Acidic fabric care composition

Abstract

The present invention provides an improved low-pH fabric care composition that provides freshness and odor prevention effects even after the fabric has been washed, i.e., during storage and use of the fabric. [Solution] A liquid fabric care composition comprising an organic acid and / or a salt thereof, a Bacillus spore, an aromatic material including an aldehyde-based fragrance raw material, and water, wherein the composition comprises less than 10% by weight of the composition, selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials and mixtures thereof, the composition has a stock pH of about 2 to about 4, the composition is added during the rinse cycle of a laundry process, and the composition comprises 0.001% to 1.0% by weight of a sulfur-containing compound selected from sulfate compounds, bisulfate compounds or combinations thereof.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to an acidic fabric care composition comprising an aromatic material including organic acids and / or salts thereof, Bacillus spores, aldehyde-based fragrance raw materials, and water. This disclosure also relates to methods of use and methods of manufacturing such compositions. [Background technology]

[0002] Low pH laundry rinse compositions are known; see, for example, European Patent No. 3650523(B1). Among other benefits, low pH laundry rinse compositions can provide treated fabrics with freshness and odor.

[0003] Such compositions may contain relatively high concentrations of citric acid and / or related salts. Aromatic materials (e.g., fragrances) may also be added to the composition to improve the scent of the stock product and / or to provide benefits such as freshness to the fabric of the choice during processing. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] European Patent No. 3650523(B1) [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] An improved low-pH fabric care composition is needed that provides freshness and odor-eliminating effects even after the fabric has been washed, i.e., during storage and use. This is particularly relevant when the fabric is worn in situations where odors are likely to develop, such as during exercise. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present disclosure relates to an acidic fabric care composition comprising an organic acid, preferably citric acid, Bacillus spores and an aromatic material.

[0007] For example, the present disclosure relates to a liquid fabric care composition comprising from about 10% to about 50% by weight of an organic acid, preferably citric acid and / or its salts, Bacillus spores, an aromatic material and from about 30% to about 90% by weight of water in the liquid fabric care composition, the composition comprising less than 10% by weight of a material selected from the group consisting of a detergency surfactant, a bleaching system, a fabric softening material and mixtures thereof, and the liquid fabric care composition having a stock solution pH of about 2 to about 4.

[0008] For example, the present disclosure also relates to a powder fabric care composition comprising an organic acid, preferably citric acid and / or its salts, Bacillus spores and an aromatic material, the composition comprising less than 10% by weight of a material selected from the group consisting of a detergency surfactant, a bleaching system, a fabric softening material and mixtures thereof, and the powder fabric care composition having a pH of about 2 to about 4 when measured in a 1% by weight aqueous solution at 25°C.

[0009] The present disclosure also relates to a method of treating a fabric comprising the step of contacting the fabric with a composition according to the present disclosure.

[0010] The present disclosure also relates to a method of making a liquid fabric care composition comprising combining water, citric acid and an aromatic material, preferably an aromatic material pre-mixed with a non-ionic surfactant.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present disclosure relates to an acidic fabric care composition. The composition comprises an organic acid, an aromatic material and Bacillus spores. Such a composition is thought to provide good freshness to the fabric during the washing process and remove bad odors, and also prevent bad odors after fabric washing when storing and using the fabric.

[0012] Surprisingly, it has been found that Bacillus spores are in a stable state and do not germinate in the liquid fabric care composition or during the washing process. However, they germinate more rapidly after the washing process. This is thought to be related to the narrow pH range of the composition of the present invention. Compositions having a pH less than 2 are thought to have an adverse effect on spore stability in the product and the rinse liquor during the washing process. Compositions having a pH greater than 4 are thought to delay spore germination after the washing process.

[0013] Without wishing to be bound by theory, exposure of Bacillus spores to a narrow pH range is thought to change the surface chemistry in a way that increases their sensitivity to small molecule germinants, perhaps by stimulating germination receptors or making them more accessible. In the lower pH range, these effects are thought to be degraded by significant damage to the spore surface, resulting in loss of the viability of the spores to germinate. Bacillus spores have been found to be in a stable state in the products of the present invention. At the same time, Bacillus spores are thought to be in a "stimulated" state in the composition. "Stimulated" Bacillus spores can germinate and grow more rapidly into metabolically active bacterial cells when stored or exposed to the composition of the present invention, compared to Bacillus spores in a composition having a pH of 5 to 7. This is a desirable effect. During the rinse cycle, "stimulated" Bacillus spores deposit on the fabric and are later activated by available nutrients (e.g., body sweat) and malodor precursors (e.g., residual soil) during wear or use.

[0014] Prevention of unwanted germination and growth is desirable 1) in the product to prevent loss of product stability and 2) in the rinse cycle if early germination can adversely affect the spore deposition profile on the fabric. Germinated spores are not as strong as dormant spores and can be affected by mechanical forces during the rinse cycle, such as agitation and dehydration.

[0015] The compositions and related methods are described in more detail below.

[0016] When used herein, the articles “a” and “an” as used in the claims are understood to mean one or more of the claims or described herein. When used herein, the terms “include,” “includes,” and “including” are meant to be non-limiting. The compositions of the Disclosure may include, may essentially consist of, or may consist of the components of the Disclosure.

[0017] In this specification, the terms “substantially free of” or “substantially free from” may be used. This means that the indicated material is present in minimal amounts and is not intentionally added to the composition to form part of the composition, or, preferably, is not present at an analytically detectable level. It means that the composition includes a composition in which the indicated material is present only as an impurity among one of the other materials that are intentionally included. If the indicated material is present, it may be present at a level of less than 1% by weight, less than 0.1% by weight, less than 0.01% by weight, or even 0% by weight of the composition.

[0018] As used herein, the term “fabric care composition” includes compositions and formulations designed for treating fabrics. Such compositions include, but are not limited to, laundry cleaning compositions and detergents, fabric softening compositions, fabric strengthening compositions, fabric deodorizing compositions, pre-wash detergents, pre-wash treatments, laundry additives, spray products, dry cleaning agents or compositions, wash rinse additives, washing additives, post-rinse fabric treatments, ironing aids, unit-dose formulations, delayed-delivery formulations, detergents contained on or in porous substrates or nonwoven sheets, and other suitable forms that may be apparent to those skilled in the art in consideration of the teachings herein. Such compositions can be used as pre-wash treatments, post-wash treatments, or added during the rinse or wash cycle of a laundry operation. Preferably, the compositions of the present invention are added during the rinse cycle of a laundry operation.

[0019] Unless otherwise noted, all concentrations of components or compositions refer to the active portion of that component or composition, excluding impurities that may be present in the commercially available source of such components or compositions, such as residual solvents or by-products.

[0020] All temperatures in this specification are in degrees Celsius (°C) unless otherwise specified. Unless otherwise stated, all measurements in this specification are performed at 20°C and atmospheric pressure.

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

[0022] It should be understood that all maximum numerical limits given throughout this specification include all lower numerical limits as if they were explicitly stated herein. All minimum numerical limits shown throughout this specification include all higher numerical limits as if they were explicitly stated herein. All numerical ranges given throughout this specification include all narrow numerical ranges that fall within such broad numerical ranges as if they were explicitly stated herein.

[0023] composition This disclosure relates to a fabric care composition having a relatively low pH. In other words, this disclosure relates to an acidic fabric care composition. The composition may be in liquid or solid form.

[0024] The compositions of this disclosure may be particularly useful for treating fabrics such as clothes or towels during the rinse cycle of a fully automatic washing machine. Due to the low pH of the compositions, they may be useful in softening fabrics and / or brightening colors by removing limescale that may have accumulated on the fabric surface, which may result from washing fabrics in hard water. The compositions of the present invention provide freshness and odor removal from fabrics during and after the washing process. The compositions of the present invention may also provide odor prevention.

[0025] The composition preferably contains an organic acid selected from the group consisting of citric acid, acetic acid, lactic acid, adipic acid, aspartic acid, carboxymethyl oxymalonic acid, carboxymethyl oxysuccinic acid, glutaric acid, hydroxyethyl iminodioacetic acid, iminodiacetic acid, maleic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, oxydiacetic acid, oxysuccinic acid, succinic acid, sulfamic acid, tartaric acid, tartaric-discuccinic acid, tartaric-monosuccinic acid, or mixtures thereof, preferably citric acid. The composition may preferably contain substantially no additional organic acids. The composition may preferably contain substantially no acetic acid, which can add an undesirable odor. In particular, the composition is preferably free of vinegar at 2.80% by weight. For the purposes of the present invention, the term "vinegar" means any aqueous solution containing 5-8% by weight of acetic acid in the composition.

[0026] Preferably, the composition comprises citric acid and / or a salt thereof. As those skilled in the art will understand, citric acid and its salts may be present in equilibrium in the liquid composition. Citric acid is preferred for use in this composition because it is a performance-efficient and cost-effective material, and is readily available, bio-based, and biodegradable.

[0027] The composition may contain about 10% to about 50% by weight of citric acid and / or its salts in the liquid fabric care composition. The liquid fabric care composition may contain about 15% to about 40% by weight, preferably about 20% to about 30% by weight of citric acid and / or its salts in the liquid fabric care composition.

[0028] The compositions of this disclosure may also include bacterial spores. The spores are not inactivated by the heat found in washing machines. The spores are present in the fabric and provide odor control after the washing process and while the fabric is in use (e.g., clothing).

[0029] The microbial spores of the method and composition of the present invention can germinate on fabric. The spores can be activated, for example, by heat generated during fabric use or by heat generated in a washing machine. The spores can germinate when the fabric is stored and / or used. Odor precursors can be used by microorganisms produced by the spores as nutrients that promote germination. The spores can also contribute to odor prevention.

[0030] The microbial spores for use herein are i) able to survive the temperatures found in a dryer, and the bacterial spores for use herein are i) able to survive the temperatures found in a typical washing process, ii) able to survive on fabric, and iii) able to control odor. The spores are able to stabilize in the fabric care composition and germinate after the washing process. These spores germinate on the fabric and form cells, using odor precursors and, with a high probability, organic acid residues as nutrients. The spores can be supplied in liquid or solid form. Preferably, the spores are in solid form.

[0031] Some Gram-positive bacteria have a two-stage life cycle. During their life cycle, bacteria growing under certain conditions, such as in response to nutrient deficiency, may execute an elaborate developmental program that leads to spore or endospore formation. Bacterial spores are protected by a coat of about 60 different proteins, assembled as a biochemically complex structure with interesting morphological and mechanical properties. This protein coat is considered a static structure that provides high rigidity and primarily acts as a sieve to filter out large exogenous toxic molecules such as lytic enzymes. Spores play a crucial role in the long-term survival of species because they are highly resistant to extreme environmental conditions. Spores can also remain metabolically dormant for many years. Methods for obtaining bacterial spores from vegetative cells are well known in the field. In some cases, vegetative bacterial cells are grown in liquid medium. From the late logarithmic growth phase or early stationary phase, bacteria may initiate spore formation. Once the bacteria have completed spore formation, their spores can be obtained from the medium, for example, by centrifugation. Various methods can be used to kill or remove any remaining vegetative cells. Spores can be purified from cell debris and / or other materials or substances using various methods. Bacterial spores can be differentiated from vegetative cells, for example, using various techniques such as phase contrast microscopy, automated scanning microscopy, high-resolution nuclear microscopy, or heat-resistant methods.

[0032] Bacterial spores are generally readily selected for use in commercial microbial products because they are metabolically inactive or dormant, environmentally resistant structures. Despite their robustness and extremely long lifespan, spores can respond rapidly to the presence of certain small molecules known as germination, which signal a favorable condition for interrupting dormancy by germination, the initial stage of the process that completes the life cycle by returning to vegetative bacteria. For example, commercial microbial products may be designed to be dispersed in an environment where spores encounter embryos present in the environment, germinate within vegetative cells, and perform their intended function. A variety of different bacteria can form spores. Bacteria from any of these groups may be used in the compositions, methods, and kits disclosed herein.For example, the following genera: Astonema, Alkalibacillus, Ammoniphyllus, Amphibacillus, Anaerobacter, Anaerospora, Aneuribacillus, Anoxybacillus, Bacillus, Brevibacillus, Cardanaerobacter, Caloramater, Caminella, Cerassibacillus, Clostridium, Clostridium erythribacter, Cornella, Dendrosporobacter, Desulfotomaculum, Desulfosporomus, Desulfosporosinus Desulfovirgra, Desulfunispora, Desulfurispora, Philifactor, Filovacillus, Geruria, Geobacillus, Geosporobacter, Gracilibacillus, Halonatronum, Heliobacterium, Heliophyllum, Raceella, Lentibacillus, Lysinibacillus, Mahera, Metabacterium, Morela, Natroniela, Oceanobacillus, Orenia, Ornithinebacillus, Oxalophagus, Oxobacter Paenibacillus, Paraliobacillus, Perospora, Perotomaculum, Piscibacillus, Planiphyllum, Ponchibacillus, Propionispora, Salinibacillus, Salsuginibacillus, Seinonella, Shimazuela, Sporasetigenium, Sporoanaerobacter, Sporobacter, Sporobacterium, Sporohalobacter, Sporolactobacillus, Sporomsa, Sporosalthia, Sporotalea, Sporotomaculum, Si Some of the bacteria among *Centrophomonas*, *Syntrophospora*, *Tenuibacillus*, *Tepidibacter*, *Teribacillus*, *Thalassobacillus*, *Thermoacetogenium*, *Thermoactinomyces*, *Thermoalkalibacillus*, *Thermoanaerobacter*, *Thermoanaeromonas*, *Thermobacillus*, *Thermoflavimicrobium*, *Thermovenablum*, *Tuberibacillus*, *Bulzibacillus*, and / or *Vulcanobacillus* may form spores.

[0033] Preferably, bacteria capable of forming spores are from the Basilaceae family, such as Aeribacillus, Aliibacillus, Alkalibacillus, Alkalicoccus, Alkalihalobacillus, Alkalilactibacillus, Alobacillus, Alteribacillus, Alteribacter, Amphibacillus, Anaerobacillus, Anoxybacillus, Aquibacillus, Aquisalibacillus, Aureibacillus, Bacillus, Cardarukaribacillus, Cardibacillus, Carditericola, Callidifontisbacillus, Cameribacillus, Cerasibacillus, Compostibacillus Rus, Cytobacillus, Desertibacillus, Domibacillus, Ectobacillus, Evanthera, Falcibacillus, Ferdinandocochina, Fermentibacillus, Fictibacillus, Phylobacillus, Geobacillus, Geomicrobium, Gottfriedia, Gracilibacillus, Haralalkalibacillus, Halobacillus, Haloractibacillus, Heindrixia, Hydrogenibacillus, Rederbergia, Lentibacillus, Riccifieldia, Lottidevacillus, Margaritia, Malinococcus, Mergillibacillus, Mesobacillus, Metabacillus, Microaerobacter, Natribacillus, Natronobacillus, Neobacillus, Niaria, Oceanobacillus, Ornithinibacillus, Parageobacillus, Paralyobacillus, Paralycalibacillus, Pausisalibacillus, Pelagirhabdos, Peribacillus, Piscibacillus, Polygonibacillus, Ponchibacillus, Pradosia, Priestia, Pseudograsilibacillus, Pueribacillus, Radiobacillus, Robertomuraya, Roselleromorea, Saccharococcus, Salibacterium, Salimicrobium, The bacteria originate from species of the genus Salinibacillus, Salipardibacillus, Salirhabdus, Salisedyminibacterium, Saliteribacillus, Salseuginibacillus, Sediminibacillus, Siminobitia, Sinibacillus, Sinobacillus, Streptohalobacillus, Sacriphiera, Swionibacillus, Tenyuibacillus, Tepidibacillus, Teruribacillus, Terurilactibacillus, Texcoconibacillus, Thalassobacillus, Thalassorhabdus, Thermolongibacillus, Balzibacillus, Baldibasil, Vulcanibacillus, and Weitzmania. In various cases, the bacteria are derived from species of the genus Bacillus, Bacillus achydicola, Bacillus aeolius, Bacillus aerius,Bacillus aerophilus, Bacillus albus, Bacillus altichudinis, Bacillus albeayuensis, Bacillus amyloriquefaciensex, Bacillus anthrasi, Bacillus aquiflavi, Bacillus atropaeus, Bacillus australimaris, Bacillus badius, Bacillus benzoevorans, Bacillus cabriaresi, Bacillus canaveralius, Bacillus capparis, Bacillus carboniphyllus, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus chagangensis, Bacillus coaphirensis, Bacillus... Bacillus cytotoxicus, Bacillus decisifrondis, Bacillus ectoiniformans, Bacillus encrensis, Bacillus fengquensis, Bacillus hungorum, Bacillus glycinifermentans, Bacillus gobiensis, Bacillus halotorens, Bacillus heinesi, Bacillus horti, Bacillus inaquosorum, Bacillus infantius, Bacillus infernus, Bacillus isaberiae, Bacillus kequeae, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus ruti, Bacillus manusensis, Bacillus ma Bacillus linisedimentorum, Bacillus mesophilus, Bacillus metanolicus, Bacillus mobilis, Bacillus mojavensis, Bacillus mycoides, Bacillus nakamurai, Bacillus nudiopics, Bacillus nitratiredusens, Bacillus oleivorans, Bacillus pacificus, Bacillus pachystanensis, Bacillus paralicheniformis, Bacillus paramycoides, Bacillus paransurasis, Bacillus perbagus, Bacillus pisticola, Bacillus proteoliticus, Bacillus pseudomycoides, Bacillus p Bacillus milis, Bacillus saphensis, Bacillus saracetis, Bacillus salinas, Bacillus salitolens, Bacillus theohaeanensis, Bacillus sibajii, Bacillus siamensis, Bacillus smitty, Bacillus solimanglobi, Bacillus songclensis, Bacillus sonorensis, Bacillus spizizenii, Bacillus spongiae, Bacillus stearcolis, Bacillus stratosfelix, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus swedzei, Bacillus taenensis, Bacillus tamarisis, Bacillus tekilensis,This could be Bacillus thermochlorae, Bacillus thermotolerance, Bacillus turingiensis, Bacillus chianshenii, Bacillus toyonensis, Bacillus tropicus, Bacillus vallismortis, Bacillus berezensis, Bacillus viedmannii, Bacillus vudariankiensis, Bacillus chiamenensis, Bacillus chiapuensis, Bacillus zanguzoensis, or a combination thereof.

[0034] In some cases, the spore-forming bacterial strains may be Bacillus strains, such as Bacillus strain SD-6991, Bacillus strain SD-6992, Bacillus strain NRRL B-50606, Bacillus strain NRRL B-50887, Bacillus pumilus strain NRRL B-50016, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NRRL B-50017, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7792 (formerly classified as Bacillus atrophaeus), Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7543 (formerly classified as Bacillus atrophaeus), and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NRRL B-50018, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7541, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7544, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7545, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7546, Bacillus subtilis strain PTA-7547, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7549, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7793, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7790, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7791, Bacillus subtilis strain NRRL B-50136 (also known as DA-33R, ATCC acceptance number 55406), Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NRRL B-50141, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NRRL B-50399, Bacillus licheniformis strain NRRL B-50014, Bacillus licheniformis strain NRRL B-50015, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NRRL B-50607, Bacillus subtilis strain NRRL B-50147 (also known as 300R), Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NRRL B-50150, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NRRL B-50154, Bacillus megatherium PTA-3142, Bacillus amyloriquefaciens strain ATCC acceptance number 55405 (also known as 300), Bacillus amyloriquefaciens strain ATCC acceptance number 55407 (also known as PMX), Bacillus pumilus NRRL B-50398 (ATCCBacillus cereus (also known as 700385, PMX-1, and NRRL B-50255), Bacillus cereus ATCC acceptance number 700386, Bacillus turingiensis ATCC acceptance number 700387 (all of the above strains are available from Novozymes, Inc., USA), Bacillus amyloriquefaciens FZB24 (for example, isolates available from Novozymes, NRRL B-50304 and NRRL B-50349 TAEGRO®), Bacillus subtilis (for example, isolate NRRL B-21661 in RHAPSODY®, SERENADE® MAX, and SERENADE® ASO available from Bayer CropScience), Bacillus pumilus (for example, NRRL available from Bayer CropScience) Examples include isolate B-50349, Bacillus amyloriquefaciens TrigoCor (also known as "TrigoCor 1448," for example, isolates from Embrapa Trigo acceptance number 144 / 88.4Lev, Cornell acceptance number Pma007BR-97, and ATCC acceptance number 202152, available from Cornell University, USA), and combinations thereof.

[0035] In some cases, the spore-forming bacterial strain may be a Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain. For example, the strain may be from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7543 (formerly classified as Bacillus atrophaeus) and / or Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NRRL B-50154, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain PTA-7543 (formerly classified as Bacillus atrophaeus), Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain NRRL B-50154, or other Bacillus amyloliquefaciens microorganisms.

[0036] In some cases, the spore-forming bacterial strain may be a Brevibacillus species, such as Brevibacillus brevis, Brevibacillus formosus, Brevibacillus laterosporus, or Brevibacillus parabrevis, or a combination thereof.

[0037] In some cases, the spore-forming bacterial strain may be a Paenibacillus species, such as Paenibacillus alvei, Paenibacillus amylolyticus, Paenibacillus azotofixans, Paenibacillus cookii, Paenibacillus macerans, Paenibacillus polymyxa, or Paenibacillus validus, or a combination thereof.

[0038] Bacterial spores may have an average particle size of approximately 0.5–50 microns, or approximately 2–50 microns, or 10–45 microns, or 0.5–6 microns, preferably approximately 1–5 microns. Bacillus spores are commercially available in blends in aqueous carriers and are insoluble in these carriers. Other commercially available bacillus spore blends include, but are not limited to, Fenshen Free® CAN (10X) from Novozymes Biologicals, Inc., Evogen® Renew Plus (10X) from Genesis Biosciences, Inc., and Evogen® GT (10X, 20X, and 110X), all available from Genesis Biosciences, Inc. In the above list, the notation in parentheses (10X, 20X, and 110X) indicates the relative concentration of bacillus spores.

[0039] The bacterial spores used in the compositions, methods, and products disclosed herein may be thermally activated or not. In some examples, the bacterial spores are thermally activated. In some examples, the bacterial spores are not thermally deactivated. Preferably, the spores used herein are thermally activated. Thermal activation may involve heating the bacterial spores from room temperature (15-25°C) to an optimal temperature of 25-120°C, preferably 40-100°C, and holding the optimal temperature for 2 hours or less, preferably 70-80°C for 30 minutes.

[0040] For the methods, compositions, and products disclosed herein, populations of bacterial spores are generally used. In some examples, a population of bacterial spores can include bacterial spores from a single strain of bacteria. Preferably, a population of bacterial spores can include bacterial spores from 2, 3, 4, 5, or more strains of bacteria. Generally, a population of bacterial spores contains a majority of spores and a minority of vegetative cells. In some examples, a population of bacterial spores does not contain vegetative cells. In some examples, a population of bacterial spores can contain less than about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 40%, or 50% vegetative cells, and the percentage of bacterial spores is calculated as ((number of vegetative cells / (number of spores in the population + number of vegetative cells in the population)) × 100). Generally, the populations of bacterial spores used in the disclosed methods, compositions, and products are stable (i.e., not in the process of germinating), and at least some of the individual spores in the population are in a state where they can germinate.

[0041] The populations of bacterial spores used in this disclosure can contain bacterial spores at different concentrations. In various examples, a population of bacterial spores is at least 1×10 2 、5×10 2 、1×10 3 、5×10 3 、1×10 4 、5×10 4 、1×10 5 、5×10 5 、1×10 6 、5×10 6 、1×10 7 、5×10 7 、1×10 8 、5×10 8 、1×10 9 、5×10 9 、1×10 10 、5×10 10 、1×10 11 、5×10[[ID==43]] 11 、1×10 12 、5×10 12 、1×10 13 、5×10 13 、1×10 14 、or 5×10 14pieces / mL, pieces / gram, or pieces / cm³ 3 This may include, but is not limited to, spores.

[0042] The compositions of this disclosure may also include a first sulfur-containing compound. The first sulfur-containing compound is preferably selected from sulfate compounds, disulfate compounds, or combinations thereof. The presence of sulfate compounds or disulfate compounds has been found to reduce color instability in the compositions of this disclosure, particularly in the presence of fragrances.

[0043] The composition may contain about 0.001% to about 1.0% by weight of a first sulfur-containing compound in the liquid fabric care composition. This is preferably selected from sulfate compounds, bisulfate compounds, or a combination thereof. The liquid fabric care composition may contain about 0.003% to about 0.1% by weight, preferably about 0.003% to about 0.01% by weight of a sulfur-containing compound in the liquid fabric care composition. The amount may be expressed by weight as parts per million, i.e., "ppm," rather than as a percentage. For example, the composition may contain about 10 ppm to about 10,000 ppm, preferably about 30 ppm to about 1,000 ppm, and more preferably about 30 ppm to about 100 ppm of the sulfur-containing compound.

[0044] The sulfur-containing compound is preferably selected from the group consisting of alkali metal sulfates, alkali metal bisulfates, alkaline earth metal sulfates, alkaline earth metal bisulfates, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the sulfur-containing compound is selected from the group consisting of alkali metal sulfates, alkali metal bisulfates, sulfuric acid, and combinations thereof. It is even more preferable that the sulfur-containing compound contains an alkali metal bisulfate, and more preferably sodium bisulfate. Such materials are effective and readily available.

[0045] The sulfate-containing compound is preferably an inorganic sulfur-containing compound (e.g., sodium bisulfate). Inorganic sulfates and bisulfates are readily available and can be easily introduced into the liquid compositions of this disclosure, for example, by dissolving them.

[0046] The sulfur-containing compound is preferably not a surfactant, and preferably not an alkyl sulfate or alkoxylated alkyl sulfate. Such surfactants may not provide the same benefits as preferred sulfates, such as color stability, and / or may adhere to the fabric in an undesirable manner, especially when the composition is used in a rinse cycle.

[0047] The liquid fabric care compositions of this disclosure include fragrance materials (also referred to herein as "fragrance" or "scent"). The fragrance materials are added to impart an aesthetically pleasing fragrance to the liquid product composition, the treatment solution, and / or the fabric treated with the composition. The compositions of this disclosure may contain a surfactant system in an amount of about 0.1% to about 20% by weight, or about 0.2% to about 10% by weight, or about 0.3% to about 5% by weight of the composition.

[0048] Non-limiting examples of aromatic materials include, but are not limited to, aldehydes, ketones, and esters. Other examples include various natural extracts and natural compounds, which may include complex mixtures of components such as orange oil, lemon oil, rose extract, lavender, musk, patchouli, balsam extract, sandalwood oil, pine oil, and cedar. The final fragrance may contain a very complex mixture of such components.

[0049] Aromatic materials may include aldehyde-based fragrance raw materials. While we do not wish to be bound by theory, aldehyde-based fragrance raw materials are often desirable from an olfactory / freshness standpoint, but they are also thought to have a tendency to discolor. Therefore, by including sulfate or bisulfate compounds that mitigate color instability, these aldehyde-based materials can be more conveniently utilized in the fabric care compositions of this disclosure.

[0050] Aldehyde-based fragrance raw materials may be present in an amount of approximately 5% to approximately 75% by weight, preferably approximately 10% to approximately 50% by weight, of the fragrance material.

[0051] Suitable aldehyde-based fragrance raw materials include methyl nonylacetaldehyde, benzoaldehyde, floralozone, isocyclocitral, tripral (ligstral), precyclemone B, lilial, decylaldehyde, undecylenic acid aldehyde, cyclamen homoaldehyde, cyclamenaldehyde, Dupical, onsidal, adoxal, melonal, calypsone, anisaldehyde, heliotropin, cuminaldehyde, scentenal, 3,6-dimethylcyclohexa-3-ene-1-carbaldehyde, satenealdehyde, and canthoxal. It may be vanillin, ethyl vanillin, cinnamaldehyde, cis-4-decenal, trans-4-decenal, cis-7-decenal, undecylenic acid aldehyde, trans-2-hexenal, trans-2-octenal, 2-undecenal, 2,4-dodecadienal, cis-4-heptenal, florydral, butyl cinnamaldehyde, limonelal, amyl cinnamaldehyde, hexyl cinnamaldehyde, citronellal, citral, cis-3-hexen-1-al, or a mixture thereof.

[0052] At least a portion of the aromatic materials of this disclosure may be derived from natural sources. Such materials are considered to have a lower environmental impact and / or be more environmentally sustainable than synthetically derived materials and / or geologically derived (e.g., petroleum-based) materials. At least about 50% by weight, or at least about 60% by weight, or at least about 70% by weight, or at least about 80% by weight, or at least about 90% by weight, or at least about 95% by weight, or at least about 100% by weight of the aromatic materials may be naturally derived aromatic materials.

[0053] For the fabric treatment compositions of this disclosure, it is desirable that the fragrance material is relatively hydrophilic. Hydrophilic fragrance materials are more likely to dissolve or disperse well in the aqueous compositions of this disclosure, which leads to improved phase stability and / or transparency of the product.

[0054] Since the compositions of this disclosure are typically characterized by a relatively low pH, the aromatic materials of this disclosure are typically acid-stable, particularly at the pH of the composition. Acid stability can be qualitatively demonstrated by the absence of phase separation, discoloration, and / or precipitate formation at acidic pH (preferably pH about 2 to about 4) during storage.

[0055] To facilitate the easy introduction of fragrance materials into the aqueous compositions of this disclosure, the fragrance materials may be mixed with a nonionic surfactant or other emulsifier before mixing with water and / or citric acid. In other words, the compositions may be prepared in a process in which the fragrance materials are mixed with a nonionic surfactant before mixing with citric acid.

[0056] The liquid fabric care compositions of this disclosure are typically aqueous compositions. The liquid fabric care compositions typically contain water. The composition may contain about 30% to about 90% by weight of water. The composition may contain about 50% to about 90% by weight, preferably about 60% to about 85% by weight, and more preferably about 70% to about 80% by weight of water.

[0057] The liquid fabric treatment compositions of this disclosure are aqueous, and the compositions may further contain organic solvents. This can improve the stability of the composition, the solubility of the components, and / or the transparency of the composition. The fabric treatment composition may contain about 0.1% to about 30% by weight, or about 1% to about 20% by weight, of the organic solvent. Suitable organic solvents include ethanol, diethylene glycol (DEG), 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol (MPD), monopropylene glycol (MPG), dipropylene glycol (DPG), origamine (e.g., diethylenetriamine (DETA), tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA)), glycerin, propoxylated glycerin, ethoxylated glycerin, ethanol, 1,2-propanediol (also called propylene glycol), 1,3-propanediol, 2,3-butanediol, cellulosic ethanol, renewable propylene glycol, renewable monodipropylene glycol, renewable dipropylene glycol, renewable 1,3-propanediol, and mixtures thereof. One or more of the organic solvents may be bio-based. This means that it is derived from natural / geologically available non-geological sources (e.g., non-petroleum sources). Preferably, the liquid composition of the present invention contains 1,2-propanediol.

[0058] The liquid fabric care compositions of this disclosure may contain hydrotropic substances such as sodium cumene sulfonate (SCS). This may enhance the stability of the composition.

[0059] The liquid compositions of this disclosure may contain a nonionic surfactant, which may be useful for product stability and / or for introducing fragrance materials. The composition may contain about 0.1% to about 8% by weight, preferably about 1% to about 5% by weight, of a nonionic surfactant in the liquid fabric care composition. The nonionic surfactant is preferably an ethoxylated fatty alcohol. The nonionic surfactant may be pre-mixed with the fragrance material.

[0060] The liquid fabric care compositions of this disclosure are acidic compositions. A low pH is thought to promote the benefits provided by the compositions (e.g., limescale removal). For example, the compositions may be characterized by a stock pH of about 2 to about 4, more preferably about 2 to about 3. Such a pH range is thought to result in spore stability in the composition and during use, as well as faster spore germination after the product has been used.

[0061] The compositions of this disclosure may include a neutralizing agent, which can facilitate the achievement of a desired pH. The neutralizing agent is preferably a caustic neutralizing agent, and more preferably sodium hydroxide (NaOH). Strong bases such as caustic neutralizing agents like NaOH are thought to offer benefits such as physical stability against weak bases such as monoethanolamine (MEA).

[0062] The liquid fabric care compositions of this disclosure may contain a limited number of ingredients, such as 10 or fewer, or 9 or fewer, or 8 or fewer, or 7 or fewer, or 6 or fewer, or 5 or fewer. Limiting the number of ingredients can reduce the storage and / or transportation costs of raw materials and / or simplify the composition manufacturing process. Consumers may also desire products with a limited number of ingredients, as they may be perceived as simpler, have a smaller environmental footprint, and / or have an easier-to-understand ingredient list.

[0063] A liquid fabric care composition may contain less than 10% by weight of materials selected from the group consisting of cleansing surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials, and mixtures thereof. The composition may contain less than 8% by weight, preferably less than 5% by weight, preferably less than 4% by weight, preferably less than 2.5% by weight, and preferably less than 1% by weight of materials selected from the group consisting of cleansing surfactants, bleaching agents, and / or fabric softening materials, or may contain substantially no such materials. Such materials may affect the aesthetic, physical stability, and / or chemical stability of the other components in the composition. In addition, or alternatively, certain such materials may be physically or chemically unstable in the low pH environment of the composition. Furthermore, consumers using the composition may want the substances removed from the treated fabric, while at least some of the listed materials may instead be deposited on the fabric during a normal treatment cycle. This creates an undesirable residue.

[0064] This composition may not substantially contain any detergent surfactants, including anionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and / or zwitterionic surfactants. Examples of anionic surfactants include sulfurizing surfactants such as alkyl sulfates or alkoxylated alkyl sulfates, sulfonating surfactants such as (linear) alkylbenzene sulfonates, and / or carboxylated surfactants. Examples of suitable nonionic surfactants include alkoxylated fatty alcohols, alkoxylated alkylphenols, and / or alkyl polyglucosides. Examples of zwitterionic surfactants include oxidized amines and / or betaines.

[0065] The liquid fabric care composition may contain less than 5% by weight, preferably less than 3% by weight, more preferably less than 1% by weight, and even more preferably 0.1% by weight of an anionic surfactant.

[0066] As described above, liquid fabric care compositions may contain nonionic surfactants. When a composition contains a nonionic surfactant, it may not substantially contain other (nonionic) surfactants.

[0067] This composition may not substantially contain a bleaching agent. Examples of bleaching agents include peroxide bleaches such as hydrogen peroxide and / or sources of peroxides. Examples of bleaching agents include hypohalites such as hypochlorite bleaches or sources of such hypochlorites. Other examples of bleaching agents include bleaching activators such as NOBS or TAED, or bleaching catalysts.

[0068] This composition may not substantially contain fabric softening materials. Such materials may be deposited on fabrics, which may be undesirable for certain consumers, applications, or fabrics. Additionally, or alternatively, such materials may require emulsification or other treatment to be compatible with this aqueous composition. Fabric softening materials may be cationically charged and / or capable of becoming cationically charged under typical washing conditions. Examples of fabric softening materials include quaternary ammonium ester compounds, silicones, non-esterified quaternary ammonium compounds, amines, fatty acid esters, sucrose esters, silicones, dispersible polyolefins, polysaccharides, fatty acids, softening or conditioning oils, polymer latex, or combinations thereof. As used herein, the term “fabric softening material” is not intended to include any of the materials listed in the “Organic Acids” section above.

[0069] Preferred liquid fabric care compositions are: i) 15% to 35% by weight of citric acid and / or its salt in the liquid fabric care composition, ii) Approximately 1 × 10 of the composition 3 ~Approx. 1×10 8 Bacillus spores at CFU / mL, iii) A fragrance material comprising 0.1% to 5% by weight of the liquid fabric care composition, wherein the fragrance material contains 5% to 75% by weight of aldehyde-based fragrance raw materials, iv) A liquid fabric care composition comprising 30% to 90% by weight of water, The composition contains less than 5% by weight of a liquid fabric care composition, selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials, and mixtures thereof.

[0070] A preferred liquid fabric care composition is: i) 15% to 35% by weight of citric acid and / or its salt in the liquid fabric care composition, ii) Approximately 1 × 10 of the composition 2 ~Approx. 1×10 9 CFU / mL, 1 x 10 3 ~Approx. 1×10 8 Bacillus spores at CFU / mL, iii) A fragrance material comprising 0.1% to 5% by weight of the liquid fabric care composition, wherein the fragrance material contains 5% to 75% by weight of aldehyde-based fragrance raw materials, iv) A liquid fabric care composition comprising 30% to 90% by weight of water, v) 0.1% to 8% by weight of a nonionic surfactant in the liquid fabric care composition, vi) optionally comprising a hydrotropic substance, preferably sodium cumenesulfonate, The composition contains less than 5% by weight of a liquid fabric care composition, selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials, and mixtures thereof.

[0071] The liquid fabric care compositions of this disclosure may be relatively transparent. For example, when the composition is substantially dye-free, it may be characterized by a light transmittance of at least about 60% (%T) when a 1 cm cuvette is used at wavelengths of about 410 to 800 nanometers.

[0072] As described above, the composition may be relatively transparent. Therefore, the composition may not substantially contain particles such as encapsulating agents, silicone droplets, pearlescent agents and / or opaling agents that may reduce the relative transparency of the composition. The composition may not substantially contain fluorescent whitening agents. The composition may not substantially contain dyes. As used herein, the term “dye” includes aesthetic dyes that modify the aesthetics of a cleaning composition, as well as dyes and / or pigments that adhere to fabrics and can alter the color of the fabric. Dyes are intended to include colorants, pigments and hues. Depending on the desired use or aesthetics, the composition may contain dyes, preferably aesthetic dyes.

[0073] The liquid fabric care compositions of this disclosure may be characterized by a relatively low viscosity. Such viscosity may be desirable for easy dispensing and / or to minimize clogging in machine dispenser drawers. The compositions may be characterized by a viscosity of about 0 to about 200 cps, preferably about 0 to about 100 cps, and more preferably about 0 to about 60 cps, when determined by rotational viscosity measurement using a Brookfield viscometer and ASTM D 2196-99 at 60 RPM and 22°C.

[0074] To maintain low viscosity, the compositions of this disclosure are substantially free of other rheological modifiers such as thickeners or structuring agents. The compositions are substantially free of salts such as inorganic salts like sodium chloride, magnesium chloride and / or calcium chloride, which can provide rheological modifications such as thickening. When used herein, such salts are not intended to contain neutralization products of the organic acids described herein.

[0075] The liquid fabric care compositions described herein can be packaged in any suitable container, including those constructed from paper, cardboard, plastic materials, and any suitable laminates. The containers may contain renewable and / or recyclable materials.

[0076] The composition may be packaged in a transparent or translucent container. It may be preferable to package the transparent fabric care composition in a transparent or translucent container, such as a transparent or translucent bottle. The container may have a transmittance of more than about 25% by weight, or more than about 30% by weight, or more than about 40% by weight, or more than about 50% by weight in the visible portion of the spectrum (about 410-800 nm). Alternatively, the absorbance of the bottle may be measured as less than about 0.6, or by having a transmittance of more than about 25%, with the transmittance % being equal to the following:

[0077]

number

[0078] For the purposes of this disclosure, a wavelength within the visible light range is considered transparent / translucent as long as it has a transmittance greater than approximately 25%.

[0079] Examples of transparent bottle materials that may be used include, but are not limited to, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), polyamide (PA) and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PETE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polystyrene (PS). Recyclable materials may be preferred for environmental reasons.

[0080] The container or bottle may be of any shape or size suitable for storing and packaging household liquids. For example, the container may have any size, but typically it has a maximum capacity of about 0.05 to about 15 L, or about 0.1 to about 5 L, or about 0.2 to about 2.5 L. The container may be suitable for easy handling. For example, the container may have a handle or part of such dimensions that the container can be easily lifted and carried with one hand. The container may have means suitable for pouring the liquid detergent composition and means for re-closing the container. The pouring means may be of any size or form. The closing means may be of any form or size (e.g., screwed or clicked onto the container to close it). The closing means may be a cap that can be removed from the container. Alternatively, the cap may be attached to the container whether the container is open or closed. The closing means may be incorporated into the container.

[0081] A preferred composition is a solid composition, preferably a solid composition in powder form. i) Organic acids and / or salts thereof, ii) Approximately 1 × 10 of the composition 2 ~Approx. 1×10 9 CFU / g, preferably 1 × 10⁻⁶ 3 ~Approx. 1×10 8 Bacillus spores at CFU / g, iii) Preferably, an aromatic material containing an aldehyde-based fragrance raw material, The composition comprises less than 10% by weight of a powder composition, selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials, and mixtures thereof. The composition is characterized by having a pH of about 2 to about 4 when measured in a 1% by weight aqueous solution at 20°C.

[0082] Processing method This disclosure relates to a method for treating fabrics. The method includes the step of bringing the fabric into contact with a fabric care composition according to this disclosure.

[0083] The contact process may occur in the presence of water. Preferably, the contact process takes place during the rinse cycle of a fully automatic washing machine.

[0084] The composition may be dispersed or decomposed in water to form a treatment solution. The pH of the treatment solution may be slightly higher than the pH of the liquid fabric care composition. The treatment solution may feature a pH ranging from about 2, or about 2.3, or about 4.5, or about 4, or about 3.5. The organic acids in the fabric care composition may be selected to substantially buffer the treatment solution to a desired pH. Additionally, or alternatively, the fabric care composition may contain other buffers or pH adjusters to deliver a desired pH in the treatment solution.

[0085] The composition is typically used at a concentration of about 500 ppm to about 15,000 ppm in the composition (i.e., the treatment solution).

[0086] The water temperature may be in the range of approximately 5°C to approximately 90°C, preferably approximately 10°C to approximately 40°C. The weight ratio of the treatment solution to the fabric may be approximately 1:1 to approximately 30:1.

[0087] The process may be a manual process, such as in a washbasin. Alternatively, the process may be an automated process that generates a drum in a fully automatic washing machine. The machine may be a top-loading or front-loading washing machine. The compositions of this disclosure may be manually supplied to the drum of a fully automatic washing machine. Alternatively, they may be automatically supplied, for example, via a dispenser drawer or other container.

[0088] A typical processing method includes at least one wash cycle and at least one subsequent rinse cycle. The fabric may be treated with a surfactant, such as an anionic surfactant, during the wash cycle. The composition may preferably be supplied to a drum and / or the fabric may come into contact with the composition during the rinse cycle.

[0089] Manufacturing method This disclosure relates to a method for preparing the liquid fabric care composition described herein. The method includes, for example, a step of combining water, citric acid and / or a salt thereof, Bacillus spores, and an aromatic material in an amount suitable for obtaining the weight % described herein. Preferably, the aromatic material is pre-mixed with a nonionic surfactant. Other materials of the composition may be added independently or added to the citric acid.

[0090] For example, any suitable process known in the art, such as batch processes, inline mixing and / or cyclic loop processes, may be used.

[0091] The preparation method may include the steps of providing an aqueous base, which may simply be water; adding citric acid, which may be part of an aqueous solution such as a 50% citric acid solution; and adding a fragrance material that can be pre-mixed with a nonionic surfactant. Any other materials, such as neutralizing agents, hydrotropic substances, additional surfactants and / or solvents, may be added if desired.

[0092] The aqueous base may contain water. The aqueous base may contain at least 50% by weight, or at least 60% by weight, or at least 70% by weight, or at least 75% by weight, or at least 80% by weight, or at least 85% by weight, or at least 90% by weight, or at least 95% by weight of water.

[0093] combination The specific combinations contemplated in this disclosure are described in the following alphabetically designated sections. These combinations are essentially illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0094] A. A liquid fabric care composition, i) 10% to 50% by weight of an organic acid and / or a salt thereof in the liquid fabric care composition, ii) Approximately 1 × 10 of the liquid fabric care composition 2 ~Approx. 1×10 9 CFU / mL, preferably about 1 × 10 3~Approx. 1×10 8 Bacillus spores at CFU / mL, iii) A fragrance material containing an aldehyde-based fragrance raw material, preferably 10% to 50% by weight of the fragrance material containing an aldehyde-based fragrance raw material, iv) A liquid fabric care composition comprising 30% to 90% by weight of water, The composition comprises less than 10% by weight of a liquid fabric care composition, selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials, and mixtures thereof. The liquid fabric care composition is a liquid fabric care composition having a stock solution pH of approximately 2 to approximately 4. B. The liquid fabric care composition according to paragraph A, wherein the organic acid is selected from citric acid, acetic acid, lactic acid, adipic acid, aspartic acid, carboxymethyl oxymalonic acid, carboxymethyl oxysuccinic acid, glutaric acid, hydroxyethyl iminodioacetic acid, iminodiacetic acid, maleic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, oxydiacetic acid, oxydicuccinic acid, succinic acid, sulfamic acid, tartaric acid, tartaric acid, tartaric acid, monosuccinic acid and / or salts thereof, and mixtures thereof, preferably selected from citric acid and / or salts thereof. C. The liquid fabric care composition according to either paragraph A or B, comprising 12% to 40% by weight, preferably 15% to 30% by weight, of citric acid and / or its salt. D. The liquid fabric care composition contains 0.001% to 1.0% by weight of a first sulfur-containing compound selected from sulfate compounds, dinitrate compounds, or combinations thereof, preferably the sulfur-containing compound is selected from the group consisting of alkali metal sulfates, alkali metal dinitrates, alkaline earth metal sulfates, alkaline earth metal dinitrates, sulfuric acid, and combinations thereof. Preferably, selected from the group consisting of alkali metal sulfates, alkali metal bisulfates, sulfuric acid, and combinations thereof, More preferably, selected from the group consisting of alkali metal bisulfates. More preferably, the liquid fabric care composition according to any one of paragraphs A to C, wherein the sulfur-containing compound comprises sodium bisulfate. E. The fragrance material comprises 5% to 75% by weight, preferably 10% to 50% by weight, of an aldehyde-based fragrance raw material, according to any one of paragraphs A to D. F. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of paragraphs A to E, wherein the liquid fabric care composition comprises 0.1% to 10% by weight, preferably 0.2% to 5% by weight, of the fragrance material. G. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of paragraphs A to F, wherein the liquid fabric care composition comprises 50% to 90% by weight, preferably 60% to 85% by weight, and more preferably 70% to 80% by weight of water. H. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of paragraphs A to G, wherein the liquid fabric care composition comprises less than 8% by weight, preferably less than 5% by weight, preferably less than 4% by weight, preferably less than 2.5% by weight, preferably less than 1% by weight, of a material selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials and combinations thereof, or furthermore, the composition substantially does not contain such materials. I. The fabric care composition is a liquid fabric care composition according to any one of paragraphs A to H, comprising 0.1% to 8% by weight, preferably 1% to 5% by weight, of a nonionic surfactant. J. The undiluted fabric care composition is a liquid fabric care composition according to any one of paragraphs A to I, having a pH of 2.3 to 3.7. K. A liquid fabric care composition according to any one of paragraphs A to J, wherein the liquid fabric care composition has at least 60% light transmittance (%T) when a 1 cm cuvette is used at a wavelength of 410 to 800 nanometers, when substantially dye-free. L. A liquid fabric care composition according to any one of paragraphs A to K, having a viscosity of 0 to 200 cps, preferably 0 to 100 cps, more preferably 0 to 60 cps, as determined by rotational viscosity measurement using a Brookfield viscometer and ASTM D 2196-99 at 60 RPM and 22°C. M. A liquid fabric care composition that does not contain 2.80% by weight of vinegar, as described in any one of paragraphs A to L. N. A liquid fabric care composition according to any one of paragraphs A to M, wherein the liquid fabric care composition according to the claim, the composition is i) 15% to 35% by weight of citric acid and / or its salt, ii) Approximately 1 × 10 of the composition 3 ~Approx. 1×10 8 Bacillus spores at CFU / mL, iii) 0.1% to 5% by weight of aromatic material, iv) Any amount of nonionic surfactant from 0.1% to 5% by weight, It contains 30% to 90% by weight of water, A liquid fabric care composition comprising less than 5% by weight of a material selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials, and mixtures thereof. O. A liquid fabric care composition according to any one of paragraphs A to N, wherein the composition is packaged in a transparent or translucent container. A process for producing the liquid fabric care composition described in paragraph I, comprising the step of mixing a fragrance material and a nonionic surfactant before mixing with an organic acid.

[0095] Test method Method for measuring pH The pH of the liquid fabric care composition or diluted powder composition is measured using the Extech Instrument Model pH300 pH probe, available from WVGrainger, Inc., Lake Forrest Illinois. The pH probe is properly calibrated using pH buffers of pH 1.68, pH 4.00, and pH 7.00. The probe is then used to measure the undiluted liquid acid rinse product. The sample is measured at a temperature of 20°C. The probe is rinsed with deionized water, carefully wiped clean, and allowed to dry between pH readings of different samples. [Examples]

[0096] The embodiments provided below are intended to be illustrative and not limiting.

[0097] The germination time of Bacillus spores present in the compositions according to the present invention (SMP#1-3) was compared with the germination time of Bacillus spores in comparative compositions (SMP#4-6). The comparative compositions differed from the compositions of the present invention only in their pH. The comparative compositions had a higher pH than the compositions of the present invention. Bacillus spores were extracted from the compositions and placed in Trypticase Soy Broth (TSB), a nutrient medium, to simulate nutrient absorption on soiled clothing in use.

[0098] Method 1: Preparation of Bacillus spore functional suspension Bacillus spores were purified by aseptically transferring approximately 1 mL of Bacillus spores (Evozyme® P500 BS7, Genesis Biosciences, Cardiff) to a sterile 15 mL conical centrifuge tube (catalog number 430052) (VWR Int., West Chester, PA) using a sterile serological disposable glass pipette (5 mL, catalog number 93000-696, VWR Int., West Chester, PA). 1 mL of Bacillus spores was then mixed with 9 mL of de-ionized (DI) water (CAS number 7732-18-5 ASTM type II, VWR Chemicals BDH®) using a VWR Mini Vortexer Model no. 945300 (VWR Int., West Chester, PA) for 10 minutes. The obtained suspension was pelletized by centrifugation at 3000 RPM for 3 minutes on a Thermo Scientific Centrifuge, catalog number 75004261 (Thermo Scientific, Germany), forming a Bacillus spore pellet at the bottom of a conical centrifuge tube. The supernatant was discarded, and the cleaned Bacillus spore pellet was reconstituted in 1 mL of DI water to form a Bacillus spore functional suspension.

[0099] Liquid fabric care composition for a pH range, containing Bacillus spores First, liquid fabric care compositions containing the ingredients in the proportions listed in Table 1 were divided into six equal samples (SMPs) of approximately 20 mL each, and tested at six different pH ranges from 2 to 7 with a +1 pH point increase.

[0100] [Table 1]

[0101] Next, Bacillus spores prepared according to Method 1 were added to the samples listed in Table 2 (SMP#1 to SMP#6). Bacillus spores prepared according to Method 1 were also added to a control sample (SMP#7) containing deionized water at pH 7. The resulting pH of the solution was adjusted using a 0.1N HCl (lot number 19D0356453, VWR Chemicals BDH®) or 1.0N NaOH (catalog number BDH322-1, VWR Chemicals BDH®) solution to the desired final pH measured using a calibrated pH meter (Orion Star A221, Thermo Scientific).

[0102] [Table 2] Bacillus spores: Evozyme® P500 BS7, Genesis Biosciences, Cardiff

[0103] Method 2: Pelletization of Bacillus spores pretreated in a liquid fabric care composition The following method was used for incubation and pelletization of Bacillus spores in all seven samples listed in Table 2. Approximately 10 mL of each sample was aseptically pipetteed into a sterile 15 mL conical centrifuge tube (catalog no. 430052) (VWR Int., West Chester, PA), and kept on a rocking platform (serial no. 2110053, VWR Int., West Chest, PA) for the entire time until sample preparation for analysis. The rocking platform was set to 20 RPM, and the samples were allowed to rise to room temperature. After day 1 (24 hours), 1 mL of each sample was aseptically pipetteed into a sterile 15 mL conical centrifuge tube and centrifuged at 3000 RPM for 3 minutes on a Thermo Scientific centrifuge (catalog no. 75004261) (Thermo Scientific, Germany), and the Bacillus spore pellet was collected from the bottom of the conical centrifuge tube. The supernatant was discarded, and the pellet was first reconstituted in 10 mL of DI water (catalog number 7732-18-5 ASTM type II, VWR Chemicals BDH®) in the same centrifuge tube, rinsing the pellet in DI water (catalog number 7732-18-5 ASTM type II, VWR Chemicals BDH®) and centrifuged at 300 RPM for 3 minutes. The supernatant was discarded, and the pellet was reconstituted in 1 mL of DI water (ASTM type II, VWR Chemicals BDH®) and kept at room temperature until required.

[0104] Germination of pelletized pre-treated Bacillus spores. Samples were prepared for 24 hours according to Method 2. Approximately 100 μL of each sample was transferred to a Falcon® 96-well clear flat-bottom plate (REF 351172, Corning Inc, Corning, NY) using a Rainin multi-channel pipette (SN: D1225484T, VWR International, West Chester, PA) for 20-200 μL. Dilutions were then diluted in DI water to various dilutions of 1:1, 1:2, 1:4, and 1:8 (24-hour sample: DI water) to determine the normalized dilution for each sample having similar absorbance units at 600 nm. Absorbance or optical density (OD) at 600 nm was measured using a SpectraMax M3 multimode microplate reader (SN 05589 Molecular Devices, CA). Dilutions with similar OD were selected for germination profiling. Approximately 80 μL of Triptycase Soy Broth (TSB) growth medium (catalog number G82, Hardy Diagnostics, Santa Maria, CA) was pipetted into a Falcon® 96-well clear flat-bottom plate (REF 351172, Corning Inc, Corning, NY) using a micropipette and a Rainin multichannel pipette (SN: D1225484T, VWR International, West Chester, PA) equipped with a Rainin Pipet-Lite ID: D1225484T (Rainin Instrument, LLC, Oakland, CA) for 20-200 μL of TSB medium. 20 μL of a standardized sample dilution was added to the TSB medium. The plate was sealed with BRAND® sealing film (part number BR781390, MilliporeSigma, Burlington, MA) followed by a lid to prevent evaporation during analysis. The plates were placed in a SpectraMax M3 multimode microplate reader SN 05589 (Molecular Devices, CA), and growth curves were generated by measuring the OD every 5 minutes over a period of 1 hour at 35°C. The time at which germination was induced was defined as the time when the growth curve reached a pre-set germination threshold, and this was recorded as the germination time (GT).

[0105] Results of inducing germination of Bacillus spores in liquid fabric care composition The detection time was recorded as a percentage of the germination time (GT) relative to the DI water control (SMP#7). The control sample was set to 100% time, and the following formula was used.

[0106]

number

[0107] [Table 3]

[0108] 24-hour incubation of SMP#1, SMP#2, and SMP#3 at pH2, pH3, and pH4 respectively induced premature germination of spores into bacterial cells when spores were removed from the low-pH composition compared to the control, requiring less than 50% of the induced germination time.

[0109] conclusion The data indicates that Bacillus spores present in the composition of the present invention germinated faster than Bacillus spores present in the composition at pH 5-7.

[0110] Furthermore, it was observed that Bacillus spores stored at room temperature in the composition of the present invention did not germinate prematurely in the product for more than 18 months. In addition, it was confirmed that they remained viable and could germinate on a 100 x 15 mm Triptycase soy agar plate (catalog number G60, Hardy Diagnostics, Santa Maria, CA).

[0111] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​listed. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the listed value and the functionally equivalent range encompassing that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "approximately 40 mm."

[0112] All documents referenced herein, including any patents or patent applications that are cross-referenced or related, and any patent applications or patents on which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety unless explicitly stated to be excluded or limited. No reference to any document shall be deemed prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, nor shall it be deemed to teach, suggest or disclose any such invention, either alone or in combination with any other reference. Furthermore, if any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in any document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to the term in this document shall apply.

[0113] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A liquid fabric care composition, i) 10% to 50% by weight of an organic acid and / or a salt thereof in the composition, ii) About 1 × 10 of the above composition ２ ~Approx. 1×10 ９ Bacillus spores with CFU / mL, iii) Fragrance materials containing aldehyde-based fragrance raw materials, iv) comprising 30% to 90% by weight of water in the composition, The composition comprises less than 10% by weight of a material selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials, and mixtures thereof. The composition is a liquid fabric care composition having a stock solution pH of about 2 to about 4.

2. The liquid fabric care composition according to claim 1, wherein the organic acid is selected from citric acid, acetic acid, lactic acid, adipic acid, aspartic acid, carboxymethyl oxymalonic acid, carboxymethyl oxysuccinic acid, glutaric acid, hydroxyethyl iminodioacetic acid, iminodiacetic acid, maleic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, oxydiacetic acid, oxydicuccinic acid, succinic acid, sulfamic acid, tartaric acid, tartaric acid, tartaric acid, monosuccinic acid and / or salts thereof, and mixtures thereof, preferably selected from citric acid and / or salts thereof.

3. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the composition comprises 12% to 40% by weight, preferably 15% to 30% by weight, of citric acid and / or a salt thereof.

4. The composition comprises 0.001% to 1.0% by weight of a first sulfur-containing compound selected from sulfate compounds, dinitrate compounds, or combinations thereof, preferably the sulfur-containing compound is selected from the group consisting of alkali metal sulfates, alkali metal dinitrates, alkaline earth metal sulfates, alkaline earth metal dinitrates, sulfuric acid, and combinations thereof. Preferably, selected from the group consisting of alkali metal sulfates, alkali metal bisulfates, sulfuric acid, and combinations thereof, More preferably, selected from the group consisting of alkali metal bisulfates, More preferably, the liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sulfur-containing compound comprises sodium bisulfate.

5. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the fragrance material comprises 5% to 75% by weight, preferably 10% to 50% by weight, of the fragrance material, of an aldehyde-based fragrance raw material.

6. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the composition comprises 0.1% to 10% by weight, preferably 0.2% to 5% by weight of the fragrance material.

7. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the composition comprises 50% to 90% by weight, preferably 60% to 85% by weight, and more preferably 70% to 80% by weight of water.

8. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the composition comprises less than 8% by weight, preferably less than 5% by weight, preferably less than 4% by weight, preferably less than 2.5% by weight, preferably less than 1% by weight, of a material selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials and combinations thereof, or furthermore, the composition substantially does not contain such materials.

9. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the composition comprises 0.1% to 8% by weight, preferably 1% to 5% by weight, of a nonionic surfactant.

10. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the composition has a stock solution pH of 2.3 to 3.

7.

11. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein when the composition is substantially dye-free, it has a light transmittance (%T) of at least 60% when a 1 cm cuvette is used at a wavelength of 410 to 800 nanometers.

12. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the composition has a viscosity of 0 to 200 cps, preferably 0 to 100 cps, more preferably 0 to 60 cps, as determined by rotational viscosity measurement using a Brookfield viscometer and ASTM D 2196-99 at 60 RPM and 22°C.

13. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the composition does not contain 2.80% by weight of vinegar.

14. The composition is i) 15% to 35% by weight of citric acid and / or its salt, ii) About 1 × 10 of the above composition ３ ~Approx. 1×10 ８ Bacillus spores with CFU / mL, iii) 0.1% to 5% by weight of the fragrance material, iv) Any 0.1% to 5% by weight of a nonionic surfactant, v) Contains 30% to 90% by weight of water, The liquid fabric care composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition comprises less than 5% by weight of a material selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials, and mixtures thereof.

15. The liquid fabric care composition according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the composition is packaged in a transparent or translucent container.

16. A process for producing the liquid fabric care composition according to claim 9, comprising the step of mixing the fragrance material and the nonionic surfactant before mixing with the organic acid.

17. A solid composition, preferably in powder form, i) Organic acids and / or salts thereof, ii) About 1 × 10 of the above composition ２ ~Approx. 1×10 ９ Bacillus spores with CFU / g, iii) Fragrance materials, and The composition comprises less than 10% by weight of the powder composition, selected from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials, and mixtures thereof. A solid composition characterized in that the composition has a pH of about 2 to about 4 when measured in a 1% by weight aqueous solution at 20°C.

18. A method for processing fabric, A step of combining a laundry additive composition with water to form a rinse solution in a container, The aforementioned laundry additive composition contains an organic acid and approximately 1 × 10 of the composition ３ ~Approx. 1×10 ９ Contains Bacillus spores at CFU / mL, The rinse solution has a pH of 2 to 4, and the laundry additive composition comprises less than 10% by weight of materials from the group consisting of cleaning surfactants, bleaching agents, fabric softening materials, and mixtures thereof, which are used for washing. The process involves bringing the fabric into contact with the rinsing solution in the container and agitating the fabric, A method comprising the step of removing the rinsing liquid from the container.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the laundry additive is a liquid laundry additive composition containing 15% to 35% by weight of citric acid, and the laundry additive composition has a pH of 2 to 4.

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