyclodextrin to absorb various odor molecules when the solution is applied to a surface. Underivativeed (natural) β-cyclodextrin can be present at a level up to its solubility limit of about 1.85% (about 1.85 g in 100 g of water) at room temperature. Underivativeed β-cyclodextrin is generally undesirable if the composition contains surfactants, as it affects most of the surface activity of preferred surfactants that are compatible with derivatized cyclodextrin.

[0030] The cyclodextrins used in this invention may be highly water-soluble, such as α-cyclodextrin and / or its derivatives, γ-cyclodextrin and / or its derivatives, derivatized β-cyclodextrin, and / or mixtures thereof. Derivatives of cyclodextrins mainly consist of molecules in which some of the OH groups are substituted with OR groups. Examples of cyclodextrin derivatives include those having short-chain alkyl groups such as methylated cyclodextrin and ethylated cyclodextrin (wherein R is a methyl group or an ethyl group); those having hydroxyalkyl substituents such as hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin and / or hydroxyethyl cyclodextrin (wherein R is a -CH2-CH(OH)-CH3, CH(CH3)-CH2-OH, or -CH2CH2-OH group); branched cyclodextrins such as maltose-bonded cyclodextrin; cationic cyclodextrins, for example, those containing 2-hydroxy-3-(dimethylamino)propyl ether (wherein R is CH2-CH(OH)-CH2-N(CH3)2 which is cationic at low pH); quaternary ammonium compounds, for example, 2-hydroxy-3(trimethylammonio)propyl ether chloride group (wherein R is CH2-CH(OH)-CH2-N+(CH3)3 Examples include: Cl-; anionic cyclodextrins such as carboxymethyl cyclodextrin, cyclodextrin sulfate, and cyclodextrin succinylate; amphoteric cyclodextrins such as carboxymethyl / quaternary ammonium cyclodextrin; cyclodextrins having at least one glucopyranose unit in a 3-6-anhydrocyclomalto structure, such as mono-3-6-anhydrocyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

[0031] Highly water-soluble cyclodextrins have a water solubility of at least about 10 g in 100 mL of water at 25°C, preferably at least about 20 g in 100 mL of water, and more preferably at least about 25 g in 100 mL of water at room temperature. The availability of solubilized, non-complexed cyclodextrins is essential for effective and efficient odor suppression performance. When solubilized, water-soluble cyclodextrins are applied to surfaces, especially fabrics, they can exhibit more efficient odor control performance than non-water-soluble cyclodextrins.

[0032] Examples of preferred water-soluble cyclodextrin derivatives suitable for use herein are hydroxypropyl α-cyclodextrin (HPACD), methylated α-cyclodextrin (MACD), methylated β-cyclodextrin (MBCD), hydroxyethyl β-cyclodextrin (HEBCD), and hydroxypropyl β-cyclodextrin (HPBCD). Hydroxyalkylcyclodextrin derivatives preferably have a degree of substitution of about 1 to about 14, more preferably about 1.5 to about 7, where the total number of OR groups per cyclodextrin is defined as the degree of substitution. Methylated cyclodextrins typically have a degree of substitution of about 1 to about 18, preferably about 3 to about 16. A known methylated β-cyclodextrin is heptakis-2,6-di-O-methyl-β-cyclodextrin, commonly known as DIMEB, where each glucose unit has about 2 methyl groups with a degree of substitution of about 14. A preferred, more commercially available methylated β-cyclodextrin is a randomly methylated β-cyclodextrin commonly known as RAMEB, which typically has about 12.6 different degrees of substitution. RAMEB is preferred over DIMEB because it affects the surface activity of surfactants that are preferred over RAMEB. Preferred cyclodextrins are available, for example, from Cerestar USA, Inc. and Wacker Chemicals (USA), Inc.

[0033] It may be preferable to use a mixture of cyclodextrins. The mixture may include alkoxylated and / or nonalkoxylated cyclodextrins. Such mixtures absorb odors more broadly by forming complexes with a wider range of odor molecules having a wider range of molecular sizes. Preferably, at least a portion of the cyclodextrins are α-cyclodextrin and its derivatives, γ-cyclodextrin and its derivatives, and / or derivatized β-cyclodextrin, more preferably a mixture of α-cyclodextrin or an α-cyclodextrin derivative and derivatized β-cyclodextrin, even more preferably a mixture of derivatized α-cyclodextrin and derivatized β-cyclodextrin, most preferably a mixture of hydroxypropyl α-cyclodextrin and hydroxypropyl β-cyclodextrin, and / or a mixture of methylated α-cyclodextrin and methylated β-cyclodextrin.

[0034] (B) Liquid carrier The liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention comprises a liquid carrier in which the above-mentioned cyclodextrin is dissolved. The liquid carrier may be water that has been distilled, deionized, tap water, or water in a further purified form. Water may be present in any amount in the aqueous composition. Specifically, water may be present in an amount of about 80% to 99.5% by weight, or about 85% to 99.5% by weight, or about 92% to 99.5% by weight, or about 95% by weight of the liquid fabric refreshing composition.

[0035] Low molecular weight monohydric alcohols (e.g., ethanol, methanol, and isopropanol, or polyols, e.g., ethylene glycol and propylene glycol) may also be useful as liquid carriers, either alone or in combination with water. In some cases, the level of monohydric alcohol may be less than about 20% by weight, or less than about 15% by weight, or less than about 10% by weight, or less than about 6% by weight, or less than about 3% by weight, or less than 1% by weight, relative to the weight of the liquid fabric refreshing composition.

[0036] (C) Other ingredients The liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention may optionally provide a “fragrance signal” in the form of a pleasant scent that signals the removal of unpleasant odors from fabrics. The fragrance signal is designed to provide an instantaneous fragrance and is not designed to be overwhelming or to be used as an odor masking component. When a fragrance is added as a fragrance signal, the fragrance is added only at very low levels, for example, about 0% to about 0.5% by weight, preferably about 0.003% to about 0.3% by weight, and more preferably about 0.005% to about 0.2% by weight, relative to the total weight of the liquid fabric refreshing composition.

[0037] Fragrances can also be added to the product and on the surface as a stronger fragrance. If a stronger level of fragrance is preferred, a relatively high level of fragrance (e.g., 0.1% to 2% by weight, or 0.2% to 1.5% by weight, or 0.3% to 1% by weight) can be added. However, it is essential that the fragrance is added in such a level that even if all of the fragrance in the composition forms complexes with cyclodextrin molecules, there will still be cyclodextrin molecules in the solution that have not formed an effective level of complex to provide sufficient odor suppression. To ensure an effective amount of cyclodextrin molecules for odor control, the fragrance is typically present at a level where less than about 90% of the cyclodextrin forms complexes with the fragrance, preferably less than about 50% of the cyclodextrin forms complexes with the fragrance, more preferably less than about 30% of the cyclodextrin forms complexes with the fragrance, and most preferably less than about 10% of the cyclodextrin forms complexes with the fragrance. The weight ratio of cyclodextrin to flavoring should be greater than about 8:1, preferably greater than about 10:1, more preferably greater than about 20:1, even more preferably greater than 40:1, and most preferably greater than about 70:1.

[0038] Any type of fragrance raw material (PRM) can be incorporated into the liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention. Various PRMs may be used. The fragrance mixture may contain one or more of the following fragrance raw materials: aromatic essential oils; natural and synthetic aromatic compounds; pro-fragrances; materials supplied with aromatic essential oils, aromatic compounds, and / or pro-fragrances, including stabilizers, diluents, processing agents, and admixtures; and any materials commonly associated with aromatic essential oils, aromatic compounds, and / or pro-fragrances.

[0039] Preferably, the fragrance is hydrophilic and mainly consists of components from two groups: (a) hydrophilic fragrance components having a ClogP of less than about 3.5, more preferably less than about 3.0; and (b) fragrance components having a significantly lower detection threshold; and components selected from mixtures thereof. Typically, at least about 50%, preferably at least about 60% by weight, more preferably at least about 70% by weight, and most preferably at least about 80% by weight of the fragrance consists of fragrance components from groups (a) and (b) above.

[0040] Non-limiting examples of hydrophilic fragrance components in group (a) above include allyl amyl glycolate, allyl caproate, amyl acetate, amyl propionate, anisaldehyde, anisyl acetate, anisole, benzaldehyde, benzyl acetate, benzylacetone, benzyl alcohol, benzyl formate, benzyl isovalerate, benzyl propionate, β-gammahexenol, chalon, camphor gum, laevo-carbeol, d-carbone, laevo-carbone, cinnamyl acetate, cinnamyl formate, cinnamyl propionate, cis-jasmone, cis-3-hexenylacetic acid, coumarin, cumin alcohol, cumin aldehyde, cyclal C, cyclogalvanate, dihydroeuginol, dihydroisojasmonate, dimethylbenzylcarbinol, dimethylbenzylcarbinyl acetate, ethyl acetate, acetate acetate, ethyl amyl ketone, ethyl anthranilate, ethyl benzoate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl cinnamate, ethylhexyl ketone, ethyl maltol, ethyl-2-methylbutyrate, ethylmethylphenylglycidate, ethylphenyl acetate, ethyl salicylate, ethyl Ruvanillin, eucalyptol, eugenol, hexenyl acetate, hexyl acetate, hexyl formate, eugenyl methyl ether, fenchiyl alcohol, floracetate (tricyclocitronellal diethyl acetal), fructone, flutene (tricyclodecenyl propionate), geraniol, geranyloxyacetaldehyde, heliotropin, hexenol, hexenyl acetate, ethyl benzoate, eugenol, eugenyl acetate, eugenyl formate, eugenyl methyl ether, fenchiyl alcohol, hydroxycitronellal, hydroxycitronellal Toronellal diethyl acetal, hydroxycitronellol, indole, isoamyl alcohol, isocyclocitral, isoeugenol, isoeugenyl acetate, isomentone, methyldihydrojasmonate, methyleugenol, methylheptenone, methylheptin carbonate, methylheptyl ketone, methylhexyl ketone, methylisobutenyltetrahydropyran, methyl-N-methylanthranilate, methyl β-naphthyl ketone, methylphenylcarbonyl acetate, methyl salicylate, nerol, nonalactone, octaractone,Octyl alcohol (octanol-2), para-anisaldehyde, para-cresol, methylisobutenyltetrahydropyran, methyl-N-methylanthranilate, phenoxyethanol, phenoxyethyl propionate, phenylacetaldehyde, phenylacetoxyethyl diethyl ether, phenylethyloxyacetaldehyde, phenyl ethyl acetate, phenylethyl alcohol, phenylethyldimethylcarbinol, prenyl acetate, propyl butyrate, pulegone, rose oxide, safrole, terpineol, vanillin, pyridine, and mixtures thereof.

[0041] Non-limiting examples of fragrance components that do not belong to group (a) above but have a significantly lower detection threshold and are therefore useful in the liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention are selected from the group consisting of ambrox, bacanol, benzyl salicylate, butyl anthranilate, cetarox, damascenone, α-damascone, γ-dodecalactone, evanol, helbabat, cis-3-hexenyl salicylate, α-ionone, β-ionone, α-isomethylionone, lilial, methyl nonyl ketone, γ-undecalactone, undecylenaldehyde, and mixtures thereof. These substances are preferably present in low levels, typically less than about 20% by weight, preferably less than about 15% by weight, and more preferably less than about 10% by weight, relative to the total weight of fragrance components in the composition, in addition to the hydrophilic components of group (a).

[0042] Furthermore, there are hydrophilic fragrance components of group (a) that have a remarkably low detection threshold and are particularly useful in the liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention. Examples of these fragrance components include allyl amyl glycolate, anethole, benzylacetone, chalon, cinnamic alcohol, coumarin, cyclogalvanate, cyclal C, simal, 4-decenal, dihydroisojasmonate, ethyl anthranilate, ethyl 2-methylbutyrate, ethyl methylphenylglycidate, ethyl vanillin, eugenol, floracetate, flohydra, fluctone, flutene, heliotropin, ketone, indole, isocycle citral, isoeugenol, lyral, methylheptane carbonate, linalool, methyl anthranilate, dihydrojasmonate methyl, methylisobutenyltetrahydropyran, methyl β-naphthyl ketone, β-naphthol methyl ether, nerol, para-anisaldehyde, para-hydroxyphenylbutanone, phenylacetaldehyde, vanillin, and mixtures thereof.

[0043] The liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention may optionally contain one or more cyclodextrin-compatible surfactants, which may provide a variety of additional benefits, such as enabling the liquid fabric refreshing composition to spread more easily and uniformly on hydrophobic surfaces such as polyester and nylon, enabling faster drying, enabling better penetration into hydrophobic oily stains for improved odor control, and providing improved "in-wear" static electricity control. Such cyclodextrin-compatible surfactants may be anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, bipolar ionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. Non-limiting examples of cyclodextrin-compatible nonionic surfactants include block copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide. Suitable block polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene polymer surfactants compatible with most cyclodextrins include those based on ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, trimethylolpropane, and ethylenediamine as the initial reactive hydrogen compound. Some block polymer surfactant compounds are marketed by BASF under the trade names Pluronic® and Tetronic®. Other examples of surfactants compatible with cyclodextrins include (1) Silwet® surfactants marketed by OSi Specialties, Inc. (Danbury, Connecticut), e.g., Silwet® L-7600, L-7602, L-7604, L-7605, L-7622, ​​L-7657, and mixtures thereof; (2) Dowfax® surfactants marketed by Dow Chemical Company, e.g., Dowfax 3B2; and (3) surfactant derivatives of hydrogenated castor oil (HCO3), such as ethoxylated hydrogenated castor oil, marketed by BASF as BASOPHOR® and by Sigma Aldrich as CREMOPHOR®.Typical levels of surfactants compatible with cyclodextrin are about 0.01% to about 5% by weight, or about 0.03% to about 4% by weight, or about 0.05% to about 3% by weight, relative to the total weight of the liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention.

[0044] The liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention may optionally contain one or more cyclodextrin-compatible antimicrobial active substances, which provide protection against organisms that adhere to the treated fabric surface but do not form complexes with the cyclodextrins in the liquid fabric refreshing composition. Suitable antimicrobial active substances may include antimicrobial halogenated compounds, quaternary compounds, and phenolic compounds. Examples of suitable halogenated compounds are biguanides and bisbiguanide compounds, e.g., 1,1'-hexamethylenebis(5-(p-chlorophenyl)biguanide), commonly known as chlorhexidine, and its salts (e.g., with hydrochloric acid, acetic acid, and gluconic acid); poly(hexamethylene biguanide) hydrochloride; and bisbiguanide alkanes. Examples of suitable quaternary compounds are di(C8-C12)alkyldimethylammonium chlorides, such as didecyldimethylammonium chloride (Bardac 22 or DDAC) and dioctyldimethylammonium chloride (Bardac 2050). Typical concentrations of these antimicrobial substances range from about 0.001% to about 1% by weight, or about 0.05% to about 0.5% by weight, or about 0.1% to about 0.3% by weight (or below any upper limit set by applicable market laws and regulations) relative to the total weight of the liquid fabric refreshing composition.

[0045] The liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention may include a buffering system to maintain a desired pH. The liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention may have a pH of about 4 to about 9, or about 4 to about 8.5, or about 4 to about 6.9, or about 4 to about 6.7. The buffering system may include one or more buffering agents, specifically acidic buffering agents such as dibasic acids, carboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, tricarboxylic acids, and polycarboxylic acids. Preferably, the buffering system is selected from the group consisting of citric acid, maleic acid, polyacrylic acid, and combinations thereof. A buffering system containing a buffering agent selected from the group consisting of citric acid, maleic acid, polyacrylic acid, and combinations thereof has been found to provide a stable refreshing composition with an extended shelf life. The liquid fabric refreshing composition may contain at least about 0.001% by weight, or at least about 0.01% by weight, of such a buffering agent based on the total weight of the composition. The composition may also contain such buffering agents in an amount of about 2% by weight or less, or about 0.75% by weight or less, or about 0.5% by weight or less, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0046] Adjuvants may be optionally added to the liquid fabric refreshing compositions herein for known purposes. Such adjuvants include, but are not limited to, water-soluble metal salts, antistatic agents, insect and moth repellents, colorants, antioxidants, and mixtures thereof.

[0047] In addition, the liquid fabric refreshing composition of the present invention may also contain preservatives; antimicrobial compounds; materials that condition, modify, or otherwise alter the environment (e.g., assist in sleep, wakefulness, respiratory health, and similar conditions); deodorants or odor control compositions (e.g., odor neutralizing substances such as reactive aldehydes, odor blocking substances, odor masking substances, or sensitive modifiers such as ionones); and other odor-removing compounds such as polyamines containing polyethyleneimine.

[0048] Test method Test 1: Measurement of spraying time The spray duration of a sample-triggered spray dispenser is determined using a Malvern Spraytec particle size analyzer and Spraytec software. Both are available from Malvern Instruments, Ltd (UK).

[0049] A 750 mm lens is used, with minimum and maximum particle size detection capabilities of 2 and 2000 microns, respectively. The nozzle of the sample spray dispenser is positioned 140 mm from the laser beam, using a path length of 100 mm. A particle refractive index of 1.33 and a dispersion refractive index of 1.00 are selected. Absorption analysis is set to off, multiple scattering to on, and a residual of 0.42 is selected. Scattering start is set to 1, scattering end is set to 33, and scattering threshold is set to 1. The test temperature is approximately 22.5°C.

[0050] The duration of the spray is recorded in the measurement as a "span," which refers to the first moment of detection of particles passing through the laser to the last particle throughout a single spray. Each spray is performed automatically at a timing of 90 sprays per minute.

[0051] Test 2: Droplet size measurement The particle size or diameter of droplets dispensed by a sample-triggered spray dispenser is determined using a Malvern Spraytec particle size analyzer and Spraytec software. Both are available from Malvern Instruments, Ltd (UK).

[0052] A 750 mm lens is used, with minimum and maximum particle size detection capabilities of 2 and 2000 microns, respectively. The nozzle of the sample spray dispenser is positioned 140 mm from the laser beam, using a path length of 100 mm. A particle refractive index of 1.33 and a dispersion refractive index of 1.00 are selected. Absorption analysis is set to off, multiple scattering to on, and a residual of 0.42 is selected. Scattering start is set to 1, scattering end is set to 33, and scattering threshold is set to 1. The test temperature is approximately 22.5°C.

[0053] A person skilled in the art would consider measuring DV(50), which means that 50% of the droplets have an average particle size smaller than the indicated value. Similarly, a person skilled in the art would consider measuring DV(90), which means that 90% of the droplets have an average particle size smaller than the indicated value.

[0054] Test 3: Paper trapping method for determining non-volatile substances delivered by packaged fabric refreshing products The paper trap method is performed by using a spray dispenser to direct the center of the spray cone coming from the sample packaged fabric refreshing product through a circular hole in a plastic sheet, and capturing the central portion of the spray passing through the circular hole with a paper trap located behind the circular hole. This method measures how concentrated the delivery of non-volatile substances (those dissolved in the sprayed material but remaining after sufficient drying, and which may include some non-evaporated fragrances) is to the center of the spray pattern generated by the sample packaged fabric refreshing product using a spray dispenser, which demonstrates effective odor control and odor reduction by such a sample packaged fabric refreshing product. Specifically, the more non-volatile substances delivered to the center of the spray pattern through the circular hole by the sample packaged fabric refreshing product, the more concentrated (and therefore more effective and efficient) its odor control and odor reduction performance will be.

[0055] Specifically, a sample packaged fabric refreshing product, equipped with a specific trigger-type spray dispenser and filled with 75% to 90% of its capacity with a specific liquid fabric refreshing composition, is tilted at a 45-degree angle (parameter A) and mounted in a vise to prevent accidental displacement. The spray dispenser nozzle is positioned 7 7 / 8 inches (20 cm, parameter B) from a clear 12-inch (width, horizontal) x 24-inch (height) x 1 / 4-inch (thickness) plastic sheet (e.g., a polymethyl methacrylate sheet) tilted at a 45-degree angle (parameter C) in the opposite direction to the spray dispenser's tilt, with a 1-inch diameter circular hole in the center of the clear sheet, forming a 90-degree angle (parameter D) between the spray direction and the plastic sheet. The plastic sheet is held firmly in place by, for example, a workbench equipped with clamps. Before attaching the paper trap, the position of the spray dispenser relative to the plastic sheet is adjusted by performing a test spray so that the center of the spray cone passes through the hole, and correcting its angle and position. After such adjustments, parameters A to D must not deviate by more than 5% from their original values ​​as described above.

[0056] This test uses a paper trap made from 11-inch (width) x 6-inch (height) liquid absorbent paper, such as "The Quick Picker Upper" Select-a-Size Bounty (P&G) for liquids. The paper trap is suspended on a clear plastic sheet behind the hole, with the top edge of the paper positioned approximately 0.5 to 1.5 inches above the top edge of the circular hole, from the opposite side of the sprayer using a pair of oversized binder clips at the top corners along the width (long side) of the paper, so that all material passing from the spray dispenser through the circular hole is captured by the paper trap. The bottom corners of the paper are secured with another pair of binder clips to prevent any spray liquid accumulated on the plastic sheet from dripping through the hole onto the paper trap from the sprayer side. The nozzle of the spray dispenser is covered with another towel and primed twice (by fully squeezing the trigger). The covering towel is then removed.

[0057] Observe and confirm that the center of each spray cone passes through the circular hole, and perform the required number of full sprays (fully squeeze the trigger and hold it in the squeezed position until spraying stops). If the center of a particular spray cone does not pass through the circular hole, adjust the position of the spray dispenser relative to the plastic sheet as described above, and repeat spraying by using a new paper trap.

[0058] The paper traps are weighed before spraying using a balance scale with an accuracy of 1 microgram (6 digits) to 0.1 milligrams (4 digits). After spraying, the paper traps are suspended from a string and dried overnight at room temperature (30-50%) and room temperature (65-75°F). The dried paper traps are then weighed using the same balance scale. The weight of the dried paper traps is subtracted from their weight before spraying, and the total amount of nonvolatile substances delivered onto the paper traps by the sample packaged fabric refreshing product is calculated by taking the average of the measurements obtained from paper traps treated with the same sample packaged fabric refreshing product, or by statistically processing the results in another way. This indicates the odor control and odor reduction performance of the sample product.

[0059] The following is a step-by-step explanation of the paper trap test method.

[0060] First, the paper trap is folded five times into a square of approximately 1.5 inches x 1.5 inches, and the final fold is pressed so that it does not open beyond 90 degrees when left unpressurized, thereby (1) adapting it to its placement in the balance chamber and (2) increasing liquid capture efficiency. Four paper traps are prepared for four repetitions per test condition (i.e., sample packaged fabric refreshing products embodying a unique combination of a specific spray dispenser and a specific liquid fabric refreshing composition). All folded paper traps are uniquely labeled with a fine permanent marker and equilibrated in the balance position in an indoor air environment at 30-50% humidity and 65-75°F room temperature for at least one hour. Each equilibrated paper trap is weighed, placed in the balance chamber, and its weight is read and recorded four minutes after the door is closed.

[0061] Secondly, hang each paper trap as described in the general instructions. Cover the nozzle of the spray dispenser with another towel and prime it twice. Then remove the covering towel and then perform five full sprays from the sample packaged fabric refreshing product, ensuring that the center of the spray cone passes through the circular hole.

[0062] Thirdly, hang each sprayed paper trap from a string and dry overnight (14 hours or more) at room temperature of 30-50% humidity and 65-75°F.

[0063] Fourth, each dry paper trap is folded five more times into a square of approximately 1.5 inches x 1.5 inches so that its unique label is visible after the final fold, and the final fold is pressed so that it does not open more than 90 degrees to adapt to its placement in the balance chamber if left unpressurized. All folded paper traps are allowed to equilibrate in the balance position for at least one hour in an indoor air environment at room temperature of 30-50% humidity and 65-75°F. Each equilibrated paper trap is weighed, placed in the balance chamber, and its weight is read and recorded four minutes after the door is closed.

[0064] Finally, calculate the difference in weight of the same paper trap measured before spraying and after overnight drying, and record it as the weight of non-volatile substances delivered by the sample packaged fabric refreshing product. [Examples]

[0065] Example 1: Comparative example demonstrating improved intensive non-volatile substance delivery by the packaged fabric refreshing product of the present invention. One packaged fabric refreshing product (I) and three comparative packaged fabric refreshing products (A-C) of the present invention are provided as follows.

[0066] The packaged fabric refreshing product (I) of the present invention comprises a combination of a liquid fabric refreshing composition (a) containing a higher level of cyclodextrin (hereinafter referred to as the "high CD FR formulation") and a continuous trigger-operated spray dispenser supplied by Yoshino (hereinafter referred to as the "Yoshino sprayer").

[0067] A comparative packaged fabric refreshing product (A) includes a combination of a liquid fabric refreshing composition (b) containing a lower level of cyclodextrin (hereinafter, "low CD FR formulation") and a discontinuous trigger-operated spray dispenser supplied by Canyon (hereinafter, "Canyon sprayer"). A comparative packaged fabric refreshing product (B) includes a combination of a high CD FR formulation and a Canyon sprayer. A comparative packaged fabric refreshing product (C) includes a combination of a low CD FR formulation and a Yoshino sprayer.

[0068] The breakdown of the composition of high CD and low DC FR formulations is listed below.

[0069] [Table 1] (1) BASF Lupasol HF (2) Silwet L-7600 manufactured by Momentive (3) Bardac 2250J manufactured by Lonza (4) Wacker Cavasol W7 HP (5) BASF Basophor EL 60

[0070] The physical and performance parameters of the Canyon sprayer and the Yoshino sprayer are also provided below.

[0071] [Table 2]

[0072] The weight of nonvolatile substances delivered into the concentration area by the packaged fabric refreshing product of the present invention and the comparative packaged fabric refreshing product is measured by the paper trap method disclosed in Test 3 above. Each sample packaged fabric refreshing product was measured four times, and the average results are listed below.

[0073] [Table 3]

[0074] From the above data, it is clear that the packaged fabric refreshing product (A) of the present invention, using a combination of high CD FR formulation and a Yoshino sprayer, surprisingly and unexpectedly results in a synergistic improvement in the concentrated delivery of nonvolatile substances (including cyclodextrin as an odor-absorbing and odor-controlling active substance). Therefore, the packaged fabric refreshing product of the present invention provides more effective and efficient deodorization and refreshing of fabric-covered surfaces.

[0075] Example 2: Exemplary high-cyclodextrin liquid fabric freshening formulation for the packaged fabric refreshing product of the present invention The following are various exemplary high CD formulations (1) to (7) that can be used to produce the packaged fabric refreshing products of the present invention.

[0076] [Table 4] (1) Dowanol Eph6 manufactured by Dow (2) BASF Lupasol HF (3) Silwet L-7600 manufactured by Momentive (4) Bardac 2250 or Uniquat 2250 manufactured by Lonza (5) Bardac LFE manufactured by Lonza (6) Dupont Koralone B-119 (7) Wacker Cavasol W7 HP (8) BASF Basophor EL 60

[0077] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​listed. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the listed value and the functionally equivalent range encompassing that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "approximately 40 mm."

[0078] All documents referenced herein, including any patents or patent applications that are cross-referenced or related, and any patent applications or patents for which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety unless expressly excluded or particularly limited. No citation of any document shall be deemed prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, nor shall it be deemed to teach, suggest or disclose any such invention, either alone or in combination with any one or more other references. Furthermore, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in any document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to that term in this document shall prevail.

[0079] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. Packaged fabric refreshing product, a) Liquid fabric freshening composition, and b) comprising a spray dispenser for dispensing the liquid fabric freshening composition, The liquid fabric freshening composition comprises a liquid carrier and 1% to 5% by weight of cyclodextrin. A packaged fabric refreshing product wherein the spray dispenser is a manual trigger type spray dispenser, and when activated by a single operation of the trigger mechanism, the liquid fabric refreshing composition can be continuously dispensed for at least 0.4 seconds.

2. The packaged product according to claim 1, wherein the cyclodextrin is selected from the group consisting of α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, γ-cyclodextrin, and derivatives and / or mixtures thereof, and optionally the cyclodextrin is selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropyl α-cyclodextrin (HPACD), methylated α-cyclodextrin (MACD), methylated β-cyclodextrin (MBCD), hydroxyethyl β-cyclodextrin (MEBCD), hydroxypropyl β-cyclodextrin (HPBCD), and derivatives and / or mixtures thereof, and optionally the liquid fabric freshening composition contains 1.2% to 3% by weight, optionally 1.5% to 2.5% by weight of cyclodextrin.

3. The packaged product according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the liquid fabric freshening composition further comprises one or more components selected from the group consisting of one or more fragrances, one or more surfactants compatible with cyclodextrin, and one or more antimicrobial active substances compatible with cyclodextrin.

4. The packaged product according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the spray dispenser is capable of continuously dispensing the liquid fabric freshening composition for a period of 0.4 seconds to 2 seconds, optionally 0.5 seconds to 1.8 seconds, or optionally 0.6 seconds to 1.5 seconds when the trigger mechanism is operated by a single action.

5. The packaged product according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the spray dispenser comprises (1) a container body containing a liquid fabric freshening composition, (2) a nozzle, and (3) an ejector that is in fluid communication with the container body and the nozzle, draws the liquid fabric freshening composition from the container body, and ejects the liquid fabric freshening composition forward through the nozzle when activated by the trigger mechanism.

6. The packaged product according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the distributed liquid fabric freshening composition is characterized by an average droplet size (DV50) of 50 to 120 microns, optionally 60 to 110 microns, and optionally 70 to 100 microns.

7. A method for refreshing the surface of a fabric and reducing unpleasant odors from it, (a) A step of providing a liquid fabric freshening composition comprising a liquid carrier and 1% to 5% by weight of cyclodextrin, and (b) The process includes spraying an effective amount of the liquid fabric freshening composition onto the fabric surface using a manual trigger spray dispenser, A method wherein the fabric surface is substantially flat having a minimum dimension of 0.6 meters or more, and the manual trigger spray dispenser can continuously dispense the liquid fabric freshening composition for at least 0.4 seconds when activated by a single action of the trigger mechanism.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the fabric surface is selected from the group consisting of bedding, mattresses, sofas, and carpets.

Images