CN115836149A

CN115836149A - Fabric spray

Info

Publication number: CN115836149A
Application number: CN202080081397.5A
Authority: CN
Inventors: R·桑卡; J·A·瓦达亚; S·比斯瓦斯; C·博德曼
Original assignee: Unilever IP Holdings BV
Current assignee: Unilever IP Holdings BV
Priority date: 2019-12-02
Filing date: 2020-11-05
Publication date: 2023-03-21
Also published as: WO2021110346A1; US20230048372A1; EP4069905A1; BR112022010624A2

Abstract

A spray composition for reducing off-flavors, comprising: 0.1 to 15 wt% of an emollient; 0.5 to 15% by weight of an emulsifier; and c, water.

Description

Fabric spray

Technical Field

The present invention relates to fabric sprays for freshening clothing.

Background

Consumers have increasingly busy lives and have a limited time to wash their clothes. On the other hand, about 40% of the laundry subjected to the washing process is not dirty and can be re-worn. This practice of over-washing results in the unnecessary use of water, which can be problematic especially in water-deficient regions of the world.

Various fabric refreshment sprays have been previously disclosed. Such sprays typically contain a fragrance and/or an anti-wrinkle ingredient. However, there is still a need for superior products that provide consumers with confidence in repeated wear of garments. A particular unmet need is for products that reduce off-flavors. Another consideration is the consumer trend towards "green" products, which contain ingredients that are more favorable to the earth, e.g., higher biodegradability, natural origin or renewable resources. It has surprisingly been found that the compositions of the present invention provide effective odour control.

Summary of The Invention

In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spray composition for reducing off-notes comprising:

0.1 to 15 wt% of an emollient;

0.5 to 15% by weight of an emulsifier; and

c. and (3) water.

In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of reducing malodour in which a fabric is sprayed with a composition comprising:

0.1 to 15% by weight of an emollient;

0.5 to 15% by weight of an emulsifier; and

c. and (3) water.

In a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of preventing the development of an odor on the surface of a fabric, wherein the fabric is sprayed with a composition, wherein the composition comprises:

0.1 to 15 wt% of an emollient;

0.5 to 15% by weight of an emulsifier; and

c. and (3) water.

In a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of a spray composition to reduce and/or reduce the generation of malodour on passing through clothing, wherein the composition comprises:

0.1 to 15 wt% of an emollient;

0.5 to 15% by weight of an emulsifier; and

c. and (3) water.

Detailed Description

These and other aspects, features and advantages will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from a reading of the following detailed description and the appended claims. For the avoidance of doubt, any feature of one aspect of the invention may be used in any other aspect of the invention. The term "comprising" is intended to mean "including", but not necessarily "consisting of 8230; \8230; composition of or" consisting of 8230; \8230). In other words, the listed steps or options need not be exhaustive. It is to be noted that the examples given in the following description are intended to illustrate the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention to these examples per se. Similarly, all percentages are weight/weight percentages unless otherwise indicated. Except in the operating and comparative examples, or where otherwise explicitly indicated, all numbers in this description indicating amounts of material or conditions of reaction, physical properties of materials and/or use are to be understood as modified by the word "about". Numerical ranges expressed in "from x to y" format are understood to encompass x and y. When multiple preferred ranges are described in the format "from x to y" for a particular feature, it is to be understood that all ranges combining the different endpoints are also contemplated.

Aqueous composition

The compositions of the present invention are aqueous fabric sprays. Preferably, at least 60% by weight of the composition is water, more preferably at least 70% by weight

Skin-moistening agent

The spray composition of the present invention preferably comprises an emollient or a combination thereof. The term emollient refers to materials that soften surfaces, especially skin and hair. If prebiotics are present in the formulation, it is believed that the emollient enhances the off-flavor properties of the prebiotics.

Preferably, the spray comprises less than 15% by weight of emollient, less than 10% by weight of emollient, less than 5% by weight of emollient based on the weight of the spray composition. Preferably, the spray comprises more than 0.1 wt% of emollient, more than 0.5 wt% of emollient and more than 1 wt% of emollient, by weight of the spray composition. Suitably, the emollient is present in the spray composition in an amount selected from the range of about 0.1% to about 15%, preferably from about 0.5% to about 10%, more preferably from about 1% to about 5%, by weight of the spray composition.

Emollients are typically emulsions formed from oil and water. However, the emulsion may be formed in situ, but is preferably formed prior to the addition of the spray composition. Emollients may be formed from vegetable oils (including fruit oils) or mineral oils. Vegetable oils are preferred. Preferably, the chain length of the emollient is from C12 to C22.

Preferably, the emollient has a spreading value of greater than 800mm per 10 minutes ² Preferably 1000 to 1500mm per 10 minutes ² . Measurement of spreading value (mm) was carried out by applying 20. Mu.l of emollient in the middle of an ashless, medium to fast filter paper at 25 ℃ ² 10 min). The time between application and measurement of the spread area was exactly 10 minutes.

Suitable emollients include dioctyl ether from BASF under the tradename Cetiol OE and hydrogenated ethylhexyl olivate and hydrogenated Olive oil unsaponifiables from Clarient under the tradename Plantasens Olive LD.

Emulsifier

The spray composition of the present invention preferably comprises an emulsifier or a combination thereof.

Preferably, the spray comprises less than 15 wt% emulsifier, less than 10 wt% emulsifier, and less than 6 wt% emulsifier, by weight of the spray composition. Preferably, the spray comprises more than 0.5 wt% emulsifier, more than 1 wt% emulsifier and more than 2 wt% emulsifier, by weight of the spray composition. Suitably, the emulsifier is present in the spray composition in an amount selected from about 0.5% to about 15%, preferably from about 1% to about 10%, more preferably from about 2% to about 6% by weight of the spray composition. The correct amount of emulsifier may be important to achieve the desired deodorancy benefit.

The emulsifier may be anionic, cationic, nonionic or amphoteric. Nonionic emulsifiers are preferred.

The HLB value of the emulsifier is preferably 3 to 20, more preferably 3 to 18.

Examples of emulsifier materials include: ethoxylated materials, polyols such as polyols and polyol esters, alkyl polyglucosides, EO-PO block copolymers (Poloxamers). Preferably, the emulsifier is selected from ethoxylated materials.

Preferred ethoxylated materials include: fatty acid ethoxylates, fatty amine ethoxylates, fatty alcohol ethoxylates, nonylphenol ethoxylates, alkylphenol ethoxylates, amide ethoxylates, sorbitan (alcohol) ester ethoxylates, glycerol ester ethoxylates (castor oil or hydrogenated castor oil ethoxylates), and mixtures thereof.

More preferably, the emulsifier is selected from ethoxylated surfactants having the general formula:

R ₁ O(R ₂ O) _x H

R ₁ = hydrophobic moiety.

R ₂ ＝C ₂ H ₄ Or C ₂ H ₄ And C ₃ H ₆ A mixture of units.

x =4 to 120

R ₁ Preferably from 8 to 25 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof, more preferably from 10 to 20 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof, and most preferably from 12 to 18 carbon atoms and mixtures thereof. Preferably, R is selected from primary, secondary and branched saturated and/or unsaturated hydrocarbon groups comprising alcohol, carboxyl or phenolic groups. Preferably, R is a natural or synthetic alcohol.

R ₂ Preferably at least 50% C ₂ H ₄ More preferably 75% of C ₂ H ₄ Most preferably R ₂ Is C ₂ H ₄ 。

x is preferably from 8 to 90, and most preferably from 10 to 60.

Examples of commercially available suitable emulsifiers include: genapol C200 from Clariant and Eumulgin CO40 from BASF.

Perfume

The spray composition of the present invention preferably comprises a perfume. It will be appreciated that the compositions described herein enhance the perfume composition in the spray composition. This may be characterized by a stronger fragrance intensity than alternative spray compositions.

The free perfume may be present at a level selected from: less than 10%, less than 8% and less than 5% by weight of the spray composition. The free perfume may be present at a level selected from: greater than 0.0001%, greater than 0.001%, and greater than 0.01% by weight of the spray composition. Suitable free perfumes are present in the spray composition in an amount selected from the range of from about 0.0001% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.001% to about 8%, more preferably from about 0.01% to about 5%, by weight of the spray composition.

Useful perfume components may include materials of natural and synthetic origin. They include single compounds and mixtures. Specific examples of such components can be found in the literature, for example, in the Feraroli's Handbook of flavour Ingredients,1975, CRC Press; synthetic Food adounces, 1947, edited by van Nostrand, by jacobs; or Perfun and flavour Chemicals by S.arctander,1969, montclair, N.J. (USA). These substances are well known to those skilled in the art of perfuming, flavoring and/or aromatizing consumer products.

A wide variety of chemicals are known for fragrance applications, including materials such as aldehydes, ketones, esters, and the like. More commonly, naturally occurring vegetable and animal oils and exudates (comprising complex mixtures of various chemical components) are known for use as perfumes, and such materials can be used herein. Typical perfumes may comprise, for example, woody/earthy substrates containing specialty materials such as sandalwood oil, civet oil, patchouli oil and the like. The fragrance may also be floral, such as rose or violet extract. In addition, the flavors can be formulated to provide a desired fruity odor, such as lime, lemon, or orange. Preferably, the perfume composition of the present invention comprises at least 50 wt% of the naturally occurring oil, more preferably at least 80 wt% of the perfume composition is a naturally occurring oil.

<xnotran> (anetole), , , , , , , ( ), , , , , , , , , , , , , , -3- , , d- , , , , , , α - , , , , , , , , , , , , , α - , β - , γ - , α - , β - , , ( ), , , β - , , , , , , , , flor , (heliotrophine), 3- , , ( - α - ), γ - , , , , β - , , </xnotran> Triethyl citrate, vanillin, veratraldehyde, alpha-cedrene, beta-cedrene, C15H24 sesquiterpene, benzophenone, benzyl salicylate, ethylene glycol brassylate, galaxolide (1, 3,4,6,7, 8-hexahydro-4, 6,7,8, -hexamethyl-cyclo-penta-gamma-2-benzopyran), hexylcinnamaldehyde, neovanillin (4- (4-hydroxy-4-methylpentyl) -3-cyclohexene-10-carbaldehyde), methyl cedryl ketone, methyl dihydrojasmonate, methyl-beta-naphthyl ketone, muskroot-malone, idazone musk (musk-idanone), musk ketone, tibetan musk (musk-betaine), musk xylene, auraxanthin and phenethylphenyl acetate.

The free perfume composition of the present composition comprises a fragrance releasing (blooming) perfume ingredient. The heavy fragrance component is defined by a boiling point below 250 ℃ and a LogP above 2.5. Preferably, the free perfume composition of the present invention comprises at least 10 wt% of perfume releasing ingredients, more preferably at least 20 wt% of perfume releasing ingredients, most preferably at least 25 wt% of perfume releasing ingredients. Preferably, the free perfume composition of the present invention comprises less than 58 wt% of perfume releasing ingredients, more preferably less than 50 wt% of perfume releasing ingredients, most preferably less than 45 wt% of perfume releasing ingredients. Suitably, the free perfume composition of the present composition comprises from 10 to 58 wt% of perfume releasing ingredients, preferably from 20 to 50 wt% of perfume releasing ingredients, more preferably from 25 to 45 wt% of perfume releasing ingredients.

Examples of suitable aroma-releasing perfume ingredients include: alloocimene, allyl heptanoate, trans-anethole, benzyl butyrate, camphene, carvacrol, cis-3-hexenyl tiglate, citronellol, citronellyl acetate, citronellonitrile, cyclohexylethyl acetate, decylaldehyde (decanal), dihydromyrcenol, dihydromyrcene acetate, 3, 7-dimethyl-1-octanol, fenchyl acetate, geranyl formate, geranonitrile, cis-3-hexenyl isobutyrate, hexyl pivalate, hexyl tiglate, alpha-ionone, isobornyl acetate, isobutyl benzoate, isononyl acetate, isononyl alcohol, isohexyl acetate, lauryl aldehyde, linalyl acetate, and mixtures thereof cis-tert-butylcyclohexyl acetate (Lorysia), D-limonene, limonene (Lymolene), (-) -L-menthyl acetate, methyl piperonyl alcohol (Estragole), methyl n-nonyl acetaldehyde, methyl octyl acetaldehyde, beta-myrcene, neryl acetate, nonyl acetate, nonanal, p-cymene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, alpha-terpinene, gamma-terpinene, terpinene (terpinelene), alpha-terpinyl acetate, tetrahydrolinalool, tetrahydromyrcenol, 2-undecenal, o-t-butylcyclohexyl acetate, and p-tert-butylcyclohexyl acetate (4-tert-butylcyclohexyl acetate).

Other useful perfume ingredients comprise enduring (substantive) perfume components. The enduring perfume component is defined by a boiling point above 250 ℃ and a LogP above 2.5. Preferably, the free perfume composition further comprises a long lasting perfume ingredient.

The boiling point is measured at standard pressure (760 mmHg). Preferably, the perfume composition will comprise a mixture of fragrance releasing and enduring perfume components. The perfume composition may comprise other perfume components.

logP of many perfume ingredients has been reported; for example, the Pomona92 database available from Daylight Chemical Information Systems, inc. (Daylight CIS), irvine, calif. contains many, as well as references to the original literature. However, logP values are most conveniently calculated by the "CLOGP" program, which is also available from dayright CIS. The program also lists the experimental logP values available in the Pomona92 database. "calculated logP" (ClogP) is determined by the fragment method of Hansch and Leo (see A Leo, comprehensive Medicinal Chemistry, vol.4, C.Hansch, P.G.Sammens, J.B.Taylor and C.A.Ramsen, eds., p.295, pergamon Press,1990, incorporated herein by reference). The fragmentation method is based on the chemical structure of each perfume ingredient and takes into account the number and type of atoms, atom connectivity and chemical bonds. ClogP values (which is the most reliable and widely used estimate of this physicochemical property) rather than experimental logP values were used in the selection of perfume ingredients herein.

It is common for a variety of perfume ingredients to be present in free oily perfume compositions. In the compositions for use in the present invention, it is envisaged that three or more, preferably four or more, more preferably five or more, most preferably six or more different perfume components will be present. Up to 300 perfume components may be used.

The free perfume of the present invention is in the form of an emulsion. The particle size of the emulsion may range from about 1 nanometer to 30 microns, preferably from about 100 nanometers to about 20 microns. The particle size is measured as the volume mean diameter D [4,3], which can be measured using a Malvern Mastersizer 2000 from a Malvern instrument.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that free perfume of this emulsion particle size will interact with the polymer of the present invention to provide improved perfume longevity on the article being sprayed.

The composition of the invention may also comprise perfume microcapsules.

The composition of the present invention may preferably comprise from 0.1 to 5 wt% of perfume microcapsules, more preferably from 0.5 to 2 wt% of perfume microcapsules. The weight of the microcapsules is of the material as supplied.

When the perfume component is encapsulated, suitable encapsulating materials may include, but are not limited to: aminoplasts, proteins, polyurethanes, polyacrylates, polymethacrylates, polysaccharides, polyamides, polyolefins, gums, silicones, lipids, modified celluloses, polyphosphates, polystyrenes, polyesters, or combinations thereof. Particularly preferred materials are aminoplast microcapsules, for example melamine formaldehyde or urea formaldehyde microcapsules.

The perfume microcapsules of the present invention may be friable microcapsules and/or moisture activated microcapsules. By friable is meant that the perfume microcapsule breaks upon application of force. Moisture activation refers to the release of perfume in the presence of water. The composition of the present invention preferably comprises friable microcapsules. Moisture-activated microcapsules may also be present. Examples of microcapsules that may be friable include aminoplast microcapsules.

The perfume component contained in the microcapsule may comprise an odorous material and/or a pro-perfume material.

Particularly preferred perfume components comprised in the microcapsules are fragrance-releasing perfume components and long-lasting perfume components. The fragrance-releasing perfume component is defined by a boiling point below 250 ℃ and a LogP above 2.5. Preferably, the encapsulated perfume composition comprises at least 20 wt% of the fragrance-releasing perfume ingredients, more preferably at least 30 wt% and most preferably at least 40 wt% of the fragrance-releasing perfume ingredients. The enduring perfume component is defined by a boiling point above 250 ℃ and a LogP above 2.5. Preferably, the encapsulated perfume composition comprises at least 10 wt% of enduring perfume ingredients, more preferably at least 20 wt% and most preferably at least 30 wt% of enduring perfume ingredients. The boiling point is measured at standard pressure (760 mmHg). Preferably, the perfume composition will comprise a mixture of fragrance-releasing and long-lasting perfume components. The perfume composition may comprise other perfume components.

It is common for a variety of perfume components to be present in the microcapsules. In the compositions for use in the present invention, it is envisaged that three or more, preferably four or more, more preferably five or more, most preferably six or more different perfume components will be present in the microcapsule. Up to 300 perfume components may be used.

The microcapsules may comprise a perfume component and a carrier for the perfume ingredient, such as a zeolite or cyclodextrin.

Natural polymers

The fabric sprays of the present invention preferably comprise one or more natural polymers. Natural polymers are polymers that are found in nature or extracted from plants or animals, which include polymers produced by microorganisms in bioreactors.

The polymer needs to be present at a suitable level to ensure that the polymer is present in a sufficient amount to provide a benefit, but not so high as to cause clogging of the nozzles of the spray device from which they are sprayed.

The polymer may be present at a level selected from: less than 1.5%, less than 1%, less than 0.5%, less than 0.45% and less than 0.4% by weight of the spray composition. The polymer may be present at a level selected from: more than 0.01%, more than 0.05% and more than 0.1% by weight of the spray composition. Suitably, the polymer is present in the spray composition in an amount in a range selected from: from about 0.01% to about 1.5%, from about 0.01 to about 1%, from about 0.01 to about 0.5%, preferably from about 0.05% to about 0.45%, more preferably from about 0.1% to about 0.4% by weight of the fabric spray composition.

The molecular weight of the polymer is preferably from 100 to 500,000, more preferably from 1,000 to 250,000, even more preferably from 2,500 to 200,000.

The polymer may have film-forming, adhesive properties or provide a coating on the surface to which it is applied. Preferably, the polymer is a film-forming polymer or a mixture of such polymers. This includes homopolymers or copolymers.

The polymer according to the invention may be any water-soluble or water-dispersible polymer. The functional groups that impart water solubility to the polymer may be selected from hydroxyl, amine, amide or carboxyl groups or mixtures thereof.

The polymers may be cationic, anionic, nonionic or amphoteric. The polymer may be a single type of polymer or a mixture thereof. For all polymers described herein, acids and their salts are intended to be encompassed.

Preferably, the natural polymer is selected from the group consisting of polypeptides and polysaccharides.

Suitable polysaccharide polymers are preferably selected from: cellulose, starch, glycogen, chitin, guar gum, and mixtures thereof. Derivatives of cellulose, starch, glycogen, chitin and guar gum are also preferred.

Examples of preferred polysaccharides include: a cationic cellulose derivative selected from: copolymers of cellulose derivatives, for example, hydroxyalkyl celluloses (e.g., hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose or hydroxypropyl cellulose) grafted with a quaternary ammonium containing water soluble monomer (e.g., glycidyl trimethyl ammonium, methacryloyloxyethyl trimethyl ammonium or methacrylamidopropyl trimethyl ammonium, or dimethyldiallyl ammonium salts) and mixtures thereof, hydroxyethyl cellulose dimethyldiallyl ammonium chloride [ PQ4] sold by Akzo Nobel as Celquat L200, or quaternized hydroxyethyl cellulose [ PQ10] sold by Dow Personal Care as UCARE JR 125. The chitosan and its derivatives are selected from: chitosan and salts of chitosan. The salt may be chitosan acetate, lactate, glutamate, gluconate or pyrrolidine carboxylate, preferably with a degree of hydrolysis of at least 80%; and mixtures thereof. Suitable chitosans include Hydagen HCMF from Cognis.

Most preferably, the polysaccharide is selected from hydroxymethylcellulose or starch-based polymers.

Softening agent:

the spray compositions of the present invention preferably comprise a non-silicone based emollient.

The softening agent may be present at a level selected from: less than 10%, less than 8% and less than 6% by weight of the spray composition. The softening agent may be present at a level selected from: more than 0.5%, more than 1% and more than 1.5% by weight of the spray composition. Suitably, the emollient is present in the spray composition in an amount selected from the range of: from about 0.5% to about 10%, preferably from about 1% to about 8%, more preferably from about 1.5% to about 6%, by weight of the spray composition.

Suitable examples of non-silicone based softeners include fabric softening quaternary ammonium compounds, amines, fatty acid esters, fatty ethers, clays, waxes, polyolefins, sugar polyesters, polymer latexes, synthetic oils, and natural oils. Preferred softeners are fatty esters, fatty ethers and quaternary ammonium compounds, with quaternary ammonium compounds being particularly preferred.

Fatty esters which may be used include fatty monoesters, for example glyceryl monostearate and fatty sugar esters, for example as disclosed in WO 01/46361 (Unilever). Examples of suitable esters include: coconut oil caprylate, hydrogenated ethylhexyl olive oleate, lauryl/myristyl polyricinoleate. Fatty monoesters are preferred. Preferably, the fatty ester comprises from 12 to 40 carbon atoms.

The fatty ether preferably comprises a fatty monoether, such as dioctyl ether. Preferably, the fatty ether contains from 12 to 40 carbon atoms.

For the purposes of the present invention, fabric softening quaternary ammonium compounds are referred to as "esterquats". A particularly preferred material is an ester-linked Triethanolamine (TEA) quaternary ammonium complex comprising a mixture of mono-, di-, and tri-ester linked components. Typically, TEA-based fabric softening complexes comprise a mixture of compounds in the mono-, di-and tri-ester forms, wherein the di-ester linked component comprises no more than 70 wt%, preferably no more than 60 wt%, such as no more than 55%, or even no more than 45% of the fabric softening complex, and at least 10 wt% of the mono-ester linked component.

Typically, TEA-based fabric softening complexes comprise a mixture of compounds in the mono-, di-and tri-ester forms, wherein the di-ester linked component comprises no more than 70 wt%, preferably no more than 60 wt%, such as no more than 55%, or even no more than 45% of the fabric softening complex, and at least 10 wt% of the mono-ester linked component.

Preferably the fabric softening quaternary ammonium complex comprises at least one chain derived from a fatty acid, more preferably at least two chains derived from a fatty acid. Fatty acids are generally defined as aliphatic monocarboxylic acids having a chain of 4 to 28 carbons. Preferably, the fatty acid chain is a palm or tallow fatty acid. Preferably, the fatty acid chains of the QAC comprise 10 to 50 wt.% saturated C18 chains and 5 to 40 wt.% monounsaturated C18 chains, based on total fatty acid chain weight. In a further preferred embodiment, the fatty acid chains of the QAC comprise from 20 to 40 wt.%, preferably from 25 to 35 wt.%, saturated C18 chains and from 10 to 35 wt.%, preferably from 15 to 30 wt.%, monounsaturated C18 chains, based on the weight of total fatty acid chains.

A first group of Quaternary Ammonium Complexes (QACs) suitable for use in the present invention are represented by formula (I):

wherein each R is independently selected from C5 to C35 alkyl or alkenyl; r1 represents C1 to C4 alkyl, C2 to C4 alkenyl or C1 to C4 hydroxyalkyl; t may be O-CO (i.e., an ester group bonded to R through its carbon atom), or may alternatively be CO-O (i.e., an ester group bonded to R through its oxygen atom); n is a number selected from 1 to 4; m is a number selected from 1,2 or 3; x-is an anionic counterion, for example a halide or an alkylsulfate, for example chloride or methylsulfate. The diester variants of formula I (i.e., m = 2) are preferred and typically have mono-and triester analogs associated therewith. Such materials are particularly suitable for use in the present invention.

Suitable actives include softening quaternary ammonium actives, for example, stepandex VT90, rewoquat WE18 (from Evonik), and Tetranyl L1/90N, tetranyl L190 SP and Tetranyl L190S (both from Kao).

Also suitable are actives rich in diesters of triethanolammonium methylsulfate, also known as "TEA ester quats".

Commercial examples include Praepagen ^TM TQ (from Clariant) and Tetranyl ^TM AHT-1 (from Kao) (both di- [ hardened tallow ester of triethanolammonium methylsulfate)]) AT-1 (ditallow ester of triethanolammonium methylsulfate)]) And L5/90 (di- [ palmityl ester of triethanolammonium methylsulfate)]) (both from Kao) and Rewoquat ^TM WE15 (diester of triethanolammonium methylsulfate with fatty acyl residues derived from C10-C20 and C16-C18 unsaturated fatty acids) (from Evonik).

A second group of QACs suitable for use in the present invention are represented by formula (II):

wherein each R1 group is independently selected from C1 to C4 alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, or C2 to C4 alkenyl; and wherein each R2 group is independently selected from C8 to C28 alkyl or alkenyl; and wherein n, T and X-are as defined above.

Preferred materials for this second group include 1, 2-bis [ tallowoyloxy ] -3-trimethylammonium propane hydrochloride, 1, 2-bis [ hardened tallowoyloxy ] -3-trimethylammonium propane hydrochloride, 1, 2-bis [ oleoyloxy ] -3-trimethylammonium propane hydrochloride and 1, 2-bis [ stearoyloxy ] -3-trimethylammonium propane hydrochloride. Such materials are described in US4,137,180 (Lever Brothers). Preferably, these materials also contain a certain amount of the corresponding monoester.

A third group of QACs suitable for use in the present invention is represented by formula (III):

(R ¹ ) ₂ -N ⁺ -[(CH ₂ ) _n -T-R ² ] ₂ X ^- (III)

wherein each R1 group is independently selected from C1 to C4 alkyl, or C2 to C4 alkenyl; and wherein each R2 group is independently selected from C8 to C28 alkyl or alkenyl; n, T and X-are as defined above. Preferred materials of this third group include bis (2-tallowoyloxyethyl) dimethylammonium chloride, partially hardened and hardened forms thereof.

Specific examples of the fourth set of QACs are represented by the following formulas:

a fourth group QAC suitable for use in the present invention is represented by formula (V)

R1 and R2 are independently selected from C10 to C22 alkyl or alkenyl groups, preferably C14 to C20 alkyl or alkenyl groups. X-is as defined above.

The iodine value of the quaternary ammonium fabric conditioning material is preferably from 0 to 80, more preferably from 0 to 60, most preferably from 0 to 45. The iodine value can be appropriately selected. Substantially saturated materials having an iodine value of from 0 to 5, preferably from 0 to 1, may be used in the compositions of the present invention. This material is known as a "hardened" quaternary ammonium compound.

Further preferred ranges of iodine number are from 20 to 60, preferably 25 to 50, more preferably 30 to 45. Materials of this type are "soft" triethanolamine quaternary ammonium compounds, preferably triethanolamine dialkyl ester methosulfate. Such ester-linked triethanolamine quaternary ammonium compounds contain unsaturated fatty chains. If a mixture of quaternary ammonium materials is present in the composition, the above iodine value represents the average iodine value of the parent fatty acyl compound or fatty acid of all the quaternary ammonium materials present. Similarly, if any saturated quaternary ammonium material is present in the composition, the iodine value represents the average iodine value of the fatty acid parent acyl compounds of all the quaternary ammonium materials present.

Iodine value as used in the context of the present invention refers to the fatty acids used to produce the QAC, and the unsaturation present in the material is measured by nmr spectroscopy as described in anal. Chem.,34,1136 (1962) Johnson and Shoolery.

Another type of softening compound may be a non-ester quaternary ammonium material represented by formula (VI):

wherein each R1 group is independently selected from C1 to C4 alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, or C2 to C4 alkenyl; the R2 groups are independently selected from C8 to C28 alkyl or alkenyl groups and X-is as defined above.

Anti-odor agent

The spray composition of the present invention preferably comprises an anti-odor agent. The anti-odor agents enhance the deodorizing effects of the compositions described herein. In the context of the present invention, free perfume is not considered to be an anti-odour agent.

The anti-odor agent may be present at a level selected from: less than 20%, less than 10% and less than 5% by weight of the spray composition. The anti-odor agent is suitably present in the spray composition in an amount selected from the range of from about 0.01% to about 5%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 3%, more preferably from about 0.5% to about 2%, by weight of the spray composition.

Any suitable anti-odor agent may be used. Indeed, the anti-odour effect can be achieved by any compound or product that effectively "captures", "absorbs" or "destroys" the odour molecules, thereby separating or removing the odour from the garment, or acting as an "odour counter (agent)".

The odour control agent is preferably selected from: uncomplexed cyclodextrins, odor blockers, reactive aldehydes, flavonoids, zeolites, activated carbon, mixtures of zinc ricinoleate or solutions thereof, substituted monocyclic organic compounds, prebiotics, and mixtures thereof.

Particularly preferred anti-odour agents are prebiotics. Prebiotics are substances that selectively stimulate the growth and/or activity of one or more microorganisms. In the context of the present invention, prebiotics prevent the development of off-flavours on passing clothes, i.e. the application of prebiotics from spray compositions significantly reduces the development of off-flavours after the clothes have been worn for one day.

Preferably, the prebiotic used in the present invention comprises at least one saccharide unit selected from the group consisting of: galactose, galacturonic acid, mannuronic acid, guluronic acid, dextran, glucose, and combinations thereof. More preferably, the prebiotic comprises at least one saccharide unit selected from the group consisting of: galactose, galacturonic acid, mannuronic acid, guluronic acid, dextran, and combinations thereof. Most preferably, the prebiotic comprises at least one saccharide unit selected from the group consisting of: galactose, galacturonic acid and guluronic acid.

Examples of suitable prebiotics include: pectin (galacturonic acid polymer), lactitol (4-O-alpha-D-galactopyranosyl-D-glucitol), algin ((1-4) -linked beta-D-mannuronate and homopolymers of its alpha-L-guluronic acid ester).

One suitable anti-odor agent is cyclodextrin, suitably water-soluble uncomplexed cyclodextrin. Suitably, the cyclodextrin is present at a level selected from 0.01% to 5%, 0.1% to 4% and 0.5% to 2% by weight of the spray composition.

As used herein, the term "cyclodextrin" encompasses any known cyclodextrin, such as unsubstituted cyclodextrins containing six to twelve glucose units, especially α -cyclodextrin, β -cyclodextrin, γ -cyclodextrin and/or derivatives thereof, and/or mixtures thereof. Alpha-cyclodextrin consists of six glucose units, beta-cyclodextrin consists of seven glucose units, and gamma-cyclodextrin consists of eight glucose units arranged in a doughnut-like ring.

Preferably, the cyclodextrin is highly water soluble, e.g., alpha-cyclodextrin and/or derivatives thereof, gamma-cyclodextrin and/or derivatives thereof, derivatized beta-cyclodextrin and/or mixtures thereof. Derivatives of cyclodextrins are mainly composed of molecules in which some OH groups are converted into OR groups. Cyclodextrin derivatives include, for example, those having a short chain alkyl group, such as methylated cyclodextrins and ethylated cyclodextrins, wherein R is methyl or ethyl; those having hydroxyalkyl-substituted groups, e.g. hydroxypropyl-and/or hydroxyethyl-cyclodextrins, in which R is-CH ₂ -CH(OH)-CH ₃ or-CH ₂ CH ₂ -an OH group; branched cyclodextrins, such as maltose-bonded cyclodextrins; cationic cyclodextrins, e.g. those containing 2-hydroxy-3- (dimethylamino) propyl ether, wherein R is CH ₂ -CH(OH)-CH ₂ -N(CH ₃ ) ₂ Which is cationic at low pH; quaternary amines, e.g. 2-hydroxy-3- (trimethylammonium) propyl ether chloride radical, in which R is CH ₂ -CH(OH)-CH ₂ -N ⁺ (CH ₃ ) ₃ Cl ^- (ii) a Anionic cyclodextrins such as carboxymethyl cyclodextrin, cyclodextrin sulfate, and cyclodextrin succinate, and the like; amphoteric cyclodextrins, such as carboxymethyl/quaternary ammonium cyclodextrins; cyclodextrins wherein at least one glucopyranose unit has a 3-6-anhydro-cyclomaltose structure, such as mono-3-6-anhydro cyclodextrin.

Highly water-soluble cyclodextrins are those which have a water solubility of at least about 10g in 100ml of water at room temperature, preferably at least about 20g in 100ml of water, more preferably at least about 25g in 100ml of water at room temperature. The availability of dissolved, uncomplexed cyclodextrins is critical for effective and efficient odor control performance. Dissolved water-soluble cyclodextrins can exhibit more effective odor control properties when deposited on surfaces, especially fabrics, than water-insoluble cyclodextrins.

Examples of preferred water-soluble cyclodextrin derivatives suitable for use herein are hydroxypropyl α -cyclodextrin, methylated β -cyclodextrin, hydroxyethyl β -cyclodextrin and hydroxypropyl β -cyclodextrin. Hydroxyalkyl cyclodextrin derivatives preferably have a degree of substitution of from about 1 to about 14, more preferably from about 1.5 to about 7, wherein the total number of OR groups per cyclodextrin is defined as the degree of substitution. Methylated cyclodextrin derivatives generally have a degree of substitution of from about 1 to about 18, preferably from about 3 to about 16. A known methylated beta-cyclodextrin is hepta-2, 6-di-O-methyl-beta-cyclodextrin, commonly known as DIMEB, with about 2 methyl groups per glucose unit and a degree of substitution of about 14. A preferred, more commercially available methylated beta-cyclodextrin is a randomly methylated beta-cyclodextrin, commonly known as RAMEB, having a varying degree of substitution, typically about 12.6.RAMEB is more preferred than DIMEB because DIMEB affects the surface activity of preferred surfactants more than RAMEB. Preferred cyclodextrins can be obtained, for example, from Cerestar u.s.a., inc, and Wacker Chemicals (u.s.a.), inc.

In embodiments, a mixture of cyclodextrins is used.

"odor blockers" may be used as anti-odor agents to mitigate the effects of off-flavors. <xnotran> 4- -4- -2- ,4- ,4- , ,3- ,4- ,2- -4- ,2- -5- ,4- ,4- ,4- ,2,4- ,2,3- ,2,2- ,3,3- ,4,4- ,3,3,5- ,2,2,6- , 1- -1- , 1- -1- , 1- -1- , 1- -1- , 1- -1- , 1- -1- , 1- -1- , 1- -2- -1- ,2- -2- ,2- -2- ,2- -2- , </xnotran> 2-cyclohexyl-2-propyl n-butyrate, 5-dimethyl-1, 3-cyclohexanedione (dimedone), 2-dimethyl-1, 3-dioxane-4, 6-dione (Meldrum's acid), spiro- [4.5] -6, 10-dioxa-7, 9-dioxodecane, spiro- [5.5] -1, 5-dioxa-2, 4-dioxoundecane, 2-hydroxymethyl-1, 3-dioxane-4, 6-dione and 1, 3-cyclohexanedione. US4,009,253; US4,187,251; US4,719,105; US5,441,727; and odor blockers are disclosed in more detail in US5,861,371, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The reactive aldehydes may be used as anti-odor agents to mitigate the effects of off-flavors. Examples of suitable reactive aldehydes include class I aldehydes and class II aldehydes. Examples of class I aldehydes include anisaldehyde, o-allyl-vanillin, benzaldehyde, cuminaldehyde, ethyl anisaldehyde, ethyl-vanillin, piperonal, tolualdehyde, and vanillin. Examples of the type II aldehydes include 3- (4 '-tert-butylphenyl) propionaldehyde, 2-methyl-3- (4' -isopropylphenyl) propionaldehyde, 2-dimethyl-3- (4-ethylphenyl) propionaldehyde, cinnamaldehyde, α -pentyl-cinnamaldehyde and α -hexyl-cinnamaldehyde. These reactive aldehydes are described in more detail in US5,676,163. When used, the reactive aldehyde may comprise a combination of at least two aldehydes, wherein one aldehyde is selected from the group consisting of acyclic aliphatic aldehydes, non-terpene alicyclic aldehydes, terpene aldehydes, aliphatic aldehydes substituted with aromatic groups, and difunctional aldehydes; and the second aldehyde is selected from the group consisting of aldehydes having unsaturation alpha to the aldehyde functionality conjugated to the aromatic ring, and aldehydes wherein the aldehyde group is on the aromatic ring. Such a combination of at least two aldehydes is described in more detail in WO 00/49120. As used herein, the term "reactive aldehyde" further comprises an odor-reducing material that is the reaction product of (i) an aldehyde with an alcohol, (ii) a ketone with an alcohol, or (iii) an aldehyde with the same or a different aldehyde. Such odour-reducing materials may be: (a) Acetals or hemiacetals produced by reacting aldehydes with methanol; (b) Ketals or hemiketals produced by the reaction of ketones with methanol; (c) Cyclic tri-acetals (triacetals) or mixed cyclic tri-acetals of at least two aldehydes, or any mixture of these acetals, hemiacetals, ketals, hemiketals, or cyclic tri-acetals. These odour-reducing perfume materials are described in more detail in WO 01/07095, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Flavonoids are also used as anti-odorants. Flavonoids are compounds based on the C6-C3-C6 flavan skeleton. Flavonoids can be found in typical essential oils. These oils include essential oils extracted from conifers and grasses (e.g., cedar, japanese cypress, eucalyptus, japanese red pine, dandelion, low bamboo, and geranium) by dry distillation, and may contain terpene substances, such as α -pinene, β -pinene, myrcene, phenocene, and camphene. Also comprises extract from tea leaves. Descriptions of such materials can be found in JP 02284997 and JP 04030855, which are incorporated herein by reference.

Metal salts can also be used as anti-odor agents for odor control benefits. Examples include metal salts of fatty acids. Ricinoleic acid is a preferred fatty acid. Zinc salts are preferred metal salts. The zinc salt of ricinoleic acid is particularly preferred. The commercially available product is TEGO Sorb A30 from Evonik. Further details of suitable metal salts are provided below.

Zeolites can be used as anti-odor agents. One useful class of zeolites is characterized as "intermediate" silicate/aluminate zeolites. The intermediate zeolite is characterized by SiO ₂ /AlO ₂ The molar ratio is less than about 10. SiO is preferred ₂ /AlO ₂ The molar ratio ranges from about 2 to about 10. Intermediate zeolites may have advantages over "high" zeolites. Intermediate zeolites have a higher affinity for amine-type odors, are more weight-efficient for odor absorption due to their larger surface area, and are more resistant to moisture and retain more odor-absorbing capacity in water than high zeolites. Various intermediate zeolites suitable for use herein are available as

CP301-68、

300-63、

CP300-35 and

CP300-56, commercially available from PQ Corporation, and as

The series of zeolites was obtained from Conteka. Available under The trade name of The Union Carbide Corporation and UOP

And

zeolitic materials which are sold are also preferred. These materials are superior to intermediate zeolites in controlling sulfur-containing odors, e.g., thiophenols (thiols), mercaptans (mercaptans). Suitably, the zeolite material has a particle size of less than about 10 microns and is present in the spray composition at a level of less than about 1% by weight of the spray composition.

Activated carbon is another suitable anti-odor agent. Suitable carbon materials are known adsorbents for organic molecules and/or for air purification purposes. Typically, such carbon materials are referred to as "activated" carbon or "activated" charcoal. Can be called Calgon-Type

Type

Type

Type

And Type

Such trade names of (a) obtain such carbons from commercial sources. Suitably, the activated carbon preferably has a particle size of less than about 10 microns and is present in the spray composition at a level of less than about 1% by weight of the spray composition.

Exemplary anti-odor agents are as follows.

ODOBAN ^TM Manufactured and distributed by Clean Central corp. Of Warner Robins, ga. The active ingredient is alkyl (C14%, C12%, and C16%) dimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, which is an antimicrobial quaternary ammonium compound. The alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride is in a solution of water and isopropanol. Another product of Clean Control Corp is BIOODOUR CONTROL ^TM Comprising water, bacterial spores, alkylphenol ethoxylates and propylene glycol.

ZEOCRYSTAL FRESH AIR MIST ^TM Manufactured and distributed by the Zeo Crystal corp., of Crestwood, il (also known as American Zeolite Corporation). The liquid comprises chlorite, oxygen, sodium, carbonate, and citrus extract, and may comprise zeolite.

The odour control agent may comprise an "odour counteractant" as described in US2005/0113282A1, which is incorporated herein by reference. In particular, the odour counteracting agent may comprise a mixture of zinc ricinoleate or a solution thereof and a substituted monocyclic organic compound as described in page 2, paragraph 17, wherein the substituted monocyclic organic compound is, optionally or in combination, one or more of:

1-cyclohexyleth-1-ylbutyrate;

1-cyclohexyleth-1-yl acetate;

1-cyclohexylethan-1-ol;

1- (4' -methylethyl) cyclohexyleth-1-ylpropionate; and

2 '-hydroxy-1' -ethyl (2-phenoxy) acetate.

A synergistic combination of off-note counteracting agents is suitable, for example, a composition comprising:

(i) About 10 to about 90 parts by weight of at least one substituted monocyclic organic compound-containing material which is:

(a) 1-cyclohexyleth-1-ylbutyrate having the following structure:

(b) 1-cyclohexyleth-1-ylacetate having the following structure:

(c) 1-cyclohexylethan-1-ol having the following structure:

(d) 1- (4' -methylethyl) cyclohexyleth-1-ylpropionate having the following structure:

and

(e) 2 '-hydroxy-1' -ethyl (2-phenoxy) acetate having the following structure:

and

(ii) From about 90 to about 10 parts by weight of a composition containing zinc ricinoleate which is a zinc ricinoleate and/or a zinc ricinoleate solution containing greater than about 30% by weight of zinc ricinoleate. Preferably, the above zinc ricinoleate-containing composition is a mixture of about 50% by weight of zinc ricinoleate and about 50% by weight of at least one 1-hydroxy-2-ethoxyethyl ether. More specifically, a preferred composition useful in combination with the zinc ricinoleate component is a mixture of:

(A) 1-cyclohexyleth-1-ylbutyrate;

(B) 1-cyclohexyleth-1-yl acetate; and

(C) 1- (4' -methylethyl) cyclohexyleth-1-ylpropionate.

More preferably, the weight ratio of the components of the zinc ricinoleate-containing mixture mentioned immediately above is a composition wherein the zinc ricinoleate-containing composition 1-cyclohexyleth-1-ylbutyrate 1-cyclohexyleth-1-ylacetate 1- (4' -methylethyl) -cyclohexyleth-1-ylpropionate is about 2.

Another preferred composition useful in combination with the zinc ricinoleate component or solution is a mixture of:

(A) 1-cyclohexyleth-1-yl acetate; and

(B) 1- (4' -methylethyl) cyclohexyleth-1-ylpropionate.

More preferably, the weight ratio of the components of the mixture of zinc ricinoleate just mentioned above is a composition wherein the zinc ricinoleate-containing composition 1-cyclohexyleth-1-yl acetate: 1- (4' -methylethyl) cyclohexyleth-1-yl propionate is about 3.

The odour resistant materials of the present invention may be "free" in the composition or they may be encapsulated. Suitable encapsulating materials may include, but are not limited to: aminoplasts, proteins, polyurethanes, polyacrylates, polymethacrylates, polysaccharides, polyamides, polyolefins, gums, silicones, lipids, modified celluloses, polyphosphates, polystyrenes, polyesters, or combinations thereof. Particularly preferred encapsulating materials are aminoplasts, such as melamine formaldehyde or urea formaldehyde. The microcapsules of the present invention may be friable microcapsules and/or moisture activated microcapsules. By friable is meant that the perfume microcapsule breaks upon application of force. Moisture activation refers to the release of perfume in the presence of water.

To the extent that any material described herein as an odour control agent can also be classified as another component as described herein, such material should be classified as an odour control agent for the purposes of the present invention.

pH

The pH of the spray composition of the present invention is preferably 2 to 12.

Other ingredients

Other optional ingredients may be present in the aqueous spray compositions of the present invention. For example, the aqueous spray composition may further comprise: colorants/dyes, preservatives, viscosity control agents, microcapsules containing benefit agents, structurants/dispersants, solvents, defoamers for processing aids, and the like.

Spray bottle

The composition is a fabric spray composition. This means that the composition is suitable for spraying onto fabrics. They may be sprayed by any suitable spraying means.

Preferably, the spraying device is a manually operable spraying device in the sense that the spraying mechanism is manually operable to discharge a dose of said composition from the nozzle.

The ejection mechanism may be operated by an actuator. The actuator may be a push actuator or a pull actuator. The actuator may comprise a trigger. The spray mechanism may comprise a manual pump. Optionally, the pump is one of: a positive displacement pump; a self-priming pump; a reciprocating pump. Suitable spray devices include trigger sprays, continuous/semi-continuous sprays, finger pump sprays, vibrating mesh device output sprays.

Preferably, the spray device is operable without the use of a propellant. Indeed, propellant-free spray devices are preferred. This allows the spray to maintain product integrity and purity, be free of propellant contamination, and preferably be environmentally friendly.

Preferably, the injection device is pressurized. This may improve injection duration and speed. Preferably, the spraying device is pressurised by a gas chamber separate from the reservoir containing the composition. The gas is preferably air or nitrogen. The spray device may comprise an outer container containing the composition and the pressurizing agent, wherein the composition is isolated from the pressurizing agent by being enclosed in a flexible bag, preferably hermetically sealed. This maintains complete formulation integrity so that only pure (i.e., not containing a pressurizing agent) compositions are dispensed. The preferred system is the so-called "bag-in-can" (or BOV, bag-on-valve technology). Alternatively, the injection device may comprise a piston barrier mechanism, such as Earth safe by Crown Holdings.

Preferably, the spraying device comprises a biodegradable plastics material.

The spray mechanism may further comprise a nebulizer configured to break up said liquid dose into droplets and thereby facilitate the generation of said fine aerosol in the form of a mist. Conveniently, the atomiser may comprise at least one of: a swirl chamber and a transverse dispersion chamber. Suitably, an atomiser is used to mix air with the aqueous fabric spray composition.

The particle size of the preparation at the time of spraying is preferably not more than 300. Mu.m, preferably not more than 250. Mu.m, preferably not more than 150. Mu.m, preferably not more than 125. Mu.m, preferably not more than 100. Mu.m. The particle size of the formulation when sprayed is preferably at least 5 μm, preferably at least 10 μm, preferably at least 15 μm, preferably at least 20 μm, preferably at least 30 μm, preferably at least 40 μm. Suitably, the spray comprises droplets having an average diameter in the range of preferably 5 to 300 μm, more preferably 10 to 250 μm, most preferably 15 to 150 μm. This size allows a balance between uniform distribution and adequate wetting of the fabric without potential fabric damage from excessive application of certain ingredients. The droplet size can be measured on a Malvern Spraytec instrument, where the peak maximum corresponds to the average droplet size. The parameter droplet size is the volume average diameter, D4, 3.

Suitably, after actuation, the injection has a duration in the range of at least 0.4 seconds. Preferably, the spray has a duration of at least 0.8 seconds. Longer durations minimize workload by maximizing the coverage per injection device actuation. This is an important factor for designing a product for the full area of a garment. Preferably, the duration of the spray is directly related to the actuation such that the spray output continues as long as the actuator is activated (e.g., as long as a button or trigger is pressed).

The spray reservoir may be a non-pressurized, manually or mechanically pre-pressurized device. The above also refers to removable/refillable reservoirs.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a replacement reservoir for a spray product according to the above aspect, which is pre-filled with a volume of the spray composition to replenish the product. A suitable "refill kit" comprises one or more reservoirs. In the case of more than one reservoir, for example, two, three, four, five or more reservoirs, the contents of each reservoir (aqueous fabric spray composition) may be the same or different from the other reservoirs.

Dosage form

Conveniently, the spray composition is provided as a liquid and said spray mechanism is operable to expel a dose of at least 0.1ml, preferably at least 0.2ml, more preferably at least 0.25ml, more preferably at least 0.3ml, more preferably at least 0.35ml, more preferably at least 0.4ml, more preferably at least 0.45ml, and most preferably at least 0.5 ml.

Suitably, the dose does not exceed 2ml, preferably does not exceed 1.8ml, preferably does not exceed 1.6ml, more preferably does not exceed 1.5ml, more preferably does not exceed 1.4ml, more preferably does not exceed 1.3ml, and most preferably does not exceed 1.2ml.

Suitably, the dose is from 0.1 to 2ml of the liquid spray composition, preferably from 0.2 to 1.8ml, more preferably from 0.25 to 1.6ml, more preferably from 0.25 to 1.5ml, and most preferably from 0.25 to 1.2ml.

These doses have been found to be particularly effective in achieving the desired spray effect without the formation of unsightly and wasteful large droplets.

The dose may alternatively be defined as milliliters per square meter of fabric. Preferably, the spray composition of the present invention is applied at 0.1 to 20ml per square meter. More preferably 0.5 to 15ml per square meter and most preferably 1 to 10ml per square meter.

Application method

In one aspect, a method of reducing odor or a method of preventing odor from developing on a fabric surface is provided. This is achieved by spraying the composition described herein onto a fabric that has been worn for a period of time. In other words, this can be described as a method of reducing the frequency with which clothes need to be washed, which allows the consumer to wear longer before the clothes need to be washed.

This method may also be used to reduce wrinkles, prevent wrinkles from forming, or prevent the fabric from stiffening.

Use of

In one aspect, there is provided a use of a composition as described herein. The composition can be used for reducing the odor of fabrics or preventing the generation of odor. Alternatively, sprays as described herein may be used to reduce wrinkles, prevent wrinkle formation, or prevent fabric stiffening.

Examples

Example formulations:

dioctyl ether ¹ Cetiol OE from BASF

Hydrogenated ethylhexyl olive acid ester (and) hydrogenated olive oil unsaponifiables ² Plantasens Olive LD from Clarient

Hydrogenated castor oil ³ Eumulgin CO40 from BASF

Prebiotics ⁴ Pectin from Sigma Aldrich

Hydrogen sulfide test:

when bacteria are given any sulfur source (L-cysteine hydrochloride or L-cystine dihydrochloride), they produce hydrogen sulfide gas. The production of hydrogen sulfide can be measured using lead acetate test paper, which darkens when it reacts with hydrogen sulfide to produce lead sulfide. The change in color can be quantified using the values of la b measured by the spectrometer.

4 volunteers wear a tulle blouse for 12 hours. The underarm area of each shirt was cut into samples, one untreated and the other sprayed once with composition 1. The samples were then placed in the wells of growth medium (tryptic soy casein broth with 0.2% L-cysteine hydrochloride). Lead acetate test paper was placed over the hole attached to the inside base of the lid. After 24 hours, the lead acetate strips were removed and the values of la b were measured. The Δ E for each test lead acetate strip sample was then calculated by comparing the measured values of la b with the values of la b of the unused (control) lead acetate strip using the following formula:

wherein:

l2, a 2, b 2 are values for testing lead acetate test strips

L1, a1, b 1 are values of reference lead acetate test paper

	Untreated	Composition 1
			Delta E values relative to white control	39	24

A lower Δ E means that the lead acetate paper is lighter, which means that it reacts less hydrogen sulfide, indicating a lower level of off-taste.

Claims

1. A fabric spray composition for reducing odor comprising:

0.1 to 15 wt% of an emollient;

0.5 to 15% by weight of an emulsifier; and

c. water;

wherein the emollient has a spreading value of greater than 800mm per 10 minutes ² 。

2. The odor reducing fabric spray composition of claim 1 wherein the emollient is formed from a C12 to C22 vegetable oil.

3. The odor-reducing fabric spray composition of any of the preceding claims wherein the spreading factor of the emollient is greater than 1300mm per 10 minutes ² 。

4. The odor reducing fabric spray composition of any of the preceding claims wherein the emulsifier is nonionic.

5. The odor reducing fabric spray composition of any of the preceding claims wherein the composition further comprises a perfume.

6. The odor reducing fabric spray composition of any of the preceding claims wherein the composition further comprises a natural polymer.

7. The odor reducing fabric spray composition of any preceding claim, wherein the composition further comprises a softener.

8. The odor reducing fabric spray composition of any preceding claim, wherein the composition further comprises an anti-odor agent.

9. The reduced odor fabric spray composition according to any claim 8 wherein the anti-odor agent comprises a prebiotic anti-odor agent.

10. A method of reducing odor wherein a fabric is sprayed with a composition according to any preceding claim.

11. A method of preventing the development of malodors on the surface of fabrics, wherein fabrics are sprayed with a composition according to any of the preceding claims.

12. Use of a spray composition to reduce and/or reduce the generation of through-the-clothes malodour, wherein the composition comprises:

0.1 to 15 wt% of an emollient;

0.5 to 15% by weight of an emulsifier; and

c. and (3) water.