Concentrates for use in aqueous compositions

Abstract

A concentrate for use in aqueous cleaning compositions, comprising: (i) a first surfactant which is non-ionic; ii) a second surfactant which is anionic or amphoteric; and (iii) at least one essential

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to concentrates for use in aqueous cleaning compositions, aqueous cleaning compositions containing said concentrates, processes for preparing said compositions, and non-therapeutic methods and uses of the concentrates and compositions described herein. Background

[0002] Cleaning products for domestic use are ubiquitous, and in the modern home it is not unusual for consumers to have a multitude of products for the various household devices and surfaces that require cleaning. Such cleaning products may, for example, be intended for cleaning mirrors, windows, bathroom surfaces (e.g. bathtubs, basins), kitchen surfaces, wood furniture, floors and the like. A different product for each room and / or surface type is not only burdensome on the consumer, but it is detrimental to the environment because such products typically utilise harsh chemicals to achieve effective cleaning functionality, and are supplied in single-use containers. The ingredients in conventional cleaning products are also often harmful to the environment in respect of their production or disposal, and may be toxic or otherwise cause consumer health and safety issues such as headaches, and irritation of the eyes, skin, throat, and / or lungs.

[0003] Products that aim to improve consumer safety or lower environmental impact can, however, suffer from poor cleaning efficacy and / or poor stability. Such products may also require complicated formulations, continue to include toxic or irritable chemical components, or be limited in terms of the types of surface that they can be used on. Such products are also often associated with a poor sensorial experience for the consumer, e.g. an undetectable scent or fragrance, or a scent or fragrance which is artificial or otherwise unpleasant.

[0004] There is therefore a need in the art for straightforward, versatile and low environmental impact cleaning products that are stable and effective across a wide range of domestic surfaces. There is also a need in the art for such products to deliver a sensorial experience, e.g. smell, that is pleasant for consumers, and improved over known cleaning products. The present invention satisfies this need by providing concentrates that can be easily diluted with water and then used as a non-toxic aqueous cleaning composition on a wide range of surfaces for effective cleaning. The concentrates and compositions are also straightforward to prepare, stable and provide a pleasant sensorial experience for the consumer. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In a first aspect, there is provided a concentrate for use in an aqueous composition, wherein the concentrate comprises: (i) at least two surfactants which are non-ionic and selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl esters, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates; (ii) an optional third surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and non-ionic surfactants; and (iii) at least one essential oil or a blend thereof; wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 5 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate; and wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 2:1 to about 15:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives.

[0006] In a second aspect, there is provided a concentrate for use in an aqueous cleaning composition, wherein the concentrate comprises: (i) a first surfactant which is non-ionic and selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl esters, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates; (ii) a second surfactant which is anionic or amphoteric, the anionic surfactant being selected from fatty acids, fatty acid salts, sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates; the amphoteric surfactant being selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylamphodipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides; (iii) at least one essential oil or a blend thereof; wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 1 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate; and wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 2:1 to about 25:1; and optionally wherein the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to anionic surfactant is from about 1:1 to about 20:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives

[0007] In another aspect there is provided a composition comprising a concentrate as defined herein and water.

[0008] In another aspect there is provided a container comprising the concentrate as defined herein, or the composition as defined herein.

[0009] In another aspect there is provided a kit of parts comprising a container, the concentrate as defined herein, and a cloth, wipe, sponge and / or towel.

[0010] In another aspect there is provided a process for preparing a composition, wherein the process comprises providing a concentrate as defined herein, and mixing the concentrate with water so as to prepare the composition.

[0011] In another aspect there is provided a non-therapeutic use of a concentrate as defined herein for cleaning a surface.

[0012] In another aspect there is provided a non-therapeutic use of a composition as defined herein for cleaning a surface.

[0013] In another aspect there is provided a method of cleaning a surface, wherein the method comprises applying the composition as defined herein to the surface.

[0014] These aspects and embodiments thereof are set out in the appended independent and dependent claims. It will be appreciated that features of the dependent claims may be combined with each other and with features of the independent claims in combinations other than those explicitly set out in the claims. Furthermore, the approaches described herein are not restricted to specific embodiments such as those set out below, but include and contemplate any combinations of features presented herein.

[0015] The foregoing and other aspects, embodiments, features and advantages of the present disclosure will appear more fully hereinafter from a consideration of the detailed description that follows. In this regard, particular sections of the description are not to be read in isolation from other sections. Detailed Description

[0016] While various exemplary embodiments are described or suggested herein, other exemplary embodiments utilising a variety of methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described or suggested herein are encompassed by the general inventive concepts. Those features or embodiments which are implemented conventionally may not be discussed or described in detail in the interests of brevity. It will thus be appreciated that features of apparatus, products or processes described herein which are not described in detail may be implemented in accordance with any conventional techniques for implementing such features in the respective context.

[0017] As used in this specification and the claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless otherwise stated, the term "about" modifying the quantity of a component refers to variation in the numerical quantity that can occur, for example, through typical measuring and handling procedures used for making concentrates, mixtures or solutions in the real world; through inadvertent error in these procedures; through differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of the materials employed, or to carry out the methods; and the like. The term “about” also encompasses amounts that differ due to different equilibrium conditions for a composition resulting from a particular initial mixture. Whether or not modified by the term "about", the claims include equivalents to the quantities. As used herein, the terms “at least” and “from” include the end value of the range that is specified. For example, “at least 10 wt%” or “from 10 wt%” includes the value 10 wt%.

[0018] The ranges provided herein should be understood as exemplary amounts of each of the components. Each of these ranges may be taken alone or combined with one or more other component ranges.

[0019] As used herein, wt% means “weight percentage” as the basis for calculating a percentage. Unless indicated otherwise, all % values are calculated on a weight basis, and are provided with reference to the total weight of the product in which the substance is present. For example, based on the total weight of the concentrate or composition as appropriate.

[0020] As used herein, the term “one or more” refers to individual components as well as mixtures or combinations.

[0021] As used herein, “substantially free” means no more than trace amounts, i.e. the amount of the substance(s) concerned is negligible. In various embodiments, “substantially free” means no more than 1000 ppm, preferably no more than 100 ppm, more preferably no more than 10 ppm, even more preferably no more than 1 ppm of the substance(s) concerned.

[0022] In all aspects of the present disclosure, the disclosure includes, where appropriate, all enantiomers and tautomers of the compounds disclosed herein. A person skilled in the art will recognise compounds that possess optical properties (one or more chiral carbon atoms) ortautomeric characteristics. The corresponding enantiomers and / or tautomers may be isolated / prepared by methods known in the art.

[0023] Some of the compounds disclosed herein may exist as stereoisomers and / or geometric isomers - e.g. they may possess one or more asymmetric and / or geometric centres and so may exist in two or more stereoisomeric and / or geometric forms. The present disclosure contemplates the use of all the individual stereoisomers and geometric isomers of those compounds, and mixtures thereof. The terms used in the claims encompass these forms. Concentrates

[0024] As defined above, the present disclosure provides two concentrates. The concentrate of the first aspect includes at least two non-ionic surfactants as defined in the appended claims, together with an optional third surfactant, and at least about 5 wt% of an essential oil or blend thereof. The concentrate is further defined by a weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil. The concentrate of the second aspect includes at least two surfactants but unlike the first aspect, these are a non-ionic surfactant as defined in the appended claims and an anionic or amphoteric surfactant as defined in the appended claims. With this combination of surfactants, the concentrate of the second aspect includes at least about 1 wt% of an essential oil or blend thereof, and is defined by a weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil. Whilst including different levels of essential oil, both concentrates are associated with the same, general inventive concept in that they are versatile, stable, and suitable for use in an aqueous cleaning composition, said composition being non-toxic and having a lower environmental impact than conventional cleaning products, whilst providing a pleasant sensorial experience for the consumer and being effective in cleaning a wide range of domestic surfaces. Both concentrates also include at least one non-ionic surfactant as defined in the appended claims, and require a specific weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil. The combination of surfactants and the defined weight ratios were surprisingly found to contribute to the observed stability of the concentrates and the aqueous compositions, said compositions delivering an improved sensorial experience for the consumer whilst being effective for cleaning a wide range of surfaces.

[0025] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is noted that both concentrates may be in the form of an emulsion, said emulsion delivering a detectable and enjoyable scent provided by the essential oil or blend thereof whilst being stable and dilutable with water to prepare an effective aqueous cleaning composition, because of the specific combination of surfactants and relative amount of surfactant to essential oil(s). The stability of the concentrate and composition may be assessed visually as the formation of a clear concentrate and composition is known in the art as an indication of stability. In contrast, an opaque formulation is essentially unstable and unsuitable for storage or dilution with water to form an aqueous cleaning composition. The cleaning compositions are also not toxic to humans when used according to instructions, and may be non-irritating to skin and eyes.

[0026] In some embodiments the combination of surfactants may be synergistic, meaning that the cleaning efficiency and / or stability of the surfactants is more than additive. Synergy is not predictable when two or more active substances are used in combination. It may be measured in a number of ways that conform to the generally accepted opinion that “synergy is an effect greater than additive”. The combination of surfactants may, for example, result in a clear and thus stable formulation (e.g. emulsion) with the essential oil or blend thereof and further provide a stable and, in some embodiments, more effective aqueous cleaning composition compared with the surfactants when used individually. Synergy is beneficial because it may allow the surfactant concentrations and surfactant to essential oil weight ratio to be reduced, improving the ability of the concentrate to be provided in small volumes, e.g. 50 ml or less, which are easier to transport and the like, but without losing any of the advantages discussed herein. The concentrates are still able to effectively balance sensorial effect with cleaning power upon dilution, whilst being versatile, straightforward to prepare, stable and effective across a wide range of surfaces.

[0027] The concentrates may be used directly after dilution with water. This is beneficial because it is straightforward for consumers to prepare the cleaning compositions in their homes, and avoids the need for toxic solvents. It also allows for the application means, e.g. spray bottle or the like, to be re-used by the consumer. This provides an environmental benefit. The present disclosure thus provides stable concentrates which are not only simple, quick and effective to use, but which have a lower environmental impact than conventional cleaning products. The aqueous cleaning compositions are discussed further herein below. The concentrates are equally simple to prepare, the components are mixed together at ambient temperature, optionally with agitation.

[0028] In view of the environmental focus of the present disclosure, the aqueous cleaning compositions may be described as non-toxic, non-toxic being defined herein. The aqueous cleaning compositions and / or concentrates may alternatively or additionally be described as naturally-derived, naturally-derived being defined herein.

[0029] By the term “naturally-derived” is meant a product whose starting material originates from plants, minerals, microbes, or animal by-products. Naturally-derived products are beneficial from a sustainability standpoint and their use may contribute to the environmental credentials of the present invention. In some embodiments the term “naturally-derived” may be quantified by the renewable carbon index. The renewable carbon index, or RCI, measures sustainability by dividing the number of carbons derived from renewable sources by the total number of carbons in the product. A high RCI surfactant, for example, contains a high percentage of carbon atoms from natural sources. Prioritising ingredients with a high RCI promotes sustainability and lowers environmental impact. Such ingredients are commercially available from various sources.

[0030] In some embodiments the concentrates described herein may have a renewable carbon index of about 85% or more. In preferred embodiments, the concentrates described herein may have a renewable index of about 90% or more. In some embodiments the compositions described herein may have a renewable carbon index of about 85% or more. In preferred embodiments, the compositions described herein may have a renewable index of about 90% or more.

[0031] By the term “non-toxic” is meant a product that does not contain ingredients at concentrations that have been linked to toxic responses, e.g. hormone disruption, in humans and animals. The aqueous cleaning compositions prepared by diluting the concentrates with water may not, for instance, include compounds at concentrations where they cause endocrine disruption. Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with endocrine systems. The European Chemicals Agency defines them as “chemicals that may interfere with the hormonal system and thereby produce harmful effects in both humans and wildlife”. There is a list of compounds at https: / / echa.europa.eu / ed-assessment. The aqueous cleaning compositions may also be described as having no irritant effects on skin, the respiratory system and / or eyes.

[0032] In some embodiments the aqueous cleaning compositions may be described as having no acute toxicity (by oral or dermal route or by inhalation), no reproductive toxicity, no specific target organ toxicity and / or no aspiration toxicity. The aqueous cleaning compositions may also not cause skin corrosion, eye damage and / or respiratory sensitisation. The aqueous cleaning compositions may further by described as non-mutagenic and non-carcinogenic.

[0033] Aside from the surfactants and essential oil or blend thereof defined in the appended claims, the concentrates of the present disclosure may include one or more additional components. Such components are optional and may include, but are not limited to, solvents, colorants, pH regulators, chelating agents, buffering agents, preservatives, antimicrobials, acids (preferably naturally-derived organic acids as defined herein), film-forming agents, perfumes or fragrances, and mixtures thereof. This list is for illustrative purposes only and is not meant to be inclusive or exclusive. The suitable amounts of these optional components can be determined according to practical needs but the skilled person will appreciate that such amounts and components will be chosen so as not to detrimentally affect the environmental credentials of the compositions described herein.

[0034] In some embodiments, the optional components may therefore be naturally-derived. In other embodiments, the optional components may be synthetically-derived. In some embodiments, the optional components may be non-toxic. The optional components may, for example, be synthetically-derived and non-toxic, or naturally-derived and non-toxic. The terms “naturally-derived” and “non-toxic” being defined above.

[0035] In some embodiments the concentrate may comprise a solvent. The solvent is not particularly limited. Preferably, the solvent may be non-toxic as defined above. The solvent may alternatively or additionally be naturally-derived as defined above. Non-toxic and / or naturally-derived solvents are known in the art. In some embodiments the solvent may be aqueous. In other embodiments the solvent may be non-aqueous. By the term “aqueous” is meant at least 50% by volume of water.

[0036] In some embodiments the concentrate may comprise a preservative, the preservative may be a naturally-derived preservative. By the term “naturally-derived preservative” is meant a preservative obtained from plant, mineral, animal or microbial origin; it does not include synthetic preservatives such as benzisothiazoline-3-one or bronopol. The preservative is not, however, essential to the present disclosure. When included, the amount of preservative is not limited. In some embodiments a preservative may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0037] In some embodiments the concentrate may comprise an acid, preferably a naturally-derived organic acid. The naturally-derived organic acid is not particularly limited; it refers to any acid derived from a natural source. It may be, without being limited to, tartaric acid, acetic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, citric acid, or a combination thereof. The inclusion of a naturally-derived organic acid may be particularly beneficial for the concentrate of the second aspect but it is not limited thereto. When present, the amount of a naturally-derived organic acid is not limited. In some embodiments, the naturally-derived organic acid may be present in an amount from about 1 wt% to about 40 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the naturally-derived organic acid may be present in an amount from about 5 wt% to about 40 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0038] In some embodiments the concentrate may comprise a pH regulator and / or buffering agent. Suitable compounds are known in the art. The pH regulator and / or buffering agent may be naturally-derived and / or non-toxic. In some embodiments the concentrate may comprise a chelating agent. The chelating agent may be naturally-derived and / or non-toxic. Examples include sodium citrate, sodium gluconate, and chelating compounds derived from rice, wheat, corn, citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, cane sugar, apples, etc. In some embodiments the concentrate may comprise one or more antimicrobial compounds. The antimicrobial compound(s) may be naturally derived and / or non-toxic. In some embodiments, the concentrate does not include any antimicrobial compound(s). Quaternary ammonium surfactants are generally considered useful antimicrobial compounds. In some embodiments, the concentrate may not include a a quaternary ammonium surfactant. Essential Oil or Blend Thereof

[0039] The concentrates of both the first and second aspect include essential oil or a blend thereof. As used herein, the term “essential oil” means a concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile chemical compounds or actives obtained from plants by expression or distillation. The term “essential” is used in the art to refer to the essence of the plant’s fragrance, i.e. the characteristic fragrance of the plant from which the oil is derived. Essential oils are usually lipophilic compounds that are immiscible with water. In this respect, the skilled person will appreciate that the term “essential oil” as used herein does not refer to a single lipophilic compound, e.g. a terpene or the like, but a complex mixture of lipophilic compounds.

[0040] As used herein, the term “blend” means two or more essential oils mixed or combined together. In some embodiments the essential oil may be a blend of at least two essential oils. In some embodiments the essential oil may be a blend of at least three essential oils. There is no upper limit to the number of essential oils that may be included in the concentrates of the present disclosure.

[0041] The essential oil or blend thereof is not limited in the present disclosure. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the essential oil or blend thereof provides a pleasant scent for the user and thereby improves the sensorial experience of using the cleaning composition. The level of essential oil is balanced against the amount of surfactant in order to provide a stable product which is easy to use in an aqueous cleaning composition.

[0042] The essential oil or blend thereof is plant essential oil. Such oils are known in the art and commercially available from various sources. The plant essential oil is not limited; it may be obtained from any suitable plant and any portion of said suitable plant, e.g. leaves, roots, stems, bark, flowers, fruits etc. Exemplary oils include, but are not limited to, lemon essential oil, geranium essential oil, lavender essential oil, rose essential oil, rosemary essential oil, bergamot essential oil, clove essential oil, mint essential oil, cinnamon essential oil, thyme essential oil, orange essential oil, coriander essential oil, grapefruit essential oil, frankincense essential oil, myrrh essential oil, sweet marjoram essential oil, sage essential oil, lemongrass essential oil, lime essential oil, cedarwood essential oil, citronella essential oil, eucalyptus essential oil, peppermint essential oil, neroli essential oil, oregano essential oil, juniper essential oil, cardamom essential oil, basil essential oil, and combinations thereof.

[0043] The essential oil or blend thereof depends on the desired scent of the aqueous cleaning composition. In some embodiments, the essential oil is also chosen based on its sustainability credentials. It is, for instance, known in the art that certain essential oils are unsustainably produced from dwindling natural resources. In some embodiments the essential oil is chosen so that it is non-toxic as defined herein.

[0044] In view of the focus on sensory experience, the amount of essential oil is important in the concentrates of the present disclosure. The essential oil or blend thereof may be present in an amount of at least about 1 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 2 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 3 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 4 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 5 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0045] The upper limit of essential oil(s) is not limited in the present disclosure, so long as the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil is within the claimed ranges in order to stabilise the concentrate and composition. In some embodiments the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in an amount of no more than about 30 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in an amount of no more than about 28 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in an amount of no more than about 25 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in an amount of no more than about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in an amount of no more than about 18 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0046] In some embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 30 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 2 wt% to about 28 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 3 wt% to about 25 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 4 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 5 wt% to about 18 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0047] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 5 wt% to about 25 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 7 wt% to about 18 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0048] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 25 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 18 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0049] These essential oil concentrations may be combined with the surfactant concentration(s) and weight ratios discussed herein. They may also be combined with the number of essential oils; for example in some embodiments of the first aspect, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 5 wt% to about 25 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and includes at least two essential oils. In preferred embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and includes at least two essential oils. In particularly preferred embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 7 wt% to about 18 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and includes at least two essential oils.

[0050] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 25 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and includes at least two essential oils. In preferred embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and includes at least two essential oils. In particularly preferred embodiments, the essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 18 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and includes at least two essential oils. Surfactants

[0051] Surfactants are widely used as detergents, emulsifiers, wetting agents, foaming agents and dispersants in the cosmetics, hygiene, food and oil industries. As surface-active agents, surfactants are amphiphilic; they contain both hydrophilic and hydrophobic components and are thereby capable of lowering interfacial tension. Surfactants are typically classified based on their polar head group, and there are four known classes: non-ionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, and amphoteric surfactants. The surfactants of interest in the present disclosure are non-ionic surfactants, anionic surfactants and amphoteric surfactants, and each are discussed further below. In some embodiments the concentrate may be free from cationic surfactants such as quaternary ammonium compounds.

[0052] Unless specified otherwise, all surfactant concentrations and weight ratios involving surfactants are based on total actives. Surfactants are typically not sold as “pure” ingredients. They are often diluted in water and reported with an actives concentration. If, for example, the actives concentration of a surfactant is 30%, this means the ingredient contains 30% surfactant and 70% solvent (e.g. water). The actives concentration of 30% would be used when calculating total concentration(s) and weight ratio(s) as defined herein.

[0053] In the concentrates of the present disclosure, the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is defined for stability purposes. It will be understood by the person skilled in the art that “essential oil” in this context means total amount of essential oil and “surfactant” in this context means total amount of surfactant (on an actives basis). As noted above and supported by the Examples herein, the defined weight ratios were surprisingly found to contribute to the observed stability, as well as to provide an aqueous composition effective for cleaning a wide range of surfaces with a pleasant scent during use.

[0054] In some embodiments the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 25:1, based on total actives. This means that there is more active surfactant in the concentrate than essential oil. In preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to 20:1. In particularly preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 15:1.

[0055] In some embodiments the concentrate comprises about 1 wt% to about 30 wt% essential oil, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 25:1. In preferred embodiments the concentrate comprises about 2 wt% to about 28 wt% essential oil, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 20:1. In particularly preferred embodiments the concentrate comprises about 3 wt% to about 25 wt% essential oil, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about2:1 to about 15:1. In any of these embodiments, the concentrate may comprise a blend of at least two essential oils.

[0056] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 15:1, based on total actives. In preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to 12:1, based on total actives. In particularly preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 10:1, based on total actives.

[0057] In some embodiments the concentrate comprises about 5 wt% to about 25 wt% essential oil, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 15:1, based on total actives. In preferred embodiments the concentrate comprises about 5 wt% to about 20 wt% essential oil, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 12:1, based on total actives. In particularly preferred embodiments the concentrate comprises about 7 wt% to about 18 wt% essential oil, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 10:1, based on total actives. In any of these embodiments, the concentrate may comprise a blend of at least two essential oils.

[0058] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 25:1, based on total actives. In preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 5:1 to 20:1, based on total actives. In particularly preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 5:1 to about 15:1, based on total actives.

[0059] In some embodiments the concentrate comprises about 1 wt% to about 25 wt% essential oil, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 25:1, based on total actives. In preferred embodiments the concentrate comprises about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% essential oil, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 5:1 to about 20:1, based on total actives. In particularly preferred embodiments the concentrate comprises about 1 wt% to about 18 wt% essential oil, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 5:1 to about 15:1, based on total actives. In any of these embodiments, the concentrate may comprise a blend of at least two essential oils. Non-ionic Surfactants

[0060] Non-ionic surfactants are used in personal and home care applications. Structurally they combine uncharged hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups that make them effective in wetting and spreading, and as emulsifiers and foaming agents. Each of the concentrates of the first and second aspect include a non-ionic surfactant selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates. Such classes of surfactant are known in the art and commercially available. The terms “glucosides” and “glycosides” include polyglucosides and polyglycosides respectively.

[0061] The present inventors found that a non-ionic surfactant(s) is particularly beneficial for inclusion in the concentrates defined in the appended claims. In particular, it was found that non-ionic surfactants selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates, are able to stabilise the essential oil in the concentrate whilst providing effective cleaning power across a wide range of surfaces. Synergy with one or more of the other surfactants in the concentrate was also observed.

[0062] In preferred embodiments the non-ionic surfactants may be selected from polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, alkyl glucosides, fatty acid glucosides, alkyl glyceryl esters or ethers, fatty acid glyceryl esters or ethers, alkyl glycol esters or ethers, fatty acid glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates. In particularly preferred embodiments the non-ionic surfactants may be selected from polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, alkyl glucosides, fatty acid glucosides, alkyl glyceryl esters or ethers, and fatty acid glyceryl esters or ethers.

[0063] In some embodiments at least one of the two non-ionic surfactants required in the first aspect or the non-ionic surfactant of the second aspect may be selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, and polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers. In preferred embodiments, at least one of the two non-ionic surfactants required in the first aspect or the non-ionic surfactant of the second aspect may be selected from polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, and polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers. In particularly preferred embodiments, at least one of the two non-ionic surfactants required in the first aspect or the non-ionic surfactant of the second aspect may be selected from polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters and polyoxyethylene glycol fatty acid esters.

[0064] In some embodiments at least one of the two non-ionic surfactants in the first aspect or the non-ionic surfactant of the second aspect may be selected from glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters, glyceryl ethers, glycol esters, and glycol ethers. In preferred embodiments at least one of the two non-ionic surfactants may be selected from glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters, and glyceryl ethers.

[0065] The concentration of the non-ionic surfactant is not limited in the present disclosure. In some embodiments, however, it may be beneficial to include a minimum amount of non-ionic surfactant. In such embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 25 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 30 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 35 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0066] The maximum amount of non-ionic surfactant is not limited; it may for example depend on the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate and the concentration of essential oil or blend thereof. As the skilled person will appreciate, if there is no optional third surfactant in the concentrate of the first aspect and an essential oil concentration of 10 wt%, the maximum amount of non-ionic surfactant will be 90 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In some embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 95 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 90 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 85 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0067] In some embodiments the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 25 wt% to about 95 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 30 wt% to about 90 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 35 wt% to about 85 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0068] In some embodiments the concentrate comprises about 5 wt% to about 25 wt% essential oil, and about 25 wt% to about 95 wt% of non-ionic surfactant, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 15:1. In preferred embodiments the concentrate comprises about 5 wt% to about 20 wt% essential oil, and about 30 wt% to about 90 wt% of non-ionic surfactant, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 12:1. In particularly preferred embodiments the concentrate comprises about 7 wt% to about 18 wt% essential oil, and about 35 wt% to about 85 wt% of non-ionic surfactant wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 10:1. In any of these embodiments, the concentrate may comprise a blend of at least two essential oils.

[0069] In some embodiments the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to essential oil may be defined in the concentrate. It may, for example, be about 2:1 to about 20:1, the surfactant weight being based on total actives. In preferred embodiments it may be about 2:1 to about 18:1, the surfactant weight being based on total actives. In particularly preferred embodiments it may be about 2:1 to about 10:1, the surfactant weight being based on total actives.

[0070] In other embodiments, such as embodiments of the second aspect, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 5 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 8 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 10 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0071] The maximum amount of non-ionic surfactant is not limited; it may for example depend on the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate and the concentration of essential oil or blend thereof. In some embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 50 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 45 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 40 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0072] In some embodiments the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 5 wt% to about 50 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 8 wt% to about 45 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 10 wt% to about 40 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0073] In some embodiments the concentrate comprises about 1 wt% to about 25 wt% essential oil, and about 5 wt% to about 50 wt% of non-ionic surfactant, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 2:1 to about 25:1. In preferred embodiments the concentrate comprises about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% essential oil, and about 8 wt% to about 45 wt% of non-ionic surfactant, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 5:1 to about 20:1. In particularly preferred embodiments the concentrate comprises about 1 wt% to about 18 wt% essential oil, and about 10 wt% to about 40 wt% of non-ionic surfactant, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil may be about 5:1 to about 15:1. In any of these embodiments, the concentrate may comprise a blend of at least two essential oils.

[0074] In some embodiments the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to essential oil may be defined in the concentrate. It may, for example, be about 2:1 to about 20:1, the surfactant weight being based on total actives. In preferred embodiments it may be about 2:1 to about 18:1, the surfactant weight being based on total actives. In particularly preferred embodiments it may be about 2:1 to about 10:1, the surfactant weight being based on total actives.

[0075] The skilled person will appreciate that the above-defined concentrations and weight ratios are generically applicable in that they apply to all classes of non-ionic surfactant and all essential oils defined herein. Anionic surfactants

[0076] Anionic surfactants carry a negatively charged head group and are used in personal care, detergent and cleaning product formulations. Linear-chain alkyl benzenesulfonate types are one of the most popularly used synthetic anionic surfactants, but other example groups include alcohol sulfates, sulfonic acid salts, phosphoric acid esters, and carboxylic acid salts.

[0077] In each of the first and second aspects, the anionic surfactant may include all forms of lipophilic oligomeric hydrocarbon and polyethoxylate with a negatively charged hydrophilic head group such as carboxylate, sulphate, sulphonate, sulphonated ester, sulphated ester, sulphated amide, carboxylated amide, or phosphate anionic head group. For example, including fatty acids, fatty acid salts, sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, taurates, sulfonates, sulfonic acid salts, phosphoric acid esters, carboxylic acid salts, phosphates, and phosphate esters.

[0078] In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be selected from fatty acids, fatty acid salts, sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, taurates, alkylbenzene sulfonates, sulfonic acid salts, phosphoric acid esters, carboxylic acid salts, phosphates, and phosphate esters. In preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be selected from fatty acids, fatty acid salts, sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates. In particularly preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactants may be selected from sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates, i.e. sulfate-free anionic surfactants. In some embodiments the concentrate may be therefore sulfate-free.

[0079] In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be selected from fatty acid sulfates, fatty acid sulfonates, fatty acid sulfosuccinates, fatty acid glutamates, fatty acid sarcosinates, fatty acid isethionates, and fatty acid taurates. The fatty acid may comprise 8 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably 10 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably 12 to 18 carbon atoms. The salt may be an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salt, preferably an alkali metal salt. The alkali metal may, for instance, be sodium or potassium. The fatty acid of the fatty acid salts (e.g. fatty acid sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, glutamates, sarcosinates, isethionates, taurates) may be saturated or unsaturated. When unsaturated, the unsaturation may be mono-or di-unsaturation, i.e. the fatty acid may be a mono- or di-unsaturated fatty acid. Examples of fatty acids include stearic, ricinoleic, oleic, elaidic, palmitic, erucic, behenic, lauric, myristic and lineolic acid.

[0080] In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be selected from fatty acid sulfates, fatty acid sulfonates, fatty acid sulfosuccinates, fatty acid glutamates, fatty acid sarcosinates, fatty acid isethionates, and fatty acid taurates. The fatty acid may comprise 8 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably 10 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably 12 to 18 carbon atoms. The salt may be an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salt, preferably an alkali metal salt The alkali metal may, for instance, be sodium or potassium. The fatty acid of the fatty acid salts (e.g. fatty acid glutamates, sarcosinates, isethionates, taurates; or fatty acid sulfates or fatty acid sulfonates) may be saturated or unsaturated. When unsaturated, the unsaturation may be mono- or di-unsaturation, i.e. the fatty acid may be a mono- or di-unsaturated fatty acid. Examples of fatty acids include stearic, ricinoleic, oleic, elaidic, palmitic, erucic, behenic, lauric, myristic and lineolic acid.

[0081] In some embodiments the concentrate includes one or more sulfate surfactants. This may be beneficial for the second aspect, although not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be selected from sulfates, sulfonates and sulfosuccinates. In such embodiments, it may be beneficial to include one or more natural organic acids as defined above. The sulfates, sulfonates, and sulfosuccinates may be fatty acid sulfates, fatty acid sulfonates, and fatty acid sulfosuccinates, wherein the fatty acid may comprise 8 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably 10 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably 12 to 18 carbon atoms. The salt may be an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salt, preferably an alkali metal salt. The alkali metal may, for instance, be sodium or potassium. The fatty acid of the fatty acid salts (e.g. fatty acid sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, glutamates, sarcosinates, isethionates, taurates) may be saturated or unsaturated. When unsaturated, the unsaturation may be mono-or di-unsaturation, i.e. the fatty acid may be a mono- or di-unsaturated fatty acid. Examples of fatty acids include stearic, ricinoleic, oleic, eladic, palmitic, erucic, behenic, lauric, myristic and lineolic acid.

[0082] The concentrate of the second aspect may include an anionic surfactant as the second surfactant, the anionic surfactant being as defined above. The amount of anionic surfactant in this context is not limited, and may be dependent on the concentration of essential oil or blend thereof, amount of non-ionic surfactant, weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil, and optionally the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to anionic surfactant in the concentrate. For example, an exemplary essential oil concentration of 2%, a non-ionic surfactant concentration of 5 wt%, and weight ratio of 3:1 for surfactant to essential oil would result in an anionic surfactant concentration of 1 wt%. The weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to anionic surfactant would be 5:1 (assuming the surfactants were 100% actives).

[0083] In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 1 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 2 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 3 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0084] The upper limit of anionic surfactant is not particularly limited. As noted above, it may depend on the concentration of essential oil or blend thereof, amount of non-ionic surfactant, weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil, and optionally the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to anionic surfactant in the concentrate. In some embodiments, however, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 15 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 10 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0085] In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 15 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 3 wt% to about 10 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0086] In some embodiments, the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil may be defined. It may, for example, be about 1:10 to about 5:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives. In preferred embodiments the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil may be about 1:5 to 5:1, based on total actives. In particularly preferred embodiments the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil may be about 1:1 to about 5:1, based on total actives.

[0087] In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil may be about 1:10 to about 5:1. In preferred embodiments the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 15 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil may be about 1:5 to 5:1. In particularly preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 3 wt% to about 10 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil may be about 1:1 to about 5:1. In any of these embodiments, the essential oil may be a blend of at least two essential oils; the anionic surfactant may be as defined hereinabove.

[0088] The third surfactant in each concentrate is optional. The third surfactant may be selected from anionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and non-ionic surfactants. In some embodiments, the third surfactant may be selected from anionic surfactants and non-ionic surfactants. In some embodiments, the third surfactant may be an anionic surfactant. The anionic surfactant and non-ionic surfactant are as defined herein. An anionic surfactant may be advantageous because it may be synergistic in combination with the two other surfactants in the concentrate, e.g. the two non-ionic surfactants in the concentrate of the first aspect. Synergy may be observed by stability of the concentrate and / or composition, and / or by cleaning efficacy. As noted above, synergy between the surfactants may allow the amount of surfactant to be reduced in the concentrate thereby improving ease of manufacture, transport and the like.

[0089] For example, the third surfactant may be selected from anionic surfactants which are sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, or taurates, and non-ionic surfactants which are polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, or glycol esters or ethers. In preferred embodiments the third surfactant may be selected from anionic surfactants which are sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, or taurates, and non-ionic surfactants which are polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, or glycol esters or ethers.

[0090] As the skilled person will appreciate, when the third surfactant is a non-ionic, the definitions, concentrations and weight ratios defined above still apply. For example, the concentrate may include at least three surfactants which are non-ionic and selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates. The concentrate may further include an optional fourth surfactant, which may be non-ionic, amphoteric or anionic. The non-ionic, amphoteric and anionic surfactants being as defined herein. In preferred embodiments, the optional fourth surfactant may be amphoteric or anionic. For example, the fourth surfactant may be selected from anionic surfactants which are sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, or taurates, or amphoteric surfactants which are hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, or hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, wherein the hydrocarbyl group may be a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms. The amphoteric surfactants are discussed further below.

[0091] In some embodiments, the third surfactant may be an anionic surfactant and the concentrate optionally further comprises a fourth surfactant which may be anionic, non-ionic or amphoteric. The anionic, non-ionic surfactant and amphoteric surfactant are as defined herein. In some embodiments the third surfactant may be an anionic surfactant and the fourth surfactant may be a non-ionic or an amphoteric surfactant. In some embodiments the third surfactant may be an anionic surfactant and the fourth surfactant may be a non-ionic surfactant. For example, the anionic surfactant may be selected from sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, or taurates, and the non-ionic surfactant may be selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, or glycol esters or ethers. In preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be selected from sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, or taurates, and the non-ionic surfactant may be selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, or glycol esters or ethers.

[0092] An anionic surfactant as the third surfactant and a fourth surfactant which is non-ionic or amphoteric may be advantageous because there may be synergy with the two other surfactants in the concentrate, e.g. the two non-ionic surfactants in the concentrate of the first aspect, and there may further be synergy between the third anionic surfactant and fourth nonionic or amphoteric. Synergy may be observed by stability of the concentrate and / or composition, and / or by cleaning efficacy. As noted above, synergy between the surfactants may allow the amount of surfactant to be reduced in the concentrate thereby improving ease of manufacture, transport and the like. Synergy may also allow the combination of surfactants to be used with a wide variety of essential oil or blends thereof.

[0093] In some embodiments, the third surfactant may be an anionic surfactant and the fourth surfactant may be an amphoteric surfactant. For example, the third surfactant may be selected from anionic surfactants which are sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, or taurates, and the fourth surfactant may be selected from amphoteric surfactants which are hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, or hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, wherein the hydrocarbyl group may be a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms.

[0094] Whilst specific reference and description herein is of four surfactants, the concentrates of the present disclosure are not limited to four surfactants, the concentrates may include four or more, five or more, six or more surfactants, provided that they satisfy the requirements of the appended claims. The inclusion of further surfactants may also be synergistic as outlined above for the third and / or fourth surfactants of the concentrate.

[0095] The amount of anionic surfactant is not limited in the above embodiments. In some embodiments it may depend on the amount of non-ionic surfactant and / or amphoteric surfactant, amount of essential oil or blend thereof, and the defined weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil. For example, a concentrate containing 50 wt% non-ionic surfactant on an actives basis (assuming 100% active), and 10 wt% essential oil or blend thereof, may contain up to 40 wt% anionic surfactant on an actives basis (assuming 100% active).

[0096] In some embodiments, the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be defined. For example, it may be about 1:10 to about 5:1, the surfactant weight being based on total actives. With an exemplary essential oil concentration of 10 wt%, this corresponds to a range of 1 wt% to 50 wt% of anionic surfactant on an actives basis (assuming the surfactant is 100% active). In preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be about 1:10 to about 3:1. In particularly preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be about 1:10 to about 2:1. In any of these embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 50 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 40 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 35 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0097] Hence in some embodiments an anionic surfactant may be included as a third surfactant. The concentrate may optionally include a fourth surfactant which may be non-ionic or amphoteric. In such embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be sulfate-free and selected from sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates as defined above. The anionic surfactant may further be present such that the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be from about 1:10 to about 5:1, and the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 25 wt% to 95 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In other embodiments, anionic surfactant may be present such that the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be from about 1:10 to about 3:1, and the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 30 wt% to 90 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0098] In other embodiments, including embodiments of the second aspect, the anionic surfactant may be sulfate-containing and selected from sulfates, sulfonates, and sulfosuccinates as defined above. The anionic surfactant may further be present such that the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be from about 1:10 to about 5:1, and the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 25 wt% to 95 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In other embodiments, anionic surfactant may be present such that the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be from about 1:10 to about 3:1, and the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 30 wt% to 90 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0099] Alternatively, the anionic surfactant may be sulfate-containing and selected from sulfates, sulfonates and sulfosuccinates as defined above. The anionic surfactant may further be present such that the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be from about 1:10 to about 5:1, and the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 5 wt% to 50 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In other embodiments, anionic surfactant may be present such that the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be from about 1:10 to about 3:1, and the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 8 wt% to 45 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0100] In any of these embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 50 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 40 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 35 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0101] In some embodiments the concentrate of the first aspect may therefore be defined as comprising: (i) at least two surfactants which are non-ionic and selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates; (ii) an optional third surfactant which is an anionic surfactant or a non-ionic surfactant; and (iii) at least one essential oil or a blend thereof; wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 5 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate; wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 2:1 to about 15:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives; and wherein the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 25 wt% to about 95 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be about 2:1 to 20:1.

[0102] When present, the anionic surfactant may be in an amount from about 1 wt% to about 50 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. The anionic surfactant in such embodiments may be sulfate-free and selected from sarcosinates, glutamates, isethionates and taurates. Further, the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be about 1:10 to about 5:1. The concentrate may optionally include a fourth surfactant selected from non-ionics, amphoterics, and anionics as defined herein.

[0103] In some embodiments the concentrate of the second aspect may be defined as comprising: (i) a first non-ionic surfactant selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, and glycol esters or ethers; (ii) a second surfactant which is an anionic surfactant and selected from fatty acids, fatty acid salts, sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates; and (iii) at least one essential oil or a blend thereof; wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 1 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate; and wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be about 2:1 to about 25:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives; wherein the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 5 wt% to about 50 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be about 1:10 to 5:1.

[0104] The anionic surfactant in such embodiments may be sulfate-containing and selected from sulfates, sulfonates, and sulfosuccinates. The concentrate may optionally further comprise a third surfactant which may be non-ionic, amphoteric or anionic as defined herein.

[0105] Unless otherwise specified, the skilled person will appreciate that the above-defined concentrations and weight ratios are generically applicable in that they apply to all classes of non-ionic surfactant and anionic surfactant, and all essential oils defined herein. Amphoteric Surfactants

[0106] Amphoteric surfactants are surfactants that carry both a positive and a negative charge. These charges being dependent on the pH of the solution. In each of the first and second aspects, the amphoteric surfactant may be any amphoteric surfactant known in the art. In some embodiments the amphoteric surfactant may be selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides.

[0107] As used herein, the term “hydrocarbyl” includes a group such as alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, alkaryl, cycloalkyl or alkenyl, which may be linear or branched, and / or saturated or unsaturated. The hydrocarbyl groups are not limited and may contain 6 to 24, 8 to 24 or 10 to 20 carbon atoms. In some embodiments, the hydrocarbyl may be a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group, such as a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms. In some embodiments the hydrocarbyl may be a fatty acid as defined above for the anionic surfactant, such as a fatty acid having 8 to 24 carbon atoms.

[0108] In some embodiments the amphoteric surfactant may be selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms. In preferred embodiments, the hydrocarbyl may be a fatty acid having 8 to 24 carbon atoms.

[0109] The salt may be an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salt, preferably an alkali metal salt. The alkali metal may, for instance, be sodium or potassium. The fatty acid of the fatty acid salts may be saturated or unsaturated. When unsaturated, the unsaturation may be mono- or di-unsaturation, i.e. the fatty acid may be a mono- or di-unsaturated fatty acid. Examples of fatty acids include stearic, ricinoleic, oleic, eladic, palmitic, erucic, behenic, lauric, myristic and lineolic acid.

[0110] In some embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant may be selected from hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms. In preferred embodiments, the hydrocarbyl may be a fatty acid having 8 to 24 carbon atoms. In any of these embodiments, the salt may be an alkali metal salt, such as a sodium or potassium salt.

[0111] In some embodiments the amphoteric surfactant may be selected from hydrocarbyl betaines and hydrocarbylamidobetaines, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms. In preferred embodiments, the hydrocarbyl may be a fatty acid having 8 to 24 carbon atoms. In any of these embodiments, the salt may be an alkali metal salt, such as a sodium or potassium salt.

[0112] The amount of amphoteric surfactant in either aspect is not limited. It may, for example, depend on the amount of non-ionic surfactant, amount of essential oil or blend thereof, weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil, and amount of any anionic surfactant present. In some embodiments the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 1 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 2 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of at least about 3 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0113] The upper limit of amphoteric surfactant is not particularly limited. As noted above, it may depend on the concentration of essential oil or blend thereof, amount of non-ionic surfactant, weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil, and any anionic surfactant present. In some embodiments, however, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 15 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of no more than about 10 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0114] In some embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 15 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In particularly preferred embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of about 3 wt% to about 10 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0115] In some embodiments, the weight ratio of amphoteric surfactant to essential oil may be defined. It may, for example, be about 1:10 to about 5:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives. In preferred embodiments the weight ratio of amphoteric surfactant to essential oil may be about 1:5 to 5:1, based on total actives. In particularly preferred embodiments the weight ratio of amphoteric surfactant to essential oil may be about 1:1 to about 5:1, based on total actives.

[0116] In some embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and the weight ratio of amphoteric surfactant to essential oil may be about 1:10 to about 5:1. In preferred embodiments the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 15 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and the weight ratio of amphoteric surfactant to essential oil may be about 1:5 to 5:1. In particularly preferred embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of about 3 wt% to about 10 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and the weight ratio of amphoteric surfactant to essential oil may be about 1:1 to about 5:1. In any of these embodiments, the essential oil may be a blend of at least two essential oils; the amphoteric surfactant may be as defined hereinabove.

[0117] As noted above, the third surfactant in each concentrate is optional and may be selected from anionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and non-ionic surfactants. Where the third surfactant is an amphoteric surfactant, the above defined concentrations and weight ratios apply. In some embodiments, the third surfactant may be selected from amphoteric surfactants and non-ionic surfactants. In some embodiments, the third surfactant may be an amphoteric surfactant. The amphoteric surfactant and non-ionic surfactant are as defined herein. For example, third surfactant may be selected from amphoteric surfactants which are hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, or amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms, or non-ionic surfactants which are polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, or glycol esters or ethers. In preferred embodiments the third surfactant may be selected from amphoteric surfactants which are hydrocarbyl betaines, or hydrocarbylamidobetaines, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atom, and non-ionic surfactants which are polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, or glycol esters or ethers.

[0118] The concentrate may further include an optional fourth surfactant, which may be non-ionic, amphoteric or anionic. The non-ionic, amphoteric and anionic surfactants being as defined herein. In preferred embodiments, the optional fourth surfactant may be amphoteric or anionic. For example, the fourth surfactant may be selected from anionic surfactants which are sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, or taurates, or amphoteric surfactants which are hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, or hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, wherein the hydrocarbyl group may be a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms. As noted above, there may be advantages associated with including a fourth surfactant.

[0119] In some embodiments the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to amphoteric surfactant may be defined, e.g. as from about 1:10 to about 10:1 on an actives basis. In preferred embodiments the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to amphoteric surfactant may be from about 1:10 to about 5:1 on an actives basis. In particularly preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to amphoteric surfactant may be from about 1:10 to about 2:1 on an actives basis.

[0120] Hence in some embodiments an anionic or non-ionic surfactant may be included as a third surfactant and the concentrate may optionally include a fourth surfactant which may be non-ionic or amphoteric. In such embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be sulfate-free and selected from sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates as defined above, the non-ionic surfactant may be selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates, and the amphoteric surfactant may be selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, sehydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms. In preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be selected from sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates as defined above, the non-ionic surfactant may be selected from polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, alkyl glucosides, fatty acid glucosides, alkyl glycosides, fatty acid glycosides, glyceryl fatty acid esters or ethers, glycol fatty acid esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates, and the amphoteric surfactant may be selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, sehydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a fatty acid having 6 to 24 carbon atoms.

[0121] The amphoteric surfactant may further be present such that the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to amphoteric surfactant in the concentrate may be from about 1:10 to about 10:1 on an actives basis, and the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 25 wt% to about 95 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to amphoteric surfactant may be from about 1:10 to about 5:1 on an actives basis, and the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 30 wt% to about 90 wt% on an actives basis.

[0122] Alternatively, the anionic surfactant may be sulfate-containing and selected from sulfates, sulfonates and sulfosuccinates as defined above, the non-ionic surfactant may be selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates, and the amphoteric surfactant may be selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, sehydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms. In preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be selected from sulfates, sulfonates, and sulfosuccinates as defined above, the non-ionic surfactant may be selected from polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, alkyl glucosides, fatty acid glucosides, alkyl glycosides, fatty acid glycosides, glyceryl fatty acid esters or ethers, glycol fatty acid esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates, and the amphoteric surfactant may be selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, sehydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a fatty acid having 6 to 24 carbon atoms.

[0123] The amphoteric surfactant may further be present such that the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to amphoteric surfactant in the concentrate may be from about 1:10 to about 10:1 on an actives basis, and the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 5 wt% to about 50 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. In preferred embodiments the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to amphoteric surfactant may be from about 1:10 to about 5:1 on an actives basis, and the non-ionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 8 wt% to about 45 wt% on an actives basis.

[0124] In any of these embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 50 wt% on an actives basis, and the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% on an actives basis. In preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 40 wt% on an actives basis, and the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 15 wt% on an actives basis. In particularly preferred embodiments, the anionic surfactant may be present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 35 wt% on an actives basis, and the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount of about 3 wt% to about 10 wt% on an actives basis.

[0125] Unless otherwise specified, the skilled person will appreciate that the above-defined concentrations and weight ratios are generically applicable in that they apply to all classes of non-ionic surfactant, anionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and all essential oils defined herein.

[0126] In some embodiments the concentrate of the first aspect may therefore be defined as comprising: (i) at least two surfactants which are non-ionic and selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates; (ii) a third surfactant which is an anionic surfactant or a non-ionic surfactant, wherein the non-ionic surfactant is selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates, and the anionic surfactant is sulfate-free and selected from sarcosinates, glutamates, isethionates and taurates; (iii) an optional fourth surfactant which is an amphoteric surfactant; and (iv) at least one essential oil or a blend thereof; wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 5 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate; wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 2:1 to about 15:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives; wherein the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 25 wt% to about 95 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and wherein the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 50 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

[0127] In some embodiments, the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be about 1:10 to about 5:1. When present, the amphoteric surfactant may be in an amount from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt%. The weight ratio of anionic surfactant to amphoteric surfactant may be from about 1:10 to about 10:1, and the amphoteric surfactant may be selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms.

[0128] In some embodiments the concentrate of the second aspect may be defined as comprising: (i) a first non-ionic surfactant selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, and glycol esters or ethers; (ii) a second surfactant which is an anionic surfactant and selected from fatty acids, fatty acid salts, sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates; (iii) an optional third surfactant which is a non-ionic surfactant or an amphoteric surfactant, wherein the non-ionic surfactant is selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates, and the amphoteric surfactant is selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, sehydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 6 to 24 carbon atoms ; (iv) at least one essential oil or a blend thereof; wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof may be present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 1 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate; and wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be about 2:1 to about 25:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives; wherein the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 5 wt% to about 50 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, wherein the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, and the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be about 1:10 to about 5:1.

[0129] In some embodiments the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate may be about 1:10 to about 5:1. When present, the amphoteric surfactant may be in an amount from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt%. The weight ratio of anionic surfactant to amphoteric surfactant may be from about 1:10 to about 10:1. Aqueous Cleaning Composition

[0130] In one aspect there is provided a composition comprising a concentrate as defined herein and water. In some embodiments the composition consists essentially of or consists of the concentrate as defined herein and water. The composition may be beneficial because it may be simple, quick and effective to prepare whilst having a lower environmental impact than conventional cleaning products. The concentration of water and dilution of concentrate will be dependent on the form of the composition, namely whether it is a liquid, gel, or semi-solid.

[0131] In some embodiments the composition may be in liquid form and may comprise about 50 wt% to about 99.9 wt% water, based on the total weight of the composition. In such embodiments, the composition may comprise about 60 wt% to about 99.9 wt% water, preferably about 65 wt% to about 99.9 wt% water, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0132] In other embodiments the composition may be in the form of a gel and may comprise about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% water. In other embodiments the composition may be in the form of a semi-solid, e.g. a paste, and may comprise about 20 wt% to about 40 wt% water.

[0133] In some embodiments, the composition may have a pH between about pH 3 and about pH 8. If, for example, the concentrate includes a natural organic acid, the pH of the composition may be between about pH 3 and about pH 7. In preferred embodiments, the composition may have a pH of about pH 3 and about pH 6. Without a natural organic acid, preferred embodiments of the composition may have a pH between about pH 6 and about pH 8. Hence the composition may be described as having a “neutral” pH. This may be beneficial for both the environment and avoiding skin and / or eye irritation during use. Measurement of pH is well-known in the art; it may be carried out using a calibrated pH meter at 25°C. This method was used in the Examples below.

[0134] The composition of the present disclosure has considerable cleaning power across a wide range of surfaces. This means that it can be used on a variety surface types and across a variety of household settings. In addition, the concentrates and compositions thereof may be associated with one or more of the following advantageous properties: ease of use, suitability for repeated long-term use, non-irritant, non-toxic, and fast-action. The sensorial experience provided to the user is also improved compared to conventional cleaning products. The preparation of the composition may be straightforward and does not require any specialist equipment. The concentrate described herein may be simply diluted with water and the composition is ready to use. Processes, Methods and Uses

[0135] In one aspect the present disclosure provides a process for preparing a composition where the process comprises providing a concentrate as defined herein, and mixing the concentrate with water so as to prepare the composition. The composition may be the aqueous cleaning composition as defined herein.

[0136] In one aspect the present disclosure provides a non-therapeutic use of a concentrate as defined herein ora composition as defined herein for cleaning a surface. The surface is not limited and may be any physical or hard surface known to the person skilled in the art. The surface may be a domestic or household physical surface, e.g. a counter-top, a table, a window, a mirror, a bathtub, basin, floor or the like. This use may otherwise be defined as a method, e.g. a non-therapeutic method for cleaning a surface, wherein the method comprises applying the concentrate or the composition as defined herein to the surface.

[0137] When applied, the composition can be sprayed onto the surface to be cleaned and then wiped off by a suitable material such as a cloth, towel, sponge, wipe, or the like. The composition or concentrate can also be placed in a container prior to use. In another aspect there is therefore provided a container comprising the concentrate or the composition defined herein. The container may be made of chemically inert material. The container may be at least partially opaque. A kit of parts is also provided; this kit comprises a container, the concentrate as defined herein, and a cloth, wipe, sponge and / or towel. Examples Experimental 1

[0138] The following concentrates were prepared according to the present invention. The essential oil blends differed by the plant essential oil on which they were based and hence the scent provided to the user. Table 1a Concentrate 1 Concentrate 2 Concentrate 3 Component Wt% in concentrate Wt% in concentrate Wt% in concentrate Essential oil blend 1 14 - - Essential oil blend 2 - 15 - Essential oil blend 3 - - 13 Fatty acid glucoside non-ionic surfactant 1 (63% actives) 27 30 34 Glutamate anionic surfactant (34% actives) 20 23 34 Fatty acid glucoside non-ionic surfactant 2 and glyceryl fatty acid ester non-ionic surfactant 1 (average of 65% actives) 20 11 13 Other components (solvent, preservative) 19 21 6 Weight Ratio Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 2.6:1 2.2:1 3.3:1 Weight Ratio Non-ionic Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 2.1:1 1.7:1 2.3:1 Weight Ratio Anionic Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 0.5:1 0.5:1 0.9:1

[0139] Each of the concentrates in Table 1a was prepared for use as a cleaning composition by including the concentrate in an amount between 5 and 20 wt% in a composition with balance, 80 to 95 wt%, water. Each concentrate and diluted composition was clear in appearance. The pH of the aqueous cleaning compositions was approximately 6.

[0140] Each concentrate, as well as diluted composition, was tested for stability. Stability of the concentrate and composition was evaluated visually by assessing any changes in appearance (colour, texture, any signs of separation, etc.) over a period of minimum 3 months (accelerated testing at increased temperature, T~35°C), and ideally over 1 year at ambient temperature. The odour characteristic was also evaluated. Each concentrate and diluted composition was stable for a minimum of 3 months at accelerated testing and up to at least 2 years under ambient conditions, and had an odour characteristic of the essential oil blend throughout this period.

[0141] The compositions were also evaluated for their cleaning properties. This evaluation was performed at multiple times during the stability testing period, and in real-life situations by a trained sensory panel using the diluted composition on multiple different surfaces around the home, such as wood, glass, natural stone, bathroom fixtures, hard plastic, etc. The composition would fail if common household stains, e.g. hard water, toothpaste, food / oil / other kitchen stains, were not lifted, if excessive streaking was observed (e.g. on windows or mirrors), or if any residue was left on the tested surfaces. The panel also evaluated the odour characteristic of the cleaning composition throughout the test period.

[0142] All three concentrates in Table 1a prepared aqueous cleaning compositions that delivered efficient cleaning power across multiple household surfaces whilst having a scent that was detectable and enjoyable by all members of the trained sensory panel. Experimental 2

[0143] The following concentrates were prepared according to the present invention. Table 1b Concentrate 4 Concentrate 5 Concentrate 6 Component Wt% in concentrate Wt% in concentrate Wt% in concentrate Essential oil blend 1 - 5 15 Essential oil blend 4 15 - - Essential oil blend 5 - 5 - Glutamate anionic surfactant (34% actives) 15 5 - Glyceryl fatty acid ester non-ionic surfactant 1 (100% actives) 7 - - Fatty acid glucoside non-ionic surfactant 1 (63% actives) - - 29 Fatty acid glucoside non-ionic surfactant 2 (50% actives) - - 23 Polyoxyalkylene fatty acid ester non-ionic surfactant (100% actives) 44 90 - Naturally-derived organic acid - - 12 Other components (solvent, preservative, buffering agent) 19 - 21 Weight Ratio Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 3.7:1 18:1 2:1 Weight Ratio Non-lonic Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 3.4:1 18:1 2:1 Weight Ratio Anionic Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 0.3:1 0.3:1

[0144] Each of the concentrates in Table 1 b was prepared for use as a cleaning composition by including the concentrate in an amount between 5 and 20 wt% in a composition with balance, 80 to 95 wt%, water. Each concentrate and diluted composition was clear in appearance. The pH of the aqueous cleaning compositions prepared with Concentrates 4 and 5 was between 6 and 7. The pH of the aqueous cleaning composition prepared with Concentrate 6 was pH 3, this composition was particularly effective on bathroom surfaces.

[0145] Each concentrate and diluted composition was tested for stability and odour characteristic in the same manner as Experimental 1. Each concentrate and diluted composition was stable for a minimum of 3 months under accelerated testing and up to at least 2 years under ambient conditions. The odour characteristic of the cleaning compositions was also maintained throughout this period and deemed pleasant by all members of the sensory panel, and efficient cleaning power was observed on a variety of household surfaces. Experimental 3

[0146] The following concentrates were prepared according to the present invention. Table 1c Concentrate 7 Concentrate 8 Concentrate 9 Concentrate 10 Concentrate 11 Component Wt% in concentrate Wt% in concentrate Wt% in concentrate Wt% in concentrate Wt% in concentrate Essential oil blend 1 15 15 - - 10 Essential oil blend 6 - - 2 15 - Essential oil blend 7 - - - - - Fatty acid glucoside non-ionic surfactant 1 (63% actives) 4 21 4 Glutamate anionic surfactant (34% actives) 15 7 Sulfonate anionic surfactant - - 6 - - Sarcosinate anionic surfactant (30% actives) 42 Glyceryl fatty acid ester non-ionic surfactant 2 (100% actives) 7 4 7 Polyoxyalkylene fatty acid ester nonionic surfactant (100% actives) 44 44 29 Fatty acid amidopropylbetaine amphoteric surfactant 15 Naturally-derived non-ionic surfactant (100% actives) 15 14 Alcohol ethoxylate non-ionic surfactants 42 Naturally-derived organic acid - - 35 - - Naturally-derived chelating agent 8 Other components (solvent, preservative, and / or buffering agent) 34 18 28 9 6 Weight Ratio Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 4.4:1 3.7:1 9.3:1 4:1 5.5:1 Weight Ratio Non Ionic 4.4:1 3.4:1 6.6:1 3.5:1 4.2:1 Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis Weight Ratio Anionic Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 1:3 2.7:1 1:5 1.3:1

[0147] Each of the concentrates in Table 1 c was prepared for use as a cleaning composition by including the concentrate in an amount between 5 and 20 wt% in a composition with balance, 80 to 95 wt%, water. Each concentrate and diluted composition was clear in appearance.

[0148] Each concentrate and diluted composition was tested for stability and odour characteristic in the same manner as Experimental 1. Each concentrate and diluted composition was stable for a minimum of 3 months under accelerated testing and up to at least 2 years under ambient conditions. The odour characteristic of the cleaning compositions was also maintained throughout this period and deemed pleasant by all members of the sensory panel; efficient cleaning power was also observed on a variety of household surfaces. Experimental 4

[0149] For comparison purposes, reference concentrates were prepared as set out in Table 2. The surfactants in Reference Concentrates 1 to 3 were identical to the ones used in the concentrates of Tables 1a to 1c as indicated. Table 2 Reference Concentrate 1 Reference Concentrate 2 Reference Concentrate 3 Component Wt% in concentrate Wt% in concentrate Wt% in concentrate Essential oil blend 1 4 17 - Essential oil blend 5 - - 7 Fatty acid glucoside non-ionic surfactant 1 (63% actives) 8 - - Glutamate anionic surfactant (34% actives) - 12 - Glyceryl fatty acid ester non-ionic surfactant 1 (100% actives) 2 Polyoxyalkylene fatty acid ester non-ionic surfactant (100% actives) 12 Sophorolipid non-ionic surfactant (60% actives) - - 71 Other components (preservative, and / or solvent) 86 59 22 Weight Ratio Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 1.8:1 0.9:1 6:1 Weight Ratio Non-ionic Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 1.8:1 0.7:1 6:1 Weight Ratio Anionic Surfactant:Essential Oil, on an actives basis 0.24:1

[0150] In the same manner as the concentrates in Tables 1a to 1c, the reference concentrates were each prepared for use as a cleaning composition by including the concentrate at 5 to 20 wt% in a composition with balance, 80 to 95 wt%, water. Unlike the concentrates of Tables 1a to 1c, however, the concentrates of Table 2 were not suitable for use in a cleaning composition.

[0151] Reference Concentrate 1 is not in accordance with the present invention because of the concentration of essential oil blend with the non-ionic surfactants (less than 5 wt% of the concentrate). The weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to essential oil was also outside of the desired range. This concentrate was milky and therefore not acceptable for use as a consumer product. A “milky” concentrate is not only undesirable in appearance but an indication that the emulsion is unstable and is likely to separate.

[0152] Reference Concentrate 2 is not in accordance with the present invention because of the weight ratio of surfactant (on actives basis) to essential oil. This concentrate was, in a similar manner to Reference Concentrate 1, milky and not therefore acceptable for use as a consumer product.

[0153] Reference Concentrate 3 is not in accordance with the present invention because it only includes a single non-ionic surfactant. This concentrate was very milky and not therefore acceptable for use as a consumer product. The diluted composition was similarly hazy / white and separated overnight.

[0154] The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It may be to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

[0155] Various preferred features and embodiments will now be described with reference to the following numbered paragraphs. 1. A concentrate for use in an aqueous composition, wherein the concentrate comprises: (i) at least two surfactants which are non-ionic and selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates; (ii) an optional third surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and non-ionic surfactants; and (iii) at least one essential oil or a blend thereof; wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 5 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate; and wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 2:1 to about 15:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives. 2. The concentrate of paragraph 1, wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 5 wt% to about 25 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. 3. The concentrate of paragraph 2, wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. 4. The concentrate of paragraph 3, wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 7 wt% to about 18 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. 5. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 2:1 to about 12:1, preferably about 2:1 to about 10:1. 6. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 1:10 to about 5:1, the surfactant weight being based on total actives. 7. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the weight ratio of amphoteric surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 1:10 to about 5:1, the surfactant weight being based on total actives. 8. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the at least two non-ionic surfactants are selected from polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, alkyl glucosides, fatty acid glucosides, alkyl glyceryl esters or ethers, fatty acid glyceryl esters or ethers, alkyl glycol esters or ethers, fatty acid glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates. 9. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the two nonionic surfactants is selected from polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, and polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers. 10. The concentrate of paragraph 9, wherein at least one of the two non-ionic surfactants is selected from polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters and polyoxyethylene glycol fatty acid esters. 11. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the two non-ionic surfactants is selected from glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters, glyceryl ethers, glycol esters, and glycol ethers. 12. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein non-ionic surfactant is present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 25 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, preferably from about 25 wt% to about 95 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. 13. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the third surfactant (ii) is selected from anionic surfactants and non-ionic surfactants. 14. The concentrate of paragraph 13, wherein the third surfactant (ii) is an anionic surfactant, optionally wherein the concentrate further comprises a fourth surfactant which is a non-ionic or an amphoteric surfactant. 15. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the anionic surfactant is selected from fatty acids, fatty acid salts, sulfates, sulfosuccinates, sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, taurates, sulfonates, sulfonic acid salts, phosphoric acid esters, carboxylic acid salts, phosphates, and phosphate esters. 16. The concentrate of paragraph 14 or paragraph 15, wherein the weight ratio of anionic surfactant (iii) to the fourth surfactant is from about 1:10 to about 10:1, preferably from about 1:10to 5:1. 17. A concentrate for use in an aqueous cleaning composition, wherein the concentrate comprises: (i) a first surfactant which is non-ionic and selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates; (ii) a second surfactant which is anionic or amphoteric, the anionic surfactant being selected from fatty acids, fatty acid salts, sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates; the amphoteric surfactant being selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, sehydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides; (iii) at least one essential oil or a blend thereof; wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 1 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate; wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 2:1 to about 25:1; and optionally wherein the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to anionic surfactant is from about 1:1 to about 20:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives. 18. The concentrate of paragraph 17, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 5:1 to about 20:1, preferably wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 5:1 to about 15:1. 19. The concentrate of paragraph 17 or paragraph 18, wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 25 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate, preferably from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. 20. The concentrate of any of paragraphs 17 to 19, wherein the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of at least about 5 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, preferably in an amount of at least about 8 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. 21. The concentrate of any of paragraphs 17 to 20, wherein the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of at least about 1 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate, preferably in an amount from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. 22. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, further comprising a solvent, preferably wherein the solvent is non-aqueous. 23. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 2:1 to about 20:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives. 24. The concentrate of any of paragraphs 17 to 23, wherein the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 1:10 to about 5:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives. 25. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, further comprising a preservative. 26. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the preservative is present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate. 27. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the essential oil or blend thereof is plant essential oil. 28. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the essential oil or blend thereof is selected from lemon essential oil, geranium essential oil, lavender essential oil, rose essential oil, rosemary essential oil, bergamot essential oil, clove essential oil, mint essential oil, cinnamon essential oil, thyme essential oil, orange essential oil, coriander essential oil, grapefruit essential oil, frankincense essential oil, myrrh essential oil, sweet marjoram essential oil, sage essential oil, lemongrass essential oil, lime essential oil, cedarwood essential oil, citronella essential oil, eucalyptus essential oil, peppermint essential oil, neroli essential oil, oregano essential oil, juniper essential oil, cardamom essential oil, basil essential oil, and combinations thereof. 29. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the essential oil is a blend of at least two essential oils. 30. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the concentrate comprises an amphoteric surfactant selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, and hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl groups are C6 to C24 hydrocarbyl groups. 31. The concentrate of paragraph 30, wherein the amphoteric surfactant is a hydrocarbyl betaine or a hydrocarbylamidobetaine, wherein the hydrocarbyl groups are C6 to C24 hydrocarbyl groups. 32. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the concentrate comprises an amphoteric surfactant in an amount from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate. 33. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the concentrate comprises an anionic surfactant selected from glutamates, sarcosinates, isethionates, and taurates. 34. The concentrate of any preceding paragraph, wherein the concentrate is in the form of an emulsion. 35. A composition comprising a concentrate according to any preceding paragraph and water. 36. The composition of paragraph 35, wherein the composition comprises about 50 wt% to about 99.9 wt% water, based on the total weight of the composition. 37. The composition of paragraph 35 or paragraph 36, wherein the pH of the composition is between about pH 3 and about pH 8, preferably between about pH 5 and about pH 8. 38. A container comprising the concentrate according to any of c paragraphs 1 to 34. 39. A container comprising the composition according to any of paragraphs 35 to 37. 40. A kit of parts comprising a container, the concentrate according to any of paragraphs 1 to 34, and a cloth, wipe, sponge and / or towel. 41. A process for preparing a composition, wherein the process comprises providing a concentrate according to any of paragraphs 1 to 34, and mixing the concentrate with water so as to prepare the composition. 42. Non-therapeutic use of a composition according to any of paragraphs 35 to 37 for cleaning a surface. 43. A method of cleaning a surface, wherein the method comprises applying the composition according to any of paragraphs 35 to 37 to the surface.

Claims

1. A concentrate for use in an aqueous cleaning composition, wherein the concentrate comprises:(i) a first surfactant which is non-ionic and selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates;(ii) a second surfactant which is anionic or amphoteric, the anionic surfactant being selected from fatty acids, fatty acid salts, sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates; the amphoteric surfactant being selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, sehydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides;(iii) at least one essential oil or a blend thereof;wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of at least about 1 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate;wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 2:1 to about 25:1; and optionally wherein the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to anionic surfactant is from about 1:1 to about 20:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives.

2. The concentrate of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 5:1 to about 20:

13. The concentrate of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 5:1 to about 15:1.

4. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 25 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

5. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

6. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of at least about 5 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate7. The concentrate of claim 6, wherein the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of at least about 8 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

8. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of at least about 1 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

9. The concentrate of claim 8, wherein the anionic surfactant is present in an amount from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

10. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 2:1 to about 20:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives.

11. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is about 1:10 to about 5:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives.

12. The concentrate of any preceding claim, wherein the concentrate comprises an amphoteric surfactant selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, and hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl groups are C6 to C24 hydrocarbyl groups.

13. The concentrate of claim 12, wherein the amphoteric surfactant is a hydrocarbyl betaine or a hydrocarbylamidobetaine, wherein the hydrocarbyl groups are C6 to C24 hydrocarbyl groups.

14. The concentrate of any preceding claim, wherein the concentrate comprises an amphoteric surfactant in an amount from about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

15. The concentrate of any preceding claim, wherein the essential oil is a blend of at least two essential oils.

16. The concentrate of any preceding claim, wherein the concentrate comprises an anionic surfactant selected from glutamates, sarcosinates, isethionates, and taurates.

17. The concentrate of any preceding claim, wherein the concentrate is in the form of an emulsion.

18. A composition comprising a concentrate according to any preceding claim and water, wherein the composition comprises about 50 wt% to about 99.9 wt% water, based on the total weight of the composition.

19. The composition of claim 18, wherein the pH of the composition is between about pH 3 and about pH 8.

20. A container comprising the concentrate according to any of claims 1 to 17 or the composition according to claim 18 or claim 19.

21. A kit of parts comprising a container, the concentrate according to any of claims 1 to 17, and a cloth, wipe, sponge and / or towel.

22. A process for preparing a composition, wherein the process comprises providing a concentrate according to any of claims 1 to 17, and mixing the concentrate with water so as to prepare the composition.

23. Non-therapeutic use of a composition according to any of claims 18 or 19 for cleaning a surface.

24. A method of cleaning a surface, wherein the method comprises applying the composition according to any of claims 18 or 19 to the surface.05 07 24Amendments to the claims have been filed below:51CLAIMS1. A concentrate for use in an aqueous cleaning composition, wherein the concentrate comprises:(i) a first surfactant which is non-ionic and selected from polyoxyalkylene fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters, sucrose fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene hydrogen carbonate castor oils, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, glucosides, glycosides, glyceryl esters or ethers, glycol esters or ethers, and alcohol ethoxylates;(ii) a second surfactant which is anionic or amphoteric, the anionic surfactant being selected from fatty acids, fatty acid salts, sulfates, sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, sarcosinates, isethionates, glutamates, and taurates; the amphoteric surfactant being selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, sehydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides;(iii) at least one essential oil or a blend thereof;wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of at least 1 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate; wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is 2:1 to 25:1; and wherein the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to anionic surfactant is from 1:1 to 20:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives.

2. The concentrate of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is 5:1 to 20:1.

3. The concentrate of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the weight ratio of surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is 5:1 to 15:1.

4. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of from 1 wt% to 25 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

5. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one essential oil or blend thereof is present in the concentrate in an amount of from 1 wt% to 20 wt%, based on the total weight of the concentrate.05 07 246. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of at least 5 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

7. The concentrate of claim 6, wherein the non-ionic surfactant is present in an amount of at least 8 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

8. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of at least 1 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

9. The concentrate of claim 8, wherein the anionic surfactant is present in an amount from 1 wt% to 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

10. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the weight ratio of non-ionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is 2:1 to 20:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives.

11. The concentrate of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the weight ratio of anionic surfactant to essential oil in the concentrate is 1:10 to 5:1, the weight of surfactant being based on total actives.

12. The concentrate of any preceding claim, wherein the concentrate comprises an amphoteric surfactant selected from hydrocarbyl-amphoacetates, hydrocarbyl-amphodiacetates, hydrocarbylampho-propionates, hydrocarbylampho-dipropionates, hydrocarbyl betaines, hydrocarbylamidobetaines, and hydrocarbylamphohydroxypropyl sulfaines, and amine oxides, wherein the hydrocarbyl groups are C6 to C24 hydrocarbyl groups.

13. The concentrate of claim 12, wherein the amphoteric surfactant is a hydrocarbyl betaine or a hydrocarbylamidobetaine, wherein the hydrocarbyl groups are C6 to C24 hydrocarbyl groups.

14. The concentrate of any preceding claim, wherein the concentrate comprises an amphoteric surfactant in an amount from 1 wt% to 20 wt% on an actives basis, based on the total weight of the concentrate.

15. The concentrate of any preceding claim, wherein the essential oil is a blend of at least two essential oils.05 07 2416. The concentrate of any preceding claim, wherein the concentrate comprises an anionic surfactant selected from glutamates, sarcosinates, isethionates, and taurates.

17. The concentrate of any preceding claim, wherein the concentrate is in the form of an emulsion.

18. A composition comprising a concentrate according to any preceding claim and water, wherein the composition comprises 50 wt% to 99.9 wt% water, based on the total weight of the composition.

19. The composition of claim 18, wherein the pH of the composition is between pH 3 and pH 8.

20. A container comprising the concentrate according to any of claims 1 to 17 or the composition according to claim 18 or claim 19.

21. A kit of parts comprising a container, the concentrate according to any of claims 1 to 17, and a cloth, wipe, sponge and / or towel.

22. A process for preparing a composition, wherein the process comprises providing a concentrate according to any of claims 1 to 17, and mixing the concentrate with water so as to prepare the composition.

23. Non-therapeutic use of a composition according to any of claims 18 or 19 for cleaning a surface.

24. A method of cleaning a surface, wherein the method comprises applying the composition according to any of claims 18 or 19 to the surface.