Liquid fabric softener composition

Abstract

The present invention provides a liquid fabric softener composition that maintains a transparent appearance and a smooth texture in the fibers after softening treatment, while suppressing the worsening of re-soiling in the fibers after softening treatment. [Solution] Components (A) to (D) below: (A) Polyether-modified silicone 0.5-10% by mass (B) At least one compound selected from the group consisting of amine compounds having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups with 10 to 26 carbon atoms separated by ester groups (-COO-) and / or amide groups (-NHCO-), salts thereof, and quaternary compounds thereof, in an amount of 0.1% to less than 3% by mass. (C) Nonionic surfactant (D) Solvents indicated by (D-1) and / or (D-2) (D-1) One or more water-soluble solvents selected from the group consisting of lower alcohols, glycol ether-based solvents, and polyhydric alcohols. (D-2)3-methoxybutanol, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, etc. A transparent or translucent liquid softener composition containing [the specified ingredient].

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to a liquid fabric softener composition. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, development has been underway to create softener compositions that are transparent or translucent in appearance from an aesthetic standpoint. Prior art includes liquid softener compositions using silicone and a cationic water-soluble polymer (Patent Document 1) and liquid softener compositions using silicone and a cationic surfactant (Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2000-154476 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-56376 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] However, in the conventional composition described above, which uses silicone and a cationic water-soluble polymer in combination, it became clear that the cationic polymer, which enhances the adsorption of silicone to fibers, worsens re-contamination. After thorough investigation into this issue, it was discovered that by utilizing a specific cationic surfactant, the smooth texture of the fibers is preserved while ensuring good re-soiling resistance. While a large amount of organic solvent is usually required to achieve sufficient performance and maintain a transparent appearance using cationic surfactants, combining silicone with cationic surfactants allows for a transparent appearance with only a small amount of organic solvent, even under low-temperature conditions where turbidity and separation are typically likely to occur. Furthermore, it was found that when silicone is used in combination with a specific cationic surfactant, sufficient transparency stability tends not to be ensured when the amount of cationic surfactant exceeds a certain level. Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a fabric softener composition that, by using a combination of silicone and a cationic surfactant, can ensure a transparent appearance and a smooth texture in the fibers after softening treatment, while suppressing the worsening of re-soiling in the fibers after softening treatment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention relates, for example, to the following [1] to [5]. [1] The following components (A) to (D): (A) Polyether-modified silicone 0.5-10% by mass (B) At least one compound selected from the group consisting of amine compounds having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups with 10 to 26 carbon atoms in the molecule, separated by an ester group (-COO-) and / or an amide group (-NHCO-), their salts, and their quaternaries, in an amount of 0.1% to less than 3% by mass. (C) Nonionic surfactant (D) Solvents indicated by (D-1) and / or (D-2) (D-1) One or more water-soluble solvents selected from the group consisting of lower alcohols, glycol ether solvents, and polyhydric alcohols. (D-2) Compounds represented by the following general formula (D) [ka] [In the formula, R 1 ~R 3 R is independently a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms. 4 This is a hydrogen atom or an acetyl group. A transparent or translucent liquid softener composition containing [the specified ingredient]. [2] The liquid softener composition according to [1], wherein the total amount of component (A) and component (B) is 3 to 10.5 by mass. [3] The liquid softener composition according to [1] or [2], wherein the mass ratio (A) / (B) of component (A) to component (B) is 0.3 to 14. [4] A liquid softener composition according to any one of the above [1] to [3], wherein the mass ratio (A)+(B) / (C) of the total amount of component (A) and component (B) to component (C) is 0.15 to 6. [5] A liquid softener composition according to any one of the above [1] to [4], wherein the mass ratio (A)+(B) / (D) of the total amount of component (A) and component (B) to component (D) is 0.1 to 4. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a composition can be provided that has a transparent appearance and a smooth texture in the fibers after softening treatment. According to one aspect of the present invention, a composition can be provided that can suppress the worsening of re-soiling in fibers after softening treatment. According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a composition that has a transparent appearance, a smooth texture in the fibers after softening treatment, and can suppress the worsening of re-soiling in the fibers after softening treatment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] In this specification, "transparent" in terms of the appearance of a composition means that the light transmittance at a wavelength of 660 nm is 90% or more when measured using a Shimadzu UV-2500PC measuring instrument, with a quartz cell having an optical path length of 10 mm, and with deionized water placed in the control cell. In this specification, "translucent" in relation to the appearance of a composition means that, when measured using a Shimadzu UV-2500PC measuring instrument, with a quartz cell having an optical path length of 10 mm, and with deionized water placed in the control cell, the light transmittance at a wavelength of 660 nm is 50% or more and less than 90%.

[0008] [(A) component] In the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention, by incorporating component (A), a good texture can be imparted to the fibers. Component (A) is a polyether-modified silicone, and examples of component (A) include copolymers of alkylsiloxane and polyoxyalkylene. The alkyl group constituting the alkylsiloxane preferably has 1 to 3 carbon atoms. The alkylene group constituting the polyoxyalkylene preferably has 2 to 5 carbon atoms. Preferred polyether-modified silicones include copolymers of dimethylsiloxane and polyoxyalkylene (polyoxyethylene, polyoxypropylene, or random or block copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, etc.). Specific examples include compounds represented by the following general formula (I).

[0009] [ka] [In the formula, M, N, a, and b are the average degrees of polymerization, and R is hydrogen or an alkyl group.] In general formula (I), M is 10 to 10000, preferably 50 to 1000, more preferably 100 to 300. N is 1 to 1000, preferably 5 to 300, more preferably 5 to 100. Furthermore, it is preferable that M > N. a is 2 to 100, preferably 5 to 50, more preferably 5 to 20. b is 0 to 50, preferably 0 to 10. R is preferably hydrogen or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, more preferably hydrogen. Polyether-modified silicones of general formula (I) can generally be produced by an addition reaction between an organohydrogenpolysiloxane having Si-H groups and a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether having a carbon-carbon double bond at its terminus, such as polyoxyalkylene allyl ether.

[0010] A preferred polyether-modified silicone is a linear polysiloxane-polyoxyalkylene block copolymer represented by the following general formula (II). [ka] [In the formula, A, B, h, and i are the average degrees of polymerization, R is an alkylene group, and R' is hydrogen or an alkyl group.] In general formula (II), A is 5 to 10000, B is 2 to 10000, h is 2 to 100, and i is 0 to 50. R is preferably an alkylene group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms. R' is preferably hydrogen or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. The weight-average molecular weight of the copolymer of general formula (II) is preferably 15,000 to 100,000,000. The copolymer of general formula (II) can be produced by reacting a polyoxyalkylene compound having a reactive end group with a dihydrocarbylsiloxane having an end group that reacts with the reactive end group of the compound.

[0011] Specific examples of polyether-modified silicones include CF1188N, BY22-029, SH3772M, SH3775M, SH3748, SH3749, SF8410, SH8700, BY22-008, SF8421, SILWET L-7001, SILWET L-7002, SILWET L-7602, SILWET L-7604, SILWET FZ-2104, SILWET FZ-2120, SILWET FZ-2161, SILWET FZ-2162, SILWET FZ-2164, SILWET FZ-2171, SILWET FZ-2222, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-01, and ABN SILWET from Dow Toray Ltd. Examples include FZ-F1-009-02, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-03, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-05, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-09, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-11, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-13, ABN SILWET FZ-F1-009-54, ABN SILWET FZ-2222, as well as X-20-8010N, KF352A, KF6008, KF615A, KF6016, KF6017 from Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd., and TSF4450, TSF4452 from Momentive Performance Materials Japan LLC.

[0012] (A) The components are known substances and are readily available on the market or can be prepared. (A) Component A may be a single type or multiple types may be used in combination. (A) The amount of component blended is 0.5 to 10% by mass, preferably 1.5 to 6% by mass, and more preferably 3.5 to 6% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition, from the viewpoint of imparting a smooth texture to textile products. [(B) Component] In the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention, component (B) is added to impart to the liquid fabric softener composition the effect of giving textile products a smooth texture and flexibility (i.e., the original function of a fabric softener), and to enhance the adsorption of component (A) to fibers. In the prior art shown in Patent Document 1, cationic polymers have been used to enhance the adsorption of component (A) to fibers, but cationic polymers generally tend to have high viscosity due to their large molecular weight. Therefore, although they can be firmly adsorbed to the surface of fibers, it has also been found that they can worsen the darkening (re-soiling) of clothes in the case of washing with a low amount of water, such as in drum-type washing machines. In contrast, component (B) in the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention is a cationic surfactant, and has a smaller molecular weight and lower viscosity compared to cationic polymers, thus reducing the risk of worsening re-soiling. Furthermore, component (B) has a good feel when adsorbed onto the fiber surface, and at the same time can enhance the adsorption of component (A) to the fibers.

[0013] Component (B) is specifically "at least one compound selected from the group consisting of amine compounds having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups with 10 to 26 carbon atoms in the molecule, separated by an ester group (-COO-) and / or an amide group (-NHCO-), their salts, and their quaternary derivatives." The number of carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon group having 10 to 26 carbon atoms (hereinafter referred to as "long-chain hydrocarbon group" in this specification) is preferably 16 to 26, and more preferably 18 to 24. A carbon number of 10 or more provides a good flexibility-imparting effect, while a carbon number of 26 or less provides good handling properties for the liquid softener composition. The long-chain hydrocarbon group may be saturated or unsaturated, but it is preferable that it be unsaturated. In the case of unsaturation, the position of the double bond may be anywhere, but if there is one double bond, it is preferable that the double bond is located in the center or around the center of the long-chain hydrocarbon group. The long-chain hydrocarbon group may be a linear hydrocarbon group or a hydrocarbon group containing a ring in its structure, and is preferably a linear hydrocarbon group. The linear hydrocarbon group may be linear or branched. A alkyl group or an alkenyl group is preferred as the linear hydrocarbon group. Long-chain hydrocarbon groups are fragmented by fragmenting groups. Fractionation may occur in one or more locations. The fragmenting groups are either ester groups (-COO-) or amide groups (-NHCO-). If a long-chain hydrocarbon group has two or more fragmenting groups, these groups may be the same or different. The carbon atoms in the fragmenting groups are counted towards the total carbon count of the long-chain hydrocarbon group. Long-chain hydrocarbon groups are typically introduced by using unhydrogenated fatty acids derived from beef tallow, fatty acids obtained by hydrogenating or partially hydrogenating the unsaturated portion, unhydrogenated fatty acids or fatty acid esters derived from plants such as palm oil and oil palm, or fatty acids or fatty acid esters obtained by hydrogenating or partially hydrogenating the unsaturated portion. The number of long-chain hydrocarbon groups in "amine compounds having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups with 10 to 26 carbon atoms separated by ester groups (-COO-) or amide groups (-NHCO-) ​​in the molecule (hereinafter referred to as "amine compounds" in this specification)" is 1 to 3. The number of long-chain hydrocarbon groups is preferably 2 (secondary amine compounds) or 3 (tertiary amine compounds), and more preferably 3.

[0014] Examples of amine compounds include those represented by the following general formula (B1). [ka] [In the formula, R 1 ~R 3 These are, independently, -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4(Y is a hydrogen atom or CH3, and R 4 is a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms), -(CH2) n NHCOR 5 (n is 2 or 3, and R 5 is a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms), a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, -CH2CH(Y)OH (Y is a hydrogen atom or CH3), or -(CH2) n NH2 (n is 2 or 3), and at least one of R 1 ~R 3 is -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 or -(CH2) n NHCOR 5 .) In the group “-CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 ” in the general formula (B1), a hydrogen atom is preferable as Y. As R 4 , a hydrocarbon group having 15 to 19 carbon atoms is preferable. When there are a plurality of R 4 in the compound represented by the general formula (B1), the plurality of R 4 may be the same as each other or may be different from each other.

[0015] The hydrocarbon group of R 4 is a residue (fatty acid residue) obtained by removing a carboxy group from a fatty acid (R 4 COOH) having 8 to 22 carbon atoms, and the fatty acid (R 4 COOH) from which R 4 is derived may be a saturated fatty acid or an unsaturated fatty acid, and may be a linear fatty acid or a branched fatty acid. Among them, a saturated or unsaturated linear fatty acid is preferable. In order to impart good water absorption to the soft-treated clothing, the saturation / unsaturation ratio (mass ratio) of the fatty acid from which R 4 is derived is preferably 50 / 50 to 0 / 100, more preferably 30 / 70 to 0 / 100, and even more preferably 20 / 80 to 0 / 100. The unsaturation rate can be calculated from the proportion of raw materials that provide the hydrocarbon groups in the amine compound. For example, if a mixture of lower alkyl fatty acid esters containing 25% by mass of methyl stearate (containing saturated hydrocarbon groups), 40% by mass of methyl oleate (containing unsaturated hydrocarbon groups), and 35% by mass of methyl palmitate (containing saturated hydrocarbon groups) is used as a raw material, the unsaturation rate of hydrocarbon groups in the resulting amine compound will be 40% by mass (= 40 / (25 + 40 + 35) × 100). The unsaturation rate is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 70% or more, even more preferably 80% or more, and may be 100%. When the unsaturation rate is 50% or more, good water absorption can be imparted to the softened clothing, and the low-temperature stability of the liquid fabric softener composition is also good. R 4 When is an unsaturated fatty acid residue, both cis and trans isomers exist, but the mass ratio of the cis / trans isomer is preferably 40 / 60 to 100 / 0, and particularly preferably 70 / 30 to 90 / 10. 4 Specifically, examples of fatty acids that can be used as the basis for this include stearic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, lauric acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, linoleic acid, partially hydrogenated palm oil fatty acids (iodine value 10-60), and partially hydrogenated beef tallow fatty acids (iodine value 10-60). In particular, it is preferable to use a fatty acid composition prepared by combining two or more types selected from stearic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, and linoleic acid in predetermined amounts, so as to satisfy the following conditions (a) to (c). (a) The ratio (mass ratio) of saturated fatty acids to unsaturated fatty acids is 50 / 50 to 0 / 100, more preferably 30 / 70 to 0 / 100, and particularly preferably 20 / 80 to 0 / 100. (b) The ratio (mass ratio) of the cis / trans isomer is 40 / 60 to 100 / 0, more preferably 70 / 30 to 90 / 10. (c) Fatty acids with 18 carbon atoms make up 60% by mass or more, preferably 70% by mass or more, fatty acids with 20 carbon atoms make up less than 2% by mass, and fatty acids with 21 to 22 carbon atoms make up less than 1% by mass.

[0016] In general formula (B1), the base "-(CH2)n NHCOR 5 Among these, 3 is preferred for n. 5 As such, a hydrocarbon group having 15 to 19 carbon atoms is preferred. R in the compound represented by general formula (B1) 5 When there are multiple R 5 They may be identical to each other, or they may be different. 5 For example, R 4 Similar examples can be specifically cited. In general formula (B1), R 1 ~R 3 Of these, at least one is -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 or -(CH2) n NHCOR 5 That is. R 1 ~R 3 Two of them are -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 and / or (CH2) n NHCOR 5 ) is preferable. 1 ~R 3 One or two of them are -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 and / or (CH2) n NHCOR 5 If so, the remaining two or one is a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, -CH2CH(Y)OH (where Y is a hydrogen atom or CH3), or -(CH2) n It is NH2 (where n is 2 or 3), an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, -CH2CH(Y)OH, or -(CH2) n It is preferable that it be NH2. Here, the alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms is preferably a methyl group or an ethyl group, and a methyl group is particularly preferred. In -CH2CH(Y)OH, Y is -CH2CH(Y)OCOR 4 It is the same as Y inside. -(CH2) n In NH2, n is -(CH2) n NHCOR 5 It is the same as n inside. Preferred examples of compounds represented by general formula (B1) include tertiary amine compounds represented by the following general formulas (B1-1) to (B1-7). [ka] [In each of the formulas (B1-1) to (B1-7), R 9 Each of these is independently a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms, and in formulas (B1-6) to (B1-7), R 10 Each of these is independently a hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms. R 9 and R 10 As for the hydrocarbon group having 7 to 21 carbon atoms in the above general formula (B1), R 4 Examples include hydrocarbon groups having 7 to 21 carbon atoms, and preferably alkyl and alkenyl groups having 15 to 17 carbon atoms. Note that R in the formula 9 When there are multiple R 9 They may be identical to each other, or they may be different to each other.

[0017] Component (B) may be a salt of an amine compound. A salt of a tertiary amine compound is preferred. The salt of the amine compound is obtained by neutralizing the amine compound with an acid. The acid used to neutralize the amine compound may be an organic or inorganic acid, such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, or methyl sulfuric acid. The neutralization of the amine compound can be carried out by known methods. Component (B) may be a quaternized amine compound. A quaternized tertiary amine compound is preferred as the quaternized compound. The quaternized amine compound is obtained by reacting the amine compound with a quaternizing agent. Examples of quaternizing agents used for quaternizing amine compounds include alkyl halides such as methyl chloride and dialkyl sulfates such as dimethyl sulfate. When these quaternizing agents are reacted with an amine compound, the alkyl group of the quaternizing agent is introduced to the nitrogen atom of the amine compound, and a salt of a quaternary ammonium ion and a halogen ion or monoalkyl sulfate ion is formed. The alkyl group introduced by the quaternizing agent is preferably an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, more preferably a methyl group or an ethyl group, and particularly preferably a methyl group. Quaternization of amine compounds can be carried out by known methods. Furthermore, when using the quaternized compound, it is more preferable to use dimethyl sulfate as the quaternizing agent in order to allow the quaternization reaction to proceed sufficiently. Compounds represented by general formulas (B1) and (B1-1) to (B1-7), their salts, and their quaternary derivatives may be commercially available or prepared by known methods.

[0018] (B) Component is, Preferably, at least one compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by general formula (B1), salts thereof, and quaternary compounds thereof, More preferably, at least one compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by general formulas (B1-1) to (B1-7), their salts, and their quaternary derivatives, A more preferable option is at least one compound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by general formulas (B1-3) to (B1-5), their salts, and their quaternary derivatives. Component (B) may be a single amine compound, its salt, or its quaternary derivative, or it may be a mixture of two or more compounds, for example, a mixture of compounds represented by general formulas (B1-3) to (B1-5).

[0019] (B) Component is a known substance and is readily available on the market or can be prepared. (B) Component may be a single type or multiple types may be used in combination. (B) The amount of component (B) is 0.1% by mass or more and less than 3% by mass, preferably 1% by mass or more and less than 3% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. When the amount of component (B) is 0.1% by mass or more, it provides sufficient fragrance retention while exhibiting its function as a fabric softener. When the amount of component (B) is less than 3% by mass, the storage stability of the liquid fabric softener composition is better and the risk of deterioration due to re-soiling is lower.

[0020] [(C) component)] In the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention, component (C) is added in combination with component (D) to suppress deterioration of the fragrance as a fabric softener while stably solubilizing components (A) and (B). (C) As component, any nonionic surfactant known in the field of liquid fabric softeners can be used without particular restriction. Examples of component (C) include polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers having one or more alkyl or alkenyl groups with 8 to 20 carbon atoms. The average number of moles of oxyalkylene groups added is 1 to 100, preferably 2 to 75, and more preferably 5 to 30. A preferred (C) component is a compound represented by the following general formula (IV). R 1 -T-[(R 2 O) p -H] q (IV) In formula (IV), R 1 This is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl group having 10 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably 12 to 18 carbon atoms. R 2 This is an alkylene group having 2 or 3 carbon atoms, preferably an ethylene group. p is the average number of moles added, and is between 2 and 75, preferably 5 and 30, particularly preferably 5 and 20, and most preferably 5 and 15. Within this numerical range, the transparent appearance of the liquid softener composition can be maintained even at low temperatures. T is -O-, -N-, -NH-, -N(C2H4OH)-, -CON-, -CONH-, or -CON(C2H4OH)-. If T is -O-, -NH-, -N(C2H4OH)-, -CONH-, or -CON(C2H4OH)-, then q is 1. If T is -N- or -CON-, then q is 2.

[0021] Specific examples of compounds of general formula (IV) include compounds represented by the following general formulas (V) or (VI). R 1 -O-(C2H4O) r -H (V) In formula (V), R 1 This is as defined in equation (IV). r is the average number of moles added, and is 2 to 75, preferably 5 to 30, more preferably 5 to 20, and most preferably 5 to 15. R 1 -O-(C2H4O) s (C3H6O) t -H (VI) In formula (VI), R 1 This is as defined in equation (IV). s is the average number of moles added, which is 2 to 40, preferably 5 to 30, more preferably 5 to 20, and most preferably 5 to 15. t is the average number of moles added, which is 1 to 20, preferably 1 to 10. The addition of (C2H4O) and (C3H6O) can be random or block-based.

[0022] (C) Component is a known substance and is readily available on the market or can be prepared. (C) Component may be a single type or multiple types may be used in combination. (C) Preferred examples of component include EO and PO adducts of nonyl alcohol (average number of added moles: EO: 9 moles, PO: 1 mole), EO adduct of primary isononyl alcohol (average number of added moles of EO: 40 moles), EO adduct of primary isodecyl alcohol (average number of added moles of EO: 20 moles), EO adduct of lauryl alcohol (average number of added moles of EO: 20 moles), EO adduct of primary isohexadecyl alcohol (average number of added moles of EO: 60 moles), EO adduct of primary isotridecyl alcohol (average number of added moles of EO: 7 moles, 40 moles, or 60 moles), EO adduct of tridecyl alcohol (average number of added moles of EO: 50 moles), and EO adduct of lauric acid (average number of added moles of EO: 20 moles). Commercially available products include the Emarex series from Nippon Emulsion, the Emarumin series from Sanyo Chemical Industries, the TDA series from Lion Specialty Chemicals, the Softanol series from Nippon Shokubai, and the Lutensol series from BASF. The amount of component (C) is not particularly limited as long as the purpose of formulation is achieved, but from the viewpoint of foaming and defoaming properties of the liquid fabric softener composition, it is preferably 1.5 to 15% by mass, more preferably 3 to 10.0% by mass, and even more preferably 3.0 to 7.0% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition.

[0023] [(D) component)] In the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention, component (D) is added in combination with component (C) to stably solubilize components (A) and (B). Any solvent known in the field of liquid softeners can be used without particular restriction, but water-miscible organic solvents are preferred. A water-miscible organic solvent is an organic solvent that dissolves in 25g or more of water at 25°C. Examples of water-miscible organic solvents include alcohols such as ethanol, glycerin, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 1-butanol, and 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol (Solfit, trade name); glycols such as propylene glycol (PG), butylene glycol, and hexylene glycol; polyglycols such as diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol with a molecular weight of approximately 200 to 1000, and dipropylene glycol; and alkyl ethers such as diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (butyl carbitol), and diethylene glycol dimethyl ether. Among these, ethanol, glycerin, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol with a molecular weight of approximately 200 to 1000, and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (butyl carbitol) are preferred from the viewpoint of low odor, ease of availability, and fluidity, and ethanol, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (butyl carbitol) are more preferred. Examples of water-miscible organic solvents include (D1) and (D2) below.

[0024] (D1): One or more water-soluble solvents selected from the group consisting of lower (1-5 carbon) alcohols, glycol ether solvents, and polyhydric alcohols (excluding (D2) described below). Examples of (D1) include ethanol, isopropanol, glycerin, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, and polyoxyethylene phenyl ether. Preferred (D1) includes ethanol, ethylene glycol, butyl carbitol, and water-soluble solvents represented by the following general formula (D1). R3-O-(C3H6O) z -(C2H4O) y -H (D1) [In the formula, R3 is an alkyl group or an alkenyl group having 1 to 8 (preferably 2 to 6) carbon atoms, y is the average number of added moles, which is 2 to 50 (preferably 2 to 30), and z is the average number of added moles, which is 0 to 50 (preferably 0 to 20).] More preferable (D1) includes ethanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (butyl carbitol) [C4H9O(C2H4O)2H], diethylene glycol monopropylene glycol monobutyl ether [C4H9O(C3H6O)(C2H4O)2H], and the like.

[0025] (D2): It is a compound represented by the following general formula (D). [Chemical formula] [In the formula, R 1 ~R 3 are independently a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms, and R 4 is a hydrogen atom or an acetyl group.] In formula (D), it is preferable that all of R 1 ~R 3 are hydrogen atoms, or one is an alkyl group and the other two are hydrogen atoms. That is, it is preferable that two or more of R 1 ~R 3 are hydrogen atoms. A high blending effect can be obtained when two or more of R 1 ~R 3 are hydrogen atoms. When two or more of R 1 ~R 3 are alkyl groups, the number of carbon atoms thereof is preferably 1 to 2, and more preferably 1. A high blending effect can be obtained within the above carbon number range. R 4 is preferably a hydrogen atom. (As the component (D2), in the general formula (D), R 4Those in which R is a hydrogen atom, for example, 3-methoxybutanol, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, 3-methoxy-3-ethylbutanol, 3-methoxy-3-propylbutanol, 3-methoxy-2-methylbutanol, 3-methoxy-2-ethylbutanol, 3-methoxy-2-propylbutanol, 3-methoxy-1-methylbutanol, 3-methoxy-1-ethylbutanol, 3-methoxy-1-propylbutanol, etc.; and R of general formula (D) 4 Examples of acetates in which the group is an acetyl group include 3-methoxybutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-3-ethylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-3-propylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-2-methylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-2-ethylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-2-propylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-1-methylbutyl acetate, 3-methoxy-1-ethylbutyl acetate, and 3-methoxy-1-propylbutyl acetate. Among these, 3-methoxybutanol, 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, 3-methoxy-2-methylbutanol, 3-methoxy-1-methylbutanol, and 3-methoxy-3-methylbutyl acetate are preferred, with 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol being more preferred.

[0026] (D) Component is a known substance and is readily available on the market or can be prepared. (D) Component may be a single type or multiple types may be used in combination. For example, multiple types of (D1) or multiple types of (D2) may be used, or (D1) and (D2) may be used in combination. Using (D1) and (D2) in combination is preferable because it can achieve a better formulation objective. The amount of component (D) is not particularly limited as long as the purpose of formulation is achieved, but from the viewpoint of obtaining excellent formulation effects while suppressing the outflow of a large amount of organic solvent from the liquid softener composition, it is preferably 5 to 15% by mass, more preferably 7 to 10.0% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition.

[0027] [(A)~(D) ingredient ratios] In the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention, the total amount of component (A) and component (B) affects the smooth texture and re-soiling of the fibers after softening treatment. Therefore, the total amount of component (A) and (B) is preferably 1% by mass or more and less than 13% by mass, more preferably 3% by mass or more and 10.5% by mass or less, and even more preferably 5% by mass or more and 7% by mass or less, relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, the mass ratio (A) / (B) of component (A) to component (B) is preferably 0.2 to 20, more preferably 0.3 to 14, and even more preferably 1.4 to 11, as this contributes to transparency stability (low temperature). In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, the mass ratio (A)+(B) / (C) of the total amount of components (A) and (B) to component (C) is preferably 0.15 to 6, more preferably 4.2 or less, and even more preferably 2 or less, as it contributes to transparency stability (low temperature). In the liquid softener composition of the present invention, the mass ratio (A)+(B) / (D) of the total amount of components (A) and (B) to component (D) is preferably 0.1 to 4, more preferably 1.8 or less, and even more preferably 1 or less, as it contributes to transparency stability (low temperature).

[0028] [Optional ingredients] The liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention may contain additives, etc., commonly used in fabric softener compositions, as needed, to the extent that they do not interfere with the effects of the present invention.

[0029] <Fragrance> It can be added to the liquid fabric softener composition itself, and / or to the textile product after treatment with the composition. Any substance known in the field of liquid fabric softeners can be used as the fragrance without particular limitations. A single fragrance may be used, or multiple fragrances may be used in combination. Examples of fragrances include aldehydes, phenols, alcohols, ethers, esters, hydrocarbons, ketones, lactones, musks, fragrances with terpene skeletons, natural fragrances, and animal-derived fragrances. Specific examples of each fragrance are as follows. Examples of aldehydes include undecylenaldehyde, laurylaldehyde, aldehyde C-12MNA, miracaldehyde, α-amyl cinnamicaldehyde, cyclamenaldehyde, citral, citronellal, ethyl vanillin, heliotropin, anisaldehyde, α-hexyl cinnamicaldehyde, octanal, ligstral, lilial, liral, tripral, vanillin, and helional. Examples of phenols include eugenol and isoeugenol. Examples of alcohols include citronellol, dihydromyrcenol, dihydrolinalool, geraniol, linalool, nerol, sandalol, santarex, terpineol, tetrahydrolinalool, menthol, borneol, 1-decanal, bacdanol, and phenylethyl alcohol. Examples of ethers include Sedlumber, Grisalva, methyl eugenol, and methyl isoeugenol. Examples of esters include cis-3-hexenyl acetate, cis-3-hexenyl propionate, cis-3-hexenyl salicylate, p-cresyl acetate, pt-butylcyclohexyl acetate, amyl acetate, methyl dihydrojasmonate, amyl salicylate, benzyl salicylate, benzyl benzoate, benzyl acetate, cedyl acetate, citronellyl acetate, and decahydro-β-naphthyl acetate. Examples include acetate, dimethylbenzylcarbinyl acetate, erica propionate, ethyl acetate, erica acetate, geranyl acetate, geranyl formate, hedione, linalyl acetate, β-phenylethyl acetate, hexyl salicylate, styraryl acetate, terpinyl acetate, vetiveryl acetate, OT-butylcyclohexyl acetate, manzanate, and allyl heptanoate. Examples of hydrocarbons include limonene (especially d-limonene), α-pinene, β-pinene, myrcene, camphene, and terpinolene. Examples of ketones include α-ionone, β-ionone, methyl-β-naphthylketone, α-damascone, β-damascone, δ-damascone, damascenone, cis-jasmone, methylionone, allylionone, cashmeran, dihydrojasmone, isoesuper, beltfix, isolonediforanone, coavon, carvone, rosephenone, raspberry ketone, dynascone, and maltol. Examples of lactones include γ-decalactone, γ-undecalactone, γ-nonalactone, γ-dodecalactone, coumarin, and ambroxan. Examples of musk compounds include cyclopentadecanolide, ethylene brassirate, galaxolide, musk ketone, tonalide, tonalide, and nitromusks. Examples of fragrances containing a terpene skeleton include geraniol, nerol, linalool, citral, citronellol, menthol, mint, citronellal, myrcene, α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, terpinellol, carvone, ionone (e.g., β-ionone), camphene, and borneol. Examples of natural fragrances include essential oils such as orange oil, lemon oil, lime oil, petitgrain oil, yuzu oil, neroli oil, bergamot oil, lavender oil, lavandin oil, abies oil, anise oil, bay oil, rose oil, ylang-ylang oil, citronella oil, geranium oil, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, eucalyptus oil, lemongrass oil, patchouli oil, jasmine oil, rose oil, cedar oil, vetiver oil, galbanum oil, oakmoss oil, pine oil, camphor oil, sandalwood oil, fragrant camphor oil, turpentine oil, clove oil, clove leaf oil, cassia oil, nutmeg oil, cananga oil, and thyme oil. Examples of animal-derived fragrances include musk, spirit cat incense, sea lion incense, and ambergris.

[0030] The fragrance components preferably contain aldehydes, ketones, or hydrocarbons, and more preferably the following fragrances. [Aldehydes] One or more substances selected from the group consisting of undecylenaldehyde, laurylaldehyde, aldehyde C-12MNA, miracaldehyde, α-amyl cinnamicaldehyde, cyclamenaldehyde, citral, citronellal, heliotropin, anisaldehyde, α-hexyl cinnamicaldehyde, octanal, ligstral, lilial, liral, tripral, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, and helional. [Ketones] One or more substances selected from the group consisting of α-ionone, β-ionone, methyl-β-naphthylketone, α-damascone, β-damascone, δ-damascone, cis-jasmone, methylionone (methyl ionone), allylionone (allyl ionone), cashmeran, dihydrojasmone, isoesuper, beltfix, isolonediphoranone, coavon, rosephenone, raspberry ketone, dynascone, and maltol. [Hydroxides] One or more substances selected from the group consisting of limonene, α-pinene, β-pinene, myrcene, and terpinolene.

[0031] When a fragrance composition contains aldehydes, ketones, and hydrocarbons as fragrance components, from the viewpoint of fragrance release, the total content of these fragrance components is preferably 10% by mass or more, more preferably 20% by mass or more, based on the total mass of the fragrance composition.

[0032] The fragrance composition may contain fragrance solvents commonly used in liquid fabric softeners. Examples of fragrance solvents include acetin (triacetin), MMB acetate (3-methoxy-3-methylbutyl acetate), sucrose diacetate hexisobutyrate, ethylene glycol dibutyrate, hexylene glycol, dibutyl sebacate, Deltil Extra (isopropyl myristate), methyl carbitol (diethylene glycol monomethyl ether), carbitol (diethylene glycol monoethyl ether), TEG (triethylene glycol), benzyl benzoate (BB), propylene glycol, diethyl phthalate, tripropylene glycol, avorin (dimethyl phthalate), Deltil Prime (isopropyl palmitate), dipropylene glycol (DPG), Examples include farnesene, dioctyl adipate, tributylin (glyceryl tributanoate), hydrolyte-5 (1,2-pentanediol), propylene glycol diacetate, cetyl acetate (hexadecyl acetate), ethyl abietate, avalin (methyl abietate), Citroflex A-2 (acetyl triethyl citrate), Citroflex A-4 (tributyl acetyl citrate), Citroflex No. 2 (triethyl citrate), Citroflex No. 4 (tributyl citrate), Durafix (methyl dihydroabietate), MITD (isotridecyl myristate), polylimonene (limonene polymer), and 1,3-butylene glycol. The content of the fragrance solvent is, for example, 0.1 to 30% by mass, preferably 1 to 20% by mass, relative to the total mass of the fragrance composition.

[0033] The content of the fragrance component is not particularly limited as long as the formulation objective is achieved, but is preferably 0.5 to 5% by mass, more preferably 0.8 to 3.0% by mass, and most preferably 0.8 to 2.0% by mass, relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. The formulation objective can be achieved within the above content range.

[0034] <(B) Cationic surfactants other than component> Cationic surfactants other than the component (B) can be blended to ensure the transparent stability of the liquid softener composition and to impart deodorizing and antibacterial properties. The cationic surfactant other than the component (B) is a quaternary ammonium salt represented by the following general formula (1).

Chemical formula

[0035] In formula (1), R 1 is preferably a hydrocarbon group having 12 to 16 carbon atoms, and more preferably a hydrocarbon group having 16 carbon atoms. The hydrocarbon group of R 1 may be saturated or unsaturated, and may be linear or branched. In formula (1), specific examples of R 2 , R 3 and R 4 include a methyl group, an ethyl group, and a hydroxyethyl group, and preferably a methyl group. In formula (1), examples of X include methyl sulfate, bromine, chlorine, etc., and chlorine is preferred. The cationic surfactant other than the component (B) is a known substance and is easily available on the market or can be prepared. Specific examples of the cationic surfactant component other than the component (B) include, but are not limited to, hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride, tetradecyltrimethylammonium chloride, dodecyltrimethylammonium chloride, etc.

[0036] The cationic surfactant other than the component (B) may be used alone or in combination of multiple types. The amount of cationic surfactants other than component (B) is preferably 0.01 to 1% by mass, more preferably 0.1 to 0.8%, and even more preferably 0.1 to 0.5%, relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. If the amount of cationic surfactants other than component (B) is 0.01% by mass or more, better deodorizing and antibacterial effects can be imparted. If the amount of cationic surfactants other than component (B) is 1% by mass or less, the effect of suppressing liquid separation and mottled appearance is good.

[0037] <Cationic polymer> Cationic polymers can be incorporated primarily to give textile products a smooth texture. Furthermore, cationic polymers also have the effect of enhancing the adsorption of component (A) to textile products. Cationic polymers are water-soluble. "Water-soluble" means that the solution obtained by adding 1 g of the test substance to 100 g of water at 25°C is colorless and transparent. Cationic polymers exhibit cationic properties when dissolved in water. The cationic polymer preferably has a degree of cationization of 0.1% or more (e.g., 0.1-35%), and more preferably 2.5% or more (e.g., 2.5-15%), as described later. When the degree of cationization is within the above range, the adsorption of the coexisting (A) component to the textile product can be further enhanced, and the cost increase due to excessive formulation can be prevented. As the cationic polymer, any water-soluble and cationic polymer can be used without particular limitations, but preferably, it is a water-soluble polymer having one or more cationic properties selected from amino groups, amine groups, and quaternary ammonium groups. Examples of cationic polymers include polymers of dimethyldiallylammonium chloride (polydimethyldiallylammonium chloride) such as MERQUAT100 (manufactured by Lubrizol Nippon Co., Ltd.), Adeka Cathioace PD-50 (manufactured by Adeka Corporation), and Daido Chemical Industries, Ltd., as well as MERQUAT550. Examples include dimethyldiallylammonium chloride / acrylamide copolymers such as JL5 (manufactured by Lubrizol Japan), dimethyldiallylammonium chloride / acrylic acid copolymers such as MERQUAT295 (manufactured by Lubrizol Japan) and MERQUAT280 (manufactured by Lubrizol Japan), cationized cellulose such as Leoguard KGP (manufactured by Lion Corporation), imidazolinium chloride / vinylpyrrolidone copolymers such as LUVIQUAT-FC905 (manufactured by BASF), polyethyleneimines such as LUGALVAN-G15000 (manufactured by BASF), cationized polyvinyl alcohols such as POVAL CM318 (manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd.), natural polymer derivatives having amino groups such as chitosan, and copolymers with vinyl monomers having hydrophilic groups to which diethylamino methacrylate / ethylene oxide has been added. The content of the cationic polymer is not particularly limited as long as it is sufficient to achieve the intended formulation, but it is preferably 1 to 4% by mass relative to the liquid softener composition.

[0038] <Antibacterial agent> Antimicrobial agents may be added to improve the shelf life of liquid fabric softener compositions. Antibacterial agents commonly used in liquid fabric softeners can be used without any particular restrictions. Examples of antibacterial agents include diclosan, triclosan, benzalkonium chloride, bis-(2-pyridylthio-1-oxide)zinc, 8-oxyquinoline, biguanide compounds (e.g., polyhexamethylene biguanide), chlorohexidine hydrochloride, and polylysine. Among these, diclosan, benzalkonium chloride, biguanide compounds, and chlorohexidine hydrochloride are preferred. The amount of antibacterial agent is not particularly limited as long as it is sufficient to achieve the intended purpose of the formulation, but it is preferably 0.001 to 5% by mass relative to the total mass of the liquid softener composition.

[0039] <Other optional ingredients> In addition to the aforementioned ingredients, the liquid fabric softener composition contains antioxidants and reducing agents to improve the stability of its fragrance and color, emulsifiers (such as polystyrene emulsion), opacifiers, shrinkage inhibitors, wrinkle inhibitors, shape-retaining agents, drape-retaining agents, ironing-enhancing agents, oxygen bleach inhibitors, whitening agents, fabric softening clay, antistatic agents, color transfer inhibitors (such as polyvinylpyrrolidone), polymer dispersants, stain removers, scum dispersants, fluorescent whitening agents (such as 4,4-bis(2-sulfostyryl)biphenyldisodium (Chiba Specialty Chemicals' Chinopearl CBS-X)), dye fixatives, fade inhibitors (such as 1,4-bis(3-aminopropyl)piperazine), stain removers, and fiber surface modifiers. Ingredients such as enzymes (cellulase, amylase, protease, lipase, and keratinase), antifoaming agents, and ingredients that impart the texture and function of silk, such as water absorption and release properties (silk protein powder, surface modifiers thereof, emulsified dispersions, specifically K-50, K-30, K-10, A-705, S-702, L-710, FP series (Idemitsu Petrochemical), hydrolyzed silk liquid (Jomo), Silkgen G Solubble S (Ichimaru Falcos)), and anti-fouling agents (nonionic polymer compounds consisting of alkylene terephthalate and / or alkylene isophthalate units and polyoxyalkylene units, for example, FR627 manufactured by Go-o Chemical Industry, SRC-1 manufactured by Clariant Japan, etc.) can be appropriately blended.

[0040] [Method for preparing a liquid fabric softener composition] The method for preparing the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention is not particularly limited. The liquid fabric softener composition can be produced by known methods, such as the same methods as conventional methods for producing liquid fabric softener compositions using silicone. For example, a liquid softener composition can be produced by mixing an oil phase containing components (A), (B), (C), and (D), as well as other components as needed, with an aqueous phase containing water or the like.

[0041] [How to use liquid fabric softener composition] There are no particular restrictions on how the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention can be used, and it can be used in the same way as general fabric softener compositions. For example, one method is to dissolve the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention in the rinse water during the rinsing stage of washing to soften the clothes to be washed, or to dissolve the liquid fabric softener composition of the present invention in water in a container such as a basin, and then immerse the clothes to be washed in it for a soaking treatment. The textile products to be processed are not particularly limited, but examples include clothing, curtains, sofas, carpets, towels, handkerchiefs, sheets, and pillowcases. The materials may also be natural fibers such as cotton, silk, and wool, or synthetic fibers such as polyester. [Examples]

[0042] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. In the examples, all component amounts are expressed in mass % (on a pure content basis unless otherwise specified).

[0043] [(A) component] The following A-1 and A-2 were used. • A-1: ​​Product name "CF1188N", polyether-modified silicone, manufactured by Dow-Toray Ltd. • A-2: Product name "SH3775M", polyether-modified silicone, manufactured by Dow-Toray Ltd.

[0044] [(B) Component] The following B-1 to B-4 were used. Additionally, B'-1 was used as a comparative example. • B-1: Product name "REWOQUAT(registered trademark) WE45", cationic surfactant (compound mainly of formula (B1-3)), manufactured by Evonik, unsaturation rate: 80% • B-2: Product name "HITEX RO90", cationic surfactant (compound mainly composed of formula (B1-3)), manufactured by DONGNAM CHEMICAL, unsaturation rate: 90% • B-3: A mixture of product names "EQ240" and "HITEX RO90," cationic surfactants manufactured by DONGNAM CHEMICAL, in a 1:1 (mass ratio) ratio (a mixture of compounds mainly consisting of formula (B1-3)), unsaturation rate: 70% • B'-1: Product name "Noverite310", polydimethyldiallylammonium chloride, manufactured by Lubrizol Japan Co., Ltd.

[0045] [(C) component] The following C-1 to C-3 were used. • C-1: Product name "TAG-90", polyoxyethylene isotridecyl ether (EO 7 mol), manufactured by Lion Chemical Co., Ltd. • C-2: Product name "LMAG", polyoxyethylene alkyl ether (EO 7 mol), manufactured by Lion Chemical Co., Ltd. • C-3: Product name "LUTENZOL XP100", Guerbet alcohol ethoxylate (EO10 mol), manufactured by BASF.

[0046] [(D) component] The following D-1 and D-2 were used. • D-1: Product name "Butyl Diglycol (84)", Diethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether, Manufactured by Nippon Emulsifier Co., Ltd. • D-2: Product name "Solfit", 3-methoxy-3-methylbutanol, manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd.

[0047] [Optional component ((E) component)] • Fragrance: The fragrance composition listed in Table 1 was used. [Table 1]

[0048] [Method for preparing a liquid fabric softener composition] The liquid fabric softener composition was prepared by adjusting the amount of each component as shown in Tables 2 and 3 below, following the procedure below. The values ​​for each component in Tables 2 and 3 below represent the amount (mass %) of each component relative to the total mass of the liquid fabric softener composition. First, component (D) was placed in a 1000 mL beaker, and components (A), (B), (C), and (E) were added to it. The mixture was thoroughly stirred using a stirring blade to obtain an oil phase mixture. While stirring the oil phase mixture, water was added and the mixture was thoroughly stirred until homogeneous to prepare 1000 g of liquid softener composition. The light transmittance of the samples was measured after the compositions were prepared and left to stand for one hour. Light transmittance was measured using a Shimadzu UV-2500PC measuring instrument, with a quartz cell having a path length of 10 mm. When deionized water was placed in the control cell, the light transmittance at a wavelength of 660 nm was evaluated. The light transmittance of all the liquid fabric softener compositions prepared in the examples and comparative examples was 50% or higher, and they were transparent or translucent in appearance.

[0049] [Evaluation of liquid fabric softener compositions] <Evaluation of smooth texture> 1. Preparation of evaluation cloth A commercially available cotton T-shirt (manufactured by Fuji Spinning Holdings Co., Ltd., 100% cotton) was washed twice using a twin-tub washing machine (AQUA Co., Ltd., model number: AQW-N401) with a commercially available detergent "Room Drying Top" (manufactured by Lion Corporation) containing an anionic surfactant as the main cleaning agent (standard detergent usage: bath ratio 30 times. 45°C tap water. 10 minutes of washing followed by two 10 minutes of rinse). After the washing process, two 10 minutes of rinse were performed, and this process was considered the pretreatment. After pretreatment, the fabric was dried for 20 hours under constant temperature and humidity conditions of 20°C and 45%RH to be used as the evaluation fabric.

[0050] 2. Treatment with fabric softener during the rinsing cycle of washing. The evaluation fabrics were treated with each liquid fabric softener composition prepared according to the "Method for Preparing Liquid Fabric Softener Compositions" described above. The treatment was carried out using a top-loading washing machine (Haier, model number: JW-K33F(W)), with 10 mL of the liquid fabric softener composition added per 1.5 kg of fabric for 3 minutes. The bath ratio (ratio of the mass of water to the mass of the evaluation fabric) was approximately 20 times. After treatment, the evaluation fabrics were dried for 20 hours under constant temperature and humidity conditions of 20°C and 45% RH, and then the texture of the evaluation fabrics was evaluated using the following method.

[0051] 3. Evaluation of fabric treated with fabric softener The evaluation fabrics used were those treated with water instead of fabric softener. Sensory pair comparisons were conducted by 10 expert panelists, who evaluated the fabrics according to the evaluation criteria shown below. The average scores of the 10 panelists (rounded to the nearest whole number) are shown in Tables 2 and 3. A score of 3 or higher was considered a passing grade. (Evaluation Criteria) 5: Compared to the subject, it is very smooth. 4: Compared to the subject, it's quite light and refreshing. 3: It's lighter in texture compared to the subject. 2: It is slightly smoother compared to the other product. 1: Compared to the target product, it is oily and not smooth (it feels slimy).

[0052] <Recontamination Assessment> 1. Exam Overview According to the processing conditions below, a commercially available detergent "NANOX one Standard" (manufactured by Lion Corporation), which contains an anionic surfactant as the main cleaning base material, 900 mL of water, and the coexisting soiled cloth and the evaluation cloth (cotton cloth) were placed in a washing machine and washed. After that, one rinse was performed, and during the second rinse, the evaluation cloth (cotton cloth) was treated with each liquid fabric softener composition prepared according to the "Method for Preparing Liquid Fabric Softener Compositions" described above. This second rinse (softening treatment) was performed for 3 minutes by adding the liquid fabric softener composition (10 mL per 1.5 kg of cloth).

[0053] 2. Processing conditions • Washing machine: Terg-O-Tmeter (manufactured by UNITED STATES TESTING). Washing conditions: 900 mL of tap water (25°C), 30 times the bath ratio, 120 rpm, wash for 10 minutes, rinse for 3 minutes x 2 times, spin dry for 1 minute. Drying conditions: Dry with an iron. • Number of repetitions: Wash, soften, and dry are repeated three times in sequence. • Coexisting dirt cloths: 10 artificial dirt cloths (Swissatest, EMPA117) per use. • Fabrics used for evaluation: White cotton cloth (5 pieces).

[0054] 3. Evaluation of fabric treated with fabric softener The evaluation cloth (white cotton cloth) before treatment was used as the subject. Ten expert panelists visually compared the untreated cloth with the evaluation cloth treated with fabric softener, and evaluated it according to the evaluation criteria shown below. The average score of the ten panelists (rounded to the nearest whole number) is recorded in Tables 2 and 3. A score of 3 or higher was judged as passing. (Evaluation Criteria) 4: There is not much change compared to the target. 3: It is slightly darker compared to the target object. 2: It is darker compared to the target object. 1: It is extremely dark compared to the target object.

[0055] <Transparency stability (low temperature) evaluation> Each liquid fabric softener composition prepared according to the "Method for Preparing Liquid Fabric Softener Compositions" described above was placed in a glass container, sealed tightly, and left for one week at 5°C. The changes in appearance were observed, and a visual evaluation was conducted based on the evaluation criteria below. The average scores of 10 people (rounded to the nearest whole number) are recorded in Tables 2 and 3, and a score of 3 or higher was judged to be a pass. (Evaluation Criteria) 4: No change (turbidity) compared to the sample before storage. 3: Slightly changed (turbidity) compared to the sample before storage. (Within acceptable limits) 2: The sample changed (became cloudy) compared to the sample before storage. 1: Significant changes (cloudiness, separation) were observed compared to the sample before storage.

[0056] [Table 2]

[0057] [Table 3]

Claims

1. The following ingredients (A) to (D): (A) Polyether-modified silicone 0.5 to 10% by mass (B) At least one compound selected from the group consisting of amine compounds having 1 to 3 hydrocarbon groups with 10 to 26 carbon atoms separated by an ester group (-COO-) and / or an amide group (-NHCO-), salts thereof, and quaternary compounds thereof, in an amount of 0.1% by mass or more and less than 3% by mass. (C) Nonionic surfactant (D) Solvents indicated by (D-1) and / or (D-2) (D-1) One or more water-soluble solvents selected from the group consisting of lower alcohols, glycol ether solvents, and polyhydric alcohols. (D-2) Compounds represented by the following general formula (D) [In the formula, R 1 ~R 3 R is independently a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms. 4 This is a hydrogen atom or an acetyl group. A transparent or translucent liquid softener composition containing [the specified ingredient].

2. The liquid softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the total amount of component (A) and component (B) is 3 to 10.5% by mass.

3. The liquid softener composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mass ratio of component (A) to component (B), (A) / (B), is 0.3 to 14.

4. The liquid softener composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mass ratio (A) + (B) / (C) of the total amount of component (A) and component (B) to component (C) is 0.15 to 6.

5. The liquid softener composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mass ratio (A) + (B) / (D) of the total amount of component (A) and component (B) to component (D) is 0.1 to 4.

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