Cleaning composition

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cleaning composition comprising low levels of hydrogen peroxide and at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid. The compositions and methods of the present invention are particularly suitable for household cleaning, such as hard surface cleaning or cleaning soft surfaces, such as textiles and garments to be washed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to cleaning compositions comprising low levels of hydrogen peroxide and at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid. The compositions and methods of the present invention are particularly suitable for use in household cleaning, for example for hard surface cleaning or for cleaning soft surfaces such as textiles and laundry. Background Art

[0002] A large number of compositions for cleaning both hard and soft surfaces have been described in the art.

[0003] While such compositions may provide suitable cleaning performance, there is a need for alternative cleaning compositions for cleaning and / or disinfecting hard surfaces, such as kitchen and bathroom surfaces, as well as soft surfaces, such as textiles, such as laundry.

[0004] In particular, it would be beneficial to provide highly effective and cost-effective compositions to reduce and / or eliminate microorganisms on soft and hard surfaces that do not rely on harsh chemicals and are potentially safer for consumers. There is also a need for more environmentally friendly compositions that avoid the need for complex activators such as TAED and the like. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present inventors have developed aqueous cleaning compositions having desirable cleaning properties which can be used to clean hard or soft surfaces.

[0006] In a first aspect, an aqueous cleaning composition is provided, comprising (a) hydrogen peroxide, (b) at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, (c) an anionic surfactant and (d) at least 90% by weight of water. The aqueous cleaning composition can be a hard surface cleaner and / or a soft surface cleaner. In certain embodiments, the aqueous cleaning composition is an aqueous hard surface cleaner composition. In certain embodiments, the aqueous cleaning composition is an aqueous soft surface cleaner composition.

[0007] More specifically, the aqueous cleaning composition comprises or consists essentially of: (a) from about 0.05 wt % to about 4 wt % hydrogen peroxide, (b) from about 0.01 wt % to about 0.25 wt % of at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid, and formic acid, (c) from about 0.05 wt % to about 2.00 wt % anionic surfactant, and (d) about 90 wt % water, wherein the pH of the composition is from 2.8 to 3.5.

[0008] The composition of the present invention is an aqueous composition comprising at least 90% by weight of water. More specifically, the composition may comprise at least 91% by weight, at least 92% by weight, at least 93% by weight, at least 94% by weight, at least 95% by weight, at least 96% by weight, at least 97% by weight, at least 98% by weight or at least 99% by weight of water.

[0009] A test suspension of Candida albicans or Klebsiella pneumoniae (1-5 x 10 8 cfu / ml) to the composition of the present invention, resulting in a reduction of the number of colony forming units by at least log 2.5 within 60 seconds, preferably by at least log 3 within 60 seconds, more preferably by at least log 4, and most preferably by at least log 5.

[0010] The compositions of the present invention are storage stable for a commercially reasonable period of time. More specifically, the compositions of the present invention are storage stable for at least 3 months after preparation, particularly for at least 6 months after preparation, more particularly for at least 12 months after preparation, and even more particularly for at least 24 months after preparation.

[0011] The storage stability of the compositions of the present invention can be determined using direct measurements or indirect measurements. Direct measurements of storage stability include measurements of physical stability, such as precipitation, and / or measurements of chemical stability, such as chemical degradation of one or more components. Indirect measurements of storage stability include measurements of microbial kill, such as determined using bacterial kill assays, fungal kill assays, and viral inactivation or kill assays.

[0012] As used herein, the term "storage stable" means that the components of the aqueous mixture will not precipitate (physically stable) or chemically degrade (chemically stable) over a specified period of time.

[0013] The composition of the present invention may further comprise (e) means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition. In certain embodiments, the composition of the present invention comprises means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition within the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0014] In some embodiments, the composition of the present invention consists essentially of: (a) from about 0.05% to about 4% by weight hydrogen peroxide, (b) from about 0.01% to about 0.25% by weight of at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furanic acid, and formic acid, (c) from about 0.05% to about 2.00% by weight anionic surfactant, (d) about 90% by weight water, and (e) means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition, wherein the pH of the composition is from 2.8 to 3.5.

[0015] The composition may include about 0.01% to about 0.09% by weight of means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition. The means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition may be an acid or a buffer. The composition may include about 0.01% to about 0.09% by weight of a buffer. The composition may include about 0.02% to about 0.08% by weight of means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition. The composition may include about 0.02% to about 0.08% by weight of a buffer. In some embodiments, the means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition is sodium citrate, more specifically a sodium citrate buffer.

[0016] Thus, in another embodiment, an aqueous cleaning composition is provided consisting essentially of about 0.05 wt % to about 4 wt % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt % to about 0.25 wt % of an acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, about 0.05 wt % to about 2.00 wt % anionic surfactant, about 90 wt % water, and about 0.01 wt % to about 0.08 wt % buffer (particularly sodium citrate buffer), wherein the pH of the composition is 2.8 to 3.5.

[0017] The composition of the present invention may further comprise a sensory component. In certain embodiments, the sensory component is a flavor, a colorant and / or a bittering agent.

[0018] In a further embodiment, an aqueous storage-stable cleaning composition is provided consisting essentially of about 0.05 wt % to about 4 wt % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt % to about 0.25 wt % of an acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, about 0.05 wt % to about 2.00 wt % anionic surfactant, about 90 wt % water, and about 0.01 wt % to about 0.08 wt % buffer (particularly sodium citrate buffer), wherein the pH of the composition is 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.01 wt % to about 0.5 wt % of a sensory component.

[0019] In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant is a sodium alkyl sulfate.In certain embodiments, the anionic surfactant is a sodium alkyl sulfate selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfonate, and sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

[0020] Thus, also provided is an aqueous storage-stable cleaning composition consisting essentially of: from about 0.05 wt % to about 4 wt % hydrogen peroxide, from about 0.01 wt % to about 0.25 wt % of at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, from about 0.05 wt % to about 2.00 wt % anionic surfactant selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfonate and sodium lauryl ether sulfate, about 90 wt % water, and from about 0.01 wt % to about 0.08 wt % buffer (particularly sodium citrate buffer), wherein the composition has a pH of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises from about 0.01 wt % to about 0.5 wt % sensory component.

[0021] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise from about 0.1% to about 2% by weight hydrogen peroxide, particularly from about 0.25% to 1% by weight hydrogen peroxide.

[0022] Preferably, the acid is salicylic acid.In some embodiments, the composition of the present invention comprises from about 0.01% to 0.25% by weight of salicylic acid, particularly from about 0.1% to 0.2% by weight of salicylic acid.

[0023] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise from about 0.25% to about 1% by weight of an anionic surfactant. In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise from about 0.25% to about 1.00% by weight of an anionic surfactant selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfonate, and sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

[0024] The compositions of the present invention are ready for use and do not require dilution or reconstitution. The compositions may be applied to a surface by pouring, spraying and / or wiping. The compositions are foamable and may be applied to a surface in the form of an aerated foam. The compositions of the present invention are substantially free of persalts. The compositions of the present invention do not contain TAED.

[0025] In some embodiments, the aqueous composition is a hard surface cleaner composition. In some embodiments, the aqueous composition is a soft surface cleaner composition, which is used to clean textiles, such as laundry. In certain embodiments, the aqueous composition is a laundry detergent enhancer composition and / or a stain treatment composition.

[0026] In a second aspect of the invention, a container is provided, the container containing the composition of the first aspect. In particular, the container is a dispenser. In particular, the dispenser comprises or consists essentially of a container defining a reservoir and an applicator head in fluid communication with the reservoir, wherein the reservoir contains the composition of the invention, and wherein the applicator head is configured to dispense the composition from the reservoir, in particular in the form of a spray and / or foam.

[0027] By way of non-limiting example, the container comprises high density polyethylene (HDPE) and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In some embodiments, the container comprises high density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In some embodiments, the container is a high density polyethylene (HDPE) container. In some embodiments, the container is a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) container.

[0028] In a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a disposable pre-moistened pad for cleaning hard surfaces comprising: (i) a substrate and (ii) a cleaning composition of the first aspect, wherein the substrate is impregnated with the composition.

[0029] In a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a hard surface cleaning composition according to the first aspect for use in a method of cleaning a hard surface.

[0030] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, the hard surface cleaning composition may be provided in a container according to the second aspect. In these embodiments, the hard surface cleaning composition may be applied to the hard surface by spraying or pouring.

[0031] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, the hard surface cleaning composition may be provided in the form of a substrate impregnated with the cleaning composition according to the third aspect. In these embodiments, the hard surface cleaning composition may be applied to the hard surface by wiping.

[0032] In a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided a cleaning composition according to the first aspect for use in a method of cleaning a soft surface.Thus, the cleaning composition may be a stain treatment composition and / or a laundry detergent enhancer composition.

[0033] In a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of cleaning a hard or soft surface, which comprises allowing the cleaning composition according to the first aspect to remain in contact with the hard or soft surface for a period of time.

[0034] Also provided is a detergent composition according to the first aspect for use in a method for killing microorganisms (e.g., Candida albicans) on a hard or soft surface. Specifically, the method comprises contacting the microorganisms on the hard or soft surface with the cleaning composition for a period of time sufficient to kill the microorganisms.

[0035] In some embodiments, the microorganism is a bacterium, a fungus or a virus. In some embodiments, the microorganism is a bacterium, particularly a gram-negative bacterium, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae. In some embodiments, the microorganism is a fungus, particularly a yeast, such as Candida albicans. In some embodiments, the microorganism is a virus, such as an enveloped virus or a non-enveloped virus, such as an influenza virus or a coronavirus. In certain embodiments, the virus is an influenza virus H1N1. In certain embodiments, the virus is a coronavirus, such as SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-1 or SARS-CoV-2.

[0036] The compositions and methods described herein are particularly useful for treating hard surfaces, such as floors, kitchen surfaces, bathroom surfaces, and walls.

[0037] The compositions and methods described herein are particularly useful for treating soft surfaces such as textiles and laundry, for example as an additive to laundry detergents. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Figure 1 : shows a ceramic tile stained with tea, comparing an untreated part (UT) and a part treated with a composition according to the invention (T). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0040] The present invention relates to an aqueous cleaning composition comprising salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid or formic acid in combination with hydrogen peroxide and an anionic surfactant.

[0041] Surprisingly, the inventors have found that such compositions exhibit excellent antimicrobial efficacy. Without being bound by theory, there appears to be a synergistic antimicrobial effect when microorganisms are exposed to a combination of hydrogen peroxide and an acid component (salicylic acid, formic acid or furancarboxylic acid), with log 2.5 or even higher reductions in the number of colony forming units within 60 seconds (in a kill assay) even at low hydrogen peroxide levels. It should be noted that other acids (e.g. phosphoric acid or citric acid) do not exhibit this synergistic antimicrobial efficacy, and that the effect is independent of, for example, pKa.

[0042] Advantageously, such compositions have excellent skin tolerance, making them particularly suitable for cleaning surfaces where the product may come into contact with the skin of the hands, fingers or feet.

[0043] References to "cleaning" and "cleansing" generally refer to treating a surface to reduce or remove unwanted matter, such as dirt, oil, stains, or microorganisms. The term "hard surface" refers to solid, substantially non-flexible surfaces, such as countertops, tiles, floors, walls, plumbing fixtures, kitchen and bathroom furniture, etc. The term "soft surface" refers to softer, highly flexible materials, such as woven and nonwoven textiles, such as clothing, fabrics, and carpets.

[0044] These compositions are effective in cleaning hard surfaces and removing stains ( Figure 1 ). They have a high degree of surface compatibility such that they will not corrode or tarnish plastics (e.g. acrylics), nylons, porcelain, resins, metals or other materials commonly found in residential and commercial environments.

[0045] The composition is also effective in cleaning soft surfaces and removing stains. The composition can be used for pre-treatment of stains or as a laundry additive for cleaning textiles (as an additive to laundry detergents in the wash liquor), e.g., to improve (enhance) or increase the effect of the detergent. When used as a laundry enhancer, the composition of the present invention provides sanitizing or disinfecting effects. These effects may be particularly advantageous when cleaning baby clothes and diapers.

[0046] The composition has desirable environmental properties, decomposing primarily into oxygen and water. More specifically, the composition of the present invention is free of persalts (e.g., sodium perborate) and commonly used activators (e.g., TAED, NOBS, and LOBS), which can be costly and environmentally harmful. Avoiding activators (such as TAED, etc.) means that the composition of the present invention has improved safety properties.

[0047] For the avoidance of doubt, mentioning "% by weight" means that the amount of each component is selected so that the sum of the total components in the composition is 100 weight percent, based on the weight of the total composition. For the composition of the present invention, the remainder or balance is water. The term "aqueous solution" refers to a solution in which the solvent is water and the other components of the composition are dispersed, mixed and / or dissolved therein. Specifically, the composition comprises at least 80% by weight of water, such as at least 85% by weight or 90% by weight of water. More specifically, the composition may comprise at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98% by weight or at least 99% by weight of water. Therefore, the composition may comprise 80% to 99% by weight of water, such as 85% to 99% by weight, 90% to 99% by weight or 95% to 99% by weight of water. Specifically, water is the only solvent, and organic solvents, such as alcohols, are not used.

[0048] The compositions of the present invention include hydrogen peroxide, also known as H2O2 (CAS No.: 7722-84-1). Specifically, the compositions of the present invention include about 0.05% to about 4% by weight of hydrogen peroxide, such as about 0.05% to about 4% by weight, about 0.1% to about 4% by weight, or about 0.25% to about 4% by weight of hydrogen peroxide. More specifically, about 0.05% to about 2% by weight, about 0.1% to about 2% by weight, or about 0.25% to about 2% by weight of hydrogen peroxide. Even more specifically, about 0.05% to about 1% by weight, about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, or about 0.25% to about 1% by weight of hydrogen peroxide. Still more specifically, about 0.1 wt % to about 0.75 wt % or about 0.25 wt % to about 0.75 wt %, for example about 0.25 wt %, about 0.3 wt %, about 0.4 wt %, about 0.5 wt %, about 0.6 wt %, about 0.7 wt % or about 0.75 wt % hydrogen peroxide.

[0049] The composition of the present invention further comprises at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furanoic acid and formic acid. Salicylic acid (CAS No.: 69-72-7) may also be referred to as 2-hydroxybenzoic acid. Formic acid (CAS No.: 64-18-6) may also be referred to as formic acid (methanoic acid). Furancarboxylic acid refers to 2-furancarboxylic acid (CAS No.: 88-14-2), also known as furancarboxylic acid, and / or 3-furancarboxylic acid (CAS No.: 488-93-7), also known as furan-3-carboxylic acid. The composition may comprise 2-furancarboxylic acid and / or 3-furancarboxylic acid. In some embodiments, the acid is 2-furancarboxylic acid. In other embodiments, the acid is 3-furancarboxylic acid.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the acid is salicylic acid.

[0051] Although it is preferred to use an acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that combinations of these acids may also be used. For example, the composition of the present invention further comprises at least two acids selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, such as two of these acids or three of these acids. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the composition may comprise a combination of salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, such as in any suitable molar ratio, such as 1:1:1 to 2:1:1, 1:2:1 or 1:1:2. In other embodiments, the composition may comprise a combination of salicylic acid and furancarboxylic acid, a combination of salicylic acid and formic acid or a combination of furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, such as in any suitable molar ratio, such as 1:1 to 3:1, 1:1 to 1:1, such as 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 3:1 or 2:1.

[0052] The compositions of the present invention may include from about 0.01% to about 0.25% by weight of the acid, from about 0.1% to about 0.25% by weight of the acid, or from about 0.15% to about 0.2% by weight of the acid, for example, about 0.15%, 0.16%, 0.17%, 0.18%, 0.19%, or about 0.2% by weight of the acid.

[0053] Compositions of the present invention include surfactants, more specifically anionic surfactants. Suitable anionic surfactants are known in the art. Specifically, anionic surfactants are sodium alkyl sulfates, such as sodium sulfate with an alkyl group, which has 8 to 20 carbon atoms. Non-limiting examples of these include sodium decyl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate (also referred to as SLS or sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)), sodium tetradecyl sulfate, sodium hexadecyl sulfate and sodium octadecyl sulfate. In certain embodiments, anionic surfactants are sodium alkyl sulfates selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfonate and sodium lauryl ether sulfate. Specifically, anionic surfactants are sodium lauryl sulfate.

[0054] The composition may comprise from about 0.05% to about 2.00% by weight of anionic surfactant, particularly from about 0.1% to about 2%, more particularly from about 0.25% to about 1%, or even more particularly from about 0.3% to about 0.8% by weight of anionic surfactant. For example, about 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7% or about 0.8% by weight of anionic surfactant.

[0055] The composition of the present invention preferably has a pH in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, for example a pH in the range of 2.8 to 3.2, for example a pH of about 3.0 or about 3.1. In order to achieve this, the composition of the present invention may include means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition within the range. The composition may include about 0.01% by weight to about 0.09% by weight, for example about 0.02% by weight to 0.08% by weight, for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition. The composition may include about 0.02%, 0.03%, 0.04%, 0.05%, 0.06%, 0.07% by weight, or about 0.08% by weight, for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition.

[0056] The means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition can be an acid or a pH buffer (also referred to as a buffer). Specifically, the means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition is a pH buffer. More specifically, the means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition is a pH buffer comprising sodium citrate. More specifically, the means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition is a sodium citrate buffer. Sodium citrate buffer is known in the art and can be prepared and adjusted to desired pH by mixing citric acid (monohydrate) and trisodium citrate (dehydrate) (e.g., by way of non-limiting example, mixed in a ratio of 82:18 to 73:27, respectively).

[0057] Specifically, the compositions of the present invention exhibit a skin tolerance score of at least 10% mean cell viability, at least 11%, at least 12%, at least 13%, at least 14%, or at least 15% mean cell viability as measured by an in vitro skin tolerance assay, more specifically, as measured by the in vitro EPIDERM Skin Irritation Test (EPI-200-SIT, MatTek Corporation).

[0058] Preferably, the composition of the present invention is free of alcohol. The term "free of alcohol" means that alcohol is absent (0 wt %). For the avoidance of doubt, the term may include the presence of alcohol, but in an amount below the detection limit of the analytical method and in an amount too low to be detected or accurately measured.

[0059] Alternatively, since some sensory components (discussed below) contain alcohol, the compositions of the present invention may be substantially free of alcohol, where sensory components are included. "Substantially free of alcohol," as used herein, means that the composition contains less than 0.5% alcohol, e.g., 0.4% or less, 0.3% or less, 0.25% or less, 0.2% or less, 0.1% or less, 0.05% or less, or less than 0.01% alcohol.

[0060] The composition of the present invention is a foamable formulation. "Foamable formulation" refers to a composition that can form foam, especially foam with small bubble size, to present the appearance of dense, rich foam. The foam can be easily brushed on the surface.

[0061] The composition of the present invention forms a stable foam having desired physicochemical properties, such as volume, density and diffusion, which do not change significantly over a period of time, so that the foam does not break immediately during use. More specifically, the foam formed by the composition of the present invention will not "break quickly", and will be stable when distributed from a container (such as by spraying), and will not break immediately when in contact with a surface. Although the foam formed by the composition of the present invention will not break quickly, they will be "breakable", in other words, can be easily diffused onto the surface when a slight shear force is applied. Tests known in the art can be used to measure the characteristics of the foam, such as by performing foam formation (foam height relative to time) and foam collapsibility experiments. Preferably, the foam maintains its structure so that it remains in contact with the surface for a period of time sufficient to clean and / or kill microorganisms. Specifically, the duration of use is 3 minutes or shorter, more specifically 2 minutes or shorter, and more specifically 60 seconds or shorter, such as between about 30 to 60 seconds.

[0062] The compositions of the present invention are foamable in the absence of a propellant. Specifically, the compositions of the present invention are dispensed from a container without the use of a propellant. Specifically, the compositions are foamed by agitation (e.g., by shaking or stirring) or manual aeration (e.g., where atmospheric air is passed through the formulation to produce foam, e.g., by manually activating a dispensing head). Specifically, the compositions of the present invention can be dispensed from a container with a suitable dispensing head (e.g., a foam applicator head). The foam can be applied directly to the surface, optionally with brushing or wiping. After cleaning, the surface can be optionally rinsed with water or dry wiped, e.g., to remove small pools of liquid or droplets of the composition.

[0063] For compositions used to clean surfaces, it may be desirable to include at least one sensory component. "Sensory component" refers to a component that can be used to impart fragrance, color or taste to the composition. In addition to imparting the desired sensory properties to the composition, the sensory component is generally not an active component, in other words, it generally does not play an active role in cleaning or killing bacteria. Specifically, the sensory component is at least one flavor or fragrance, colorant or bittering agent.

[0064] Suitable spices, also known as essences, include components that provide olfactory benefits, such as masking any chemical odors associated with the product. Spices can improve the odor of the composition itself and / or impart odors on surfaces treated with the composition of the present invention. Spices ingredients are easily dissolved in the composition of the present invention, such as through detergent components. Suitable perfume ingredients and compositions are known in the art and can be selected based on the desired odor and compatibility with composition components (e.g., hydrogen peroxide and acid).

[0065] "Colorant" is also called "dye" and refers to any type of color-imparting compound, such as dye, pigment or other material. In particular, any colorant is stable and will not be degraded by the ingredients of the composition (such as hydrogen peroxide, acid components or pH of the composition).

[0066] As used herein, the term "bittering agent" refers to a compound used to impart an undesirable bitter taste or flavor to deter animals (e.g., pets, such as dogs and cats) or humans (e.g., children and infants) from ingesting (swallowing) the composition. Organoleptic components are known in the art and may be natural or artificial (synthetic).

[0067] The composition of the present invention may comprise from about 0.01% to about 0.5% by weight of sensory components, particularly from about 0.1% to about 0.3% by weight of sensory components, more particularly from about 0.2% to about 0.3% by weight of sensory components, for example, about 0.1%, 0.15%, 0.2%, 0.25%, 0.3%, 0.35%, 0.4%, 0.45% or about 0.5% by weight of sensory components.

[0068] The organoleptic components must be compatible with the ingredients of the composition and will not be altered or degraded, for example, upon contact with hydrogen peroxide or acid. More specifically, any flavors, colorants and bittering agents used are peroxide stable (i.e., stable in the presence of peroxide), acid stable (i.e., stable in the presence of salicylic acid, furanoic acid and formic acid) and pH stable (at a pH of 2.8 to 3.5).

[0069] Typically, the composition of the present invention is stable at room temperature of 20°C for at least 3 months, in particular at room temperature of 20°C for at least 6 months, more in particular at room temperature of 20°C for at least 12 months, even more in particular at room temperature of 20°C for at least 24 months.

[0070] As used herein, the term "stable" or "shelf-stable" refers to the ability of a composition to maintain certain physical or chemical properties (eg, antimicrobial efficacy) during storage at a particular temperature for a period of time after production.

[0071] The stability of the compositions of the present invention can be determined by comparing the antimicrobial efficacy before and after storage for a period of time using a suitable killing or inactivation assay that measures the reduction in the number of viable microorganisms present in a sample after exposure to the composition.

[0072] As used herein, the term "microorganism" refers to bacteria, fungi (e.g., yeast or mold) and viruses. The compositions of the present invention kill and / or inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi and viruses, and may be referred to as "antimicrobial" or "microbicidal". Thus, the compositions of the present invention may be "biocidal" compositions that kill and / or inhibit the growth of bacteria and / or "fungicidal" compositions that kill and / or inhibit the growth of fungi and / or "virucidal" compositions that inactivate viral particles so that the viral particles cannot infect host cells. Reference to "sanitizing" refers to both cleaning and disinfecting. As used herein, "disinfecting" refers to killing microorganisms living on surfaces.

[0073] As used herein, the term "killing" refers to causing the death of a microorganism. For a microbial population, the term "killing" or "killing" refers to reducing the total amount or level of live or viable microorganisms by causing the death of some or substantially all microorganisms in the population. For viruses, killing or killing refers to making the virus unable to infect a host cell and / or making the virus unable to replicate in a host cell, for example, by inactivating or destroying. Therefore, a killing test can be a bacterial killing test, a fungal killing test, a viral killing test, or a viral inactivation test.

[0074] In some embodiments, the composition is a virucidal composition capable of killing influenza virus or coronavirus. In certain embodiments, the virus is influenza virus H1N1. In certain embodiments, the virus is a coronavirus, such as SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-1 or SARS-CoV-2.

[0075] For the avoidance of doubt, the use of the term "a" or "an" in reference to microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses should be understood to refer to one or more such entities, such as a bacterial community growing on a surface, such as in the form of a biofilm. The term "biofilm" refers to a film formed by a surface-attached community of microorganisms encased in a self-produced extracellular polymer matrix. Such biofilms are typically formed in corners and surfaces of aqueous environments (e.g., by way of non-limiting example, sinks, faucets, drains, etc.).

[0076] Opportunistic yeast species such as Candida albicans are ubiquitous in the environment, including on foods such as citrus fruits, vegetables and bread. It is one of the few Candida species that can infect humans and cause candidiasis, which is caused by the overgrowth of fungi. Candida albicans is commonly used as a model organism for fungal pathogens. Therefore, the efficacy and stability of the composition of the present invention can be determined by measuring the antibacterial efficacy against Candida albicans using a suitable killing test (e.g., the test described in the examples). For example, stability can be determined by comparing the antibacterial efficacy of the composition before and after storage for a period of time.

[0077] The level of kill can be defined as a ratio, such as a percentage, or by reference to the log reduction in the total amount or level of microorganisms. Log reduction is used in the art to refer to the number of viable microorganisms killed, for example, after the microorganisms are contacted with the composition of the present invention. The terms "log X reduction" and "x log reduction" are used interchangeably and refer to a 10% reduction in the number of viable microorganisms. x For example, a log 4 reduction means that after a population of microorganisms has been contacted with the composition, the number of microorganisms remaining in the population has been reduced by a factor of 10,000, i.e., 1 / 10 of the population before contact with the composition. 4 or less.

[0078] In particular, when measured at least 3 months after preparation of the composition, the suspension of Candida albicans (10 8 cfu / ml) is exposed to the composition of the invention, within 60 seconds of exposure, the number of colony forming units of Candida albicans produces at least a log 2.5 reduction, particularly at least a log 3 reduction, more particularly at least a log 4 reduction, and even more particularly at least a log 5 reduction. In particular, when measured at least 6 months after preparation of the composition, a suspension of Candida albicans (10 8 cfu / ml) is exposed to the composition of the invention, and within 60 seconds of exposure, the number of colony forming units of Candida albicans is reduced by at least log 2.5, particularly at least log 3, more particularly at least log 4, and even more particularly at least log 5. In particular, when measured at least 12 months after preparation of the composition, a suspension of Candida albicans (10 8 cfu / ml) is exposed to the composition of the invention, within 60 seconds of exposure, the number of Candida albicans colony forming units produces at least a log 2.5 reduction, particularly at least a log 3 reduction, more particularly at least a log 4 reduction, and even more particularly at least a log 5 reduction. In particular, when measured at least 24 months after preparation of the composition, a suspension of Candida albicans (10 8cfu / ml) to the composition of the invention, within 60 seconds of exposure, the number of Candida albicans colony forming units produces at least a log 2.5 reduction, particularly at least a log 3 reduction, more particularly at least a log 4 reduction, and even more particularly at least a log 5 reduction.

[0079] Klebsiella pneumoniae is a gram-negative bacterium that causes a variety of healthcare-associated infections. It is often found in household and healthcare environments, such as kitchen surfaces and sponges. Therefore, the stability of the compositions of the present invention can also be determined by measuring the antibacterial efficacy against Klebsiella pneumoniae using a suitable bacteria killing assay (e.g., the assay described in the Examples).

[0080] In particular, when measured at least 3 months after preparation of the composition, a suspension of Klebsiella pneumoniae (10 8 cfu / ml) to the composition of the invention, within 60 seconds of exposure, the number of Klebsiella pneumoniae colony forming units produces at least a log 2.5 reduction, particularly at least a log 3 reduction, more particularly at least a log 4 reduction, and even more particularly at least a log 5 reduction. In particular, when measured at least 6 months after preparation of the composition, a suspension of Klebsiella pneumoniae (10 8 cfu / ml) is exposed to the composition of the invention, and within 60 seconds of exposure, the number of colony forming units of Klebsiella pneumoniae is reduced by at least log2.5, particularly by at least log3, more particularly by at least log4, and even more particularly by at least log5. In particular, when measured at least 12 months after preparation of the composition, a suspension of Klebsiella pneumoniae (10 8 cfu / ml) to the composition of the invention, within 60 seconds of exposure, the number of Klebsiella pneumoniae colony forming units produces at least a log 2.5 reduction, particularly at least a log 3 reduction, more particularly at least a log 4 reduction, and even more particularly at least a log 5 reduction. In particular, when measured at least 24 months after preparation of the composition, a suspension of Klebsiella pneumoniae (10 8 cfu / ml) to the composition of the invention, within 60 seconds of exposure, the number of Klebsiella pneumoniae colony forming units produces at least a log 2.5 reduction, particularly at least a log 3 reduction, more particularly at least a log 4 reduction, and even more particularly at least a log 5 reduction.

[0081] The compositions of the present invention retain at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98% or at least 99% of their antimicrobial efficacy at room temperature (20°C) after at least three months, after at least six months, after at least twelve months, or after at least twenty-four months.

[0082] A container comprising the composition of the present invention is also provided. A dispenser is also provided, comprising (i) a container comprising the composition of the present invention and (ii) an applicator head. More specifically, a dispenser is provided, which consists essentially of: (i) a container comprising the composition of the present invention and (ii) an applicator head configured to dispense the composition in the form of a spray and / or foam. Still more specifically, a dispenser is provided, which comprises or consists essentially of: a container defining a reservoir and an applicator head in fluid communication with the reservoir, wherein the reservoir comprises the composition of the present invention, and wherein the applicator head is configured to dispense the composition from the reservoir in the form of a spray and / or foam.

[0083] The container can be made of any suitable material. Suitable materials are those that do not degrade, interact or react with the components of the composition. Specifically, suitable materials do not interact, react or degrade when contacting with hydrogen peroxide, more specifically, when contacting with 0.05% by weight to about 4% by weight of hydrogen peroxide, such as for long-term contact. Specifically, suitable materials do not interact, react or degrade when contacting (e.g., for long-term contact) with salicylic acid, furanoic acid or formic acid (more specifically, 0.01% by weight to about 0.25% by weight of salicylic acid, furanoic acid or formic acid). Specifically, suitable materials do not interact, react or degrade when contacting (e.g., for long-term contact) with anionic surfactants (more specifically, 0.05% by weight to about 2.00% by weight of anionic surfactants).

[0084] By way of non-limiting example, the container can include high density polyethylene (HDPE) and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In some embodiments, the container includes high density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In some embodiments, the container is a high density polyethylene (HDPE) container. In some embodiments, the container is a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) container.

[0085] After accelerated stability testing of the compositions of the present invention stored in containers made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and other plastic and metal parts, no signs of corrosion or other damage to the containers were found. Therefore, a container containing the compositions of the present invention is also provided, wherein the container is made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). A dispenser is also provided, which includes (i) a container containing the compositions of the present invention and (ii) an applicator head, wherein the container is made of polypropylene (PP). More specifically, the dispenser is essentially composed of: (i) a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) container containing the compositions of the present invention and (ii) an applicator head configured to dispense the composition in the form of a spray and / or foam. Still more specifically, a dispenser is provided that includes or consists essentially of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) container defining a reservoir and an applicator head in fluid communication with the reservoir, wherein the reservoir contains a composition of the present invention, and wherein the foam applicator head is configured to dispense the composition from the reservoir in the form of a spray and / or foam.

[0086] Specifically, the composition of the present invention does not contain persalts, such as sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate, sodium persulfate, potassium persulfate or ammonium persulfate. The use of the term "persalt" refers to any solid inorganic compound that releases hydrogen peroxide and a salt of an inorganic acid when dissolved in water under normal temperature and pressure conditions. Therefore, the composition of the present invention does not contain sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate, sodium persulfate, potassium persulfate and / or ammonium persulfate. More specifically, the composition of the present invention is substantially free of persalts. The term "substantially free of persalts" refers to the absence of persalts (0 wt %). For the avoidance of doubt, the term may also include the presence of persalts, but in an amount below the detection limit of the analytical method, and in an amount too low to be detected or accurately measured.

[0087] In particular, the compositions of the present invention do not contain complex peroxyacid bleach precursors such as N,N,N',N'-tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED), decanoyloxybenzoic acid (DOBA), decanoyloxybenzenesulfonate (DOBS), tetraacetyl glycoluril (TAGU), sodium acetylbenzenesulfonate (SABS), nonanoyloxybenzenesulfonate (NOBS), sodium 4-(isononanoyloxy)benzenesulfonate (isoNOBS), sodium nonanoyloxybenzenesulfonate (SNOBS) and sodium benzoyloxybenzenesulfonate (SBOBS), sodium 4-(2-decanoyloxyethoxycarbonyloxy)benzenesulfonate (DECOBS) and sodium lauroyloxybenzenesulfonate (LOBS). Thus, the compositions of the present invention are free of TAED, free of DOBA, free of DOBS, free of SABS, free of NOBS, free of isoNOBS, free of SNOBS, free of DECOBS and free of LOBS.

[0088] Composition for cleaning

[0089] The present invention also relates to the above-described composition for use in a method of cleaning a surface, such as a hard surface and / or a soft surface.

[0090] These methods involve applying the composition to a surface and allowing the composition to contact the surface for a period of time.

[0091] The composition can be applied in the form of spray and / or foam. Therefore, the method can include applying the composition to the surface in the form of spray and / or foam. The method can include dispensing the composition from a container in the form of spray and / or foam. Specifically, when dispensing, the composition can be activated as foam by a foaming applicator head. The composition can be applied directly to the surface, such as a hard surface or a soft surface, by spraying (optionally with wiping or stirring, such as brushing). In some embodiments, the composition can be applied directly to the surface, such as a hard surface or a soft surface, by pouring (optionally with wiping or stirring, such as brushing).

[0092] In other embodiments, the composition can be applied to a surface, such as a hard surface or a soft surface, using a substrate such as a sponge, a rag, a cloth, a brush, etc. In these embodiments, the composition is first dispensed onto the substrate, such as by pouring or spraying, and then applied to the surface using the substrate, such as by wiping or scrubbing. In this way, the composition is transferred from the substrate to the surface, particularly due to the physical contact between the substrate and the surface. Similarly, a disposable pre-wet pad can be used to apply the composition to the surface, the disposable pre-wet pad comprising a substrate impregnated with the cleaning composition of the present invention. In such an embodiment, a disposable pre-wet pad is used to apply the composition to the surface, such as by wiping or scrubbing, so that the composition is transferred from the substrate to the surface.

[0093] Specifically, the composition remains in contact with the surface for a period of time.

[0094] Specifically, the composition remains in contact with the surface for a period of time sufficient to kill at least 80%, e.g., at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, or at least 99.9% of the microorganisms present on the surface.

[0095] Particularly, microorganism is Candida albicans and / or Klebsiella pneumoniae, more particularly Candida albicans. Particularly, composition keeps in contact with the surface for a period of time sufficient to achieve at least a log 2.5 reduction, preferably at least a log 3 reduction, more preferably at least a log 4 reduction, most preferably at least a log 5 reduction of the number of colony forming units of Candida albicans and / or Klebsiella pneumoniae on the surface. Preferably, this period of time is no more than 3 minutes, 3 minutes or shorter, no more than 2 minutes, 2 minutes or shorter, no more than 60 seconds, 60 seconds or shorter, particularly 30 seconds to 60 seconds. After this period of time, the surface can be, for example, wiped with a cloth or sponge, or rinsed with water to remove the residual composition.

[0096] The compositions of the present invention will not irritate the mucous membranes or eyes of the user, for example when sprayed onto a surface.

[0097] The compositions of the present invention have improved skin tolerance (e.g., compared to certain other cleansers) and are particularly suitable for cleaning surfaces where the composition may come into contact with the skin of the hands or fingers accidentally or during manual manipulation steps. Specifically, the compositions of the present invention have a skin tolerance score of at least 10% average cell viability, at least 11%, at least 12%, at least 13%, at least 14%, or at least 15% average cell viability, as measured by an in vitro skin tolerance assay.

[0098] In certain embodiments, there is provided a composition of the invention for use in a method of cleaning a surface, the method comprising dispensing the composition from a container onto a surface, optionally spreading the composition on the surface, maintaining contact between the composition and the surface for a period of time, particularly 30 to 60 seconds, and optionally wiping and / or rinsing the surface with water to remove residual composition.

[0099] In certain embodiments, there is provided a composition of the invention for use in a method for cleaning a surface, the method comprising: dispensing the composition from a container onto the surface in the form of a spray and / or foam, optionally spreading the composition on the surface, keeping the composition in contact with the surface for a period of time, particularly 30 to 60 seconds, optionally wiping and / or rinsing the surface with water to remove residual composition.

[0100] In certain embodiments, there is provided a composition of the present invention for use in a method for cleaning a surface, the method comprising: dispensing the composition from a container onto a substrate, applying the composition to the surface using the substrate, keeping the composition in contact with the surface for a period of time, particularly 30 to 60 seconds, and optionally wiping and / or rinsing the surface with water to remove residual components.

[0101] Composition for laundry

[0102] The compositions of the present invention can be used to clean soft surfaces such as textiles, typically prior to or during a wash cycle.

[0103] The composition can help remove dirt and stains from textiles. For example, the composition can discolor dirt / stains in solution or on textile fibers by bleaching and / or chemical degradation. The composition can also break the bond between the dirt / stain and the textile, reducing adhesion, thereby making the dirt and stain easier to remove or disperse during subsequent wash cycles. The composition of the present invention also provides sanitization or disinfection.

[0104] Thus, in some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be used to pretreat textiles, such as clothing. In these embodiments, the composition is applied directly to the textile and allowed to remain in contact with the textile for a period of time before washing and / or rinsing the textile during a subsequent wash cycle.

[0105] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be used to pretreat stains on textiles (e.g., clothes). In these embodiments, the composition is applied directly to the stain and allowed to remain in contact with the stain for a period of time before washing and / or rinsing the textiles during a subsequent wash cycle.

[0106] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be used as laundry enhancers. The term "laundry enhancer" refers to an additive used to supplement laundry detergent during the pre-wash, wash and / or rinse cycles of a laundry process. As an additive to laundry detergent in a wash liquor, the compositions of the present invention can improve, supplement or increase the effect of the detergent. When used as a laundry enhancer, the compositions of the present invention provide sanitizing or disinfecting effects. These effects may be particularly advantageous when cleaning baby clothes and diapers.

[0107] In some embodiments, the composition is used as a laundry enhancer only during the wash cycle to supplement the laundry detergent. In other embodiments, the composition is used as a laundry enhancer only during the rinse cycle.

[0108] Thus, there is provided a composition for use as a laundry enhancer in a process comprising: (i) forming a wash solution comprising a composition of the invention, a laundry detergent composition and water; contacting a textile with the wash solution; and subjecting the textile to a laundry wash cycle in the wash solution.

[0109] The laundry process may be a manual process, such as hand washing, or may be an automated process using a washing machine.

[0110] Composition for killing microorganisms

[0111] The present invention also provides compositions of the present invention for killing microorganisms (e.g., Candida albicans) on surfaces. In some embodiments, compositions of the present invention for killing bacteria (e.g., Klebsiella pneumoniae) on surfaces are provided. In some embodiments, compositions of the present invention for killing fungi (e.g., yeast, e.g., Candida albicans) on surfaces are provided. In some embodiments, compositions of the present invention for deactivating (e.g., killing) viruses on surfaces are provided.

[0112] These methods include applying a composition of the present invention to a surface, the surface comprising at least one microorganism, and maintaining the composition in contact with the surface for a period of time sufficient to kill at least one microorganism. Those skilled in the art will recognize that when a composition is applied to a surface comprising microorganisms, the composition will also contact the microorganisms on the surface.

[0113] Specifically, the composition remains in contact with the surface for a period of time sufficient to kill at least 80%, e.g., at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, or at least 99.9% of the microorganisms present on the surface.

[0114] Thus, the method may comprise applying a composition of the invention to a surface comprising a population of microorganisms, and maintaining the composition in contact with the surface for a period of time sufficient to kill at least 80% of the population of microorganisms.

[0115] In particular, the microorganism is Candida albicans and / or Klebsiella pneumoniae, more particularly Candida albicans.

[0116] In particular, the composition is maintained in contact with the surface for a period of time sufficient to achieve at least a log 2.5 reduction, preferably at least a log 3 reduction, more preferably at least a log 4 reduction, most preferably at least a log 5 reduction in the number of Candida albicans and / or Klebsiella pneumoniae colony forming units on the surface.

[0117] For viruses, in particular, the compositions of the invention are capable of reducing the viral titer (corresponding to the amount of infectious virus present per unit volume in a cell culture lysate) of a viral strain by at least log 4. A log 4 reduction corresponds to a 10% reduction in the viral strain tested. 4 times or 99.99%. The virus can be an enveloped virus or a non-enveloped virus. The virus can be an influenza virus, a coronavirus, or a rhinovirus. In certain embodiments, the virus is a respiratory syncytial virus. In certain embodiments, the virus is an influenza virus H1N1. In certain embodiments, the virus is a coronavirus, such as SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-1, or SARS-CoV-2.

[0118] Thus, the method may comprise applying a composition of the invention to a surface comprising a population of bacteria and / or fungi, including, for example, Candida albicans and / or Klebsiella pneumoniae, and maintaining the composition in contact with the surface for a period of time sufficient to achieve at least an 80% or equivalent to at least a log 2.5 reduction in the number of colony forming units of bacteria and / or fungi (e.g., Candida albicans and / or Klebsiella pneumoniae).

[0119] Preferably, the period of time is no more than 3 minutes, 3 minutes or less, no more than 2 minutes, 2 minutes or less, no more than 60 seconds, 60 seconds or less, in particular 30 to 60 seconds. After the period of time, the surface can be wiped, for example with a cloth or sponge, and / or rinsed with water to remove any residual composition. In particular, the composition of the present invention has a skin tolerance score of at least 10% average cell viability, at least 11%, at least 12%, at least 13%, at least 14% or at least 15% average cell viability, as measured by an in vitro skin tolerance assay.

[0120] In certain embodiments, a composition of the invention is provided for use in a method of killing microorganisms (e.g., Candida albicans) on a surface, the method comprising: dispensing the composition from a container onto a surface, the surface comprising microorganisms, maintaining contact between the composition and the surface for a period of time sufficient to kill the microorganisms, particularly 30 to 60 seconds, and optionally wiping and / or rinsing the surface to remove the composition.

[0121] Specifically, the surface comprises a population of microorganisms, such as Candida albicans. More specifically, the surface remains in contact with the composition for a period of time sufficient to kill at least 80%, such as at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99% or at least 99.9% of the microorganisms present on the surface. More specifically, at least 80%, such as at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99% or at least 99.9% of the microorganisms present on the surface are killed within 30 to 60 seconds. Still more specifically, at least 80%, such as at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99% or at least 99.9% of the Candida albicans CFU present on the surface are killed within 30 to 60 seconds.

[0122] In certain embodiments, a composition of the invention is provided for use in a method of killing microorganisms (e.g., Candida albicans) on a surface, the method comprising: applying the composition to a surface, the surface comprising microorganisms, maintaining contact between the composition and the surface for a period of time sufficient to kill the microorganisms, particularly 30 to 60 seconds, and optionally wiping and / or rinsing the surface.

[0123] Use of the composition in a cleaning method

[0124] The present invention further includes methods of cleaning surfaces using the compositions described above.

[0125] For example, there is provided a method of cleaning a surface, the method comprising applying a composition to the surface, keeping the composition in contact with the surface for a period of time, particularly 30 to 60 seconds, and optionally wiping and / or rinsing the surface.

[0126] In some embodiments, a method for cleaning a surface is provided, the method comprising: applying the composition of the present invention to the surface in the form of a spray or foam, keeping the composition in contact with the surface for a period of time, particularly 30 to 60 seconds, wiping and / or rinsing the surface to remove the composition.

[0127] Use of the composition in a method for killing microorganisms

[0128] Also provided are methods of using the compositions of the invention to kill microorganisms (eg, Candida albicans) on surfaces.

[0129] Further provided is a method of killing microorganisms (e.g., Candida albicans) on a surface, the method comprising: applying a composition of the present invention to a surface, the surface comprising microorganisms, maintaining the composition in contact with the surface for a period of time sufficient to kill the microorganisms, particularly 30 to 60 seconds, and optionally wiping and / or rinsing the surface to remove the composition.

[0130] Further provided is a method for killing microorganisms (e.g., Candida albicans) on a surface, the method comprising: dispensing the composition of the present invention in the form of a spray or foam onto the surface, the surface containing microorganisms, maintaining the composition in contact with the surface for a period of time sufficient to kill the bacteria, particularly 30 to 60 seconds, and optionally wiping and / or rinsing the surface.

[0131] Also provided is a disposable pre-moistened sponge or pad for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising: (i) a substrate and (ii) a composition of the invention, wherein the substrate is impregnated with the composition. The substrate may comprise cellulose, for example having a cellulose content of 80 gsm (grams per square meter) to 200 gsm.

[0132] General

[0133] The term "comprising" encompasses "including", e.g., a composition "comprising" X may include something else, e.g., X+Y. In some embodiments, the term "comprising" refers to comprising the indicated active agent, e.g., the described compound, as well as other active agents known and generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the consumer health industry, and carriers, excipients, emollients, stabilizers, and the like. The use of the transitional phrase "consisting essentially of" means that the scope of the claim should be interpreted to encompass the specified materials or steps recited in the claim, as well as those materials or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. See In re Herz, 537 F.2d 549, 551-52, 190 USPQ 461, 463 (CCPA 1976) (emphasis in the original); see also MPEP § 2111.03. Therefore, when used in the claims of the present invention, the term "consisting essentially of" should not be interpreted as being equivalent to "comprising". The term "consisting of" and its variants means including and limited to (e.g., the specifically described ingredients or steps). In some regions, the term "comprising an active ingredient consisting of" may be used in place of "consisting essentially of". The term "about" in relation to a numerical value x is optional and means, for example, that the numerical value may contain some variance around the number to allow for routine experimental fluctuations, measurement variances, or to cover minor deviations that may achieve substantially the same result as the number, such as x±10%, x±5%, x±4%, x±3%, x±2%, or x±1%. The word "substantially" does not exclude "completely", for example, a composition that is "substantially free of" Y may be completely free of Y. If necessary, the word "substantially" may be omitted from the definition of the present invention. When the method involves process steps, such as (a), (b), (c), etc., these steps are intended to be performed in order, i.e., step (c) is after step (b), and step (a) is before step (b). Unless otherwise indicated, all percentages and ratios used herein are by weight of the total composition.

[0134] All references or patent applications cited in this patent specification are incorporated herein by reference.

[0135] Embodiments of the present invention

[0136] The following clauses describe specific embodiments of the present invention:

[0137] E1) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces, comprising: about 0.05 wt % to about 4 wt % of hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt % to about 0.25 wt % of at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, about 0.05 wt % to about 2.00 wt % of an anionic surfactant.

[0138] E2) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.05 wt. % to about 4 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % of at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, about 0.05 wt. % to about 2.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0139] E3) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.05% to about 4% by weight of hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01% to about 0.25% by weight of at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, about 0.05% to about 2.00% by weight of an anionic surfactant, about 0.01% to about 0.08% by weight of a buffer, in particular a sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0140] E4) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.05 wt. % to about 4 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % of an acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid and formic acid, about 0.05 wt. % to about 2.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % buffer, in particular sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.5 wt. % sensory component.

[0141] E5) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.05 wt. % to about 4 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % 2-furancarboxylic acid and / or 3-furancarboxylic acid, about 0.05 wt. % to about 2.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0142] E6) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.05 wt. % to about 4 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % formic acid, about 0.05 wt. % to about 2.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0143] E7) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.05 wt. % to about 4 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.05 wt. % to about 2.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0144] E8) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.1 wt. % to about 2 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.05 wt. % to about 2.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0145] E9) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.1 wt. % to about 2 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0146] E10) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.1 wt. % to about 2 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0147] E11) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25 wt. % to about 1 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.05 wt. % to about 2.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0148] E12) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25 wt. % to about 1 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0149] E13) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.05% to about 4% by weight of hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01% to about 0.25% by weight of salicylic acid, about 0.05% to about 2.00% by weight of an anionic surfactant, about 0.01% to about 0.08% by weight of a buffer, in particular a sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0150] E14) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.1 wt. % to about 2 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % buffer, in particular sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0151] E15) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.1 wt. % to about 2 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.06 wt. % buffer, in particular sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0152] E16) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.1 wt. % to about 2 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0153] E17) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25% to about 1% by weight of hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1% to about 0.2% by weight of salicylic acid, about 0.25% to about 1.00% by weight of an anionic surfactant, about 0.01% to about 0.08% by weight of a buffer, in particular a sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0154] E18) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25% to about 1% by weight of hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1% to about 0.2% by weight of salicylic acid, about 0.25% to about 1.00% by weight of an anionic surfactant, about 0.02% to about 0.08% by weight of a buffer, in particular a sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0155] E19) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25 wt. % to about 1 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5.

[0156] E20) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.05 wt. % to about 4 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.05 wt. % to about 2.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % buffer, in particular sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.5 wt. % sensory components.

[0157] E21) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.1 wt. % to about 2 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.5 wt. % of a sensory component.

[0158] E22) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.1 wt. % to about 2 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. % sensory component.

[0159] E23) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25 wt. % to about 1 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.5 wt. % sensory component.

[0160] E24) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25 wt. % to about 1 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. % sensory component.

[0161] E25) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25 wt. % to about 1 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. % salicylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % sodium lauryl sulfate, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. % of a sensory component.

[0162] E26) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25 wt. % to about 1 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % 2-furancarboxylic acid and / or 3-furancarboxylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. % sensory components.

[0163] E27) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25 wt. % to about 1 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % 2-furancarboxylic acid and / or 3-furancarboxylic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % sodium lauryl sulfate, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. % sensory components.

[0164] E28) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25 wt. % to about 1 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % formic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % anionic surfactant, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. % sensory components.

[0165] E29) An aqueous composition for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces comprising or consisting essentially of about 0.25 wt. % to about 1 wt. % hydrogen peroxide, about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % formic acid, about 0.25 wt. % to about 1.00 wt. % sodium lauryl sulfate, about 0.02 wt. % to about 0.08 wt. % sodium citrate buffer, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 2.8 to 3.5, and wherein the composition further comprises about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. % sensory components.

[0166] E30) A disposable pre-moistened sponge or pad for cleaning hard and / or soft surfaces, comprising: (i) a substrate and (ii) a composition according to the invention, wherein the substrate is impregnated with a composition according to any one of embodiments E1 to E29.

[0167] In order to better understand the present invention, examples are listed below. These examples are only for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present invention in any way. Example

[0168] Example 1

[0169] Aqueous compositions containing 0.5% hydrogen peroxide, 0.5% sodium lauryl sulfate, acid (amounts see Table 1) and water (balanced to 100%) were prepared and tested for in vitro antimicrobial efficacy against Candida albicans (an opportunistic pathogenic yeast).

[0170] The test was performed by adding the composition to a planktonic suspension of Candida albicans (1-5 x10 8 cfu / ml), followed by neutralization after 60 seconds contact time. The log reduction of Candida albicans was then calculated for each composition, with a performance target of >log 5 reduction (99.999% kill).

[0171] Table 1: Antifungal efficacy of compositions containing water, 0.5% hydrogen peroxide, 0.5% sodium lauryl sulfate and different acids at pH 2.8-3.2

[0172]

[0173] * Buffer with sodium citrate to achieve desired pH range when appropriate

[0174] Of these compositions, only those containing salicylic acid, furanoic acid, or formic acid were able to achieve a log 2.50 or greater reduction in colony forming units of Candida albicans. Surprisingly, the composition containing 0.18% salicylic acid produced a >log 5 reduction (equivalent to a 99.99% kill). The other acids tested achieved a <1.10 log reduction, indicating a lower level of antimicrobial efficacy. There was no correlation between the acid pKa and antimicrobial efficacy.

[0175] Example 2

[0176] The salicylic acid-containing compositions were then tested against Klebsiella pneumoniae, a Gram-negative bacterium that causes a variety of healthcare-associated infections.

[0177] Table 2: Antimicrobial efficacy of a composition containing 0.5% hydrogen peroxide, 0.5% sodium lauryl sulfate, 0.18% salicylic acid and 98.82% water (pH 2.8-3.2)

[0178]

[0179] These results demonstrate that compositions comprising salicylic acid have surprisingly strong antimicrobial efficacy.

[0180] Example 3

[0181] Compositions containing water, 0.5% hydrogen peroxide, 0.5% sodium lauryl sulfate and salicylic acid were prepared at different pHs and stored at 40°C for 3 months to determine the appropriate pH range for formulation stability.

[0182] The aged compositions were tested for in vitro antimicrobial efficacy against Candida albicans (60 s contact time as described above), and for foam appearance after dispensing the liquid composition via a foam pump package.

[0183] Table 3: Formulation stability of compositions containing water, 0.5% hydrogen peroxide, 0.5% sodium lauryl sulfate, and salicylic acid at different formulation pH ranges

[0184]

[0185] It was observed that formulations with a pH below 2.8 affected foaming, resulting in a loss of foaming properties after aging of the samples. Without wishing to be bound by theory, we believe that sodium lauryl sulfate degrades to insoluble lauryl alcohol at pH below 2.8, resulting in a gradual loss of foaming properties over time.

[0186] It was also observed that formulations with a pH above 3.5 had lower initial antimicrobial efficacy (3.76 log reduction in 60 s vs. C. albicans) and declined during storage. Again, without wishing to be bound by theory, we believe that hydrogen peroxide begins to degrade at less acidic pHs, resulting in a gradual loss of efficacy over time.

[0187] Therefore, the optimal pH for stability and antimicrobial efficacy was determined to be in the range of pH 2.8 to pH 3.5.

[0188] Example 4

[0189] A composition containing 0.5% hydrogen peroxide, 0.5% sodium lauryl sulfate, 0.18% salicylic acid and 98.82% water (pH 2.8-3.2) was prepared.

[0190] In vitro skin tolerance was measured using the commercial in vitro EPIDERM skin irritation test (EPI-200-SIT, MatTek Corporation), also described in Kandarova et al. (Pre-validation of an in vitro skinirritation test for medical devices using the reconstructed human tissuemodel EpiDerm™ Toxicol. In Vitro. 2018;50:407–417). Briefly, a 3D tissue model of normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) was cultured and cell viability was measured using a well-known cell viability assay. The cultures were then topically exposed to the detergent solution for a period of 60 seconds, and cell viability was re-measured to determine the average cell viability % after product exposure. The target remaining cell viability was set at 2.71%, representing excellent skin tolerance characteristics.

[0191] Materials compatibility studies were conducted on a wide range of materials, including polymethyl methacrylate, polyamide, stainless steel, silver solder, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, thermoplastic polyurethane, cobalt chrome alloy, and polypropylene. Materials were repeatedly exposed to the composition for 60 seconds, brushed, and then rinsed for multiple cycles to represent simulated 2 years of daily use. The materials were then evaluated for surface damage using optical and electron microscopy. Material integrity after exposure was visually graded as structural damage (poor compatibility), minor surface damage (moderate / good compatibility), or no damage (excellent compatibility).

[0192] Table 4: Comparison of antimicrobial kill time, skin tolerance and material compatibility properties.

[0193]

[0194] *Based on surface analysis of common materials after 2 years of simulated product use. Excellent = No or minimal change in material surface

[0195] **Using EPIDERM human epidermis model (MatTek, Inc.)

[0196] Surprisingly, despite having a relatively low level of hydrogen peroxide (0.5%), the composition of the present invention provides rapid antimicrobial efficacy within 60 seconds (convenience). The composition of the present invention also provides excellent skin tolerance (safety) and material compatibility.

[0197] Example 5

[0198] The stain removal performance of the composition was evaluated in a simulated stain removal test. Ceramic tiles were soiled with a strong tea solution. Half of the tiles were treated with the composition, scrubbed, rinsed and dried ( Figure 1 ). The composition of the present invention effectively removes stains from ceramic surfaces.

[0199] Given this guidance, one skilled in the art will be able to adjust the parameters provided in the examples to achieve similar results within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An aqueous cleaning composition comprising: (a) from about 0.05% to about 4% by weight of hydrogen peroxide, (b) from about 0.01% to about 0.25% by weight of at least one acid selected from salicylic acid, furancarboxylic acid, and formic acid, (c) from about 0.05% to about 2.00% by weight of an anionic surfactant, and (d) about 90% by weight of water, wherein the pH of the composition is from 2.8 to 3.

5.

2. The composition of claim 1, further comprising (e) a means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition.

3. The composition of claim 2, wherein the means for adjusting or maintaining the pH of the composition is a pH buffer.

4. The composition of claim 3 comprising from about 0.01 wt % to about 0.08 wt % of a pH buffer.

5. The composition of claim 3 or 4, wherein the pH buffer is a sodium citrate buffer.

6. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the acid is salicylic acid.

7. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising from about 0.1% to about 2% by weight of hydrogen peroxide, in particular from about 0.25% to 1% by weight of hydrogen peroxide.

8. The composition of claim 6 or 7, wherein the anionic surfactant is sodium alkyl sulfate.

9. The composition of claim 8, wherein the sodium alkyl sulfate is selected from the group consisting of sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfonate, and sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

10. The composition of claim 1, consisting essentially of: (a) from about 0.1 wt % to about 2 wt % hydrogen peroxide, (b) from about 0.01 wt % to about 0.25 wt % salicylic acid, (c) from about 0.05 wt % to about 2.00 wt % of an anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfonate, and sodium lauryl ether sulfate, (d) at least 90 wt % water, and (e) a pH buffer, wherein the composition has a pH of 2.8 to 3.

5.

11. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising (f) organoleptic components, in particular flavours, colourants and / or bitterants.

12. A composition as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 for use in a method of killing microorganisms such as Candida albicans on a surface, the method comprising contacting the microorganisms on the surface with the composition for a period of time sufficient to kill the microorganisms.

13. A method of cleaning a hard surface comprising contacting the hard surface with a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and optionally wiping the hard surface to spread and / or remove the composition.

14. A method of cleaning a soft surface comprising contacting the soft surface with a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and optionally rinsing the surface to remove the composition.

15. A disposable pre-moistened pad for cleaning hard surfaces comprising: (i) a substrate and (ii) a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the substrate is impregnated with the composition.

16. The disposable pre-moistened pad of claim 15 for use in a method of cleaning a hard or soft surface.

Images