Low PH fabric care composition

Abstract

The invention relates to a low PH fabric care composition. The present invention provides an aqueous liquid fabric treatment composition and a liquid fabric care composition wherein the aqueous liquid fabric treatment composition comprises an organic acid system, the organic acid system comprising citric acid; a fragrance material, wherein the fragrance material is characterized by a logP of not greater than 2.5; the fabric care composition is characterized by a net pH of from about 1 to about 6. Related methods of making and using such compositions are also provided.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application entitled "Low pH Fabric Care Composition", filed on November 6, 2019, with application number 201911077104.1. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to liquid fabric care compositions comprising vinegar and / or acetic acid, a fragrance material, and water. The fragrance material is characterized by a pH of less than about 2.5, and the composition is characterized by an acidic pH. This disclosure also relates to methods for preparing and using such compositions. Background Technology

[0003] Today, many consumers are sustainability conscious and want to use consumer products that contain ingredients from natural sources. Other consumers tend to favor “trendy” or “retro” consumer products, which may use ingredients, methods, or brands that their grandmothers might have used, but with a modern twist.

[0004] Vinegar is an ingredient that can fulfill both needs. It has long been used in a variety of household treatments. For example, vinegar or solutions of it can be used to remove limescale from showerheads or faucets, to clean hard surfaces such as floors or windows, or even to treat fabrics during washing.

[0005] However, vinegar often has a strong odor due to its acetic acid content. Consumers may lose interest in products with such an odor. Furthermore, surfaces treated with such products, such as fabrics, may retain a lingering vinegar smell, which can be very bothersome to consumers.

[0006] To increase consumer acceptance of consumer products containing vinegar, manufacturers may try using fragrances to mask odors. Some fragrances can also indicate to consumers that a surface is clean or, in other words, fresh. However, many fragrance ingredients commonly used in household products are oil-based or, in other words, hydrophobic, meaning that water-based products formulated with such fragrances may be physically unstable.

[0007] To improve the incorporation of fragrance materials into aqueous products, emulsification can be used; however, emulsification presents additional challenges. For example, many emulsifiers, such as common nonionic surfactants like NEODOL... ® The nonionic surfactant (purchased from Shell) is synthetically prepared and may be undesirable for consumers seeking products from natural sources. Emulsified droplets may require additional structuring of the product, increasing costs. Furthermore, emulsified fragrance droplets can cause aqueous products to appear blurry or even opaque when a transparent product is needed to imply "purity" to the consumer.

[0008] Consumer products containing vinegar and characterized by acceptable stability and olfactory properties are required. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This disclosure relates to fabric care compositions and methods, the methods including the use of a combination of acetic acid and / or vinegar with certain fragrances.

[0010] For example, this disclosure relates to a liquid fabric care composition comprising about 0.1% to about 20% acetic acid by weight of the fabric care composition; about 0.1% to about 20% fragrance material by weight of the fabric care composition, wherein the fragrance material is characterized by a logP of less than about 2.5; and at least about 30% water by weight of the fabric care composition; wherein the fabric care composition is characterized by a net pH of about 1 to about 6.

[0011] This disclosure also relates to an aqueous liquid fabric treatment composition comprising: an organic acid system including acetic acid; a fragrance material characterized by a logP of not more than 2.5; and the fabric care composition characterized by a net pH of about 1 to about 6.

[0012] This disclosure also relates to a method for preparing a liquid fabric care composition, the method comprising the steps of: providing an aqueous (liquid) base material containing water, for example at least 50% water; mixing vinegar with the aqueous base material; mixing a fragrance material with the aqueous base material, wherein the fragrance material is added to the aqueous base material, characterized by a logP of not more than 2.5; wherein the resulting liquid fabric care composition is characterized by a net pH of about 1 to about 6. Detailed Implementation

[0013] This disclosure relates to a water-based fabric treatment composition comprising acetic acid, for example in the form of vinegar, and a fragrance material. Acetic acid may be in the form of vinegar. The fragrance material is selected to have relative hydrophilicity compared to many other common fragrance materials. This hydrophilicity can be quantified by a logP measurement, which will be described in more detail below.

[0014] Without being bound by theory, it is believed that selecting such hydrophilic fragrance materials in the compositions and related methods described in this invention can provide one or more advantages over conventional fragrance materials. Because fragrance materials are hydrophilic, they generally dissolve in aqueous compositions, resulting in improved phase stability. Due to their relative hydrophilicity, emulsification of the fragrance materials is unnecessary before addition to the aqueous composition, saving processing steps, formulation space, and / or additional materials (such as structuring agents and / or emulsifiers). Furthermore, hydrophilic fragrance materials are more advantageous for preparing substantially transparent products.

[0015] The compositions and methods of this disclosure are described in more detail below.

[0016] As used herein, the articles “a” and “an” when used in a claim are to be understood to refer to one or more things protected or described by the claims. As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “containing” are intended to be non-limiting. The compositions of this disclosure may comprise, consist substantially of, or be composed of the components of this disclosure.

[0017] This document may use the term "substantially free of" (or "substantially free from"). This means that the referred material is present in very small amounts, not intentionally added to the composition to form a portion of the composition, or preferably not at analytically detectable levels. It also means that the referred material is present in a composition only as an impurity among other intentionally added materials. If present, the referred material may be present at levels of less than 1%, less than 0.1%, less than 0.01%, or even 0% by weight of the composition.

[0018] As used herein, the term "fabric care composition" includes compositions and formulations designed to treat fabrics. Such compositions include, but are not limited to, laundry cleaning compositions and detergents, fabric softening compositions, fabric strengthening compositions, fabric freshening compositions, laundry pre-wash agents, laundry pretreatment agents, laundry additives, spray products, dry cleaning agents or compositions, laundry rinsing additives, washing additives, post-rinse fabric treatment agents, ironing aids, unit-dose formulations, delayed-delivery formulations, detergents contained on or within porous substrates or nonwoven sheets, and other suitable forms that are apparent to those skilled in the art from the teachings herein. Such compositions may be used as laundry pretreatment agents, laundry posttreatment agents, or may be added during rinsing or washing cycles of a laundry operation.

[0019] Unless otherwise specified, all component or composition levels refer to the active portion of the component or composition and do not include impurities, such as residual solvents or byproducts, that may be present in commercially available sources of such components or compositions.

[0020] Unless otherwise specified, all temperatures in this document are in degrees Celsius (°C). Unless otherwise specified, all measurements in this document were taken at 20°C and atmospheric pressure.

[0021] In all embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise specified, all percentages are by weight of the total composition. Unless otherwise specified, all ratios are by weight.

[0022] It should be understood that each maximum numerical limit given in this specification includes each lower numerical limit, as expressly stated herein. Each minimum numerical limit given in this specification includes each higher numerical limit, as expressly stated herein. Each numerical range given in this specification includes each narrower numerical range falling within that larger numerical range, as expressly stated herein in its entirety.

[0023] Fabric treatment composition

[0024] This disclosure relates to fabric treatment compositions. As described in more detail below, the compositions may contain acetic acid, which may be in the form of vinegar. Acetic acid may be part of an organic acid system. The compositions may provide beneficial effects of cleaning, softening, and / or freshening to the target fabric. For example, acetic acid and / or other organic acids are believed to remove mineral deposits that may accumulate on fabrics, especially those washed in hard water, resulting in improved softness.

[0025] The fabric treatment composition is a liquid composition. Liquid compositions can have relatively low viscosity, even similar to that of water. Consumers may expect such low-viscosity compositions due to their association with purity, naturalness, and / or simplicity. The composition is characterized by viscosities ranging from about 1 cp to about 200 cps, or about 150 cps, or about 100 cps, or about 75 cps, or about 50 cps, or about 30 cps, or about 20 cps, or about 15 cps, or about 10 cps. As used herein, viscosity is determined by the methods provided in the Test Methods section below.

[0026] The fabric treatment compositions disclosed herein are acidic compositions. The fabric treatment compositions disclosed herein are characterized by a pH of less than 7, or less than about 6, or less than about 5, or less than about 4, or less than about 3. The fabric treatment compositions disclosed herein are characterized by a pH of about 1, or about 1.5, or about 2, to about 6, or to about 5, or to about 4, or to about 3, or to about 2.5. The compositions may have a pH of about 2 to about 4 or to about 3.

[0027] In addition to the organic acids described below, the composition may also contain additional pH adjusters, such as buffers and / or neutralizers, such as caustic base materials (e.g., NaOH).

[0028] The compositions disclosed herein can be characterized by a reserve acidity metric. Without being theoretically limited, it has been found that the reserve acidity metric is an optimal measure of the acidifying capacity of the composition or its ability to provide a target acidic wash or rinse pH when added in a highly diluted state to tap water relative to pure or distilled water. The reserve acidity can be controlled by the level of the formulated organic acid along with the pH of the pure product, and in some respects (other buffers). The compositions disclosed herein may have a reserve acidity of at least about 1, or at least about 3, or at least about 5 to pH 4.0. The compositions may have a reserve acidity of about 3 to about 10, or about 4 to about 7 to pH 4.0. As used herein, “reserve acidity” refers to the number of grams of NaOH required to achieve a pH of 4.0 per 100 g of product. The reserve acidity measurement used herein is based on titrating a 1% product solution in distilled water to a pH 4.0 endpoint using a standard NaOH solution (at standard temperature and pressure).

[0029] The fabric treatment compositions disclosed herein can be substantially transparent. Such compositions can convey to consumers a sense of purity and / or natural origin (and therefore no synthetic components). The compositions are characterized by a transmittance percentage (T%) of at least about 50%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 70%, or at least about 80%, or at least about 90%, or at least about 95% of light at wavelengths of 410 nm to 800 nm or 570 nm to 690 nm, when the compositions are substantially dye-free, using a 1 cm cuvette. For the purposes of this disclosure, a material is considered substantially transparent / translucent as long as it has a transmittance greater than 50% at one wavelength in the visible light range.

[0030] The disclosed compositions can be isotropic at 22°C. As used herein, "isotropic" means that a transparent mixture, in the absence of dye, has a transmittance greater than 50% at 570 nm wavelength, as measured by a standard 10 mm channel cuvette and a Beckman DU spectrophotometer. The transmittance percentage is determined according to the methods provided in the Test Methods section below.

[0031] Alternatively, the transparency of the composition can be measured as having an absorption of less than 0.3 at visible wavelengths (about 410 to 800 nm), which in turn corresponds to at least 50% transmittance using the above-described cuvette and wavelength.

[0032] The compositions disclosed herein can exist in a single phase. The compositions can be stable according to the stability methods described in the Test Methods section below.

[0033] organic acids

[0034] The fabric treatment compositions disclosed herein comprise one or more organic acids. The fabric treatment compositions may comprise an organic acid system, which may comprise one or more organic acids. The compositions may comprise at least two organic acids. The organic acid system may comprise at least acetic acid and a second organic acid such as citric acid. The organic acids disclosed herein may have a molecular weight of less than about 80 Daltons.

[0035] The fabric treatment composition disclosed herein may comprise an organic acid system at a weight of about 1% to about 40% of the composition. The organic acid system may be present at a level of about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 40%, about 35%, about 30%, about 25%, or about 20% of the fabric treatment composition.

[0036] The fabric treatment compositions disclosed herein may contain acetic acid. Acetic acid is believed to help remove certain residues from fabrics, making them cleaner and / or softer. Acetic acid may be present at levels of about 0.05%, about 0.1%, about 0.15%, about 0.2% to about 5%, about 3%, about 2%, about 1%, about 0.5%, or about 0.3% by weight of the composition.

[0037] Acetic acid can be provided in the form of vinegar. Therefore, the fabric treatment compositions of this disclosure may contain vinegar. Vinegar may be present at levels of about 0.5%, or about 1%, or about 1.5%, or about 2% to about 20%, or about 15%, or about 10%, or about 5%, or about 4%, or about 3% by weight of the composition. Although more concentrated forms are available, vinegar suitable for use in household kitchens typically contains about 4% to about 5% acetic acid by weight of vinegar.

[0038] Due to the distinctive odor of acetic acid, relatively low levels of acetic acid and / or vinegar may be required, but a minimum amount may still be necessary to provide beneficial performance. While white vinegar typically contains about 4% to about 5% acetic acid, the compositions disclosed herein may contain relatively low levels of acetic acid. When the levels of acetic acid or vinegar are low, the performance of the composition can be improved by adding a second organic acid such as citric acid.

[0039] The fabric treatment compositions and / or organic acid systems disclosed herein may contain at least a second organic acid in addition to acetic acid / vinegar. Suitable second organic acids may include citric acid, lactic acid, adipic acid, aspartic acid, carboxymethoxymalonic acid, carboxymethoxysuccinic acid, glutaric acid, hydroxyethyliminodiacetic acid, iminodiacetic acid, maleic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, oxodiacetic acid, oxodisuccinic acid, succinic acid, aminosulfonic acid, tartaric acid, tartaric acid-disuccinic acid, tartaric acid-monosuccinic acid, or mixtures thereof. The fabric treatment compositions may contain citric acid. It may be preferred to select a second organic acid, such as citric acid, that can also act as a detergent builder during use.

[0040] The second organic acid can be present in a higher level than acetic acid. The second organic acid can be present in the fabric treatment composition at a level of about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 40%, about 35%, about 30%, about 25%, or about 20% by weight of the fabric treatment composition. Acetic acid and the second organic acid, such as citric acid, can be present in a weight ratio of about 1:300, about 1:250, about 1:225, about 1:200, about 1:1, about 1:10, about 1:50, or about 1:100. It may be desirable to have a relatively higher amount of the second organic acid compared to acetic acid in order to improve performance while minimizing undesirable odors.

[0041] Fragrance materials

[0042] The fabric treatment compositions disclosed herein comprise one or more fragrance materials. The fragrance materials are added to impart an aesthetically pleasing odor to the liquid product composition, treatment liquid, and / or fabrics treated with the composition. The compositions disclosed herein may comprise about 0.1% to about 20%, about 0.2% to about 10%, or about 0.3% to about 5% of the fragrance material by weight of the composition.

[0043] Non-limiting examples of fragrance materials include, but are not limited to, aldehydes, ketones, esters, etc. Other examples include various natural extracts and essential oils, which may contain complex mixtures of their components, such as orange oil, lemon oil, rose extract, lavender, musk, patchouli, balsam essential oil, sandalwood oil, pine oil, cedarwood, etc. Finished fragrances may contain extremely complex mixtures of such components.

[0044] With respect to the fabric treatment compositions of this disclosure, it is desirable that the fragrance material be relatively hydrophilic. Hydrophilic fragrance materials are more likely to dissolve or disperse sufficiently in the aqueous compositions of this disclosure, resulting in improved phase stability and / or product transparency.

[0045] The degree of hydrophilicity (or hydrophobicity) of a material or combination of materials can be described using logP values. LogP is a measure of the distribution of a solute between two immiscible liquid phases (octanol and water) and is commonly used as a relative measure of solute hydrophobicity. Flavor components with relatively large partition coefficients P are more hydrophobic. Flavor components with relatively small partition coefficients P are more hydrophilic. Because the partition coefficients of these flavor components typically have high values, they are conveniently given in their logarithmic form (logP) to the base 10.

[0046] One or more fragrance materials disclosed herein, whether single materials or combinations thereof, are characterized by a logP of not more than about 2.5, or not more than about 2.2, or not more than about 2. As used herein, the logP of the fragrance material or mixture of fragrance materials is determined according to the methods provided in the Test Methods section below. As described in more detail therein, a consensus logP is generally preferred where available, but alternative methods for determining logP are also provided.

[0047] When the fragrance material comprises multiple materials, each individual material can be characterized by logP, and it is likely preferred that, by weight, most of the materials are characterized by a logP of no more than about 2.5, or no more than about 2.2, or no more than about 2. At least about 60%, or at least about 70%, or at least about 80%, or at least about 85%, or at least about 90%, or at least about 95% of the said materials are characterized by a logP of no more than about 2.5, or no more than about 2.2, or no more than about 2. It is believed that a larger quantity of such materials will increase the phase stability and / or transparency of the composition.

[0048] Due to their hydrophilicity, one or more fragrance materials can be added to the aqueous compositions of this disclosure without additional treatment beyond the basic mixing. The fragrance materials can be unemulsified. One or more fragrance materials can be added purely or as part of an aqueous premix.

[0049] The fragrance materials having a logP value of less than 2.5 include non-limiting examples listed in Table A below. Compositions disclosed herein may include one or more fragrance materials listed in Table A. One or more of the fragrance materials listed in Table A may be used in combination with additional fragrance materials.

[0050] Table A.

[0051]

[0052]

[0053] At least a portion of the fragrance materials disclosed herein may be derived from naturally sourced materials. Such materials are believed to have a smaller environmental impact and / or be more environmentally sustainable compared to synthetically and / or geologically derived materials (such as petroleum-based materials). By weight of the fragrance materials, at least about 50%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 70%, or at least about 80%, or at least about 90%, or at least about 95%, or about 100% of the fragrance materials may be of naturally sourced fragrance materials.

[0054] Suitable aromatic ingredients from natural sources may include: cinnamon, primrose, hibiscus, gardenia, white rice, lemon balm, chamomile, peppermint, spearmint, sage, bergamot, basil, thyme, oregano, acacia, lily, lotus, jasmine, rose, lavender, chrysanthemum, clove, apricot, freesia, tulip, eucalyptus, rosemary, magnolia, apple mint, tea tree, hyacinth, cherry blossom, lemon verbena, camellia, fennel, peach blossom, blueberry, raspberry, or mixtures thereof.

[0055] Fragrance materials may contain plant extracts, such as fruit extracts, herbal extracts, or mixtures thereof. Suitable fruit extracts may include citrus extracts, preferably lemon extract. Suitable herbal extracts may include lavender extract, rosemary extract, thyme extract, basil extract, or mixtures thereof, preferably lavender extract.

[0056] Certain fragrance materials (including naturally derived materials such as certain extracts) can be relatively hydrophobic; for example, some may have a logP greater than about 2.5. Such materials and / or the parent materials from which they are derived may undergo processing steps to increase the relative hydrophilicity of the fragrance material. For example, a lemon extract prepared by one method may have a different / more hydrophobic logP than another lemon extract prepared by a different method. With regard to the fragrance materials described in this invention, at least a portion of the fragrance material can be prepared by solvent extraction. It is particularly preferred to use aqueous solvent extraction or other methods to prepare the material because it is believed that the resulting material will have the desired hydrophilicity and / or logP value. It may be preferred not to use distillation methods to prepare at least some of the material because it is believed that the resulting material may not have the desired hydrophilicity and / or logP value. The hydrophilic / aqueous portion can be used when the material is separated into a hydrophobic / oil-based portion and a hydrophilic / water-based portion using a separation process. Suitable fragrance materials, such as those described in Antoniotti, S., Molecules 2014, 19, 9203-9214 (e.g., available at https: / / www.mdpi.com / 1420-3049 / 19 / 7 / 9203 / htm), can be prepared via enzymatic treatment processes.

[0057] Because the compositions of this disclosure are generally characterized by relatively low pH, the fragrance materials of this disclosure are generally acid-stable, especially at the pH of the composition. Acid stability can be qualitatively demonstrated by the absence of phase separation, discoloration, and / or precipitation formation during storage at acidic pH, preferably from about 2 to about 4.

[0058] Water and other optional solvents

[0059] The fabric treatment composition is typically an aqueous composition. Therefore, the fabric treatment composition contains water. In the absence of additional treatments (such as emulsification), ingredients, or other interventions, the typical hydrophobic fragrance material in such an aqueous composition may be phase unstable.

[0060] The fabric treatment composition disclosed herein may contain about 30%, or about 40%, or about 50%, about 95%, or about 90%, or about 80%, or about 75%, or about 70% water by weight of the fabric composition.

[0061] Although the fabric treatment compositions disclosed herein are aqueous, the compositions may also contain organic solvents that can improve the stability, solubility of the components, and / or transparency of the composition. The fabric treatment compositions may contain about 0.1% to about 30%, or about 1% to about 20% of an organic solvent by weight of the composition. Suitable organic solvents may include ethanol, diethylene glycol (DEG), 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol (MPD), monopropylene glycol (MPG), dipropylene glycol (DPG), oligoamines (e.g., diethylenetriamine (DETA), tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA)), glycerol, propoxylated glycerol, ethoxylated glycerol, ethanol, 1,2-propanediol (also known as propylene glycol), 1,3-propanediol, 2,3-butanediol, cellulosic ethanol, renewable propylene glycol, renewable monopropylene glycol, renewable dipropylene glycol, renewable 1,3-propanediol, and mixtures thereof. One or more of the organic solvents may be bio-based, meaning they are derived from natural / sustainable, non-geological (e.g., non-petroleum-based) sources.

[0062] Does not contain certain ingredients

[0063] The fabric treatment compositions disclosed herein may contain a limited number of ingredients, for example, no more than ten, or no more than nine, or no more than eight, or no more than seven, or no more than six, or no more than five ingredients. Limiting the number of ingredients can result in lower raw material storage and / or transportation costs, and / or simplify the method of preparing the composition. Consumers may also prefer products with a limited number of ingredients because they may be perceived as simpler, have a smaller environmental footprint, and / or provide a more easily understood ingredient list.

[0064] As described above, the compositions of the present invention can be relatively transparent. Therefore, the compositions of the present invention can be substantially free of particulate matter, such as encapsulating beneficial agents, siloxane droplets, pearlescent agents, and / or opacifiers, which can reduce the relative transparency of the composition. The compositions of the present invention can be substantially free of dyes. As used herein, the term "dye" includes aesthetic dyes that modify the appearance of a clean composition, as well as dyes and / or pigments that can be deposited on fabrics and alter the fabric's hue. Dyes include colorants, pigments, and toning agents. The compositions of the present invention can be substantially free of fluorescent whitening agents.

[0065] The compositions of the present invention may be substantially free of detergency surfactants, bleaching systems, and / or fabric softening materials. Such materials can affect the aesthetics, physical stability, and / or chemical stability of other components in the compositions of the present invention. Additionally or alternatively, some of these materials may themselves be physically or chemically unstable in the low pH environment of the compositions of the present invention. Furthermore, consumers using the compositions of the present invention may wish to remove materials from their treated fabrics, and at least some of the listed materials may deposit on the fabric during normal treatment cycles, resulting in undesirable residues.

[0066] The compositions of the present invention may be substantially free of detergency surfactants, including anionic, nonionic, amphoteric, and / or zwitterionic surfactants. Anionic surfactants may include: sulfated surfactants, such as alkyl sulfates or alkoxylated alkyl sulfates; sulfonated surfactants, such as (linear) alkylbenzene sulfonates; and / or carboxylated surfactants. Nonionic surfactants may include: alkoxylated fatty alcohols; alkoxylated alkylphenols; and / or alkyl polyglucosides. Zwitterionic surfactants may include amine oxides and / or betaine.

[0067] The compositions of the present invention may be substantially free of bleaching systems. Bleaching systems may include peroxide bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide and / or peroxide sources. Bleaching systems may include hypohalite bleaching agents, such as hypochlorite bleaching agents, or sources of such hypohalites. Bleaching systems may also include bleaching activators, such as NOBS or TAED, or bleaching catalysts.

[0068] The compositions of the present invention may be substantially free of fabric softening materials. Such materials may be deposited on fabrics, which may be a suboptimal choice for certain consumers, applications, or fabrics. Additionally or alternatively, such materials may require emulsification or other processing to make them compatible with the aqueous compositions of the present invention. Fabric softening materials may be cationic and / or capable of becoming cationic under typical washing conditions. Fabric softening materials may include quaternary ammonium ester compounds, siloxanes, non-ester quaternary ammonium compounds, amines, fatty acid esters, sucrose esters, siloxanes, dispersible polyolefins, polysaccharides, fatty acids, softening or conditioning oils, polymer latexes, or combinations thereof. As used herein, the term "fabric softening material" is not intended to include any of the materials listed above in the "Organic Acids" section, including acetic acid or vinegar.

[0069] To maintain low viscosity, the compositions disclosed herein may be substantially free of thickeners or other rheology enhancers, such as structural agents. The compositions may also be substantially free of salts, such as inorganic salts like sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, and / or calcium chloride, which can provide rheological modifications, such as thickening. As used herein, such salts are not intended to include neutralization products of the organic acids described herein.

[0070] While acetic acid and / or vinegar have been discussed in detail in this disclosure, the same principles can be applied to treatment compositions containing citric acid even in the absence of acetic acid and / or vinegar when transparency is required. Citric acid is also a “natural” ingredient and may be a desired ingredient for the relevant consumer. Therefore, this disclosure also relates to aqueous liquid fabric treatment compositions comprising an organic acid system including citric acid; a fragrance material characterized by a pH of not more than 2.5; and a net pH of about 1 to about 6. The above-described components, levels, and properties are substantially applicable to such compositions.

[0071] Package

[0072] The fabric treatment compositions described herein can be packaged in any suitable container, including those constructed from paper, cardboard, plastic materials, and any suitable laminates. The containers may contain renewable and / or recyclable materials.

[0073] The fabric treatment composition can be contained in a transparent container, such as a transparent bottle. The transparent bottle or container may have a transmittance greater than about 25%, or greater than about 30%, or greater than about 40%, or greater than about 50% in the visible portion of the spectrum (about 410-800 nm). Alternatively, the absorbance of the bottle can be measured to be less than about 0.6 or by making the transmittance greater than about 25%, wherein the transmittance % is equal to:

[0074]

[0075] For the purposes of this disclosure, a light source is considered transparent / transparent if it has a transmittance of more than about 25% at a wavelength in the visible light range.

[0076] Suitable transparent bottle materials include, but are not limited to: polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), polyamide (PA) and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PETE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC); and polystyrene (PS). Recyclable materials may be preferred for environmental reasons.

[0077] The container or bottle may have any form or size suitable for storing and packaging liquids for household use. For example, the container may have any size, but typically it will have a maximum capacity of about 0.05 to about 15 L, or about 0.1 to about 5 L, or about 0.2 to about 2.5 L. The container may be adapted for easy handling. For example, the container may have a handle or part of such size to allow the container to be easily lifted or carried with one hand. The container may have a device suitable for pouring liquid detergent compositions and a device for reclosing the container. The pouring device may have any size or form. The closing device may have any form or size (e.g., screwed onto the container or clicked onto the container to close it). The closing device may be a cap that can be removed from the container. Alternatively, the cap may be attached to the container, whether the container is open or closed. The closing device may also be integrated into the container.

[0078] Preparation method

[0079] This disclosure also relates to methods for preparing liquid fabric treatment compositions as described herein. Any suitable method known in the art can be used, such as batch methods, online mixing and / or loop-based methods.

[0080] A method for preparing a liquid fabric treatment composition may include the following steps: providing an aqueous base composition; mixing acetic acid and / or vinegar with the aqueous base composition; and mixing a fragrance material (which may be a non-emulsified fragrance material) with the aqueous base composition; wherein the resulting liquid fabric care composition is characterized by a net pH of about 1 to about 6.

[0081] The water-containing base material may contain water. The water-containing base material may contain at least 50%, or at least 60%, or at least 70%, or at least 75%, or at least 80%, or at least 85%, or at least 90%, or at least 95% water by weight of the water-containing base material.

[0082] The fragrance material has been described in more detail above. For example, the fragrance material may be characterized by a value of no more than 2.5 logP. The fragrance material may be unemulsified, which is believed to improve the transparency of the resulting composition.

[0083] The method may include adding acetic acid to the aqueous base composition. Acetic acid and / or vinegar may be mixed with the aqueous base before, during, or after mixing the fragrance material with the aqueous base.

[0084] How to use

[0085] This disclosure also relates to a method of using the liquid fabric treatment composition described herein. The method may include contacting a fabric or other surface with the composition according to this disclosure. The contact step may be carried out in the presence of water. The composition may be dispersed or dissolved in water to form a treatment liquid.

[0086] The pH of the treatment liquid may be greater than (e.g., close to seven) the pH of the fabric treatment composition. The treatment liquid may be characterized by a pH of about 2, or about 3, or about 4 to about 7, or about 6, or about 5. The organic acid system of the fabric treatment composition may be selected to substantially buffer the treatment liquid to the desired pH. Additionally or alternatively, the fabric treatment composition may contain other buffers or pH balancers to deliver the desired pH in the treatment liquid.

[0087] The composition is typically used at a concentration of about 500 ppm to about 15,000 ppm in a solution (i.e., the treatment liquid).

[0088] The water temperature can range from about 5°C to about 90°C. The weight ratio of the treatment liquid to the fabric can be from about 1:1 to about 30:1.

[0089] The method can be a manual method, such as in a washbasin, or it can be an automatic method, occurring in the drum of an automatic washing machine. The machine can be a top-loading machine or a front-loading machine. The compositions disclosed herein can be manually supplied to the drum of an automatic washing machine, or they can be automatically supplied, for example, via a dispenser drawer or other container.

[0090] Typical treatment methods include at least one washing cycle and at least one subsequent rinsing cycle. The fabric may be treated with a surfactant, such as anionic surfactant, during the washing cycle. The composition may be provided to the drum, and / or the fabric may be brought into contact with the composition during the rinsing cycle.

[0091] combination

[0092] The specific combinations contemplated in this disclosure are described herein in paragraphs marked with subscript letters. These combinations are intended to be illustrative in nature and are not intended to be limiting.

[0093] A. A liquid fabric care composition comprising: about 0.1% to about 20% acetic acid by weight of the fabric care composition; and about 0.1% to about 20% fragrance material by weight of the fabric care composition, wherein the fragrance material is characterized by a logP of less than about 2.5; and at least about 30% water by weight of the fabric care composition; wherein the fabric care composition is characterized by a net pH of about 1 to about 6.

[0094] B. The composition according to paragraph A, wherein the composition comprises about 0.1% to about 10%, or about 0.5% to about 5%, or about 1% to about 3% acetic acid.

[0095] C. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A or B, wherein the composition further comprises a second organic acid selected from citric acid, lactic acid, adipic acid, aspartic acid, carboxymethoxymalonic acid, carboxymethoxysuccinic acid, glutaric acid, hydroxyethyliminodiacetic acid, iminodiacetic acid, maleic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, oxodiacetic acid, oxodisuccinic acid, succinic acid, aminosulfonic acid, tartaric acid, tartaric acid-disuccinic acid, tartaric acid-monosuccinic acid, or mixtures thereof, preferably citric acid.

[0096] D. An aqueous liquid fabric treatment composition comprising: an organic acid system comprising acetic acid (and / or citric acid); a fragrance material characterized by a logP of not more than 2.5; and wherein the fabric care composition is characterized by a net pH of about 1 to about 6.

[0097] E. The composition according to paragraph D, wherein the acetic acid is present at a level of about 0.05%, or about 0.1%, or about 0.15%, or about 0.2% to about 5%, or about 3%, or about 2%, or about 1%, or about 0.5%, or about 0.3% by weight of the composition.

[0098] F. The composition according to paragraph E, wherein the organic acid system further comprises a second organic acid selected from acetic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, adipic acid, aspartic acid, carboxymethoxymalonic acid, carboxymethoxysuccinic acid, glutaric acid, hydroxyethyliminodiacetic acid, iminodiacetic acid, maleic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, oxodiacetic acid, oxodisuccinic acid, succinic acid, aminosulfonic acid, tartaric acid, tartaric acid-disuccinic acid, tartaric acid-monosuccinic acid, or mixtures thereof, preferably citric acid and / or acetic acid.

[0099] G. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to F, wherein the composition comprises acetic acid and the second organic acid, preferably wherein the second organic acid is citric acid, in a weight ratio of about 1:300 or about 1:250, or about 1:225, or about 1:200, to about 1:1, or to about 1:10, or to about 1:50, or to about 1:100.

[0100] H. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to G, wherein the composition is characterized by a pH of about 1.5 to about 5, preferably about 2 to about 4, or even more preferably about 2 to about 3.

[0101] I. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to H, wherein the composition is characterized by a reserve acidity of at least about 1, or at least about 3, or at least about 5 up to pH 4.0.

[0102] J. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to I, wherein the composition contains at least about 50% water, preferably at least about 60% water.

[0103] K. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to J, wherein at least about 50%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 70%, or at least about 80%, or at least about 90%, or at least about 95%, or about 100% of the fragrance material by weight is a fragrance material of natural origin.

[0104] L. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to K, wherein the fragrance material comprises plant extracts, preferably selected from fruit extracts, herb extracts, or mixtures thereof.

[0105] M. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to L, wherein the fragrance material comprises fruit extracts, preferably citrus extracts, more preferably lemon extracts.

[0106] N. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to M, wherein the aromatic material comprises herbal extracts, preferably lavender extract, rosemary extract, thyme extract, basil extract, or mixtures thereof, more preferably lavender extract.

[0107] O. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to N, wherein the fragrance material comprises a plurality of materials, wherein at least about 60% by weight of the plurality of materials is characterized by a weight of not more than about 2.5 logP.

[0108] P. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to O, wherein the composition is characterized by a viscosity of about 1 cps to about 200 cps, as determined by rotational viscometry at 60 RPM and 22°C using a Brinell viscometer and ASTM D 2196-99.

[0109] Q. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to P, wherein the composition is characterized by a light transmittance percentage (T%) of at least about 60%, or at least about 70%, or at least about 80%, or at least about 90%, or at least about 95% at a wavelength of about 410-800 nm, preferably about 570-690 nm, using a 1 cm cuvette.

[0110] R. The composition according to any one of paragraphs A to Q, wherein the composition is substantially free of detergency surfactants, bleaching systems and / or fabric softening materials.

[0111] S. A method for preparing a liquid fabric care composition, the method comprising the steps of: providing an aqueous base material; mixing vinegar with the aqueous base material; mixing a fragrance material with the aqueous base material, wherein the fragrance material is added to the aqueous base material, characterized by a pH of not more than 2.5; wherein the resulting liquid fabric care composition is characterized by a net pH of about 1 to about 6.

[0112] T. The method according to paragraph S, wherein the fragrance material is unemulsified when mixed with the aqueous base material.

[0113] Test methods

[0114] Unless otherwise specified, the following test methods are used for the following determinations.

[0115] pH measurement

[0116] Unless otherwise stated herein, the pH of a composition is defined as its net pH at 20 ± 2 °C. Any measuring instrument capable of measuring pH to ± 0.01 pH units is suitable. An Orion pH meter (Thermo Scientific, Clintonpark – Keppekouter, Ninovesteenweg 198, 9320 Erembodegem – Aalst, Belgium) or equivalent is acceptable. The pH meter should be equipped with a suitable glass electrode with a calomel or silver / silver chloride reference. Examples include the Mettler DB 115. The electrode should be stored in the electrolyte solution recommended by the manufacturer. Measure the pH according to the pH meter manufacturer's standard procedures. Additionally, the manufacturer's instructions for setting up and calibrating the pH unit should be followed.

[0117] Viscosity Measurement

[0118] The viscosity of the composition was determined using a Brinell viscometer and the rotational viscometry method according to ASTM D 2196-99 at 60 RPM and 22°C.

[0119] Stain removal

[0120] Stain removal tests were conducted on a front-loading HE machine, conforming to the guidelines provided in ASTM 4265-14, "Standard Guide for Evaluating Stain Removal Performance in Domestic Washing". Technical stain samples of cotton CW120 containing 22 different stains were purchased. Each of the corresponding detergent compositions listed in the table below was tested in a standard North American washing machine (Whirlpool). ® Using a hardness of 7 grains per gallon, the stained samples were washed at a normal cycle of 86F. Image analysis was used to compare each stain with an unstained fabric control. The software converted the captured images into standard colorimetric values ​​and compared these to a standard based on the commonly used Macbeth color reproduction test chart, assigning a colorimetric value (stain degree) to each stain. Eight replicates were prepared for each. The stain removal index was then calculated using the formula shown below.

[0121] The following measurements were taken to assess the effectiveness of the stain removal on the samples:

[0122]

[0123] ∆E 初始 =Dirty level before washing

[0124] ∆E 洗涤 = Stain level after washing

[0125] Stability methods

[0126] Once the sample is prepared, store it in a covered glass container at an ambient temperature of 22°C for at least 12 hours. This allows the fragrance to solubilize in the product. After 12 hours, perform a visual inspection. If phase separation is visible, for example, if oil separation is present at the top, the sample is considered unstable.

[0127] Transmittance (T%)

[0128] As a measure of the relative transparency / transparency of the composition, the percentage of transmittance (T%) of the composition can be determined.

[0129] Before measuring the percentage of transmittance, vigorously shake the wide-mouth bottle containing the composition for 10 seconds. Immediately place the sample into a 1 cm cuvette. Vigorously shake the sample in the cuvette for 10 seconds. Wait 30 seconds and then measure the percentage of transmittance.

[0130] In the absence of dye, the percentage of transmittance of the composition was measured at the desired wavelength in a standard 10 mm path length cuvette using a Beckman DU spectrophotometer.

[0131] LogP

[0132] The logP of a material or mixture of materials is determined according to the following method and according to the following classification structure:

[0133] For single materials and / or simple mixtures:

[0134] Use consensus logP whenever possible (e.g., using known, simple materials).

[0135] If consensus logP is unavailable, then use classic logP whenever possible.

[0136] If classic logP is unavailable, use measured logP whenever possible.

[0137] For other mixtures (e.g., more complex mixtures or essential oils / extracts):

[0138] Use composite logP whenever possible.

[0139] If consensus logP is unavailable, then use a mixture to measure logP as described below.

[0140] As used in this article, “logP” refers to the value provided when the above hierarchical structure and the following methods are followed.

[0141] The hydrophobicity of a flavor component can be correlated with its octanol / water partition coefficient, P. The octanol / water partition coefficient of a flavor component is the ratio of its equilibrium concentrations in octanol and water. Flavor components with a larger partition coefficient P are more hydrophobic. Conversely, flavor components with a smaller partition coefficient P are more hydrophilic. Because the partition coefficients of these flavor components typically have high values, they are conveniently given as their logarithm (logP) to the base 10.

[0142] This model calculates the octanol-water partition coefficient (logP or logKow) of general organic molecules directly based on molecular structure. LogP is a measure of the distribution of a solute between two immiscible liquid phases (octanol and water) and is commonly used as a relative measure of solute hydrophobicity. In this case, it is calculated using the ACD / Labs LogP module. This version is based on version 14.02 (Linux) of the ACD / Labs module acdlabs.com.

[0143] Three algorithms are used to calculate logP: 1) the classical algorithm, 2) the GALAS algorithm, and 3) the consensus algorithm. The classical method essentially sounds like a classic logP calculation style based on molecular fragments. It works well and is widely applicable. The GALAS algorithm is a newer method that essentially starts with a classical value and then adjusts the value based on experimental data from the molecule or very similar molecules in a large supporting database. Therefore, the GALAS method can be very accurate if the molecule or very similar molecules are in the base database. The consensus method is a weighted combination of the classical and GALAS values. It considers the reliability of the GALAS result, reflecting the similarity between the query structure and the molecules found in the database. If the GALAS method is more reliable, the consensus method will be given greater weight; otherwise, the consensus value will be closer to the classical value. The consensus value is recommended for general use because, although the classical algorithm can produce good values, the GALAS algorithm can produce more accurate values ​​if there are enough similar structural examples in the base module database to provide adjustments. However, since the query may be unique, the GALAS value may be less accurate. The consensus method combines classical and GALAS values ​​using an adaptive weighting scheme that considers the reliability metrics associated with the GALAS values. Therefore, the consensus method should provide an optimal single overall value for logP. All three values ​​are reported in the output provided by the model so that users can understand the differences between the three values ​​and make an informed choice about which value to use. The ACD / lab LogP predictions included in the table below are from the consensus algorithm. The Clog P value, which is the most reliable and widely used for estimating physicochemical properties, was used instead of the experimental logP value in the selection of flavoring components that can be used in this invention.

[0144] Measured log p :

[0145] The identification and quantity of each flavor ingredient (PRM) in the test composition were determined by liquid analysis of pure flavor oil or a diluted flavor oil using analytical chromatographic techniques of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with flame ionization detection (GC-MS / FID) performed using nonpolar or micropolar columns.

[0146] Suitable instruments for performing these GC-MS / FID analyses include devices such as: Hewlett Packard / Agilent Gas Chromatograph Model 7890 Series GC / FID (Hewlett Packard / Agilent Technologies Inc., Santa Clara, California, USA); Hewlett Packard / Agilent Model 5977N Mass Selective Detector (MSD) Transmission Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer (Hewlett Packard / Agilent Technologies Inc., Santa Clara, California, USA); MPS2 Multifunctional Automated Sampler (GERSTEL Inc., Linthicum, Maryland, USA); and 5% phenyl-methyl polysiloxane column J&W DB-5 (30 m length × 0.25 mm inner diameter × 0.25 µm film thickness) (J&W Scientific / Agilent Technologies Inc., Santa Clara, California, USA).

[0147] Those skilled in the art will understand that, in order to identify and quantify PRM in a composition, analytical steps may involve: using an external reference standard; generating regional response values; and comparing the measured results with retention times and mass spectrometry peaks obtained from reference databases and libraries.

[0148] Determining the logP of fragrance oil composites is a multi-step process involving identification, determination of relative abundance, and prediction using a LogP database. The weight percentage of each PRM is calculated by dividing the FID area response of that PRM by the total FID area response of all PRMs. The logP of each individual material is determined using consensus values ​​from the ACD / log p prediction method. The reported composite LogP is calculated by multiplying the weight fraction of each individual PRM across all PRMs by its respective logP and then summing the results.

[0149] In the fragrance industry, some auxiliary materials with no or very low odor are used as solvents, diluents, extenders, or fixatives. Non-limiting examples of these materials include ethyl alcohol, ethanol, carbitol, dipropylene glycol, diethyl phthalate, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, and benzyl benzoate. These materials are used, for example, to solubilize or dilute certain solid or viscous fragrance components to improve, for example, handling and / or formulation. These materials can be used in fragrance compositions and are counted in the definition / formulation calculations of the fragrance compositions for the compound logP of the present invention. Sample calculations are provided below.

[0150]

[0151] When hydrophilic fragrances are required, at least about 25% by weight of the fragrance, more preferably about 50%, and most preferably about 75% consists of fragrance components having a Clog P of about 2.5 or less.

[0152] Example

[0153] The embodiments provided below are intended to be illustrative in nature and are not intended to be limiting.

[0154] Example 1. Exemplary Composition

[0155] Table 1 shows the compositions according to this disclosure.

[0156] Table 1.

[0157]

[0158] Example 2. Stability Test (1) - Single Fragrance Material

[0159] Four composition samples according to Example 1 in Table 1 were prepared. As shown in Table 2, each sample contained a different flavoring material. Each of the four flavoring materials had a different ACD laboratory consensus model prediction for LogP. Two different weight percentage levels—0.5% and 1% flavoring—were tested. The stability and T% of each sample were evaluated according to the test methods provided above. The results are provided in Table 2. Examples 2A and 2B are comparative examples, while Examples 2C and 2D are examples according to this disclosure.

[0160] Table 2 :

[0161]

[0162] Example 3. Stability Test (2) — Mixture of Fragrance Materials

[0163] Two composition samples according to Example 1 in Table 1 were prepared. As shown in Table 3, each sample contained a different mixture of commercially available flavoring materials. Both flavorings are believed to be derived from lemon, such as lemon oil and / or lemon extract. The flavorings were obtained from TREATT (Bury St. Edmunds, UK).

[0164] Each of the two flavoring blends is characterized by a compound LogP. Two different weight percentage levels—0.5% and 1% flavoring—were tested. The stability and T% of each sample were evaluated according to the test methods provided above. The results are shown in Table 3. Example 3A is an example according to this disclosure, and Example 3B is a comparative example.

[0165] Table 3.

[0166]

[0167] Example 4. Decontamination performance

[0168] Run stain removal tests to determine the stain removal performance of products alone and in combination with detergent products for rinsing.

[0169] According to this disclosure, the tested rinsing product is the composition of Example 1 in Table 1 provided above, which has 1% fragrance.

[0170] Based on the formulations provided in Table 4-1, the tested detergent product is a low-pH liquid heavy-duty detergent (HDL) product. The detergent product is characterized by a pH of approximately 2.5.

[0171] Table 4-1.

[0172]

[0173] Stain removal data were obtained for detergent-only products (Example 4A), for detergent-only products followed by products added to the rinse (4B), and for rinse-only products (4C). Tests were conducted according to the stain removal methods provided above. Approximately 50 mL of detergent product was added to the detergent drawer, and approximately 50 mL of the rinse composition was added to the rinse drawer. A variety of stains / dirts were tested, but only those stains / dirts that showed significant performance with the detergent alone are presented in Table 4-2.

[0174] Table 4-2.

[0175]

[0176] * = Significance with a 95% confidence interval

[0177] As shown in Table 4-2, the detergent, followed by the rinsing agent composition according to this disclosure, is used in grass, Lipton. ™ Tea and Nescafe ™ The coffee showed significant improvement in cleanliness with a 95% confidence interval.

[0178] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be construed as strictly limited to the precise numerical values ​​cited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and a range around which it is functionally equivalent. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to represent “approximately 40 mm”.

[0179] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, every reference cited herein, including any cross-references or related patents or patent applications, and any patent application or patent claiming priority to or benefiting from it, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Reference to any reference is not an endorsement of it as prior art to any disclosed or protected art herein, nor is it an endorsement of any such invention, either on its own or in combination with any one or more references. Furthermore, where any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in referenced documents, the meaning or definition given to that term in this invention shall prevail.

[0180] While specific embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described by way of example, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications falling within the scope of the invention be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A water-containing liquid fabric treatment composition, said water-containing liquid fabric treatment composition comprising Organic acid systems The organic acid system includes citric acid; Fragrance materials, The fragrance material is characterized by a value of not more than 2.5 logP; The fabric care composition described therein is characterized by a net pH of about 1 to about 6.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the organic acid system further comprises a second organic acid, the second organic acid being selected from lactic acid, adipic acid, aspartic acid, carboxymethoxymalonic acid, carboxymethoxysuccinic acid, glutaric acid, hydroxyethyliminodiacetic acid, iminodiacetic acid, maleic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, oxodiacetic acid, oxodisuccinic acid, succinic acid, aminosulfonic acid, tartaric acid, tartaric acid-disuccinic acid, tartaric acid-monosuccinic acid, or mixtures thereof.

3. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the second organic acid is lactic acid.

4. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition is characterized in that: (a) pH 1.5 to 5, preferably 2 to 4, even more preferably 2 to 3; and / or (b) A reserve acidity of at least 1, preferably at least 3, and even more preferably at least 5, up to pH 4.

0.

5. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition contains at least about 50% water.

6. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, even more preferably 100% of the fragrance material is a naturally derived fragrance material.

7. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fragrance material comprises a plant extract, preferably selected from fruit extracts, herb extracts, or mixtures thereof. If the fragrance material includes fruit extracts, then the fruit extracts preferably include citrus extracts, more preferably lemon extracts; and If the fragrance material includes herbal extracts, the herbal extracts preferably include lavender extract, rosemary extract, thyme extract, basil extract, or a mixture thereof, more preferably lavender extract.

8. The composition of claim 1, wherein the fragrance material comprises a plurality of materials, wherein at least about 60% by weight of the plurality of materials is characterized by a value not greater than about 2.5 logP.

9. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition is characterized by a viscosity of about 1 cps to about 200 cps, as determined by using a Brinell viscometer and rotational viscometry at 60 RPM and 22°C according to ASTM D 2196-99.

10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition is characterized in that, when the composition is substantially dye-free, using a 1 cm cuvette, at wavelengths of about 410 nm to 800 nm, the light transmittance percentage (T%) is at least about 60%.

11. The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition is substantially free of detergency surfactants, bleaching systems and / or fabric softening materials.

12. A liquid fabric care composition, said liquid fabric care composition comprising: An organic acid system comprising approximately 10% to approximately 40% by weight of the fabric care composition. The organic acid system mentioned above includes citric acid and lactic acid. Fragrance material comprising about 0.1% to about 20% by weight of the fabric care composition. The fragrance material is characterized by a value less than about 2.5 logP; and At least about 30%, preferably at least about 50%, of the fabric care composition by weight; The fabric care composition is characterized by a net pH of about 1 to about 6; and The fabric care composition thereof is substantially free of detergency surfactants selected from anionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, amphoteric surfactants and combinations thereof; The fabric care composition is substantially free of bleaching systems selected from oxide bleaching agents, hypohalite bleaching agents, bleaching activators, bleaching catalysts, and combinations thereof; and The fabric care composition therein is substantially free of fabric softening materials selected from quaternary ammonium ester compounds, siloxanes, non-ester quaternary ammonium compounds, amines, fatty acid esters, sucrose esters, siloxanes, dispersible polyolefins, polysaccharides, fatty acids, softening or conditioning oils, polymer latexes, and combinations thereof.

13. The composition of claim 12, wherein the fragrance material comprises a plurality of materials, wherein at least about 60% by weight of the plurality of materials is characterized by a value not greater than about 2.5 logP.

14. The composition according to claim 12, wherein the composition is characterized in that: (a) pH 1.5 to 5, preferably 2 to 4, even more preferably 2 to 3; and / or (b) A reserve acidity of at least 1, preferably at least 3, and even more preferably at least 5, up to pH 4.

0.

15. A method for preparing a liquid fabric care composition, the method comprising the following steps: Provide water-containing base material; The organic acid system is mixed with the aqueous base material, wherein the organic acid system comprises citric acid and / or lactic acid; The fragrance material is mixed with the aqueous base material, wherein the fragrance material added to the aqueous base material is characterized by a value of not more than 2.5 logP; The resulting liquid fabric care composition is characterized by a net pH of about 1 to about 6.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the fragrance material is not emulsified when mixed with the aqueous base material.

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