JP2002512854A - Cloth disinfection method - Google Patents

Abstract

  (57) [Summary] A method of disinfecting a textile product contaminated by one or more microorganisms. The method includes the steps of (a) placing the fabric product with a cleaning / healing composition comprising water in a vapor-exhausting bag; and (b) providing the vapor-exhausting bag with sufficient heat. Exposing the water to a heat source that evaporates the water, thereby exposing the microorganisms to the resulting water vapor. This method kills at least 50% of the microorganisms. The cleaning / recovery composition comprises 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy) phenol, trichlorocarbanalide, hydrogen peroxide, other oxygen bleaches, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol, iodine / Iodophors, chlorohexidine, phenol, phospholipids, thymol, eugeniol, geraniol, lemongrass oil, limonene and mixtures thereof. The process of the present invention preferably comprises 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy) phenol, trichlorocarbanalide, hexachlorophene, chlorohexazine, o-phenylphenol, benzylquarternium salt, and salts thereof. Pretreating at least a portion of the fabric with a pretreatment composition comprising an antimicrobial agent selected from the group consisting of a mixture.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a disinfection method for use on fabrics or other solid objects.

[0002] a background object small invention, for example dishes, infant toys and paraphernalia, tools to arrange the dressed, for example a comb or brush, is equal, by applying various bactericidal chemicals to them, against bacteria Can be disinfected. However, such drugs may not be effective against fungi. In either case, disinfecting large objects, such as clothing, by directly applying the germicidal chemical is expensive and inconvenient. The present invention
It provides an effective disinfection method that can be used at home and is particularly useful for treating clothing in a non-immersion method. In particular, a method of disinfecting clothing at home is disclosed.

[0003] Consumers also need to disinfect and "recover" so-called fabrics, along with the stain and dye removal aspects of typical dry fabric treatment methods. For example, lint,
Clothing that has tangled hair or other solid debris on its surface, may have adsorbed odors, or has wrinkled or otherwise lost its fresh appearance may be subjected to conventional commercial dry cleaning methods. Often, they mainly recover their freshness. Such methods also help disinfect clothing by removing or killing microorganisms.

Attempts have been made to provide a dry cleaning method at home. One type of non-immersion method in the home for washing and restoring garments comprises a plurality of disposable carrier sheets containing various liquid or gelled cleaning agents and reusable plastic storage bags. The clothes are placed in a bag with the sheets and tumbled while heating in a conventional clothes dryer. After washing and recovering the garment, bags that may retain traces of moisture can be stored for reuse when the method is repeated.

[0005] When properly constructed and operated here, the method of the present invention kills or inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that may be present on dirty objects, such as dirty clothing. I found that I could do it. Unexpectedly, fungi are killed or their growth is arrested when performed in the vapor evacuation mode of the present invention. Furthermore, there is the advantage that the inner surface of the storage bag is also disinfected. Thus, when storing the bag until the next use, the growth of "white mold" and bacteria in the bag is minimized.

[0006] The use of _{H 2 O} 2 in the background art sterilization method, US Pat. No. 4,230,663, Forstrom, et al., 1980 October 28 promulgated, and the 4,169,12
No. 4, Forstrom, et al., Promulgated on September 25, 1979, and No. 4,16.
9,153, Moor, et al., Promulgated on September 25, 1979. International Patent No. WO97 / 00993A1, published January 9, 1997, Weller, et al., WO97 / 00990A2, published January 9, 1997, Tyerech, et al., British Patent No. 2 , 302, 553A, 1997
Published January 22, 2012, Telesca, et al., 2,302,878A, 19
Weller, et al., Published Feb. 5, 1997, and No. 2,302,879A, published Feb. 5, 1997, Sidoti, et al., All relate to fabric washing in a dryer. U.S. Pat. No. 4,532,722, SH Sax, issued Aug. 6, 1985, relates to a fabric conditioner for use in a laundry dryer. Peracid-containing dry cleaning compositions are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,013,575, H. Castrantas, et.
al., promulgated March 22, 1977. The dry cleaning method is described in US Pat. No. 5,591,236, issued Jan. 7, 1997 to Roetker, U.S. Pat. No. 5,547,476, issued Aug. 20, 1996, by Siklosi and
Promulgated to Roetker, European Patent Application No. 429,172A1, 29.0.
5.91 Publication, Leigh, et al. And US Pat. No. 5,238,587,
Proposed on 8/24/93, Smith, et al. Other documents relating to dry cleaning compositions and methods and the treatment of fabric wrinkles include British Patent No. 1
No. 4,598,911, and U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,126,563, 3,949,137, 3,593,544, and 3,647,
354, 3,432,253 and 1,747,324, and German Patent Application 2,021,561 and 2,460.
, 239, 0,208,989 and 4,007,362.
There is an issue specification. Cleaning / pre-dying compositions and methods are described, for example, in US Pat.
No. 102,573, No. 5,041,230, No. 4,909,96
No. 2, No. 4,115,061, No. 4,886,615,
Nos. 4,139,475, 4,849,257, 5,112
No. 4,358,496, No. 4,806,254, No. 5,213,624, No. 4,130,392, and No. 4,358,496. 395,261. Sheet substrates for use in laundry dryers are disclosed in Canadian Patent No. 1,005,204. U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,956,556 and 4,007,300 relate to perforated sheets for fabric conditioning in a fabric dryer. US Patent No. 4,69
No. 2,277 discloses the use of 1,2-octanediol in a liquid cleaner. U.S. Pat. No. 3,591,510, U.S. Pat. No. 3,737
No. 3,387, No. 3,764,544, No. 3,882,038, No. 3,907,496, No. 4,097,397, No. 4,
102,824, 4,336,024, 4,594,36
No. 2, No. 4,606,842, No. 4,758,641,
No. 4,797,310, No. 4,802,997, No. 4,943
, 392, 4,966,724, 4,983,317, 5,004,557, 5,062,973, 5,
080,822, 5,173,200, European Patent 0
No. 213500, No. 0261718, British Patent 1,397,4
No. 75, International Patent No. WO91 / 09104, WO91 / 131
No. 45, WO 93/25654, and Hunt, DG and NH
See also Morris, "PnB and DPnB glycol ethers", HAPPI , April 1989, pages 78-82.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention includes a method of disinfecting a textile product that is contaminated with one or more microorganisms. The method comprises the steps of: (a) placing the fabric product together with a cleaning composition comprising water in a steam-evacuable bag; (b) providing the steam-evacuable bag with sufficient heat to evaporate the water. Exposed heat source,
Exposing the microorganisms to the water vapor obtained thereby, killing at least 50% of the microorganisms.

[0008] The cleaning / recovery composition of the present invention preferably comprises from about 0.05 to about 3% by weight, preferably from about 0.1 to about 2% by weight, more preferably from about 0.1 to about 1% by weight. , 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy) phenol, trichlorocarbanalide (t
richlorocarbanalide), hydrogen peroxide, other oxygen bleaches, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol, iodine / iodophors, chlorohexidine (
(Chlorohexidine), phenol, phospholipid, thymol, eugeniol, geraniol, lemongrass oil, limonene and mixtures thereof.

[0009] The cleaning / healing composition preferably comprises alkyl alkoxy sulfates, linear alkyl benzene sulfonates, amine oxides, polyhydroxy fatty acid amides, ethoxylated alcohols, diamines, amides, alkyl polyglucosides, betaines, and mixtures thereof. Further comprising a second antimicrobial selected from the group. A fully formulated composition typically contains water, a nonionic surfactant,
It comprises a fragrance and one or more antimicrobial agents.

In a preferred manner, the composition is releasably absorbed in a carrier, especially a carrier in sheet form. Most preferably, the carrier comprises a fibrous hydroentangled web.

The method of the present invention preferably causes the vessel to tumbl with simultaneous heating and evacuation. In a convenient manner, the source of heat and tumbling motion is an integrated device, such as a conventional hot air garment dryer.

[0012] The container used in the method is preferably a flexible bag. The bag is designed for reuse and is most preferably heat resistant. As described in more detail below, preferred containers have a vapor emission equilibrium (VVE) rating of at least about 40.
, Preferably at least about 60, more preferably about 90 or less, most preferably about 80 or less.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of the present invention, a pretreatment step is performed. In the pre-treatment step, the pre-treatment composition is applied to at least a portion of the fabric product, wherein the pre-treatment composition preferably comprises about 0.05 to about 3% by weight, preferably about 0.1 to about 3% by weight. 2% by weight, more preferably about 0.1 to about 1% by weight, of 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy) phenol, trichlorocarbanalide, hexachlorophen, chlorohexazine, o-phenylphenol Benzyl quaternium salts, and antimicrobial agents selected from the group consisting of mixtures thereof. Most preferably, the pretreatment composition comprises 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy) phenol. The pre-treatment step is particularly effective in controlling malodorous compounds that are commonly associated with human body odor.

Unless otherwise indicated, all percentages, ratios and proportions are by weight. All cited documents are relevant and are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0015] DETAILED DESCRIPTION principles of disinfection and sterilization in various conditions of the invention are well known, with respect to exemplary methods may Referring to standard textbooks. Examples of various microorganisms, hereinafter collectively referred to as "microorganisms", include pathogenic bacteria, bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi / spores and mixtures thereof. Microorganisms have been shown to be killed or inactivated by various agents. Dead microorganisms are often classified as "cidal", and inactive microorganisms are often classified as "static". This distinction is made according to the present invention because dead and inactive microorganisms are collectively referred to as "killed" and all agents that "kill" microorganisms are collectively referred to as "antimicrobial agents" or "fungicides". Is not important. Microbial activity includes concentration, pH, exposure time to antimicrobial agents, etc. (
(But not limited to) may be affected by additional factors.

By “bacteria” is meant here all prokaryotic microorganisms having a single cell or non-cellular body, round, rod-like, spiral or filamentous.

[0017] The "fungi" and "fungi / spores" herein include saprophytes and parasitic lower-grade plants deficient in chlorophyll, and include mold, mildew, rust, smut, yeast, and the like. It means all eukaryotic (Eumcophyta) microorganisms.

“White mold” and “mold” are defined herein as Erysiphaceae and Peronosporacea
It is a general term that refers to all unwanted fungal growth, often coming from, but not limited to, the family e. Mildew is a term that is often used to collectively refer to unwanted fungal growth on solid objects, including clothing.

“Disinfection” means that the majority of microorganisms on the textile product being treated are killed. "Majority" means at least about 50 microorganisms on the textile product being treated.
%, Preferably at least about 90%, more preferably at least about 95%, most preferably at least about 99% is killed.

The present invention encompasses a method of killing microorganisms using a cleaning / healing composition comprising a steam-evacuable bag and water. However, the present cleaning / recovery compositions can include an antimicrobial agent so long as the surfactant used herein is not adversely affected in order to obtain an antimicrobial effect. Examples of antibacterial agents include 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy) phenol, trichlorocarbanalide, hydrogen peroxide, other oxygen bleaches, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol, iodine / Iodophors, selected alcohols, chlorohexidine, phenol, phospholipids, thymol, eugeniol, geraniol, lemongrass oil, limonene and mixtures thereof. Certain quaternary surfactants may also exhibit antimicrobial activity and can be formulated as secondary antimicrobial agents.

Certain surfactants also exhibit antimicrobial activity. Examples of surfactants useful herein as antimicrobial agents include anionic, cationic, nonionic, and amphoteric surfactants. Preferred examples are alkyl alkoxy sulfates, including alkyl ethoxy sulfates, linear alkyl benzene sulfonates, amine oxides,
Polyhydroxy fatty acid amides, ethoxylated alcohols, diamines, amides, alkyl polyglucosides, betaines, and mixtures thereof. When the antimicrobial agent is a cationic surfactant, it is preferred that the cationic surfactant is not a quaternary ammonium surfactant.

Wash / Recovery Product The wash / recovery composition of the present invention is preferably retained in a vapor-expelling bag via an absorbent carrier, which carrier is preferably in sheet form;
More preferably, it is wrapped with a cover sheet. The individual materials used to assemble the absorbent raw carrier of the present invention are commercially available. The terms used to describe such materials have their ordinary meaning. For clarity, certain terms used herein are defined in the present text. The following description relates primarily to the use of the present invention for cleaning, restoring, and disinfecting fabrics, such as clothing. However, of course, other types of solid objects can be disinfected using the same technique.

As used herein, an absorbent green carrier may comprise a simple absorbent sheet, preferably constructed from a hydroentangled mat of fibers, described in more detail below. As shown in FIG. 1, a preferred product of this type (1
) Is the uppermost fibrous sheet (1a), the absorbent carrier sheet as the core (
It can be assembled as a laminate comprising 1b) and the lowermost fibrous sheet (1c). The combination of topsheet and bottomsheet comprises a "coversheet" that helps prevent water seepage into the fabric that comes into contact with the product during the process of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows the assembled laminate product (1). FIG. 2 also shows a bond (1f) extending around the product. The purpose of this bond is for the absorbent carrier core to maintain its original shape relative to the coversheet when the product is being used in the manner of the present invention. Briefly, if the absorbent sheet comprising the core is not adhered to the "envelope" provided by the cover sheet in use, the carrier sheet will tend to curl and set inside the cover sheet. This makes it difficult for the cleaning / healing composition to spread over the fabric being treated.

In addition, it has been found that it is not desirable to firmly adhere the cover sheet to the carrier sheet over the entire surface of the carrier sheet. If the cover sheet is firmly adhered to the carrier sheet, some of the liquid may migrate through the cover sheet. Accordingly, the carrier sheet is preferably adhered to the cover sheet only in areas that are individually separated. In one embodiment shown in FIG. 2, this bonding is only at the periphery of the product. In another embodiment, spot bonding can be performed in discrete areas across the surface of the product. Various other bond patterns can also be used. Preferably, the bonding occurs less than about 50% of the product area, more preferably less than about 10% of the product area, and most preferably less than about 1% of the product area.

Cover Sheet The cover sheet used herein is distinguished from the carrier base sheet by its relatively low absorbency for the liquid cleaning / recovery composition as compared to the carrier sheet. The coversheet is made from hydrophobic fibers that do not tend to absorb, "suck" or facilitate the transfer of fluid. Fluid may pass through the voids between the fibers of the coversheet, which mainly occurs when excessive pressure is applied to the product. Thus, under typical conditions of use, the coversheet provides a physical barrier and prevents the absorbent carrier impregnated with the aqueous cleaning / recovery composition from coming into direct contact with the fabric being treated. However, the coversheet allows the vapor of the cleaning / recovery composition to pass from the carrier through the coversheet, into the storage bag, and from there to the fabric being treated.

One type of cover sheet of the present invention comprises a fibrous, permeable, nonwoven or woven fabric. Such nonwoven or woven fibrous coversheets have an advantage over molded film type coversheets known in the field of sanitary products. For example, molded film cover sheets (as described below) are often manufactured by a hydrohoming process that is particularly suitable for polymer films, such as polyethylene. Polyethylene can also be used here, but due to its low melting point, high temperatures in the dryer can cause the polyethylene to soften and / or melt during use. This is especially true when the product of the present invention is discharged from the storage bag and falls into the hot dryer drum. It is possible to make molded films using nylon, polyester or other heat resistant polymer sheets, but such manufacture is somewhat more difficult and therefore more expensive.

It has also been determined that the thickness of the cover sheet of the present invention should be such that it effectively provides a physical barrier function. Even when manufactured from hydrophobic fibers, if the coversheet is too thin, liquid passage can occur under the intended use conditions. Thus, it has been determined that the thickness of the fibrous cover sheet should preferably be at least about 7 mils (0.18 mm), preferably from about 8 mils (0.2 mm) to about 24 mils (0.6 mm). Was done. It has also been confirmed that the fibers used for the cover sheet are preferably hydrophobic and preferably have a melting point above about 240 ° C.

The fibrous cover sheet used here is a non-heat-resistant fiber such as polyethylene,
Can be easily manufactured. However, it has been confirmed that preferred fibrous cover sheets can be manufactured using heat-resistant fibers such as nylon (especially nylon-6), polyester and the like that can withstand inadvertent misuse in the present method. Flexible, cloth-like, permeable topsheets produced therefrom are common materials in the field of nonwoven and woven fabric production, their manufacture not forming any part of the present invention. Nonwoven fabrics used as cover sheets are commercially available from companies such as Reemay, Inc., Hickory, TN. Such a coversheet also captures solid dust particles, airborne lint and other fibers coming from the fabric being treated in the present method, and thereby the overall appearance of the fabric that has been cleaned / recovered according to the present invention. Is improved.

Such non-woven or woven fibrous sheet material can be used as a cover sheet for the absorbent carrier core of the present invention, in a single flat layer or as multiple layers. In another embodiment, a polyester or polyamide fibrous coversheet that has been rolled up or otherwise pleated and provided with a three-dimensional bulk comprises an absorbent core holding the cleaning / healing composition. Wrap around. If desired, the coversheet can be further covered with a second coversheet having an unpleated shape.

Such a fibrous, preferably heat-resistant, most preferably hydrophobic coversheet provides various embodiments of the product. Suitable combinations can be employed as desired by the manufacturer without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. If desired, macroscopic openings can be provided in the cover sheet through which lint, fibers or particulate soil can pass, thereby making it easier to trap such foreign matter inside the product itself.

A typical spunbonded fibrous coversheet is commercially available from Reemay and has the following properties: (A) Fabric type-nonwoven, semi-matte, whitening homopolymer 100% virgin, spunbonded polyester. (B) Fiber type-6.0 denier linear, trefoil continuous fiber, copolymer polyester.

Web Properties Target Range a) basis weight, roll average oz / yd ² 0.54 0.52-0.59 b) thickness 8 mil 7-8 mil c) fluff level Measured by Reemay's warp / tension method , On a scale of 0-5, 5 is the zero fluff level.

Belt side 2.5 5.0 1.8 Jet side 3.4 5.0 2.6 As described above, another type of cover sheet that can be used in the present product is a biomedical material known in the art. It comprises a perforated "molded film" coversheet that is used commercially in articles. The perforated formed film is permeable, but not absorbent, to the liquid cleaning and / or recovery compositions and their vapors. for that reason,
The surface of the molded film that is in contact with the fabric remains relatively dry, thereby reducing water seepage and dye transfer. Like the fibrous cover sheet, the perforated formed film captures lint, fibrous material, such as pet hair, etc., and separates it from the fabric being treated, thereby providing the cleaning / cleaning provided by the product. The healing properties are enhanced. Suitable molded films are described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,929,13 entitled "Absorbent Structure with Tapered Capillaries", all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,324,246, issued to Thompson on Dec. 30, 1975, entitled "Disposable Absorbent Products With Dye Resistant Cover Sheets".
No. 4,342,314, issued Apr. 13, 1982 to Mullane and Smith, entitled "Elastic Plastic Webs exhibiting Fibrous Properties"; Radel and U.S. Pat. Promulgated to Thompson, and "A macroscopically expanded three-dimensional plastic web with a matte visible surface and fabric feel"
U.S. Patent No. 4,463,045, issued to Ahr on July 31, 1984.
, Louis, Mullane and Ouellete, 4,637,819, 1
Promulgated to Ouellete, Alcombright & Curro on January 20, 987, No. 4,609,
No. 518, Sep. 2, 1986, Curro, Baird, Gerth, Vernon & Lin.
Man, No. 4,629,642, Kernst on December 16, 1986.
and Osborn's EPO Patent No. 0,165,807, 8/3
0/89 publication. The openings in such cover sheets can be uniform or different in size, as described in the above-mentioned publications, which can be referred to for technical details, manufacturing methods, and the like. Such openings may also vary in diameter in a so-called "tapered capillary" manner. Such a formed film cover sheet having tapered capillaries is placed on the carrier sheet such that the smaller ends of the capillaries face the carrier sheet and the larger ends of the capillaries face outward. This prevents a large amount of liquid movement and minimizes the penetration of water into the fabric being treated. Primarily, the openings in the molded film cover sheet used herein can have a diameter in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, or as disclosed in the above-cited patents.

Carrier When used in the in-dryer step of the process, the cleaning / recovery and disinfecting composition is used in combination with an absorbent carrier substrate. The carrier includes a releasable composition. By "including releasably" is meant that the composition is effectively released from the carrier onto the soiled fabric as part of the disinfecting non-soak cleaning and / or fabric recovery treatment of the present invention. This release occurs primarily by evaporation of the composition from the carrier substrate through the vapor permeable coversheet, or by a combination of vapor and liquid transfer, but as disclosed above, the bulk transfer of liquid when treating the fabric. Is preferably minimized by a cover sheet. However, of course, if water seepage is not particularly important to the user, it is not necessary to use a coversheet with the absorbent carrier substrate.

[0036] The carrier may be in any desired form, for example, powders, flakes, strips, and the like. However, it is highly preferred that the carrier be in the form of an integral pad or sheet that substantially maintains its structural integrity throughout the process. Such pads or sheets may be prepared using, for example, wood pulp, cotton, and the like using methods well known in the manufacture of nonwoven sheets, paper towels, fibrous cotton, bandage cores, diapers, and sanitary products. , Rayon, polyester fibers, and mixtures thereof. Woven pads can be used, but are less preferred than nonwoven pads for cost reasons. An integral carrier pad or seat
It can also be made from natural or synthetic sponges, foam materials, and the like.

The carrier is designed to be safe and effective under the intended operating conditions of the method. The carrier must not be flammable during the treatment process and should not cause deleterious interactions with the cleaning or recovery composition or with the fabric being washed. Generally, nonwoven polyester-based pads or sheets are highly suitable for use herein as carriers.

Most preferably, the carrier used here does not generate lint. As used herein, the term "free of lint" refers to a carrier that does not significantly release visible fibers or microfibers on the cloth being washed, that is, does not cause much adhesion of what is commonly called "lint". Means The carrier can be easily and effectively determined by rubbing it onto a piece of dark blue wool fabric and visually inspecting the fabric for lint residues.

The lint-free qualities of the sheets or carriers used here are known bonding techniques commonly used for nonwoven materials, such as point bonding, print bonding, in which the carrier is produced from a single strand of fibers. ,adhesive/
It can be achieved by a number of means including, but not limited to, resin saturation bonding, adhesive / resin spray bonding, stitch bonding, and bonding with bonding fibers.

The size of the carrier should not be so large that it is difficult for the user to handle.
Typically, the dimensions of the carrier, macroscopic surface area (both sides of the carrier) of at least about 360 cm ^2, a sufficient size to preferably be in the range of about 360 cm ² ~ about 3000 cm ^2. For example, a generally rectangular carrier may have dimensions of about 10 cm to about 35 cm (X direction) and about 18 cm to about 45 cm (Y direction).

The carrier may contain a sufficient amount of the cleaning / recovery composition to be effective for its intended purpose.
To The capacity of the carrier for such compositions will depend on the intended use.
Become. For example, a pad or pad intended to be used only once for cleaning / healing of fabrics
Sheets require less capacity than pads or sheets that are used multiple times.
No. For a particular type of carrier, the volume for the cleaning or recovery composition may be
Depending on the thickness of the sheet or pad or "caliper" (Z-direction, dry)
And different. A typical disposable polyester sheet used here for illustrative purposes.
G is about 0.1 mm to about 0.7 mm thick and has a basis weight of about 30 g / m² ~ About 100 g / m
² Within the range. A typical multi-use polyester sheet has a thickness of about
0.2mm to about 1.0mm, basis weight is about 40 g / m² ~ 150 g / m² Within the range
You. The open cell sponge sheet has a thickness of about 0.1 mm to about 1.0 mm. Of course,
As long as the carrier effectively provides the desired amount of the cleaning / recovery composition,
May be changed.

Preferred carriers here are binder-free (or optionally with a small amount of binder), hydroentangled absorbent materials, especially cellulose, rayon, polyesters and mixtures of optional bicomponent fibers. A material formulated from. Such materials are Dexter, Non-Wovens Division, The
It is commercially available from Dexter Corporation as HYDRASPUN®, especially grades 10244 and 10444. The manufacture of such materials does not constitute any part of the present invention and has already been disclosed in the literature. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,009,747, Viazmensky, et al., April 1991, incorporated herein by reference.
23, and 5,292,581, Viazmensky, et al., 199.
See March 8, 2004. Preferred materials for use herein have the following physical properties.

[0043] Dexter sheet grade 10244 range basis weight unit by the target desired gm ^/ m 2 55 35~75 microns thick 355 100-1500 Density gm / cc 0.155 0.1 to 0.25 Dry Tensile gm / 25 mm MD 1700 400 to 2500 CD 650 100 to 500 wet tensile ^{gm / 25mm MD * 700 200~1250 CD} * 300 100~500 brightness% 80 60 to 90 absorbent _{capacity% 735 400~900 (H 2 O)} Dry Mullen gm / cm 2 1050 700-1200 ^* MD = machine direction, CD = transverse direction As described in US Pat. Nos. 5,009,747 and 5,292,281, cellulosic by hydroentangle processing. fiber,
And preferably comprising at least about 5% by weight of synthetic fibers, and requiring less than 2% wet strength agents to improve wet strength and wet durability.

The carrier material which has been subjected to the hydroentangle processing is, due to its elasticity,
It has been found to provide further unexpected benefits. In use, the product of the present invention is designed to function in a substantially open configuration. However, this product is packaged as a sheet in a folded configuration and sold to consumers. Carrier sheets made from conventional materials have an undesirable tendency to return to their folded shape during use. In fact, this tendency to bend again along the original fold line seems to be exacerbated by the coversheet material used here. Here, the hydroentangled material used to form the carrier sheet has a lower tendency to bend again than other carrier materials, but if a fibrous cover sheet is present, it is experimentally intended. It has been found that under use conditions there is a tendency to bend again up to 60%. In some cases, especially with certain fabrics, this can be a problem. This is because moisture penetration can occur along sharp fold lines, presumably due to pressure on the liquid composition through the fibrous coversheet.

However, even if the cover sheet is used in the non-immersion cleaning / recovery / disinfection method of the present invention,
It has been found that the perforations or openings in the carrier sheet significantly reduce this tendency to bend again. For example, in a preferred embodiment of practicing the invention, the carrier sheet is provided with a plurality of holes, slits, or other openings to minimize re-folding during product use. The number and arrangement of holes or other openings can be determined by routine experimentation. Example I below describes the size and number of circular holes that are effective for use with products of the sizes described and cleaning / healing compositions.

Cleaning / Recovery Compositions The user of the present method can use a variety of cleaning / recovery compositions to practice the present invention. One of the problems associated with known fabric treatment compositions is that they tend to leave a visible residue on the fabric surface. Such residue is
This is preferred because it is cumbersome and does not involve a conventional dipping or rinsing step in the method. Accordingly, the compositions used herein are most preferably substantially free of various gelling agents, polyacrylate-based emulsifiers, polymeric antistatic agents, inorganic builder salts and other residue-forming substances. , If any, at a low level of about 0.1-0.3% of the final composition, preferably 0%. The water used in the composition should be distilled, deionized, or otherwise removed of substances that form residues. In other words, the compositions of the present invention should preferably be formulated so as to leave substantially no visible residue on the fabric or other solid surface being treated in accordance with the practice of the present invention.

Accordingly, a preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a cleaning / healing and disinfecting composition that is substantially free of materials that leave a visible residue on the treated fabric.

Aqueous Wash / Recovery or Pretreatment Composition (a) Water—A preferred low residue composition of the present invention comprises from about 90% by weight, preferably from about 95.5% to about 99.9% by weight. , Water.

(B) Antibacterial agent-The antibacterial agent is 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy)
Phenol, trichlorocarbanalide, hydrogen peroxide, other oxygen bleaches, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol, iodine / iodophors, chlorohexidine, phenol, phospholipid, thymol, eugeniol, geraniol, lemongrass oil, limonene And mixtures thereof.
The secondary antimicrobial agent can be selected from the group consisting of alkyl alkoxy sulfates, linear alkyl benzene sulfonates, amine oxides, polyhydroxy fatty acid amides, ethoxylated alcohols, diamines, amides, alkyl polyglucosides, betaines, and mixtures thereof. .

[0050] (c) Surfactant - The compositions of the present invention, if desired, in addition to the antimicrobial agents listed above, about 0.05 to about 2 wt% surfactant, eg MgAES and _NH 4 AE
S, amine oxides, ethoxylated alcohols or alkyl phenols, alkyl sulfates, and mixtures thereof.

(D) Optional Ingredients—The composition of the present invention comprises a small amount of a bleach stabilizer,
Various optional ingredients, including perfumes and the like, can be included.
When used, such optional ingredients typically comprise from about 0.05% to about 2% by weight of the composition, taking into account the residues of the washed fabric.

(E) Chelating Agents—Compositions containing hydrogen peroxide or other oxygen bleaches typically also include a chelating agent. The chelating agent is itself selected from chelating agents which are stable in aqueous hydrogen peroxide and which stabilize hydrogen peroxide by chelating suspended metal ions. Such chelating agents are typically already present in commercial hydrogen peroxide sources in low, peroxide stabilizing amounts (0.01-1%). For stabilizing hydrogen peroxide, various phosphonate chelating agents are known. Aminophosphonates are particularly effective for this purpose. Various aminophosphonates are commercially available from Monsanto Company, St. Louis, Missouri under the trade name DEQUEST. Representative examples include, but are not limited to, ethylenediaminetetrakis (methylenephosphonic) acid, diethylenetriaminepenta (methylenephosphonic) acid, and water-soluble salts thereof. Aminotris (methylenephosphonic) acid or its water-soluble salt (eg, DEQUEST 2000 (trade name))
Is a preferred chelating agent. The pH range of the composition helps to provide stability to the hydrogen peroxide and is typically about 3 to about 8 acidic to weakly basic, preferably about 6 to about 7.

Surfactants Nonionics , such as ethoxylated C ₁₀ -C ₁₆ alcohols, such as NEOD
OL 23-6.5 can be used in the composition. Use as a detergent, an alkyl sulfate surfactant capable of stabilizing an aqueous composition C ₈ -C ₁₈ primary ( "
AS ", preferably _C 10 _{-C 14} sodium salt), and branched-chain and random _C 10 _{-C 20} alkyl sulfates, and the formula _{CH 3 (CH 2) x (} CHOS
O ₃ ^- M ⁺⁾ CH ₃ and _{CH 3 (CH 2) y (} CHOSO 3 - M +) CH 2 CH 3
(Wherein, x and (y + 1) is at least about 7, preferably at least about 9 integer, M is a cation, especially sodium to impart water solubility) C ₁₀ ~ of
_C18 secondary (2,3) alkyl sulfates, as well as unsaturated sulfates such as oleyl sulfate. As used herein, alkyl ethoxy sulfate (AES) surfactant is represented as a substance having the formula R (EO) _x SO ₃ Z,
Wherein R is C ₁₀ -C ₁₆ alkyl, EO is —CH ₂ CH ₂ —O—,
x is 1 to 10, the mixture typically reported as an average, for example _{(EO) 2. 5,} it is possible to include _{(EO) 6.5,} etc., Z is a cation such as sodium, ammonium or magnesium (MgAES). C ₁₂ -C ₁₆ alkyl dimethyl amine oxide surfactants can also be used. A preferred mixture is M
gAE ₁ S / C ₁₂ dimethylamine oxide in a weight ratio of about 10: 1.
Improved phase stability, other surfactants can be optionally used herein include polyhydroxy fatty acid amides, for example C _{12 -C} 14 _N-methyl glucamide, a.
The AS stabilizing composition preferably comprises from 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of the composition.
MgAES and amine oxides, when used, make up from 0.01 to 2% by weight of the composition. Other surfactants can be used at similar levels.

In view of the above, various other components that can be used in the liquid composition of the present invention are listed below, but are not limited thereto.

Other Optional Components In addition to water and the above surfactants, the liquid compositions used herein may contain various optional components, such as fragrances, preservatives, brighteners, viscosity modifiers. Salt, p
H regulators or buffers, and the like. Preferred ranges for the cleaning composition used herein are shown below, but are not limited thereto.

Component formulation range (% by weight) Antimicrobial agent 0-3 Surfactant 0-2 Fragrance 0-1.5 Water Remaining pH range about 6 to about 8 Preferred for the washing / recovery / disinfection method in the dryer of the present invention The composition is as follows:

Ingredients % by weight% by weight Water 98.5 95.1 to 99.9 Antimicrobial agent 0.1 0.05 to 3 Perfume 0.5 to 1.5 Surfactant ^* 0.5 0.05 to 2.0 Ethanol or isopropanol 0 up to 4% if desired ^* especially ethoxylated alcohols described herein. The fabric restoring composition can also include an anionic surfactant. Such anionic surfactants are well known in the detergent art. TWEEN (brand name), SPAN (brand name), AEROSOL OT (brand name)
Surfactants commercially available as and various sulfosuccinates are particularly useful herein.

It has been found that perfume high molecular weight, high boiling point odorous chemicals are retained on the fabric at least to some extent. These odors can be overwhelmed or "masked" with perfume. Thus, perfume researchers should select at least some perfume chemicals that have a sufficiently high boiling point so that they are not substantially lost during processing. A wide range of aldehydes, ketones, having a boiling point above about 50 ° C, preferably above about 85 ° C;
Aromatic chemicals such as esters, acetal, etc. are known. Such components can be applied to the fabric being treated during the process by the carrier sheet substrate, thereby reducing the degree to which the user perceives malodor. Examples of fragrances containing relatively high boiling components include orange oil, lemon oil, patchouli, Peruvian balsam, oribanum resinoid, stylax, labdanum resin, nutmeg, cassia oil, benzoin resin, coriander, lavandin and lavender. Including, but not limited to, various essential oils, resinoids, and resins obtained from various sources. Still other perfume chemicals include phenylethyl alcohol, terpineol and mixed pine oil terpenes, linalool,
Linalyl acetate, geraniol, nerol, 2- (1,1-dimethylethyl) -cyclohexanol acetate, orange terpenes and eugenol. Of course, low-boiling substances can also be included, but some losses occur due to evaporation.

Carrying the vapor-expelling bag composition on a carrier substrate, which is preferably wrapped with a cover sheet,
Put the finished product in a bag environment, and as an alternative to dry cleaning,
Alternatively, as a “fabric recovery” method, the fabric is used in a clothes dryer or the like that is being heated to disinfect the fabric and remove odors from the fabric. The hot, moist environment created in the bag evaporates the aqueous cleaning / healing composition, disinfects the fabric product in a "steam distillation" manner, removes malodorous components, and removes the fabric and soil thereon. To moisten.

By wetting the fabric with the evaporated cleaning / recovery composition, the pre-formed wrinkles can be relaxed, in addition to the desired disinfecting effect. However, it has been found that excessively wet fabrics can form new wrinkles during the drying phase towards the end of the dryer cycle. Wrinkling can be minimized by properly adjusting the amount of water used in the treatment and by properly venting the bag in this manner, which is important. Moreover, if the bag is not ventilated, the evaporated odorous substances removed from the fabric may reattach to the fabric, which is undesirable.

In a highly preferred embodiment, the method of the present invention uses a breathable storage bag.
The bag is preferably designed for multiple use and re-use, and is provided by the consumer with any conventional hot air dryer, such as equipment found at home or in a commercial laundry / washing establishment. Designed to be used. The bag is designed to vent water and other vapors generated in the bag during use in the manner described herein, including malodorous substances. The steam released from the bag is exhausted from the vent of the dryer.

The design of the bag's ventilation capacity achieves an appropriate balance of the above effects. A tightly sealed, impervious "closed bag" does not emit a sufficient amount of vapor, which excessively wets the fabric and reduces the germicidal effect. Excessively "open"
The bag design does not adequately wet the fabric or soil, resulting in poor disinfecting effects. In addition, the bag needs to be sufficiently "closed" and inflated under water vapor pressure to create voids so that the fabric can freely tumbl within the bag and be exposed to steam.

The bag is designed to capture some of the water vapor (especially at the beginning of the dryer cycle) but have sufficient ventilation to allow most of the water to escape by the end of the cycle. That is, it is preferable to optimize the steam release speed so as to secure a balance between the steam discharge and the steam capture. A preferred bag design uses a water vapor impervious film, such as nylon, with a closure flap, such as a large envelope flap, preferably with hook and loop VELCRO ™ type fasteners. The degree of loosening of the closure flap at the turn-up portion can be varied to provide a vent gap or partial opening that regulates the rate at which steam is drained from the bag. Alternatively, a cut is made along the end of the side wall, opposite the flap, to further regulate ventilation. The illustrated fastener device only runs partially along the closure, so that the lateral edges of the closure can also be ventilated.

As described in more detail below, preferred vented bags include a closure having one or more gaps for vapor evacuation through which steam is released from the bag during use. In a preferred embodiment, the size of this gap is selected so that steam is properly released from the bag under the indicated operating conditions. Other gap sizes and operating conditions can also be used, where the preferred balance between steam retention in the bag for disinfection of the fabric with washing / recovery functions and steam release from the bag is described below. Was determined using the principle to be.

Alternatively, the bag can be provided with a series of holes or other openings for venting. However, such ventilation is not as effective as a steam vent closure.

In one aspect, the invention uses a vapor-exhausting containment bag comprising an open end, a closed end, and a sidewall having flexible inner and outer surfaces, the open end of the bag. Has a portion of one of the side walls extending beyond the open end to form a flexible flap, the flap having a first securing device attached thereto, and the flap being folded over. Can extend over a portion of the outer surface of the opposing sidewall, the flap engaging a first anchoring device on the inner surface of the flap with a second anchoring device on the outer surface of the opposing sidewall. The mating may secure the flap to the outer surface of the opposing wall of the bag, the first and second securing devices, when so engaged, forming a fastener, thereby opening the bag. Close the end. The first and second securing devices are arranged to discharge steam along the closure, especially at the lateral edges of the closure, when engaged. Most preferably, the bags of the present invention are formed from a film that is heat resistant up to at least 204 ° C to 260 ° C. Nylon is the preferred film material for forming bags. In another embodiment, the edge of one wall of the bag has a cut along a majority of its width for optimal ventilation.

In another aspect, the flap can be folded to form a closure, stowed inside opposing sidewalls, and secured thereto by fasteners. In this manner, steam is exhausted along the closure, especially at the lateral edges of the closure. In yet another style,
The side walls are the same size and have no flaps. A locking device intermittently disposed along a portion of the inner surface of the side wall engages when pressing the edges of the side wall to form a closure. In the area of the closure where there is no fixation device, one or more
A gap for discharging steam is formed.

Although the fixation device of the present invention can comprise a chemical adhesive, the bag is preferably designed for multiple uses. Therefore, it is preferred here to use reusable mechanical fasteners. Any reusable mechanical fastener or fastening means can be used as long as the fastener components are arranged such that the bag is closed and a breathable closure is formed when the fastener is engaged. Examples include bags in which the first and second fixation devices both comprise hook and loop (VELCRO ™) fasteners, US Pat. No. 5,058,247, Thomas & Bla.
ney, promulgated on October 22, 1991, hook fasteners as disclosed in
A bag wherein the first and second fastening devices both comprise a hook and a thread type fastener; a bag wherein the first and second fastening devices both comprise an adhesive fastener; Bags comprising toggle-type fasteners, bags in which the first and second fasteners together form a snap-type fastener, and hook and eyelet fasteners, ZIP LOK ™ type fasteners, zipper type fasteners, and the like ( However, the present invention is not limited to these, as long as steam emission is achieved. Other fasteners can be used as long as the bag remains vented when closed and the bag and its contents are strong enough so that the flap does not open when tumbling in the clothes dryer. The securing device can be arranged such that a plurality of vapor discharge gaps are formed along or at the lateral edge or the gaps are offset with respect to one end of the closure. In yet another embodiment, both ends of the bag are provided with vapor closures.

A preferred bag of the above type designed for use in a conventional US home automatic hot air garment dryer has a volume of about 10,000 cm ³ to about 25,000 cm ³ .

The present invention also uses a method of washing or restoring a fabric by contacting the fabric with a cleaning / restoring composition comprising water in the vapor-exhausting storage bag described above. This method is conveniently carried out in a hot-air clothes dryer or the like. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the hot air garment dryer has a temperature sufficient to evaporate the water, i.
Operating at a temperature of from about 250 ° C to about 250 ° C, preferably from about 40 ° C to about 150 ° C, thereby sterilizing the fabric and the vapor-discharge bag, and the malodor present on the fabric is discharged from the bag by the vapor-discharge closure.

The description below is intended to facilitate the formulator making and using a vent bag in the manner of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the present invention.

[0072] Dimensions 4 of the bag, the overall dimensions, i.e. up to the fold line length of bags with a cut (7
) 27 5/8 inch (70.2 cm), bag width (8) 26 inch (66 cm), 23/8 inch (6 cm) from flap to base of fold line (11). In the tests described below, the bag had an open dimension of "26" x 30 "(
66.04 cm x 76.20 cm).

FIG. 5 shows the arrangement of the components of the notched bag in more detail. In this embodiment, all dimensions are equal for both the right and left sides of the bag. The dimensions shown here are approximately 30 inches (76.2 cm) long (including flaps) and 26 inches (66.2 cm) wide.
6 cm) open bag. The distance (9) from the lateral edge of the bag to the outermost edge of the securing device (3) inside the flap (5) is about 2 inches (5 cm). In this embodiment, the fixing device (3) inside the wall (2a) has a width (13).
) VELCRO (approximately 0.75 inches (1.9 cm), total length of about 22 inches (55.9 cm)
Product name) comprising a loop portion of the strip. The fixing device (6) is likewise mounted on the wall (2b
) And comprises the hook portion of a 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) VELCRO® strip. By increasing or decreasing the spacing (9), it is possible to increase or decrease the ventilation at the edge of the flap when the bag is closed and the fastener is engaged. The spacing (10) between the top edge of the flap and the cut base is approximately 2 7/8 inches (7
. 3 cm). The distance (14) between the lateral edge of the bag and the lateral edge of the cut is about 0
. 25 inches (0.64 cm). Flap top edge and crease (11)
Is about 2 3/8 inch (6 cm). The spacing (16) between the top edge of the flap and the leading edge of the VELCRO.TM. Strip (3) attached to the flap is approximately 3/8 inch (0.95 cm). The spacing (17) between the fold (11) and the bottom edge of the cut is about 1/2 inch (1.27 cm). This interval also
Can be varied to increase or decrease steam emissions. 0.25 to 1.5 inches (0.
A range of 64 to 3.81 cm) is typical. The spacing (18) between the top edge of the VELCRO® strip (6) and the bottom edge of the cut is about 3/4 inch (1.9 cm). The distance between the bottom edge of the VELCRO (trade name) strip (3) and the fold (11) (
19) is about 1 1/4 inch (3.17 cm).

FIG. 6 further shows the dimensional details of the uncut enveloped bag comprising the side walls (2 a) and (2 b) and having the overall size described above. also,
Each VELCRO® strip (3) and (6) is approximately 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) wide.
) And is about 22 inches (55.9 cm) long. Each strip is positioned about 2 inches (5 cm) inward from each side edge of the finished bag wall and flap. The spacing (12) between the leading edge of the side wall (2b) and the bottom edge of the fastener strip (3) on the flap portion of the bag is about 21/2 inches (6.35 cm). The distance (20) from the bottom edge of the fastener strip (6) to the front edge of the side wall (2b) is about 2.25
Inches (5.7 cm). The spacing (21) between the leading edge of the fastener strip (6) and the leading edge of the side wall is approximately 13/8 inches (3.5 cm). The spacing (22) between the fold (11) and the bottom edge of the fastener strip (3) is about 2 inches (5 cm).
The spacing (23) between the leading edge of the fastener strip (3) and the top edge of the flap, which is an extension of the side wall (2a), is about 0.25 inches (0.64 cm). Interval (24)
Is approximately 35/8 inches (9.2 cm). As with the notched bags described above, the position and length of the fasteners can be adjusted to increase or decrease ventilation.

A preferred structure of the heat-resistant ventilated bag used here to store clothing in a hot-air clothing dryer or similar device uses a heat-resistant film and may be caused by an overheated clothing dryer. Preferably, it provides the necessary heat resistance against internal self-sealing and external surface deformation. In addition, the bags are resistant to the chemicals used in the cleaning / healing compositions of the present invention. With the proper choice of bag material, unacceptable results such as melting of the bag, melted holes in the bag, sealing between the walls of the bag are avoided. In a preferred manner, the fastener is also constructed of a refractory material. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, in one embodiment, 1-3 mils (0.025-0.076
mm) heat-resistant nylon-6 film is folded and sealed to form a storage bag. Sealing can be performed using standard impulse heating equipment. In another aspect, a sheet of nylon is simply folded in half and sealed along two of its edges. In yet another manner, the bag can be manufactured by an air blowing operation. The method of assembling the bag can vary depending on the equipment available to the manufacturer,
It is not critical to the practice of the invention.

The dimensions of the storage bag can be varied depending on the intended end use. For example, a relatively small bag can be formed that is sufficient to accommodate one or two pieces of silk blouse. Alternatively, a large bag suitable for processing a men's suit can be formed. Typically, bags of the present invention have an internal volume of about 10
2,000 cm ³ to about 25,000 cm ³ . Bags in this size range are sufficient to hold a reasonable amount of fabric (e.g., 0.2-5 kg) and not large enough to block the dryer vent on most U.S. home dryers. Somewhat smaller bags can be used for smaller European and Japanese dryers.

The bag of the present invention is preferably flexible, but preferably has sufficient durability to withstand multiple uses. The bag preferably also has sufficient rigidity to expand during use and allow its contents to freely tumbl within the bag. Typically, such bags have a thickness of 0.025 mm to 0.076 mm (1 to 3 mm).
Mill) polymer sheet. If more stiffness is desired for the bag,
Somewhat thicker sheets can be used.

In addition to the thermally stable “nylon only” bag, the containing bag of the present invention
Manufactured using coextruded nylon and / or polyester sheets or using nylon and / or polyester outer and / or inner layers wrapping a thermally unsuitable inner core such as polypropylene Can also. In another embodiment, a bag is constructed using a nonwoven outer "shell" comprising a refractory material, such as nylon or polyethylene terephthalate, and a polymeric inner sheet that provides a vapor barrier. The non-woven outer shell protects the bag from melting and gives the user a better feel. Whatever the structure, the purpose is
Protecting the integrity of the bag under conditions of thermal stress at a temperature of at least about 400-500F (204C-260C). In situations where excessive heating is not a problem, bags can be made of polyester, polypropylene or any convenient polymeric material.

Evaluation of Steam Evacuation In its broadest sense, the preferred steam evacuating storage bag used herein is introduced into the bag within the operating cycle of the clothes dryer or other hot air device used in the present method. At least about 40%, preferably at least about 60% by weight of the total water
And is designed to discharge up to about 90% by weight, preferably about 80% by weight or less. (Of course, most, if not all, of the organic cleaning solvent (if any) is drained with water during this time, but water makes up a much larger portion of the cleaning / recovery compositions of the present invention. Therefore, it is more convenient to measure and report as water vapor emissions.)

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art of hot air garment dryers and similar equipment, the speed of the exhaust is typically not constant throughout the operating cycle. All driers have a preheat time at the beginning of the operating cycle, which depends on the manufacturer's specifications. Most dryers have a cooling time at the end of the operating cycle. Some of the discharge from the storage bag may also occur during these pre-heating and cooling times, but the rate is generally lower than the discharge rate over the main time of the drying cycle. In addition, even during the main time of the cycle, many dryers today have thermostat settings that periodically increase or decrease the temperature of the air in the dryer to prevent overheating. For example,
Typically, a non-constant, average dryer operating temperature in the target range of about 50C to about 85C is achieved.

In addition, the user of the storage bag can shut down the dryer before the cycle is completed. Some users may want to ensure that the fabric is slightly damp so that it can be easily ironed, hung and dried, or subjected to other finishing operations.

Separately from the time of use, the steam emission equilibrium for a particular type of steam emission closure (
"VVE") depends primarily on the temperature achieved in the dryer, which is typically reported as an average "dryer air temperature", as described above. In fact, the temperature reached in the storage bag is more important in this regard, but it is difficult to measure accurately. The VVE is measured relative to the average dryer air temperature because the heat transfer through the wall of the bag is quite efficient due to the thin walls and the tumbling effect provided by conventional clothes dryers. Is a reasonable approximation.

In addition, vapor drainage from the containment bag should be so fast that the aqueous cleaning / recovery composition dampens the fabric being treated, removes dirt / odors from the fabric, and loses the opportunity to remove it. Clearly not. However, due to the tumbling action of the equipment, the composition is delivered from the carrier substrate to the fabric at a rate such that premature loss of the composition due to premature evaporation and discharge is not a significant factor. So this is not a practical problem. In fact, the presently preferred bag prevents such premature evacuation, and the liquid and vapor of the cleaning / recovery composition are sufficient in the bag to perform its intended function on the fabric being treated. It is designed to be able to stop for a long time.

The following vapor emission assessment test (VVET) illustrates the above points in more detail. Large or small storage bags can be used depending on the volume of the dryer drum, the size of the fabric to be loaded, and the like. However, as noted above, in each case, the containing bag is at least about 40% (40 VVE), preferably at least about 60% (60 VVE).
) To about 90% (90 VVE), or VVE “score”.

Vapor Emission Evaluation Test Material Envelope type or "standard", ie, a comparative storage bag to be evaluated for VVE. Carrier substrate (15 "× 11", 38.1 cm × 27.9 cm). Including (10444) or not (10244), HYDRASPUN (trade name) carrier base wool blouse: RN77390, style 12288, weighs about 224 grams Silk blouse: RN40787, style 0161, weighs about 81 grams Rayon cloth cutout: 45 "x 17 "(114.3cm x 43.2cm), weight about 60g Sachet: 5" x 6.375 "(12.7cm x 16.2cm), deionized water to include carrier substrate and water, weight variable to establish VVE It is.

Pretreatment of fabric The wool, silk, and rayon materials are placed in a Whirlpool dryer (Model LEC7646DQO) at a high temperature setting for 10 minutes to remove moisture that absorbs under normal conditions with a heating cycle of about 140-165 ° F.

[0087] 2. The fabric is then removed from the dryer and placed in a sealed nylon or plastic bag (minimum 3 mil thickness) to minimize moisture absorption from the atmosphere.

Test Procedure 1.0 to about 40 g of various weights of water are measured and applied to the carrier substrate a minimum of 30 minutes before the start of the exhaust bag test. Fold the substrate, place in a sachet and seal.

2. Weigh each fabric individually and record the dry weight. The weight is also recorded for the dry carrier substrate, the dry sachet containing the substrate, and the dry storage bag to be evaluated.

3. Each garment is placed in a bag to be evaluated for vapor emissions, along with the wet substrate (removed from the pouch and spread).

[0091] 4. Close the bag without squeezing out air, place in a Whirlpool dryer, and tumbl for 30 minutes in the dryer's standard operating mode at high temperature settings.

5. After 30 minutes, remove the bags from the dryer and weigh each fabric, carrier substrate, bags and sachets to determine the increase in moisture weight relative to the dry state. (Slight weight loss of the storage bag, which can be caused by dryer heat, is ignored in the calculation.)

[0093] 6. The weight gain of each garment is recorded as a percentage of the total moisture applied to the carrier substrate.

[0094] 7. The remaining unmeasured moisture is divided by the total moisture and recorded as the percentage drained from the dryer bag.

[0095] 8. When assessing the total applied moisture in a series, it can be seen that for moistures above about 15-20 grams, the% discharged is substantially constant, which is the vapor discharge equilibrium value for a particular bag discharge design or VVE.

By examining a series of VVET results at various initial moisture levels, water and volatile odors as low initial levels of water are disproportionately trapped by loaded clothing, headspace, and nylon bags. It can be seen that the emission of the gas begins in earnest only after the VVE value is reached. Since this only occurs when about 15-20 grams or more of water is initially charged, to avoid over-wetting of the garment causing undesired wrinkle formation, as described herein, a V above about 40 is required.
It turns out that VE is necessary.

Pretreatment Step The overall process of the invention optionally comprises a pretreatment step which also serves as a stain removal step for localized, heavily soiled areas of the fabric. This pretreatment step may be effective in neutralizing certain malodor causing chemicals such as isovaleric acid, short-chain amines and short-chain sulfur compounds. These compounds have been found to be by-products of bacteria "digesting" human sweating components.

The pretreatment step preferably comprises the step of applying the pretreatment composition to at least a portion of the fabric, wherein the pretreatment composition comprises 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichloro (Phenoxy) phenol, trichlorocarbanalide, hexachlorophen, chlorohexidine, o-phenylphenol, benzylquarternium salt, and mixtures thereof. The pretreatment composition further comprises water, a small amount of a solvent, such as butoxypropoxypropanol (BPP), and a surfactant, such as the surfactants described above. The pretreatment composition can be rubbed into the fabric using the tip of a bottle or instrument that contains the pretreatment composition. Excess pretreatment composition can be absorbed by an absorbent dye receiver, preferably located on the side of the fabric opposite the side receiving the pretreatment composition. The absorbent dye receiver may be a conventional paper towel, a thermally bonded air laid sheet, an absorbent polymeric foam material, and the like.

Following this local pretreatment step, the entire fabric is washed /
Can be recovered. This step significantly improves the overall appearance and healing of the fabric, especially in comparison to untreated fabrics, in that there are no odors and wrinkles.

Processing Elements Uses, compositions and methods of products containing the steam vent bags of the present invention are described in more detail below. Such disclosure is for the purpose of illustration, not limitation. The limiting terms used herein have the following meanings.

FIG. 3 shows an unpackaged product (1), a first side wall (2a), a second side wall (2b), a first fixing device (3), a side seal for a bag (4) and a flexible flap. Figure 5 shows an embodiment of an open, preformed, cut-away storage bag with (5). In use, the flexible flap (5) is folded along the fold line (11) to form a vapor discharge closure for the bag.

FIG. 4 shows the “envelope-type” notched bag in a finished state, including the unpackaged product (1). In use, the fabric to be washed / recovered is placed in a bag with the product (1), the flap (5) is folded along the fold line (11) and the first fixing device (3)
Engages with an opposing second securing device (6) to secure the flap, thereby
Creates a sufficiently stable vapor discharge closure that can withstand tumbling in a hot air garment dryer or similar device.

FIG. 5 shows a cutaway view of a corner of a storage bag with cuts, inside the first side wall (2a) and the second side wall (2b), the first fixing device (3), the second fixing device ( 6), flaps (5) and fold lines (11) are shown. The spacing between the depth of the cut (11) in the bag (9) and the second side wall (2b) is of the dimensions described above.

FIG. 6 shows a notched vent bag containing unpackaged product (1).

As mentioned above, the dimensions of the bag described above are free to tumbl in the drum of a conventional U.S. home hot air garment dryer having a drum volume of about 170-210 liters (home size). Storage bag designed in the same manner. Bags having the above dimensions are designed to process about 5 kg of fabric in a single use. This dimension is
Adjusting proportionally to larger or smaller bags, dryers with larger or smaller drums can achieve the desired VVE and be used effectively. For example, the total volume of a storage bag constructed for an average European household clothes dryer (or U.S. "apartment" size, about 90 liter drum volume) would be about the volume of an average U.S. dryer. Will be 60%.

Overall Processing The overall process is conveniently carried out in a tumbling apparatus, preferably in the presence of heat. The nylon or other heat resistant steam vent bag containing the fabric to be treated and containing the aqueous cleaning / healing composition in addition to the product of the present invention is closed and placed in a drum of an automatic hot air garment dryer at a temperature of about 40 ° C to about 250 ° C. C., preferably at about 40.degree. C. to about 150.degree. The drum is tumbled to impart a tumbling motion to the bag, and the contents of the bag are agitated simultaneously with the tumbling. This agitation brings the fabric into contact with the product containing the composition. The tumbling and heating are performed for at least about 10 minutes, typically from about 20 minutes to about 60 minutes. This step may be for a longer or shorter time depending on the requirements of the user, depending on factors such as the degree and type of soiling of the fabric, the nature of the soil, the nature of the fabric, the amount of fabric loaded, the amount of heat applied, etc. be able to. During this step, more than about 40%, typically 40% to about 80%, of the water is drained from the bag.

The following examples further illustrate the invention, but are not intended to be limiting. EXAMPLE I A low residue liquid fabric wash / recovery product for use in a through dryer bag is made as follows. Ingredient weight% Antimicrobial agent 0.5 Emulsifier (TWEEN 20) ^* 0.5 Fragrance 0.5 KATHON (brand name) 0.0003 Sodium benzoate 0.1 Water Remainder ^* Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan available from ICI Surfactants Monolaurate HYDRASPUN (trade name) 10 1/4 inch x 14 1/4 inch (26cm x 36cm)
Prepare a carrier sheet. The carrier sheet is coated on both sides with a top sheet and a bottom sheet of an 8 mil (0.2 mm) Reemay fabric cover sheet material of the type described above. The cover sheet (ie, both the top sheet and the bottom sheet) is adhered to the carrier sheet with a Vertrod ™ or other standard heat sealing device, and the laminate structure is adhered all around the carrier sheet. The edge of the carrier sheet is adhesively enclosed between the top sheet and the bottom sheet at its periphery. The width of the bond is kept to a minimum and is about 0.25 inches (6.4 mm). The glued laminate structure thus produced is folded and placed in a pouch. Any plastic sachet that does not leak is suitable for use here. For example, foil-bonded sachets of the type used in the food industry can be used. Such sachets are well known in the industry and are made from materials that do not absorb the aroma of food. Similarly, the formulator may wish to avoid the perfume used in the cleaning / healing composition being absorbed by the sachet. A variety of sachets are useful here and are commercially available on a daily basis.

The folded carrier sheet / cover sheet product is placed in a sachet. The folds can be of any type, for example, the final dimensions of the folded sheet are about 13.5cmx
Accordion-type folds of 9.5 cm may be used. This size is not essential, but it is convenient to put in a sachet. 23 grams of the liquid product is poured onto the carrier sheet / coversheet in the sachet and absorbed therein for at least 30 minutes, preferably about 4 hours. Immediately after the introduction of the liquid product, seal the sachet and store until use.

In another embodiment, the product is wrapped somewhat loosely around a cylindrical space and is about 26 cm long
Into a generally tubular shape about 2-3 cm in diameter. The wrapped product is then folded at its midpoint to half its length using a thrusting blade, which also serves to insert the product into the holding pouch. With this winding method, very sharp folds are not substantially formed, and the final fold of the wrapped tube is subjected to stresses such that some sharp folds are formed only at the very center of the bend. It is observed that there is. As a result, permanent folding back along the fold line is substantially avoided, and the cleaning / healing composition is most effectively released during product use.

[0110] Any plastic or flexible pouch that does not leak is suitable for use herein. For example, foil-bonded sachets of the type used in the food industry can be used. Such sachets are well known in the industry,
Manufactured from materials that do not absorb the scent of food. Similarly, the formulator may wish to avoid the perfume used in the cleaning / healing composition being absorbed by the sachet. A variety of sachets are useful here and are commercially available on a daily basis. For comparison, a pouch containing the wrapped, folded product of the present invention has an overall size of about 8.5 cm x 17
. A similar flat folded product pouch is about 13cm x 17.7, while 7cm.
cm.

[0111] Quite simply, the carrier sheet may have holes punched through the sheet to further increase its ability to maintain an open shape during use. In fact, the holes can be punched throughout the product, including the coversheet.
For products having overall dimensions of about 27 cm x 37 cm, 16 round holes, each about 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) in diameter, are evenly spaced throughout the HYDRASPUN carrier sheet. Slits or other openings can be used as well.

The fabric to be treated is removed from a storage pouch and spread out in a 26 inch x 30 inch (66 x 76 cm) steam venting nylon bag as shown, so that the cleaning / recovery product can be released. And / or unwound). The mouth of the bag is closed to provide vapor evacuation, and the bag and its contents are placed in the drum of a conventional hot air garment dryer. The dryer is operated in the standard mode for 20-60 minutes at the high temperature setting (air temperature about 140-170 ° F, 60-70 ° C). After the dryer has stopped tumbling, the washed and recovered fabric is removed from the bag. Discard used sheets. The fabric (preferably still slightly wet) is preferably hung on a conventional hanger and dried completely, thereby further avoiding wrinkles.

Example II Aspergillus niger is selected as a typical fungal microorganism, ie as a test microorganism. The fabric inoculated with this microorganism is treated according to the method of the invention using a ventilated bag. As a comparative sample, the fabric is similarly inoculated with the test microorganism and left to dry. As a result, at least about 90 of the test microorganisms initially present were present.
% Died by the test treatment. These results will be unexpected for those skilled in the art.

Example III Escherichia coli is selected as a typical fungal microorganism, ie as a test microorganism. The fabric inoculated with this microorganism is treated according to the method of the invention using a ventilated bag. As a comparative sample, the fabric is similarly inoculated with the test microorganism and left to dry. As a result, over 99.97% of the test microorganisms initially present were killed by the test treatment. These results will be unexpected for those skilled in the art.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a sheet-shaped product (1) useful in the present invention in a state before assembly.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the assembled cleaning / recovery product (1).

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an unpackaged product on a notched, steam-evacuable containment bag before folding.

FIG. 4 is an overall view of a product in a bag ready to contain fabric or other product to be treated in a hot air garment dryer or similar device.

FIG. 5 is a partial view showing the notched wall of the bag and its arrangement with respect to the closure flap.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an uncut, steam-evacuable bag containing an unwrapped sheet-shaped product for use in the mode of the present invention.

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of front page (81) Designated country EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE ), OA (BF, BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, GM, KE, LS, MW, SD, SL, SZ, UG, ZW), EA (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM), AE, AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR , BY, CA, CH, CN, CU, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IS , JP, KE, KG, KP, KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, MD, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, NO, NZ, PL, PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT, UA, UG, US, UZ, VN, YU, ZA, ZW (71) CINCINNATI, OHIO, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (72) Inventor James, Peyton, Hattins Bingham Hill, Lane, 502 F term (reference) Cincinnati, Ohio, USA 4C058 AA05 BB07 EE13 EE16 JJ06 JJ12 JJ12

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. A method of disinfecting a textile product that is contaminated with one or more microorganisms, comprising: (a) placing the textile product in a vapor-exhaust bag with a cleaning / healing composition characterized by water. (B) exposing the steam-exhaustable bag to a heat source that supplies sufficient heat to evaporate water;
Exposing the microorganisms to the water vapor obtained thereby to kill at least 50% of the microorganisms. 2. The cleaning / restoring composition comprises 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy) phenol, trichlorocarbanalide, hydrogen peroxide, another oxygen bleach, 4-chloro-
At least one selected from the group consisting of 3,5-dimethylphenol, iodine / iodoforce, chlorohexidine, phenol, phospholipid, thymol, eugeniol, geraniol, lemongrass oil, limonene and mixtures thereof.
2. The method of claim 1, comprising an antimicrobial agent. 3. The cleaning / healing composition comprises the group consisting of alkyl alkoxy sulfates, linear alkyl benzene sulfonates, amine oxides, polyhydroxy fatty acid amides, ethoxylated alcohols, diamines, amides, alkyl polyglucosides, betaines, and mixtures thereof. Wherein the cleaning / restoring composition comprises a non-ionic surfactant, more preferably the cleaning / restoring composition comprises a perfume. 3. The method according to 2. 4. The cleaning / healing composition is releasably absorbed in a carrier, said carrier preferably being in sheet form comprising a fibrous hydroentangled web. The method of claim 1. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of exposing the vapor-exhaustable bag to a heat source provided to the hot air garment dryer simultaneously with the tumbling motion. 6. The vapor-dissipating bag has a VVE rating of at least 40, preferably at least 60.
The method of claim 1, wherein 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the vapor evacuable bag has a VVE rating of 90 or less, preferably 80 or less. 8. The method of claim 5, wherein at least a portion of the fabric is 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy).
A pretreatment composition comprising an antibacterial agent selected from the group consisting of phenol, trichlorocarbanalide, hexachlorophen, chlorohexazine, o-phenylphenol, benzylquarternium salt, and mixtures thereof. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of pretreating with. 9. The cleaning / healing composition comprises 0.05 to 3% by weight, preferably 0.1 to 2% by weight, more preferably 0.1 to 1% by weight of the antimicrobial agent. 3. The method according to 2. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein at least 90%, more preferably at least 95%, most preferably at least 99% of the microorganisms are killed.