Stable washing compositions with biodegradable thickers

Abstract

A detergent composition comprising: a) an anionic surfactant; b) an amphoteric surfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, or both; c) 0 to 4% by weight of a nonionic surfactant; and 1.7-8.5% by weight of a thickener having starch and cellulose, the starch being hydroxypropyl starch, distarch phosphate or a mixture thereof, and the cellulose being microcrystalline cellulose selected from the group consisting of carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose or a mixture thereof, wherein the weight ratio of starch: cellulose is greater than 0 and less than 4.5 when the thickening agent is present in the range of 1.7 to less than or equal to 4.5% by weight of the composition, and further wherein the weight ratio gt of starch: cellulose when the thickening agent is present in the range of greater than 4.5 to 8.5% by weight; 0 and less than 15, and: i) the composition has from 3.0 to 15% by weight of total surfactant; ii) the total surfactant comprises from 8 to 70% by weight, based on the total weight of anionic, zwitterionic and / or amphoteric surfactants in the composition, of an amphoteric surfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, or both; and iii) the composition has a pH of greater than 4.25 to 8. The composition is substantially free of sulfates and isethionates, wherein substantially free of each individual component is less than 0.2% by weight of the total composition.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a stable cleaning composition comprising a biodegradable thickener. More specifically, the present invention relates to a cleaning composition comprising water, a surfactant and a biodegradable thickener (comprising starch and cellulose). Such a composition surprisingly produces excellent foaming and viscosity characteristics, is easily rinsed to obtain a clean and film-free sensory feel, and is free of syneresis, discoloration and odor after storage at elevated temperatures, even when formulated with low surfactant levels, and is substantially free of soaps, sulfates, isethionates and / or synthetic thickeners such as ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymers, alkyl acrylate crosspolymers, and the like. Background Art

[0002] Washing compositions are commonly used to clean surfaces, such as the skin, and generally reduce the shine associated with sebum produced in specialized epithelial cells called sebocytes. They are also used to minimize bacteria on surfaces, such as hands and faces, so washing is considered the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. In fact, experts believe that washing regularly throughout the day can reduce the number of consumers who catch a cold by about 50%.

[0003] Consumers know that to minimize the risk of getting sick, it is generally good practice to clean their hands regularly and not touch their face, eyes, and mouth. Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak is a direct result of a virus that is more efficient and severe than influenza and spreads rapidly from person to person through respiratory droplets. During such an outbreak, consumers understand, and medical professionals emphasize, that it is in everyone’s best interest to consistently wash their hands and face, as well as wash inanimate surfaces they touch before use.

[0004] As consumers wash more frequently, it is highly desirable to develop cleaning compositions that are not only beneficial to consumers but also pleasant to use and more environmentally friendly. Accordingly, the present invention relates to a stable cleaning composition comprising water, a surfactant, and a biodegradable thickener (comprising starch and cellulose). The cleaning composition surprisingly produces excellent foaming and viscosity characteristics, is easily rinsed to obtain a clean and film-free sensory feel, and has no syneresis, discoloration, and odor after storage at elevated temperatures, even when formulated with low surfactant levels, and is substantially free of soaps, sulfates, isethionates, and synthetic thickeners such as ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymers, alkyl acrylate crosspolymers, and the like.

[0005] Additional Information

[0006] Attempts to prepare cleaning compositions have been disclosed. In U.S. Patent Application No. 2019 / 008738A1, a personal care composition having a cationic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and a polyacrylate cross-linked polymer structurant is described. The cleaning composition may include carrageenan as a thickener.

[0007] Other attempts to prepare washing compositions have been described. In U.S. Patent Application No. 2019 / 0359735A1, water-soluble hybrid polymers suitable for use in body washes are described.

[0008] Other attempts to make washing compositions are also described. In US Pat. No. 9,549,885, scalp care compositions are described that may contain synthetic rheology modifiers such as acrylamide / ammonium acrylate / C10-C30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer or acrylates / steareth-20 itaconate copolymer.

[0009] None of these additional information describes a composition having a biodegradable thickener comprising starch and cellulose as claimed herein. Summary of the invention

[0010] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a cleaning composition comprising:

[0011] a) anionic surfactants;

[0012] b) amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants or both;

[0013] c) 0-4 wt% of a nonionic surfactant; and

[0014] d) 1.7-8.5% by weight of a thickener, the thickener comprising starch and cellulose,

[0015] wherein when the thickener is present at 1.7 wt % to less than or equal to 4.5 wt % of the composition, the weight ratio of starch:cellulose is greater than 0 and less than 4.5, and further wherein when the thickener is present at greater than 4.5 wt % to 8.5 wt %, the weight ratio of starch:cellulose is >0 and less than 15, and:

[0016] i) the composition has 3.0 wt% to 15 wt%, preferably 4 wt% to 13 wt%, and most preferably 4.5 wt% to 11 wt% total surfactants;

[0017] ii) the total surfactant comprises 8 wt% to 70 wt%, preferably 10 wt% to 65 wt%, and most preferably 15 wt% to 60 wt% of amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants or both, based on the total weight of anionic surfactants and zwitterionic surfactants and / or amphoteric surfactants in the composition; and

[0018] iii) the composition has a pH greater than 4.25-8, preferably 4.5-6.5, and most preferably 4.75-6,

[0019] The compositions are substantially free of soap, parabens, formaldehyde donors, sulfates and / or isethionates.

[0020] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a cleaning composition comprising:

[0021] a) anionic surfactants;

[0022] b) amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants or both;

[0023] c) 0-4 wt% of a nonionic surfactant; and

[0024] d) 1.7-8.5% by weight of a thickener, the thickener comprising starch and cellulose,

[0025] wherein when the thickener is present at 1.7 wt % to less than or equal to 4.5 wt % of the composition, the weight ratio of starch:cellulose is greater than 0 and less than 4.5, and further wherein when the thickener is present at greater than 4.5 wt % to 8.5 wt %, the weight ratio of starch:cellulose is >0 and less than 15, and:

[0026] i) the composition has 3.0 wt% to 15 wt%, preferably 4 wt% to 13 wt%, and most preferably 4.5 wt% to 11 wt% total surfactants;

[0027] ii) the total surfactant comprises 8 wt% to 70 wt%, preferably 10 wt% to 65 wt%, and most preferably 15 wt% to 60 wt% of amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants or both, based on the total weight of anionic surfactants and zwitterionic surfactants and / or amphoteric surfactants in the composition; and

[0028] iii) the composition has a pH greater than 4.25-8, preferably 4.5-6.5, and most preferably 4.75-6,

[0029] And the synthetic thickener (such as ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymer, alkyl acrylate crosslinked polymer, etc.) accounts for less than 0.2% by weight of the composition, preferably less than 0.1% by weight, and most preferably less than 0.05% by weight, and even more preferably no (0.0% by weight) synthetic thickener.

[0030] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a cleaning composition comprising:

[0031] a) anionic surfactants comprising taurate;

[0032] b) a zwitterionic surfactant comprising betaine; and

[0033] c) 0.01 wt% to 4 wt% of a nonionic surfactant;

[0034] d) 1.7% to 8.5% by weight of a thickener, based on the total weight of thickener in the composition, the thickener having at least 80% by weight of starch and cellulose,

[0035] wherein when the thickener is present at 1.7 wt % to less than or equal to 4.5 wt % of the composition, the weight ratio of starch:cellulose is greater than 0 and less than 4.5, and further wherein when the thickener is present at greater than 4.5 wt % to 8.5 wt %, the weight ratio of starch:cellulose is >0 and less than 15, and:

[0036] i) the composition has 3.0 wt% to 15 wt%, preferably 4 wt% to 13 wt%, and most preferably 4.5 wt% to 11 wt% total surfactants;

[0037] ii) the total surfactant comprises 8 wt% to 70 wt%, preferably 10 wt% to 65 wt%, and most preferably 15 wt% to 60 wt% of amphoteric surfactant, zwitterionic surfactant or both, based on the total weight of anionic surfactant and zwitterionic surfactant and / or amphoteric surfactant in the composition; and

[0038] iii) the composition has a pH greater than 4.25-8, preferably 4.5-6.5, and most preferably 4.75-6,

[0039] The composition is substantially free of soap, parabens, formaldehyde donors, sulfates and / or isethionates, and synthetic thickeners (e.g., ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymer, alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, etc.) comprise less than 0.2% by weight of the composition, preferably less than 0.1% by weight, and most preferably less than 0.05% by weight, and even more preferably free (0.0% by weight).

[0040] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a mixture of starch and cellulose for thickening and stabilizing detergent compositions.

[0041] In a fifth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for washing a surface using a composition having a mixture of starch and cellulose according to the first three aspects of the invention.

[0042] All other aspects of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following description and examples.

[0043] As used herein, skin is meant to include skin on the arms (including underarms), face, feet, neck, chest, hands, legs, buttocks and scalp (including hair). Cellulose includes water-insoluble polysaccharides consisting of chains of glucose molecules connected by β1-4 glycosidic bonds or linkages. Cellulose also includes polysaccharides that are water-soluble when chemically or physically modified and water-dispersible when used with water-soluble cellulose. As used herein, starch refers to a water-soluble polysaccharide consisting of glucose molecules joined by linkages including α1-4 and / or 1-6 glycosidic bonds or linkages. A cleaning composition refers to a composition suitable for use on a surface, including hard surfaces such as tables, countertops, appliances, windows, ceramic fixtures (such as toilets or sinks), cars and floors. The surface also includes skin, and preferably, skin.

[0044] Therefore, the cleaning composition of the present invention is suitable as a home care composition, shampoo, makeup removal product, facial wash or personal care and liquid body or hand wash. Preferably, the cleaning composition of the present invention is a body wash or hand wash that is ready for topical application and is wiped or washed off, and preferably washed off with water. The cleaning composition may optionally contain a medicinal or therapeutic agent, but is preferably a cleaning composition as a cleaning and / or beauty wash, which is a non-therapeutic wash to wash, for example, dirt, oil and / or bacteria that can cause coloration and / or odor. As described below, the cleaning composition of the present invention may optionally contain skin benefit ingredients added thereto, such as vitamins and / or their derivatives, resorcinols, retinoic acid precursors, colorants, moisturizers, sunscreens, mixtures thereof, etc. The skin benefit ingredients (or benefit agents) can be water-soluble or oil-soluble. If used, oil-soluble skin benefit agents generally account for 1.5% by weight of the cleaning composition, while when used, water-soluble skin benefit agents can account for up to 10% by weight of the cleaning composition. The cleaning composition typically has a pH of greater than 4.25-8, preferably 4.5-6.5, and most preferably 4.75-6.0. Unless otherwise stated, viscosities are obtained using a Discovery HR-2 rheometer using a sandblasted plate with a 1000 micron gap and for the first viscosity V A The first shear rate S A 4s -1 , and for the second viscosity V BThe second shear rate S B 10s -1 , both at 25° C. and at 20 second intervals. Viscosity is reported in millipascal seconds (1 millipascal second=1 centipoise (cps)). As used herein, stable means that after storage at 50° C. for at least two (2) weeks, and preferably at 45° C. for at least one (1) month, and more preferably at 45° C. for 1 to 4 months, the detergent composition has no phase separation, discoloration, and odor generation. Easy to rinse with a clean and film-free sensory feel means easy to wash off without leaving a sticky or tacky residual feel as determined by trained panelists. Biodegradable as used herein means that organic substances such as starch and cellulose are decomposed by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. The term "comprising" is intended to encompass the terms "consisting essentially of" and "consisting of". For the avoidance of doubt, and for illustration, the composition of the present invention comprising a surfactant and a biodegradable thickener is intended to include a composition consisting essentially of and a composition consisting of. Low surfactant content means no more than 15 wt %, preferably no more than 13 wt %, and most preferably no more than 11 wt % (or 8.5 wt %) based on the total weight of the composition. Except in the operating comparative examples, or where otherwise explicitly indicated, all numbers in this specification indicating the amount or ratio of materials or reaction conditions and / or the physical properties and / or use of materials should be understood to be modified by the word "about". Unless otherwise indicated, all ranges defined herein are intended to include all ranges contained therein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] As for the biodegradable thickener suitable for use, it includes starch and cellulose, wherein the thickener does not need to be synthetically manufactured and can be completely degraded or disintegrated in the environment. In one embodiment of the invention, at least 80% by weight of the biodegradable thickener is starch and cellulose. In another embodiment, at least 85% by weight of the biodegradable thickener is starch and cellulose. Even in another embodiment, at least 90% by weight-100% by weight of the biodegradable thickener is starch and cellulose. In another embodiment, 90% by weight-97% or 92% by weight-96% or 100% by weight of the biodegradable thickener is starch and cellulose. In another embodiment, the thickener used in the detergent composition is 80% by weight-100% by weight, preferably 90% by weight-100% by weight, most preferably 95% by weight-100% by weight (or 100% by weight) of the biodegradable thickener.

[0046] Typically, the detergent composition of the present invention comprises 1.7 wt% to 8.5 wt% thickener, preferably 3.5 wt% to 7.5 wt%, and most preferably 3.75 wt% to 6.0 wt% thickener. In another embodiment of the present invention, cellulose accounts for 12.5 wt% to 65 wt% or 13 wt% to 50 wt% or 15 wt% to 35 wt% of the total weight of starch and cellulose in the thickener. In one embodiment of the present invention, 100 wt% of the biodegradable thickener is starch and cellulose, wherein cellulose accounts for 15 wt% to 35 wt% of the total weight of the thickener.

[0047] In a further embodiment, 100 wt% of the biodegradable thickener is starch and cellulose, wherein starch and cellulose account for 4.75 wt%-6.5 wt%, preferably 5.0 wt%-6.0 wt%, and most preferably 5 wt%-5.5 wt% of the detergent composition. In yet another embodiment, the weight ratio of starch and cellulose (i.e., starch: cellulose) is 1.5-12, preferably 2-10, and most preferably 2.25-9.25 or 4-8.5 or 5.5-7.5.

[0048] Salts or electrolytes such as Na, Mg, Ca and / or ammonium chlorides comprise 0 wt%-2.5 wt%, preferably 0.1 wt%-1.35 wt%, and most preferably 0.2 wt%-1 wt% of the washing composition. In another embodiment, the washing composition comprises less than 0.5 wt% or less than 0.25 wt% or does not comprise (0.0 wt%) salts or electrolytes.

[0049] Regarding applicable biodegradable thickeners, starches include those that can be chemically or physically modified by one or more art-recognized techniques such as oxidation, cross-linking reactions, gelatinization, esterification, etherification, amidation, and art-recognized treatments including temperature changes. Distarch phosphate or compounds rich in distarch phosphate are starches that are typically included for use. Starch hydrolysates are also applicable. In one embodiment of the invention, the thickener used in the detergent composition of the present invention does not include starch hydrolysates.

[0050] Such starches may be derived or originate from any plant source, such as corn, peas, potatoes, oats, rice, cassava, sorghum, barley or wheat.

[0051] Suitable starches include starch and distarch phosphates, such as acetylated distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch adipate, sodium starch octenyl succinate, hydroxypropyl starch phosphate, hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate, and mixtures thereof. Illustrative examples of starches suitable for use alone or in a mixture include: StarDesign TM Care、StarDesign TMCare AV, StarDesign TM 05340、 06328、 C☆HiForm TM 、C☆HiForm A TM 、HiForm Starch TM 、StarDesign TM 、 B980、 B990、 B992、 B994、 AF 1100、 CS3757, FARMAL MS 6822, FARMAL TM GMS2143、 MS 6892、 MS 6135、 GMS2141、 CS21A、 CS21R、 MS 6135、 GS1653、 CS 3757、 GMS2141、 CS3001, FARMAL CS 3401、 CS 3400、 CS 3650、 WS4400、 GMS2141, Nativacare TM 8600, Nativacare TM 5600, Nativacare TM 9360, Nativacare TM 9230, Nativacare TM 9330, AGENAFLO 9050, AGENAFLO OS 9051, AGENAFLOTS, AGENAJEL 20.313, AGENAJEL 20.306, AGENAJEL 20.350, AGENAMALT 20.222, AGENANOVA30.326, DEXTRIN 20.901, AGENABON 20.219、 XL、 2143、 6892、 STYLE etc.

[0052] Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate sold by Sinofi as E1440 Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate is also suitable.

[0053] Preferred hydroxypropyl starch and distarch phosphates suitable for use include those available from Grain Processing Corporation, (e.g. B980, B990 food starch modified grades), StarDesign TM (For example, ), from Cargill Corporation, Agenaflo (9050, 9051) from Agrana, from Ingredion (e.g., CS 3757) and Roquette's (e.g., Maize ST 005).

[0054] Other preferred starch phosphates suitable for use are hydroxypropyl starch phosphate, or starch phosphate-enriched compounds available from Avebe as Prejel TM These include VA-70-T AGGL (gelled hydroxypropyl tapioca distarch phosphate), TK1 (gelled tapioca distarch phosphate), and 200 (gelled acetyl tapioca distarch phosphate).

[0055] As to microcrystalline cellulose suitable for use as biodegradable thickening agents, these include components generally classified as carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, or mixtures thereof.

[0056] Illustrative examples of microcrystalline cellulose that may be used include COS5, COS6, COS8, CS 032XV, CS152HV, CS 302SV, 12. 14. 101. 102. 301, 200, 50M, 90M, 90HD, 200LP, which is available from JRS Pharma GmbH & Co.

[0057] Other suitable uses include GP1412; 101. 102. 103. 112. 113. 301, 200, SMCC 50, SMCC 90, SMCC HD90, CL, DG, CE, HFE, NT-20, NTC-61, NT-50, NT-80, NT-100, NT-200, Cellulose gum BAK, Cellulose gum BEV, Cellulose gum MAS, Cellulose gum AMD, Cellulose gum NMD, Cellulose gum FZD, Methocel TM 240、Methocel TM E5, Methocel TM F4M、Methocel TM K4M、Methocel TM K15M、Methocel TM K15LV、Methocel TM F50、Methocel TM K100M、Methocel TM K200M、Methocel TM 40-0100, Methocel TM 40-0202 and Methocel TM F50 and available from Dupont.

[0058] Obtained from Ming Thai Chemical Co. 101. 102. 301, 302; obtained from Blanver, Farmoquímica 101. 102. 200; obtained from Ingredion CMC 2700F; obtained from Lubrizol R49, R50; obtained from CP Kelco Citrus fiber, Cellulosic liquids are also suitable. Even other celluloses that can be used include those available from Borregaard FM 02-V; obtained from CellulForce FiberDesign from Cargill TM Sensation, obtained from CPKelco Citrus fiber; available as CELLOSIZE from Dow Chemical TM QP-10000H EUR、CELLOSIZE TM QP-100MH、CELLOSIZE TM QP-300, CELLOSIZE TM QP-4400H、EURCELLOSIZE TM QP-15000H、CELLOSIZE TM QP-30000H、CELLOSIZE TM QP-52000H、CELLOSIZE TM EP-09; methylcellulose PMK-40YS and PMK-60YS available from First International Inc.; carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), polyanionic cellulose (PAC), hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) and methylhydroxyethylcellulose (MHEC / HEMC) available from Kingsun Chemicals Inc.; hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), methylcellulose (MC), sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), highly substituted hydroxypropylcellulose (H-HPC), low substituted hydroxypropylcellulose (L-HPC), ethylcellulose (EC), hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC), microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), polyanionic cellulose (PAC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate (HPMC-P) / (hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS), cross-linked sodium carboxymethylcellulose, powdered cellulose commercially available from SIDLEY CHEMICAL CO., LTD.

[0059] Preferred microcrystalline celluloses for use in the present invention are those commercially available from Dupont and JRS Pharma GmbH & Co.

[0060] Preferred biodegradable thickeners generally have a viscosity of 0.18 to 0.90 g / ml, preferably 0.2 to 0.8 g / ml, and most preferably 0.22 to 0.70 g / ml (or 1000 kg / m 3 ), wherein the bulk density is the ratio of the mass of an untapped powder sample to its volume (including the contribution of the inter-particle void volume) (i.e., dependent upon both the density of the powder particles and the spatial arrangement of the particles in the powder bed). This thickener also has a cloud point of 60-70°C and a weight average molecular weight of 75,000-1.5 million Daltons, preferably 80,000-1.25 million Daltons, and most preferably 100,000-1 million Daltons.

[0061] With respect to the surfactants which may be used, they are limited to those which are suitable for use in compositions intended for topical application to a surface, preferably the skin.

[0062] Anionic surfactants suitable for use in the detergent compositions of the present invention include fatty sulfonates, such as primary alkanes (e.g., C8-C 22 ) sulfonates, primary alkanes (e.g., C8-C 22 ) disulfonate, C8-C 22 Olefin sulfonates, C8-C 22 Hydroxyalkane sulfonates or alkyl glyceryl ether sulfonates (AGS); or aromatic sulfonates, such as alkylbenzene sulfonates. The anionic surfactant may also be an alkyl sulfate (e.g., C 12 -C 18 Alkyl sulfates) or alkyl ether sulfates (including alkyl glyceryl ether sulfates). Alkyl ether sulfates also include those having the formula:

[0063] RO(CH2CH2O) n SO3M

[0064] wherein R is an alkyl or alkenyl group having 8 to 18 carbons, preferably 12 to 18 carbons, n has an average value of at least 1.0, preferably less than 5, and most preferably 1 to 4, and M is a solubilizing cation such as sodium, potassium, ammonium or substituted ammonium.

[0065] Anionic surfactants may also include alkyl sulfosuccinates (including monoalkyl and dialkyl, such as C8-C 22 sulfosuccinates); acyltaurates (usually methyltaurates), acylsarcosinates, sulfoacetates, C8-C 22Alkyl phosphates and phosphonates, alkyl phosphate esters and alkoxyalkyl phosphate esters, acyl lactylates, C8-C 22 Monoalkyl succinates and maleates, alkyl glucosides and acyl isethionates, etc.

[0066] The sulfosuccinate may be a monoalkyl sulfosuccinate having the formula:

[0067] R 1 O2CCH2CH(SO3M)CO2M;

[0068] And the amide-MEA sulfosuccinate of the formula:

[0069] R 1 CONHCH2CH2O2CCH2CH(SO3M)CO2M, where R 1 Range: C8-C 22 alkyl.

[0070] Sarcosinate is generally represented by the following formula:

[0071] R 2 CON(CH3)CH2CO2M, where R 2 Range: C8-C 20 alkyl.

[0072] Taurate is generally represented by the following formula:

[0073] R 3 CONR 4 CH2CH2SO3M

[0074] Where R 3 For C8-C 20 Alkyl, R 4 It is a C1-C4 alkyl group.

[0075] M is a solubilizing cation as described above. Isethionates that can be used include C8-C 18 Acyl isethionates (including those with substituted head groups such as C 1-4 These esters are prepared by the reaction of an alkali metal isethionate with mixed aliphatic fatty acids having from 6 to 18 carbon atoms and an iodine value of less than 20. Typically at least 75% of the mixed fatty acids have from 12 to 18 carbon atoms and up to 25% have from 6 to 10 carbon atoms.

[0076] The acyl isethionate salts optionally used may be alkoxylated isethionates such as described in Ilardi et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,393,466, issued Feb. 28, 1995, entitled "Fatty Acid Esters of Polyalkoxylated isethonic acid"; incorporated herein by reference. The compounds have the following general formula:

[0077] R 5 CO(O)-C(X)HC(Y)H-(OCH2-CH2) m -SO3M

[0078] Where R 5 is an alkyl group having 8 to 18 carbons, m is an integer from 1 to 4, X and Y are each independently hydrogen or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbons, and M is a solubilizing cation as described above.

[0079] In one embodiment of the present invention, suitable anionic surfactants are sodium lauroyl isethionate, sodium cocoyl isethionate, sodium methyl lauroyl taurate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate or mixtures thereof. Such anionic surfactants are commercially available from suppliers such as Galaxy Surfactants, Clariant, Sino Lion and Innospec. A preferred anionic surfactant commonly used is sodium methyl lauroyl taurate.

[0080] The cleaning compositions may optionally contain glutamate and glycinate, but as in the case of isethionates, they are substantially free of glutamate and glycinate. If optionally used, suitable glycinates include sodium lauroyl glycinate, sodium cocoyl glycinate, and suitable glutamates for use include sodium lauroyl glutamate, sodium cocoyl glutamate, sodium myristoyl glutamate, isopropyl lauroyl glutamate, or mixtures thereof.

[0081] Suitable amphoteric surfactants for use in the present invention (which may be zwitterionic depending on the pH) include sodium acylamidoacetate, sodium acylamidopropionate, disodium acylamidodiacetate, and disodium acylamidodipropionate, wherein the acyl group (i.e., alkanoyl) may include C7-C 18 Alkyl moiety. Illustrative examples of suitable amphoteric surfactants include sodium lauroamphoacetate, sodium cocoamphoacetate, sodium lauroamphoacetate, sodium cocoamphoacetate or mixtures thereof.

[0082] As for the zwitterionic surfactants that can be used in the detergent compositions of the present invention, such surfactants contain at least one acid group. Such acid groups can be carboxylic acid or sulfonic acid groups. They usually contain quaternary nitrogen, and therefore can be quaternary amino acids. They should usually contain alkyl or alkenyl groups of 7 to 18 carbon atoms, and usually conform to the following overall structural formula:

[0083] R 6 -[-C(O)-NH(CH2) q -] r -N + -(R 7 -)(R 8 )AB, where R 6 is an alkyl or alkenyl group of 7 to 18 carbon atoms; R 7 and R 8 Each is independently an alkyl group, a hydroxyalkyl group or a carboxyalkyl group of 1 to 3 carbon atoms; q is 2 to 4; r is 0 to 1; A is an alkylene group of 1 to 3 carbon atoms optionally substituted by a hydroxy group, and B is -CO2- or -SO3-.

[0084] Suitable zwitterionic surfactants useful herein and within the above general formula include simple betaines of the formula:

[0085] R 6 -N + -(R 7 )(R 8 )CH2CO2 -

[0086] And the amido betaine of the following formula:

[0087] R 6 -CONH(CH2) t -N + -(R 7 )(R 8 )CH2CO2 - , where t is 2 or 3.

[0088] In both formulas, R 6 , R 7 and R 8 As defined previously. In particular, R 6 Can be derived from coconut oil C 12 and C 14 mixture of alkyl groups such that at least half, preferably at least three quarters, of the groups R 6 Has 10 to 14 carbon atoms. 7 and R 8 Preferred is methyl.

[0089] A further possibility is that the zwitterionic surfactant is a sultaine of the formula:

[0090] R 6 -N + -(R 7 )(R 8 )(CH2)3SO3 -

[0091] or

[0092] R 6 -CONH(CH2) u -N + -(R 7 )(R 8 )(CH2)3SO3 -

[0093] Where u is 2 or 3, or where -(CH2)3SO3 - -CH2C(OH)(H)CH2SO3 - Instead, use their variants.

[0094] In these formulas, R 6 , R 7 and R 8 As defined previously.

[0095] Illustrative examples of suitable zwitterionic surfactants include betaines, such as cocodimethyl carboxymethyl betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine and lauroamidopropyl betaine. Suitable additional zwitterionic surfactants include cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine. Such surfactants are commercially available from suppliers such as Stepan Company, and it is within the scope of the present invention to employ mixtures of the foregoing surfactants. In a preferred embodiment, the zwitterionic surfactant for use in the detergent compositions of the present invention is cocamidopropyl betaine.

[0096] Nonionic surfactants can be used in the cleaning compositions of the present invention. When used, nonionic surfactants are usually used at levels as low as 0.01%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 3%, or 4% by weight of the cleaning composition. Useful nonionic surfactants particularly include reaction products of compounds (e.g., fatty alcohols, acids, amides, or alkylphenols) with hydrophobic groups and reactive hydrogen atoms and alkylene oxides (particularly ethylene oxide alone or with propylene oxide). Specific nonionic surfactant compounds are alkyl (C6-C 22 )phenol ethylene oxide condensation products, aliphatic (C8-C 18) condensation products of straight or branched chain primary or secondary alcohols with ethylene oxide and products prepared by the condensation of ethylene oxide with the reaction products of propylene oxide and ethylenediamine. Other nonionic surfactants include long chain tertiary amine oxides, long chain tertiary phosphine oxides, dialkyl sulfoxides, and the like. Cocamide monoethanolamine (MEA) is a generally preferred nonionic surfactant, which is suitable for use at a level of 0.2 to 0.65% by weight of the cleaning composition.

[0097] In one embodiment of the present invention, the optional nonionic surfactant may include a fatty acid / alcohol ethoxylate having the following structure: a) HOCH2(CH2) s (CH2CH2O) v H or b) HOOC(CH2) c (CH2CH2O) d H; wherein s and v are each independently an integer up to 18; and c and d are each independently an integer of 1 or greater. In one embodiment of the present invention, s and v are each independently 6 to 18; c and d are each independently 1 to 30. Other choices of nonionic surfactants include those having the formula: HOOC(CH2) i -CH=CH-(CH2) k (CH2CH2O) z H, wherein i, k are each independently 5 to 15; and z is 5 to 50. In another embodiment of the present invention, i and k are each independently 6 to 12; and z is 15 to 35.

[0098] The nonionic surfactant may also include sugar amides, such as polysaccharide amides. Specifically, the surfactant may be one of the lactose amides described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,389,279, entitled "Compositions Comprising Nonionic Glycolipid Surfactants" to Au et al., issued February 14, 1995; incorporated herein by reference, or one of the sugar amides described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,009,814, entitled "Use of N-Poly Hydroxyalkyl Fatty Acid Amides as Thickening Agents for Liquid Aqueous Surfactant Systems" to Kelkenberg, issued April 23, 1991; incorporated herein by reference.

[0099] In one embodiment of the present invention, cationic surfactants may optionally be used in the cleaning compositions herein.

[0100] One class of optional cationic surfactants includes heterocyclic ammonium salts such as cetyl or stearyl pyridinium chloride, alkylamidoethyl pyrrylinodium methylsulfate, and lapidium chloride.

[0101] Tetraalkylammonium salts are another class of cationic surfactants suitable for optional use. Examples include cetyl or stearyl trimethyl ammonium chloride or bromide; hydrogenated palm or tallow trimethyl ammonium halide; behenyl trimethyl ammonium halide or methyl ammonium sulfate; decyl isononyl dimethyl ammonium halide; ditallow (or distearyl) dimethyl ammonium halide, and behenyl dimethyl ammonium chloride.

[0102] Still other types of cationic surfactants that can be used are various ethoxylated quaternary amines and esterquats. Examples include PEG-5 stearyl ammonium lactate (e.g., Genamin KSL manufactured by Clariant), PEG-2 coconut ammonium chloride, PEG-15 hydrogenated tallow ammonium chloride, PEG 15 stearyl ammonium chloride, dipalmitoyl ethyl methyl ammonium chloride, dipalmitoyl hydroxyethyl methyl sulfate, and stearamidopropyl dimethyl lactylate.

[0103] Even other useful cationic surfactants suitable for optional use include quaternized hydrolysates of silk, wheat and keratin proteins, and it is within the scope of the present invention to use mixtures of the foregoing cationic surfactants.

[0104] If used, cationic surfactants comprise no more than 1.0% by weight of the cleaning composition. When present, they typically comprise from 0.01% to 0.7% by weight of the cleaning composition, and more typically from 0.1% to 0.5% by weight, including all ranges subsumed therein.

[0105] In one embodiment of the present invention, the washing composition comprises less than 0.18% of polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds (including salts thereof). In another embodiment, the washing composition comprises less than 0.1% by weight of polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds. In yet another embodiment, the washing composition comprises less than 0.01% by weight of polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds. In even another embodiment, the washing composition contains no polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds (i.e., 0.0% by weight).

[0106] Although undesirable fatty acid soaps such as sodium stearate may be included in the composition, these comprise less than 1.0 wt. % (or less than 0.5 wt. % or 0.0 wt. %) of the detergent composition.

[0107] Again, the cleaning compositions of the present invention are defined herein as being substantially free of soaps, sulfates, isethionates and / or synthetic thickeners such as ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymer, alkyl acrylate crosspolymers, and the like.

[0108] As used herein, "substantially free" means that each individual component comprises less than 0.2 weight percent of the composition, preferably less than 0.1 weight percent, and most preferably less than 0.05 weight percent, and even more preferably free (0.0 weight percent).

[0109] Cleansing compositions free of components defined as isethionates include free of isethionic acid and its salts and free of surfactants classified as acyl isethionates such as sodium lauroyl isethionate. Cleansing compositions free of components defined as sulfates include free of components having carbon, oxygen, sulfur bonds such as the surfactants sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and sodium pareth sulfate.

[0110] As for the amount of composition surfactant, it has 3.0 wt%-15 wt%, preferably 4 wt%-13 wt%, and most preferably 4.5 wt%-11 wt% (or 8.5 wt%) of total surfactant, and based on the total weight of anionic and zwitterionic and / or amphoteric surfactants in the composition, the total surfactant comprises 8 wt%-70 wt%, preferably 10 wt%-65 wt%, and most preferably 15 wt%-60 wt% of amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants or both. In another embodiment, the total surfactant in the washing composition is 5.85 wt%-7.0 wt%, preferably 6.15 wt%-6.85 wt%, based on the total weight of the washing composition. In even another embodiment, the weight ratio of anionic surfactant (preferably sodium methyl lauroyl taurate) to zwitterionic surfactant (preferably cocamidopropyl betaine) is 1:1 to 1:2.2, preferably 1:1.2 to 1:2.0, and most preferably 1:1.5 to 1.35:1.85.

[0111] Water typically comprises from 62 to 95 wt %, preferably from 65 to 90 wt %, and most preferably from 65 to 80 wt % of the cleaning composition.

[0112] Optionally, a pH adjuster suitable for adjusting / buffering the pH may be included. Such pH adjusters include triethylamine, NaOH, KOH, H2SO4, HCl, C6H8O7 (i.e., citric acid), or mixtures thereof. The pH adjuster is added in an amount that produces the desired final pH. The pH value can be assessed using commercial instruments, such as those available from Thermo Fisher Scientific. Commercially available pH meter. Such pH value of the cleaning composition is generally from greater than 4.25 to 8. In another embodiment of the present invention, the pH of the cleaning composition is from 4.5 to 6.5, and in another embodiment from 4.75 to 6.0, and even in another embodiment from 4.8 to 6.0.

[0113] The polyol that is applicable to washing compositions is limited to the extent that it can be used for the washing compositions of topical application.The illustrative and non-limiting examples that are applicable to polyol of the present invention include sorbitol, glycerine, mannitol, xylitol, maltitol or its mixture.In one embodiment of the invention, based on the gross weight of the polyol used in the washing compositions, the polyol used is generally the glycerine of at least 50 weight %.In another embodiment of the invention, the polyol used is all glycerine (100 weight %).Polyol accounts for 0.0 weight % to 25 weight % of washing compositions generally, and preferably 0.5 weight % to 8 weight % of washing compositions, and most preferably 0.75 weight % to 3.5 weight % of washing compositions.

[0114] Although not required, it is also within the scope of the present invention to optionally use conventional gelling agents or thickening agents such as ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymers, alkyl acrylate crosslinked polymers, and the like in addition to the present invention's mixtures of thickeners with starch and cellulose. If used, acrylates include acrylic acid crosslinked with allyl sucrose or allyl pentaerythritol acrylic acid and C 60 crosslinked with allyl pentaerythritol. 10 -C 30 These acrylates are and Other suitable acrylates include those which are copolymers of an ester of acrylic acid and ethoxylated palmityl alcohol with about 25 moles of ethylene oxide and one or more monomers of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid or one of their simple esters. These acrylates are available, for example, as The thickener is sold under the name of (i.e., W200, W2000) and is commercially available from suppliers such as 3V Sigma USA. When used, this optional thickener accounts for less than 0.2% by weight of the composition, preferably less than 0.1% by weight, and most preferably less than 0.05% by weight. In addition, even more preferably, no (0.0% by weight) thickener is used except for starch and cellulose as described herein. The thickener preferably used in the detergent composition of the present invention is preferably composed of the claimed cellulose and starch. In one embodiment of the invention, crosslinked polymers and / or hydrophobically modified polymers are not present in the detergent composition of the present invention.

[0115] The viscosity of the detergent composition (at 4s -1 The molecular weight (measured at 4000 rpm for 20 seconds) is typically 40,000 cps or less, and preferably 700 to 15,000 cps, and most preferably 2000 to 13,500 cps.

[0116] Optional skin benefit agents are suitable for use in cleansing compositions only to the extent that they are capable of topical application and are suitably stable in the cleansing composition at the desired pH.

[0117] Illustrative examples of benefit agents suitable for inclusion in the water portion of the detergent composition are acids, such as amino acids, for example arginine, valine or histidine. Suitable additional water-soluble benefit agents include vitamin B2, niacinamide (vitamin B3), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6, vitamin C, mixtures thereof, etc. Water-soluble derivatives of such vitamins may also be used. For example, vitamin C derivatives such as ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and ascorbyl glycosides may be used alone or in combination with one another. Suitable other water-soluble benefit agents include 4-ethylresorcinol, extracts such as sage, aloe, green tea, grape seed, thyme, chamomile, yarrow, cucumber, licorice, rosemary extracts or mixtures thereof. Water-soluble sunscreens such as ensolizole may also be used. When present in the cleaning composition, the total amount of optional water-soluble benefit agents (including mixtures) may range from 0.0 wt. % to 10 wt. %, preferably from 0.001 wt. % to 8 wt. %, and most preferably from 0.01 wt. % to 6 wt. % (or 0.01 wt. % to 2 wt. %) based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0118] It is also within the scope of the present invention to optionally include an oil-soluble benefit agent. Such oil-soluble benefit agents are soluble in the surfactant used. The only limitation on such oil-soluble benefit agents is that they are suitable for providing benefits when applied topically.

[0119] Illustrative examples of the types of oil-soluble benefit agents that may optionally be used in the compositions of the present invention include components such as stearic acid, vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E and K (and their oil-soluble derivatives), sunscreens such as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenol triazine, 2-ethylhexyl-2-cyano-3,3-diphenyl-2-propionic acid, drometrizole trisiloxane, 3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexyl 2-hydroxybenzoate, 2-ethylhexyl-2-hydroxybenzoate, or mixtures thereof.

[0120] Other optional oil-soluble benefit agents suitable for use include resorcinols, such as 4-hexylresorcinol, 4-phenylethylresorcinol, 4-cyclopentylresorcinol, 4-cyclohexylresorcinol, 4-isopropylresorcinol, thiamidol (isobutylamidothiazolylresorcinol) or mixtures thereof. 5-substituted resorcinols may also be used, such as 4-cyclohexyl-5-methylbenzene-1,3-diol, 4-isopropyl-5-methylbenzene-1,3-diol, mixtures thereof, and the like. 5-substituted resorcinols and their synthesis are described in commonly assigned U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2016 / 0000669A1.

[0121] Even other oil-soluble benefit agents that are suitable include omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, climbazole, farnesol, ursolic acid, myristic acid, geranylgeraniol, oleyl betaine, cocoyl hydroxyethyl imidazoline, hexanoyl sphingosine, 12-hydroxystearic acid, petroselinic acid, conjugated linoleic acid, terpineol, thymol, mixtures thereof, and the like.

[0122] In one embodiment of the present invention, the optional oil-soluble beneficial agent used is a retinoic acid precursor. In one embodiment of the present invention, the retinoic acid precursor is retinol, retinal, retinyl propionate, retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate or a mixture thereof. Retinyl propionate, retinyl palmitate and a mixture thereof are generally preferred.

[0123] When optional oil-soluble benefit agents are used in the composition, such benefit agents typically comprise 0.0001 wt % to 1.5 wt %, preferably 0.001 wt % to 0.65 wt %, and most preferably 0.05 wt % to 0.35 wt % of the cleaning composition. In yet another embodiment, the oil-soluble benefit agents comprise 0.1 wt % to 0.5 wt % of the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0124] Other optional additives suitable for use include zinc pyrithione, hydroxypyrazone and mixtures thereof. When used, they are generally used at 0.001% to 1.5%, preferably 0.01% to 1% by weight of the cleaning composition.

[0125] Conventional preservatives may desirably be incorporated into the cleaning composition to prevent the growth of potentially harmful microorganisms. Cosmetic chemists are familiar with appropriate preservatives and routinely select them to meet preservative challenge tests and provide product stability. Suitable traditional preservatives include hydantoin derivatives and propionates. Particularly preferred preservatives are iodopropynyl butylcarbamate, phenoxyethanol, hydroxyacetophenone, ethylhexylglycerol, hexylene glycol, methylparaben, propylparaben, imidazolidinyl urea, sodium dehydroacetate, dimethyl-dimethyl (DMDM) hydantoin, sodium benzoate, benzyl alcohol and mixtures thereof. Suitable other preservatives include sodium dehydroacetate, chlorphenesin, decanediol, N-capryloyl glycine, N-undecylenoyl glycine and mixtures thereof. Preservatives should be selected considering the use of the composition and possible incompatibility between the preservative and other ingredients in the composition. Preservatives are used in an amount ranging from 0.01% by weight to 2.0% by weight of the gross weight of the cleaning composition. Preservative systems comprising 0.1 to 1.0% of 1,2-octanediol, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition, are also suitable. Preservative systems that are substantially free of parabens and hydantoins are also preferred. Sodium benzoate is generally the most preferred preservative, and it is generally used at 0.2% to 1.2% by weight of the cleaning composition.

[0126] Fragrances, fixatives, chelating agents (such as EDTA), sunscreens (such as titanium dioxide and plant-derived liquid dispersions such as Solvay OPR 2), inorganic materials and exfoliants can optionally be included in the cleaning composition. Each of these materials can range from about 0.03% to about 5%, preferably 0.1% to 3%, and most preferably 0.1% to 2%, by weight of the cleaning composition. In the case of using exfoliants, those selected should have a sufficiently small particle size so that they do not interfere with the performance of any packaging used to distribute the composition of the present invention.

[0127] Conventional emulsifiers having an HLB greater than 8 may optionally be used. Illustrative examples include Tween 40, 60, 80, polysorbate 20 and mixtures thereof. When used in a water continuous system, such emulsifiers comprise 0.03 wt % to 1.5 wt % of the cleaning composition.

[0128] With respect to silicones such as dimethylsiloxane and the like, the cleaning compositions typically contain less than 1.0 wt. % silicone, more preferably less than 0.5 wt. % silicone, and most preferably are silicone-free.

[0129] The cleaning compositions of the present invention are preferably liquid cleaning compositions suitable for use in the isotropic or lamellar phase.

[0130] When lamellar, the compositions of the present invention employ from 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%, preferably from 1 wt% to 10 wt%, and most preferably from 2 wt% to 5 wt% of a lamellar structurant (based on the total weight of the liquid detergent composition) which acts to form a lamellar phase in the composition.

[0131] Examples of fatty acids (or ester derivatives, or fatty alcohols, or trihydroxystearin) that can be used as structurants are C8-C 22 Fatty acids such as caprylic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, oleic acid, isostearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, ricinoleic acid, elaidic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid and palmitoleic acid, mixtures thereof, etc. Ester derivatives include propylene glycol isostearate, propylene glycol oleate, glyceryl isostearate, glyceryl oleate and polyglyceryl diisostearate, etc. The structurant is preferably a fatty acid. More preferably, the structurant is selected from caprylic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid or mixtures thereof.

[0132] When preparing the detergent compositions of the present invention, the required ingredients may be mixed using conventional equipment under moderate shear and atmospheric conditions wherein the temperature may range from 30 to 85°C whereby shearing is continued until a homogeneous product is recovered.

[0133] The packaging of the cleaning composition is generally not limited, as long as the composition can be distributed. In one embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning composition is sold in a sachet, bottle, jar, tube or can. The packaging preferably allows unlimited refilling to consistently reduce plastic waste in the environment, and most preferably has at least 50% by weight of post-consumer resin. The cleaning composition of the present invention can be sold in a concentrated form, whereby the consumer can be instructed to add water to produce a ready-to-use product, and attempts to reduce weight and over-reliance on virgin plastics when transported.

[0134] The examples are provided to facilitate the understanding of the present invention. They are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0135] Example

[0136] All samples in the examples were prepared by mixing the ingredients under moderate shear. The temperature varied between about 60°C and 78°C, and the pressure during mixing was atmospheric pressure. The starch used in the samples was purchased from Cargill's StarDesign TM Care, and the cellulose used was purchased from JRS Pharma GmbH & Co. COS6.

[0137] Embodiment 1

[0138] A base detergent composition was prepared with the ingredients identified below: Starch and cellulose were added to the base composition as described in the sample of Example II.

[0139] Detergent composition base

[0140]

[0141]

[0142] Example II

[0143] The sample of this Example II (final washing composition) was prepared by including the weight percentage of biodegradable thickener determined below in the base composition of Example I. The surfactant in the final composition totaled 6.5% and the pH was adjusted from 4.8 to 6.0.

[0144] Final washing composition (biodegradable thickener added)

[0145]

[0146] The samples were stored at 45°C for two (2) weeks. Visual evaluation of the sample washing compositions was performed by trained panelists. Unexpectedly, the washing compositions prepared according to the present invention (Samples 2, 3, 5 and 6) were stable and showed no signs of syneresis, discoloration or odor. In addition, the viscosity of the samples remained constant over a two-week period at elevated temperatures. All samples inconsistent with the present invention (Samples 1, 4, 7 and 8) showed severe separation and discoloration and were not suitable for use, even though the viscosity remained stable.

[0147] After washing hands and forearms with compositions prepared according to the present invention, all trained panelists concluded that the cleaning compositions rinsed off easily, left a film-free feel, and lathered well. Furthermore, the panelists surprisingly concluded that the performance of the compositions prepared according to the present invention was similar to those prepared with conventional polymeric synthetic thickeners.

Claims

1. A cleaning composition comprising: a) anionic surfactants; b) amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants or both; c) 0-4 wt% of a nonionic surfactant; and 1.7-8.5 wt % of a thickener, the thickener comprising starch and cellulose, the starch being hydroxypropyl starch, distarch phosphate or a mixture thereof, and the cellulose being microcrystalline cellulose selected from carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose or a mixture thereof, wherein when the thickener is present at 1.7-less than or equal to 4.5% by weight of the composition, the weight ratio of starch:cellulose is greater than 0 and less than 4.5, and further wherein when the thickener is present at greater than 4.5-8.5% by weight, the weight ratio of starch:cellulose is >0 and less than 15, and: i) the composition has 3.0-15 wt% total surfactant; ii) the total surfactant comprises 8-70 wt% of amphoteric surfactant, zwitterionic surfactant or both, based on the total weight of anionic surfactant and zwitterionic surfactant and / or amphoteric surfactant in the composition; and iii) the composition has a pH greater than 4.25-8, The composition is substantially free of sulfates and isethionates, wherein substantially free means that each individual component comprises less than 0.2% by weight of the total composition.

2. A detergent composition according to claim 1, wherein the anionic surfactant comprises taurate, and the zwitterionic surfactant is present and comprises betaine, and further wherein the composition comprises 4-13 wt% total surfactant and has a pH of 4.5-6.5, and wherein the thickener has at least 80 wt% starch and cellulose based on the total weight of the thickener in the composition.

3. A cleaning composition according to claims 1 and 2, wherein the pH of the composition is 4.75-6, and further wherein the composition comprises 10-65 wt% of amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants or both, based on the total weight of anionic surfactants and zwitterionic surfactants and / or amphoteric surfactants in the composition.

4. A cleaning composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the composition comprises 12-hydroxystearic acid.

5. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is substantially free of synthetic thickeners, silicones, hydantoins and parabens, wherein substantially free means that each individual component comprises less than 0.2% by weight of the total composition.

6. The cleaning composition according to claim 5, wherein the synthetic thickener is ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymer, alkyl acrylate crosspolymer or a mixture thereof.

7. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the anionic surfactant is sodium methyl lauroyl taurate and the zwitterionic surfactant is cocamidopropyl betaine.

8. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to zwitterionic surfactant is from 1 :1 to 1 :2.

2.

9. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein water comprises 62-95% by weight of the cleaning composition.

10. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning composition further comprises a water soluble or oil soluble benefit agent or both.

11. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning composition further comprises 4-ethylresorcinol, 4-hexylresorcinol, nicotinamide, peptidomide, thymol, terpineol or a mixture thereof.

12. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning composition is free of sulphates, silicones and parabens, and free of sodium benzoate.

13. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning composition further comprises zinc pyrithione, hydroxypyraclostrobin or a mixture thereof.

14. A cleaning composition according to any preceding claim wherein the anionic surfactant is a taurate and the zwitterionic surfactant is a betaine.

15. A composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is substantially free of soap, parabens and / or formaldehyde donors and comprises 4.5-11 wt% total surfactants, wherein substantially free means that each individual component comprises less than 0.2 wt% of the total composition.

Images