Method of washing garments in a washing machine

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of laundering fabrics in a washing machine, the method comprising adding a laundry detergent composition and a laundry additive composition to a wash tank. In the method, the temperature of the wash liquor is above 15°C and below 40°C; 0.5g to 20g of the laundry additive composition is added to the wash tank per litre of wash liquor; and the total wash time is 60 minutes or less. The laundry additive composition comprises, based on the total weight of the additive composition: 20wt% to 60wt% of at least one bleach, 0.1wt% to 20wt% of at least one bleach activator, and 0.001wt% to 2wt% of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazol-1,1-dioxide.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a method for washing fabrics in a washing machine having a washing tub. The method includes adding a laundry detergent composition and a laundry additive composition to the washing tub to form a washing liquid comprising the laundry detergent composition, the laundry additive composition, and water, and washing the fabric by contacting the fabric with the washing liquid. Background Technology

[0002] Consumers associate garment satisfaction and durability with characteristics such as stain resistance, pleasant odor, elimination or reduction of bacteria, viruses, and / or fungi (i.e., disinfection), and improved whiteness in the case of white garments. Typically, lengthy cleaning procedures are required, involving pretreatment, vigorous scrubbing, or washing at high temperatures to achieve acceptable stain and odor removal. For example, washing operations are usually carried out at temperatures between 40°C and 60°C; and for disinfection purposes, temperatures can reach as high as 90°C.

[0003] Furthermore, consumers tend to use longer wash cycles to achieve the desired properties for their clothing. In short, longer wash cycles and the temperatures typically used not only mean higher energy consumption but also cause clothing to deteriorate more quickly.

[0004] Unilever's patent application EP0446982 A2 describes a bleaching composition comprising a peroxide compound such as sodium perborate, an oxygen transfer agent, and a bleaching precursor. The bleaching composition of this document is intended to operate over a wide temperature range, including temperatures below 60°C. However, this document does not provide any information regarding the amounts of the peroxide compound, oxygen transfer agent, and bleaching precursor required to provide detergency at temperatures below 60°C.

[0005] Patent application US 2018 / 0187130 A1 from WeylChem Wiesbaden GmbH describes particles containing sulfonamides and / or quaternary iminium salts as bleaching catalysts and acids that are solid at 25°C. These particles can be used in dishwashing detergents or cleaning agents at low temperatures (e.g., below 35°C). However, this document does not provide any information regarding the amount of bleach (e.g., sodium percarbonate) required in the detergent composition to provide the desired enhanced bleaching effect. Regarding the removal of stains from clothing, food prepared with spice mixtures containing turmeric or curry can cause stains that are extremely difficult (if not impossible) to remove with ordinary laundry detergents, chlorine bleach, existing fabric additives, or any household remedies. Turmeric is a strong natural colorant containing curcumin, and the additional presence of oils, fats, meats, and other protein components (such as eggs and milk) makes these types of stains even more difficult to clean. This means that in a food culture where curry / turmeric plays a significant role, people have no solution, even after washing, but have no choice but to deal with the curry / turmeric stains remaining on their clothing.

[0006] In particular, curry / turmeric grease stains are difficult to remove because they contain a variety of components, such as fat, protein, coloring agents, and odor.

[0007] Clothing is also a breeding ground for bacteria and germs, which can produce unpleasant odors. Typically, laundry detergents and fragrances attempt to mask unpleasant smells by introducing large amounts of fragrance (e.g., in the form of microcapsules). However, once the volatile fragrance molecules leave the fabric, the unpleasant odor remains or may reappear over time or during ironing.

[0008] Conventional detergent compositions are suitable for cleaning clothes, meaning they can remove grime and dirt. However, additional detergent compositions are needed to remove stains, eliminate odors, eliminate or reduce bacteria, viruses, and / or fungi (i.e., disinfect), and improve whiteness in the case of white clothing.

[0009] Reckitt Benckiser Vanish's patent application WO 2022 / 069468 A1 describes a composition for removing stains and odors. This effect is achieved at temperatures below 40°C. However, the document does not mention or imply the use of compositions similar to those described to provide stain and / or odor removal at temperatures below 40°C and at shorter wash times than typically used in washing machines (e.g., 90 minutes).

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for a method for washing fabrics in a washing machine at low temperatures and with short wash cycles. The method should provide stain removal and / or odor removal. In particular, the method should provide removal of turmeric stains from fabrics. Ideally, the method should also improve the whiteness of the fabric.

[0011] The object of this invention is to provide a method for washing fabrics in a washing machine with a washing tub, wherein the temperature of the washing liquid is below 40°C and the washing time is below 60 minutes. The method removes stains and / or odors from the fabric. Furthermore, the method optionally improves the whiteness of the fabric. Summary of the Invention

[0012] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method for washing fabrics in a washing machine having a washing tub, the method comprising the following steps: a) Add the laundry detergent composition to the washing tub. b) Add the laundry additive composition to the washing tub. c) Add water to the washing tub to form a washing solution comprising the laundry detergent composition, the laundry additive composition, and water. d) Washing the fabric by contacting it with the detergent solution. e) Discharge the washing liquid from the washing tank. f) Optionally, the remaining washing solution is centrifuged out of the washing tank. g) Add water to the washing tub to rinse the fabric. h) Rinse the fabric, and i) Drain the water used for rinsing the fabric from the washing tank. j) Optionally, the remaining water used for rinsing the fabric is centrifuged out of the washing tank. in: - The temperature of the washing liquid is higher than 15°C and lower than 40°C; - Add 0.5g to 20g of the fabric additive composition per liter of washing liquid to the washing tank. - Total washing time is less than 60 minutes, and - Based on the total weight of the additive composition, the clothing additive composition comprises: ○ At least one bleaching agent, ranging from 20% to 60% by weight. ○ At least one bleaching activator, ranging from 0.1% to 20% by weight, and ○ 0.001% by weight to 2% by weight of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide.

[0013] In one embodiment, the method removes stains from a fabric.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the stain is turmeric and / or curry stain.

[0015] In another preferred embodiment, the method removes odors from the fabric.

[0016] In another preferred embodiment, the method improves the whiteness of the fabric.

[0017] In one embodiment, the fabric is in contact with the washing liquid for 20% to 80% of the total washing time.

[0018] In another embodiment, the fabric is in contact with the washing liquid for 30% to 70% of the total washing time, preferably 40% to 60% of the total washing time.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the fabric is made of cotton, one or more synthetic materials, or a combination thereof, preferably wherein the one or more synthetic materials are polyester.

[0020] In one embodiment, the temperature of the washing liquid is below 25°C.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the temperature of the washing liquid is about 20°C.

[0022] In one embodiment, 1g to 15g of the clothing additive composition is added to the washing tub per liter of washing liquid, preferably 2g to 10g, more preferably 2g to 6g, and even more preferably 3g to 5g.

[0023] In one implementation, the total washing time is less than 50 minutes.

[0024] In another implementation, the total washing time is less than 40 minutes.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the total washing time is 10 to 35 minutes.

[0026] In another preferred embodiment, the total washing time is 15 to 30 minutes.

[0027] In one embodiment, the clothing additive composition comprises 25% to 55% by weight of the at least one bleaching agent, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition.

[0028] In another embodiment, the clothing additive composition comprises 0.25% to 15% by weight of the at least one bleaching activator, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the clothing additive composition comprises 0.005% to 1.5% by weight of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition.

[0030] In another embodiment, the clothing additive composition contains a protease, preferably, the clothing additive composition contains 0.001% to 5% by weight of the protease based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the clothing additive composition is in solid or powder form, and based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition, the clothing additive composition comprises: - 30% to 50% by weight of at least one bleaching agent, wherein the at least one bleaching agent preferably comprises or is composed of sodium percarbonate; - 0.025% by weight to 0.75% by weight of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide; - At least one protease, ranging from 0.001% by weight to 1% by weight; - 1% to 5% by weight of at least one bleaching activator, wherein the at least one bleaching activator preferably comprises or is composed of tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED); and - Preferably, it also contains 0.001% to 1% by weight of one or more other enzymes, which are preferably selected from the group consisting of mannanase, lipase, amylase, cellulase and combinations thereof.

[0032] definition

[0033] The following definitions are used in this application.

[0034] The term “Ganz value / instrument assessment” used in this application refers to the degree of whiteness simulated based on the Ganz-Griesser value specified in the AISE Laundry Detergent Testing Guidelines.

[0035] As used in this application, "protease" refers to a class of enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of proteins into smaller polypeptides or individual amino acids.

[0036] The term "amylase" as used in this application refers to a class of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of starch into sugars such as glucose and maltose.

[0037] The term "mannanase" as used in this application refers to a class of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of mannose derivatives.

[0038] In this application, "mannose" refers to a sugar monomer of the aldose series of carbohydrates.

[0039] The term "lipase" as used in this application refers to a class of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of fats or lipids.

[0040] The term "cellulase" as used in this application refers to a class of enzymes that catalyze the decomposition or hydrolysis of cellulose.

[0041] The term "laundry detergent composition" as used in this application refers to a composition primarily used for cleaning clothing, whose main function is to remove dirt and grime, containing a detergent builder and not containing lipase.

[0042] As used in this application, "clothing additive composition" refers to a composition intended to provide specific consumer benefits, such as stain removal, odor elimination, improvement of garment whiteness, and / or disinfection. This means that the primary function of clothing additives is not to remove dirt and grime.

[0043] As used in this application, "total washing time" refers to the time immediately after the washing machine has loaded the fabric and the laundry detergent composition and laundry additive composition have been added to the washing tub. Therefore, it should be understood that the time is calculated from the moment the washing machine is turned on and water begins to enter the washing tub. When one or more centrifugal steps are involved, the washing is considered complete after the washing machine performs its final centrifugal cycle.

[0044] As used in this application, "washing" refers to the act of washing fabrics. In this application, the purpose of washing is to remove dirt and grime from fabrics, while also providing specific consumer benefits. Detailed Implementation

[0045] This invention relates to a method for washing fabrics in a washing machine having a washing tub, the method comprising the following steps: a) Add the laundry detergent composition to the washing tub. b) Add the laundry additive composition to the washing tub. c) Add water to the washing tub to form a washing solution comprising the laundry detergent composition, the laundry additive composition, and water. d) Washing the fabric by contacting it with the detergent solution. e) Discharge the washing liquid from the washing tank. f) Optionally, the remaining washing solution is centrifuged out of the washing tank. g) Add water to the washing tub to rinse the fabric. h) Rinse the fabric, and i) Drain the water used for rinsing the fabric from the washing tank. j) Optionally, the remaining water used for rinsing the fabric is centrifuged out of the washing tank. in: - The temperature of the washing liquid is higher than 15°C and lower than 40°C; - Add 0.5g to 20g of the fabric additive composition per liter of washing liquid to the washing tank. - Total washing time is less than 60 minutes, and - Based on the total weight of the additive composition, the clothing additive composition comprises: ○ At least one bleaching agent, ranging from 20% to 60% by weight. ○ At least one bleaching activator, ranging from 0.1% to 20% by weight, and ○ 0.001% by weight to 2% by weight of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide.

[0046] The inventors have observed that using a laundry detergent composition comprising at least one bleaching agent, at least one bleaching activator, and 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide in a method for washing fabrics allows the fabrics to be washed in a washing machine at a temperature above 15°C and below 40°C, wherein the total washing time is less than 60 minutes. Despite washing the fabric at low temperatures and for a short time, the method according to the invention provides not only cleaning of the fabric but also removal of stains. The method also provides odor removal and, preferably, improvement in the whiteness of the fabric.

[0047] Steps a) and b) of the method according to the invention can be reversed or performed simultaneously, meaning that the laundry additive composition can be added to the washing tub first, followed by the laundry detergent composition. Alternatively, the laundry detergent composition and the laundry additive can be added to the washing tub simultaneously.

[0048] It should be understood that the total washing time refers to the time required to perform all steps (i.e., steps a) to j) of the method according to the invention. This means that the fabric is in contact with the washing liquid only for a portion of the total washing time (step d). The fabric may be in contact with the washing liquid (step d) for 20% to 80% of the total washing time, preferably 30% to 70% of the total washing time, and more preferably 40% to 60% of the total washing time.

[0049] The compound 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide reacts in detergent to form oxazopropidine, which is responsible for improved stain removal. It is believed that by adding 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide to a garment additive composition containing bleach and a bleach activator, the activation energy required to bleach stains is reduced. When this energy is lowered, stains can be removed at lower temperatures (e.g., 25°C or 20°C) and in shorter washing times (e.g., 60 minutes, 50 minutes, 40 minutes, 30 minutes, 20 minutes, or even 10 minutes).

[0050] Therefore, in one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for washing fabrics in a washing machine, wherein the method removes stains from the fabrics, preferably wherein the stains are turmeric and / or curry stains.

[0051] Furthermore, the inventors have observed a synergistic effect among all components of the clothing additive composition used in the method according to the invention. This is demonstrated by the combined removal of stains and odors, as well as optional improvement in whiteness.

[0052] Therefore, in one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for washing fabrics in a washing machine, wherein the method removes odors from the fabrics.

[0053] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for washing fabrics in a washing machine, wherein the method improves the whiteness of the fabrics.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for washing fabrics in a washing machine, wherein the method removes stains and odors from the fabrics.

[0055] In the method according to the invention, particularly in garments made of polyester, one effect that can be obtained by using the clothing additive composition is improved whiteness or brightening. As previously mentioned, 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazol-1,1-dioxide produces oxazapropidine, which has hydrophobic properties and can interact with polyethylene terephthalate in polyester textiles. This interaction allows for better whitening of the textiles.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for washing fabrics in a washing machine, wherein the method removes stains and odors from the fabrics and improves the whiteness of the fabrics.

[0057] The fabric may be made of cotton, one or more synthetic materials, or a combination thereof, preferably polyester.

[0058] In the method according to the invention, the temperature of the washing liquid can be below 25°C, preferably about 20°C.

[0059] In the method according to the invention, the amount of the clothing additive composition added to the washing tank per liter of washing liquid can be from 1g to 15g, preferably from 2g to 10g, more preferably from 2g to 6g, and even more preferably from 3g to 5g.

[0060] In the method according to the invention, the total washing time can be less than 50 minutes, preferably less than 40 minutes, more preferably 10 to 35 minutes, and even more preferably 15 to 30 minutes.

[0061] Based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition in the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition may contain 25% to 55% by weight of the at least one bleach, preferably 30% to 50% by weight.

[0062] The bleaching agent is preferably selected from the group consisting of oxygen-releasing bleaching agents, chlorine-releasing bleaching agents, and combinations thereof. The at least one bleaching agent may then contain at least one active oxygen source, selected from the group consisting of inorganic peroxides, organic peracids, hydrogen peroxide, and combinations thereof; preferably selected from the group consisting of sodium percarbonate, ε-phthalimide-peroxy-hexanoic acid (PAP), peracetic acid, potassium persulfate (KMPS), and combinations thereof; most preferably, the at least one bleaching agent comprises or is composed of sodium percarbonate.

[0063] Based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition in the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition may contain 0.01% to 1.00% by weight of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide, preferably 0.025% to 0.75% by weight.

[0064] Based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition in the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition may contain 0.25% to 15% by weight of the at least one bleaching activator, preferably 0.5% to 10% by weight, more preferably 1% to 5% by weight.

[0065] The at least one bleaching activator is preferably selected from the group consisting of tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED), acetylated triazine derivatives, acetylated glyceryl, imide, acetylated phenol sulfonate, acetylated phenol carbonate, carbonic anhydride, acetylated sugar derivatives, N-acetylated lactam, and combinations thereof; preferably, the at least one bleaching activator comprises or is composed of tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED).

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition in the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition may contain 30% to 50% by weight of the at least one bleaching agent, 0.025% to 0.75% by weight of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide, and 1% to 5% by weight of the at least one bleaching activator.

[0067] In the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition may contain a protease. For example, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition, the clothing additive composition may contain 0.001% to 5% by weight of the protease, preferably 0.001% to 2.5% by weight, more preferably 0.001% to 1% by weight.

[0068] The protease in the clothing additive composition further enhances the stain removal, odor removal, and whitening properties of the method according to the invention. Furthermore, the combination of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide and the protease allows for the incorporation of other enzymes that have a synergistic effect with other elements of the composition. For example, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition, the composition may contain 0.001% to 10% by weight of one or more other enzymes, preferably 0.001% to 5% by weight, more preferably 0.001% to 2.5% by weight, even more preferably 0.001% to 2% by weight, and most preferably 0.001% to 1% by weight; wherein said one or more other enzymes are selected from the group consisting of mannanase, lipase, amylase, cellulase, and combinations thereof.

[0069] In the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition can be in any form, such as solid, liquid, gel, powder, or mixture thereof. Preferably, the clothing additive composition is in solid or powder form.

[0070] Preferably, in the method according to the invention, the pH value of a 1:100 dilution of the clothing additive composition at 20°C is between 9 and 12, more preferably between 9.5 and 11.5, and even more preferably between 10 and 11.

[0071] Preferably, in the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition further comprises a rheology modifier, fragrance, phase stabilizer, dye, softener, chelating agent, antibacterial agent, transition metal compound, defoamer, preservative, one or more surfactants, one or more fillers, dye transfer inhibitor, optical brightener, or a combination thereof.

[0072] In the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition may contain one or more nonionic surfactants. Based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition, the amount of the one or more nonionic surfactants in the clothing additive composition may be from 0.01% by weight to 10% by weight, preferably from 0.05% by weight to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.1% by weight to 1.0% by weight. An example of a nonionic surfactant is one having the formula R... 1 (OCH2CH2) n OH- ethoxylated alcohols and ethoxylated alkylphenols; wherein R 1 It is an aliphatic hydrocarbon group containing 10 to 24 carbon atoms or an alkylphenyl group containing 10 to 22 carbon atoms; and the average value of n is 1 to 10. Preferably, the one or more nonionic surfactants have the formula R. 1 (OCH2CH2) n OH; where R 1 It is an alkyl moiety having 10 to 24 carbon atoms, and the average value of n is 1 to 10.

[0073] For example, when R 1 Defined as C 12-14 In some cases, it refers to an alkyl moiety having 12 to 14 carbon atoms. For example, when R 1 Defined as C 12-16 In some cases, it refers to an alkyl moiety having 12 to 16 carbon atoms. For example, when R 1 Defined as C 13 When used in part, it refers to an alkyl moiety with 13 carbon atoms.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition in the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition comprises 0.01% to 10% by weight of one or more nonionic surfactants, preferably 0.05% to 5% by weight, more preferably 0.1% to 1.0% by weight; wherein the one or more nonionic surfactants have the formula R 1 (OCH2CH2) n OH; where R 1 It is an alkyl moiety having 12 to 16 carbon atoms, and the average value of n is 3 to 6, preferably 4 to 5.

[0075] The laundry additive composition in the method according to the invention may further comprise any conventional anionic surfactant or mixture thereof used in detergent products. These include, for example, alkylbenzene sulfonic acids and their salts, as well as alkoxylated or non-alkoxylated alkyl sulfate materials. Anionic surfactants may be present in acidic or neutralized (e.g., salt) form. Anionic surfactants may be linear, branched, or mixtures thereof. An example of anionic surfactant is sodium cumene sulfonate.

[0076] An example of anionic surfactant is C. 10-16 Alkylbenzenesulfonic acid or C 11-14 Alkali metal salts of alkylbenzene sulfonic acids.

[0077] Another exemplary type of anionic surfactant is an alkoxylated alkyl sulfate surfactant, such as an ethoxylated alkyl sulfate surfactant. Such materials are also known as alkyl ether sulfates or alkyl polyethoxylated sulfates.

[0078] Alkyl ether sulfates are typically supplied in the form of mixtures, which contain varying R' chain lengths and varying degrees of ethoxylation. Typically, such mixtures also contain some non-ethoxylated alkyl sulfate (“AS”) material.

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, in the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition comprises: - Based on the total weight of the composition, 0.01 wt% to 10 wt% of one or more nonionic surfactants, preferably 0.05 wt% to 5 wt%, more preferably 0.1 wt% to 1.0 wt%; wherein the one or more nonionic surfactants have the formula R 1 (OCH2CH2) n OH; where R 1 It is an alkyl moiety having 12 to 16 carbon atoms, and the average value of n is 3 to 6, preferably 4 to 5; and - Based on the total weight of the composition, 0.01% to 10% by weight of one or more anionic surfactants, preferably 0.05% to 7.5% by weight, more preferably 0.1% to 5% by weight; wherein the one or more anionic surfactants preferably comprise sodium linear alkylbenzene sulfonate, sodium xylene sulfonate, alcohol sulfate, α-olefin sulfonate, or a combination thereof.

[0080] In this preferred embodiment, for example, the selection of nonionic and anionic surfactants is important for the compatibility of the clothing additive composition with high-content bleach, and is also important for controlling the foaming, detergency, flowability and other physical and chemical properties of the composition.

[0081] In the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition may optionally contain a filler. Suitable fillers include bicarbonates and carbonates of metals (e.g., alkali metals and alkaline earth metals). Examples include sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, calcium bicarbonate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium bicarbonate, and sesquicarbonates of sodium, calcium, and / or magnesium. Other examples include metal carboxyglycine and metal glycine carbonates. Chlorides, such as sodium chloride; citrates; and sulfates, such as sodium sulfate, calcium sulfate, and magnesium sulfate, may also be used. Preferably, in the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition contains at least one filler selected from the group consisting of alkyl carbonates, alkyl sulfates, and combinations thereof; more preferably selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, sodium sulfate, and combinations thereof.

[0082] When a filler is present, the composition may contain 0.1% to 80% by weight of the at least one filler, preferably 10% to 75% by weight, more preferably 20% to 70% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0083] In the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition may comprise an optical brightener, preferably selected from the group consisting of stilbene, benzidine, benzothiazole, benzimazole, benzoxazole, coumarin, pyrazoline, naphthimide, naphthoxazole, stilbene-biphenyl, benzyl nitrile, benzopyrazole, including derivatives and substituted compounds thereof, and combinations thereof. Suitable optical brighteners include 4,4'-bis(2-sulfostylenyl)biphenyl, 7-diethylamino-4-methylcoumarin, benzoxazole, 2,2'-(1,2-vinyldiyl)bis[5-methyl] (including substituted compounds thereof), 4,4'-bis(triazin-2-ylamino)stilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid, mono(azole-2-yl)stilbene and bis(azole-2-yl)stilbene; styrene derivatives of benzene and biphenyl, such as 1,4-bis(styrene), 4,4'-bis(styrene), 4,4'-bis(styrene), 4,4'-bis(styrene) (Styryl)biphenyl, sodium salt of 4,4'-bis(sulfonostyl)biphenyl; pyrazolines such as 1,3-diphenyl-2-pyrazoline; bis(benzyl-2-yl) derivatives, bis(benzoxazol-2-yl) derivatives and bis(benzimidazole-2-yl) derivatives; 2-(benzofuran-2-yl)benzimidazole; coumarins such as 4-methyl-7-hydroxycoumarin or 4-methyl-7-diethylaminocoumarin; carbazole; naphthioimide; dibenzothiophene-5,5-dioxide; pyrene; or pyridotriazole derivatives and combinations thereof.

[0084] When an optical brightener is present, the clothing additive composition may contain 0.001% to 1% by weight of at least one optical brightener, preferably 0.01% to 0.5% by weight, more preferably 0.05% to 0.25% by weight, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition in the method according to the invention.

[0085] In the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition may further comprise a dye transfer inhibitor. Preferred dye transfer inhibitors (sometimes referred to as dye anti-redeposition agents or stain suspending agents) include polyvinyl alcohol, fatty amides, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinylimidazole, polyvinyloxazolidinone, polyamine N-oxide polymers, and copolymers of N-vinylpyrrolidone and N-vinylimidazole.

[0086] When a dye transfer inhibitor is present, the clothing additive composition may contain 0.001% to 1% by weight of at least one dye transfer inhibitor, preferably 0.01% to 0.75% by weight, more preferably 0.05% to 0.50% by weight, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition in the method according to the invention.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment, in the method according to the invention, the clothing additive composition is in solid or powder form, and based on the total weight of the composition, it comprises: - 30% to 50% by weight of at least one bleaching agent, preferably containing or composed of sodium percarbonate; - 0.025% by weight to 0.75% by weight of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide; - At least one protease, ranging from 0.001% by weight to 1% by weight; - At least one bleaching activator, from 1% to 5% by weight, preferably comprising or composed of tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED); and - Preferably, it also contains 0.001% to 1% by weight of one or more other enzymes, preferably selected from the group consisting of mannanase, lipase, amylase, cellulase and combinations thereof.

[0088] Unless otherwise stated, all percentages used in this disclosure are by weight.

[0089] The invention will now be described in conjunction with the following non-limiting embodiments.

[0090] Example

[0091] preparation

[0092] Table 1 shows the comparative formulation (Formulation A) and the formulation used in accordance with the method of the present invention (Formulation 1).

[0093] Table 1. Formulations

[0094] Oxygen transfer agent = 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide.

[0095] The amounts of enzymes in Table 1 are the amounts received from the supplier.

[0096] Other enzymes: mannanase, lipase, amylase, cellulase, or combinations thereof. The other enzymes used in formulations A and 1 are the same.

[0097] Other ingredients include thickeners and fillers.

[0098] Performance testing

[0099] Removing stains from washing machines

[0100] Technical stains on cotton (as defined in Table 3) are washed in a washing machine at 20°C in a detergent solution containing one of the detergent systems shown in Table 2.

[0101] Detergent is prepared by adding water to a detergent system containing laundry detergent and laundry additives. This means adding laundry detergent and laundry additives to a washing tub; subsequently, water is added to the washing tub to form detergent.

[0102] Table 2. Detergent System

[0103] The commercially available detergent in Table 2 is Ariel brrrilliant stain removal, sold in the UK.

[0104] Washing test conditions

[0105] Each sample (technical stains loaded on cotton) was washed in a Bosch WAV28MA9II washing machine at 20°C using a quick wash cycle (approximately 30 minutes for a full cycle) with a water hardness of 28 °F. During the wash cycle, the sample was in direct contact with the washing liquid for approximately 15 minutes.

[0106] The test fabric samples were dried using an industrial dryer and ironed using a household iron.

[0107] The stain removal was determined using a Datacolor 700 spectrophotometer and by measuring the Y value of the technical stain after washing.

[0108] The results of these tests are shown in Table 3, which compares the detergency of a detergent system (D1) containing a composition according to the method of the present invention with that of a conventional liquid detergent (Det) and a detergent system (Da) containing a composition not according to the method of the present invention. In Table 3, "0" indicates no difference in detergency performance, "+" indicates improved detergency performance, and gray boxes indicate no testing.

[0109] Table 3. Stain removal performance of technical stains on cotton under washing cycles of 20°C and approximately 30 minutes.

[0110] (Each value in Table 3 is the average of four measurements)

[0111] The results in Table 3 show that the method according to the invention (including Formulation 1) allows for stain removal at low temperatures and with short washing cycles (i.e., about 30 minutes). In particular, it is shown that the method of the invention allows for the removal of curry stains. Furthermore, the method of the invention including Formulation 1 provides better stain removal even when the amounts of bleach and bleach activator are lower than those in the comparative composition.

[0112] This means that the method according to the invention allows for the removal of stains while reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions, thanks to the ability to use lower temperatures and shorter cycles.

[0113] Odor removal

[0114] Two mixtures of odor molecules representing body and foot odors were prepared separately. A few drops of each mixture were applied to cotton (100% cotton) and polyester-cotton (42% polyester, 55% cotton, and 3% elastane) fabrics to produce odorous test samples. The samples were then washed. Each sample was dried and placed in a glass container at 60°C for 2 hours. Subsequently, each sample in the glass container was left at room temperature for 24 hours. Each sample was then evaluated by a panel of experts in a specialized laboratory.

[0115] Washing test conditions

[0116] Each fabric sample was washed in a BOSCH Vario Perfect serie 2 washing machine at 20°C using a quick wash cycle (approximately 15 minutes for a full cycle) with a water hardness of 28 °F.

[0117] Detergent is prepared by adding water to a detergent system containing a laundry detergent composition and laundry additives. This means adding laundry detergent and laundry additives to a washing tub; subsequently, water is added to the washing tub to form a detergent solution.

[0118] The results of these tests are shown in Table 4, which compares the odor removal performance of a detergent system (D1) containing a composition according to the method of the present invention with that of a conventional liquid detergent (Det). In Table 4, "0" indicates no difference in odor removal performance, and "+" indicates improved odor removal performance.

[0119] Table 4. Odor removal performance under washing cycles of 20°C and approximately 15 minutes.

[0120] The results in Table 4 clearly demonstrate that the method of washing fabrics in a washing machine according to the present invention provides a better effect on removing odors from clothing than methods that only contain commercially available detergents.

[0121] Furthermore, the inventors have observed that the method according to the invention provides improved whiteness in clothing.

[0122] These results indicate that the method according to the invention provides: - Stain removal, especially turmeric and curry grease stains. - Odor removal; and - Preferably, it also improves the whiteness of the garment.

[0123] Therefore, the present invention achieves one or more of the objectives of the invention, which will be further explained in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for washing fabrics in a washing machine, the method comprising the following steps: a) Add the laundry detergent composition to the washing tub. b) Add the laundry additive composition to the washing tub. c) Add water to the washing tub to form a washing solution comprising the laundry detergent composition, the laundry additive composition, and water. d) Washing the fabric by contacting it with the detergent solution. e) Discharge the washing liquid from the washing tank. f) Optionally, the remaining washing solution is centrifuged out of the washing tank. g) Add water to the washing tub to rinse the fabric. h) Rinse the fabric, and i) Drain the water used for rinsing the fabric from the washing tank. j) Optionally, the remaining water used for rinsing the fabric is centrifuged out of the washing tank. in: - The temperature of the washing liquid is higher than 15°C and lower than 40°C; - Add 0.5g to 20g of the fabric additive composition per liter of washing liquid to the washing tank. - Total washing time is less than 60 minutes, and - Based on the total weight of the additive composition, the clothing additive composition comprises: ○ At least one bleaching agent, ranging from 20% to 60% by weight. ○ At least one bleaching activator, ranging from 0.1% to 20% by weight, and ○ 0.001% by weight to 2% by weight of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the method removes stains from the fabric.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the stain is turmeric and / or curry stain.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method removes odors from the fabric.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method improves the whiteness of the fabric.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fabric is in contact with the washing liquid for 20% to 80% of the total washing time.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the fabric is in contact with the washing liquid for 30% to 70% of the total washing time, preferably 40% to 60% of the total washing time.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fabric is made of cotton, one or more synthetic materials or a combination thereof, preferably wherein the one or more synthetic materials are polyester.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the temperature of the washing liquid is below 25°C.

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the temperature of the washing liquid is about 20°C.

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein 1 g to 15 g of the clothing additive composition, preferably 2 g to 10 g, more preferably 2 g to 6 g, and even more preferably 3 g to 5 g, is added to the washing tank per liter of washing liquid.

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the total washing time is less than 50 minutes.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the total washing time is less than 40 minutes.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the total washing time is 10 minutes to 35 minutes.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the total washing time is 15 to 30 minutes.

16. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clothing additive composition comprises 25% to 55% by weight of the at least one bleaching agent based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition.

17. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clothing additive composition comprises 0.25% to 15% by weight of the at least one bleaching activator based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition.

18. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clothing additive composition comprises 0.005% by weight to 1.5% by weight of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition.

19. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clothing additive composition comprises a protease.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the clothing additive composition comprises 0.001% by weight to 5% by weight of the protease, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition.

21. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clothing additive composition is in solid or powder form.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the clothing additive composition is in solid or powder form, and comprises, based on the total weight of the clothing additive composition: - 30% to 50% by weight of at least one bleaching agent, wherein the at least one bleaching agent preferably comprises or is composed of sodium percarbonate; - 0.025% by weight to 0.75% by weight of 3-methyl-1,2-benzisothiazole-1,1-dioxide; - At least one protease, ranging from 0.001% by weight to 1% by weight; - 1% to 5% by weight of at least one bleaching activator, wherein the at least one bleaching activator preferably comprises or is composed of tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED); and - Preferably, it also contains 0.001% to 1% by weight of one or more other enzymes, which are preferably selected from the group consisting of mannanase, lipase, amylase, cellulase and combinations thereof.

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