METHOD FOR CLEANING AND REFRESHING FABRICS

Abstract: A method for treating a fabric article with the following steps: placing the fabric article in a container having an opening and at least one wall that defines an interior void space. Then the temperature and relative humidity of the air within the interior void space of the container are raised to a predetermined first temperature and a predetermined first relative humidity for a predetermined first period of time. Finally, at least one of the temperature or the relative humidity of the air within the interior void space of the container are changed at the end of the first period of time to a predetermined second temperature and a predetermined second relative humidity for a predetermined second period of time.

Description: METHOD FOR CLEANING AND REFRESHING FABRICS TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to methods useful for cleaning and refreshing fabrics in a non-immersion cleaning process. Temperature and relative humidity are controlled in the multi- step processes of this invention. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Certain delicate fabrics are not suitable for conventional in-home immersion cleaning processes. Home washing machines, which provide excellent cleaning results for the majority of fabrics used in today's society, can, under certain conditions, shrink or otherwise damage silk, linen, wool and other delicate fabrics. Consumers typically have their delicate fabπc items "dry- cleaned". Unfortunately, dry-cleaning usually involves immersing the fabrics m various hydrocarbon and halocarbon solvents that require special handling and the solvent must be reclaimed, making the process unsuitable for in-home use Hence, dry-cleaning has traditionally been restricted to commercial establishments making it less convenient and more costly than in- home laundeπng processes. Attempts have been made to provide in-home dry-cleaning systems that combine the fabric cleaning and refreshing of in-home, immersion laundeπng processes with the fabπc care benefits of dry-cleaning processes. One such in-home system for cleaning and refreshing garments compπses a substrate sheet containing various liquid or gelled cleaning agents, and a plastic bag. The garments are placed in the bag together with the sheet, and then tumbled in a conventional clothes dryer. In a current commercial embodiment, multiple single-use flat sheets compπsing a cleaning/refreshing agent and a single multi-use plastic bag are provided in a package. Unfortunately, these prior processes often involved only one step with regards to temperature and relative humidity. That is, the tumble dryer was set for a particular temperature and time. The humidity in the bag was a function of the moisture loaded in the bag and the temperature setting. But once the time and temperature were selected, the one step process was set. Moreover, when using a conventional tumble dryer, the consumer is often limited to the manufacturer's pre-set temperature conditions, which are established for drying clothes, not for cleaning and refreshing them. Often these manufacturer's conditions are sub-optimal with respect to one or more of dewrmkling, deodorizing, and optionally perfume deposition. Moreover, such m-home processes are designed for use in a conventional clothes dryer, or the like apparatus. Such apparatuses are not always readily available, they are often uneconomical, and in many countnes clothes dryers are simply unnecessary For example, m many warm tropical regions people do not typically own clothes dryers because their clothes can be dried year-round by hanging them outside in the sun In the areas of the world where people do not typically own clothes dryers, products that require a heating apparatus, such as a clothes dryer, are of little or no value. Steamer cabinets have also been utilized in the art to treat fabric articles with heavy doses of steam. Unfortunately, these high temperature, high relative humidity processes can have negative effects on fabnc articles. In addition to the harsh effect on fabrics, a drying step is often required that puts even further strain on the fabrics The drying step also requires additional time and energy, and often results in undesirable shrinkage And finally, steamer cabinets are typically wasteful with respect to steam because it is only v\ ater Thus, there is a need to develop a domestic, non-immersion cleaning and refreshing process, and cleaning and refreshing compositions for use therein, which provides acceptable cleaning without the need for a tumble dryer It has now also been unexpectedly discovered that by regulating temperature and relative humidity withm a container duπng a domestic, non-immersion cleaning and refreshment process, dry clean only fabrics are cleaned, dewπnkled and refreshed. The present invention provides such methods for cleaning and refreshing fabrics SUMMARY OF I HE INVENTION In one aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for treating at least one fabric article comprising the steps of: a) placing the tabπc article in a container having an opening and at least one wall that defines an interior void space; b) raising the temperature and relative humidity of the air withm the interior \oιd space of the container to a predetermined first temperature and a predetermined first relative humidity for a predetermined first period of time; and c) changing at least one of the temperature or the relative humidity of the air withm the interior void space of the container at the end of the first period of time to a predetermined second temperature and a predetermined second relative humidity for a predetermined second period of time. In a preferred aspect of this invention, the fabrics are contacted with an aqueous composition prior to be placed m a container according to step a) defined below. In another preferred aspect of this invention vapor is used to raise the temperature and relative humidity of the air withm the interior void space of the container, and more preferably the vent remains open at all times. In another aspect of this invention the vapor introduced into the interior void space of the container comprises water and a perfume. In yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for treating a fabric article comprising the steps of: a) placing the fabric article in a container having an opening and at least one wall that defines an interior void space; b) introducing ozone into the interior void space for a predetermined first period of time; and c) changing at least one of the temperature or the relative humidity of the air within the interior void space of the container at the end of the first period of time to a predetermined second temperature and a predetermined second humidity for a predetermined second period of time. The ozone can be generated by an ozone source, such as an ultraviolet lamp, or even a high voltage source, within the interior void space of the container. Preferably, the level of ozone that is provided withm the container is between 0.5 and 200ppm, preferably between 0.5 and 50ppm, more preferably between 0 5 and 20ppm. Levels lower than 0.5 ppm are not preferred as they would not provide sufficient bleaching performance and consequently not provide sufficient performance of the benefit linked to the bleach property. The present invention provides benefits over the pπor art by defining the optimal process steps for cleaning and refreshing delicate fabric articles in an -home non-immersion cleaning process. The methods of this invention can be carried out in any appropriate container, such as a plastic bag, a wardrobe, a cabinet, or a tumble dryer. Unlike many pπor processes, the methods of this invention involve at least two distinct steps, and preferably three steps. It has been surprisingly found that the optimal conditions tor deodoπzing a fabπc article differ from the conditions that are best for dewπnklmg. Likew ise perfume deposition onto a fabπc article requires a third set of conditions for optimal performance. In the multi-step processes of this invention temperature, relative humidity or both can be manipulated and controlled. Alternatively, one step of the process can involve \ mtroduction of ozone into the container to neutralize odor causing chemicals on the fabπc articles being cleaned and refreshed. Further the present invention provides a method of delivering an active ingredient, for example, perfume, to the fabrics being treated. Simultaneously, the methods herein minimize the amount of vapor delivered so that the actives are not wasted. And finally, the methods herein are designed to deliver only enough vapor to accomplish the fabπc treatment process, without the need for additional mechanical drying. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides methods for cleaning and refreshing fabric articles in a domestic, non-immersion process. The methods require at least two steps, and preferably three. The methods can be carried out in any appropπate apparatus wherein temperature and relative humidity can be manipulated and controlled. In another aspect of this invention, one of the method steps involves the introduction of ozone into the container to neutralize odor causing chemicals on the fabπc articles being cleaned and refreshed. A warm, humid environment inside the container volatilizes malodor components in the manner of a "steam distillation" process, and moistens fabπcs and the soils thereon. This moistening of fabπcs can loosen pre-set wrinkles, and because the fabπc articles are hung in the container new wπnkles do not form. Proper selection of the amount of the vapor, and specifically the amount of water used m the process and, importantly, proper venting of the container in the present manner can minimize shrinkage of the fabrics. Moreover, if the container is not vented, the volatilized malodorous materials removed from the fabπcs, which are not captured by the filter if present, can undesirably be re-deposited thereon. Relative humidity is a well known concept to those in the fabπc care arts. As used herein, "relative humidity" means the ratio of the actual amount of water vapor m the air to the greatest amount possible at the same temperature. Temperature and relative humidity controllers are well known to those skilled in the art, as are passive and active controllers. As used herein, an "active" controller is a controller that reads an input and supplies feedback to the device being controlled and that device adjusts based on the feedback received. A "passive" controller, as used herein, is a controller that turns a device on or off, or opens or closes a device, based on a predetermined setting such as time. For example, a passive temperature controller would turn on a heating element or close a vent to increase the temperature in a given environment and after a certain period of time the heating element is turned off or the vent is opened. In contrast, an active temperature controller reads the temperature and if, for example, the temperature is too low, the power to the heating element is increased or the vent is closed to increase the temperature. Method To properly clean and refresh a fabric article, one must address many aspects of the article's appearance. Specifically, the fabπc article should at least be substantially free of odor and wrinkles after a cleaning and refreshing operation. It is often preferred that the article be perfumed to give it a pleasant odor, and it should be free of localized stains. The methods of this invention require at least two steps designed toward deodorizing, dewπnklmg and/or perfume deposition on a fabπc article. Additionally, a manual spot removal process for removing localized stains is provided, but the spot removal process is conducted outside of the apparatus The conditions for each of these methods steps are descπbed in greater detail below. While the method steps of this invention can be carried out in any appropπate order, the deodoπzation step will be discussed first. Deodoπzation must be distinguished from odor- masking, which involves applying a pleasant scent to a fabπc to mask, or cover up the odors on the fabπc. Deodoπzation, as used herein, involves the actual removal or neutralization of malodor causing chemicals. When the malodor causing constituents are removed or neutralized, the fabric article should have little or no residual odor. This step of the process can be earned out with ozone, which neutralizes odors, or with high temperatures and venting, and/or by filter capturing, which removes the odor causing constituents. The advantages of using ozone as a bleaching system is that this component provides an overall satisfactory colour safety, especially on cellulosic fabπcs, a malodour reduction, stam removal, as well as samtistion of the articles treated therewith. The deodoπzation step, is descπbed herein as the first step as a matter of convenience. It is understood that the deodoπzation and dewπnkling steps can be earned out in any order. If a perfume deposition step is employed, it necessaπly should follow the deodoπzation step, so that the perfume is not stπpped off of the fabnc immediately after it is laid down. Thus, when deodoπzation is the first step, the first temperature should be at least about 45°C, preferably at least about 60°C, and most preferably at least about 70°C and the first relative humidity should be least about 20%. At these relatively high temperatures, odor causing chemicals are stπpped off of fabπcs, and then preferably removed from the container via the vent. Even more preferably, the vent comprises a filter so that the odorous emanations do not enter the environment outside of the container. When the first temperature and first relative humidity are reached, the process time, that is, the first time, can be from about 2 minutes to about 20 minutes, preferably from about 5 minutes to about 15 minutes, and even more preferably from about 8 minutes to about 12 minutes. The deodoπzation step described above can be supplemented, or even replaced by treating the fabric articles with ozone, preferably incorporated at room temperature. The use of ozone to neutralize odors causing chemicals and to sanitize garments, for example, medical gowns, is well known to the art. Specifically see, published patent applications DE 24 33 909 and FR 2059 841, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. For purposes of the methods disclosed herein, ozone can be introduced into the container from any appropriate source, such as an ultraviolet lamp. One or more ozone sources can be used and they can be placed in any convenient place in, or adjacent the exterior of the container. The ozone source must be sized according to the volume of the container with consideration for the surface area of the fabric articles being cleaned and refreshed. Those skilled in the art will know what type and size of equipment to use for a given container. The second step of the present invention is directed to dewπnklmg, which requires relatively high temperature and relative humidity. Good air circulation is beneficial to the dewπnkling step, but not necessary. For the second step, i.e. the dewπnkling step, the second temperature should be greater than "T" as defined by the equation: T = 60 - (0J7 * H2), wherein RH2 is the second relative humidity in percent. RH2 is preferably of at least 50%, preferably of at least 75%, more preferably of at least about 85%, and even more preferably at least about 90%. Preferably, the second temperature is less than about 90°C, more preferably less than about 80°C, and most preferably less than about 70°C. When the second temperature and second relative humidity are reached, the process time, that is, the second time, can be from about 2 minutes to about 20 minutes, preferably from about 5 minutes to about 15 minutes, and even more preferably from about 8 minutes to about 12 minutes. Finally, there is preferably a third step which involves a gradual cool down of the mteπor void space. As the temperature decrease, the amount of vapor that the air can retain m the air decreases, and when the air becomes saturated the vapors begin to condense. Naturally, vapors will condense on the fabric articles on the inside of the bag, and as these articles dry, the active ingredients, such as perfume, remain behind. As discussed briefly above, the methods steps of this invention are designed to deliver actives without undue waste and without saturating the fabrics to the point where they need additional drying. Preferably, duπng the third step in the process the temperature withm the mteπor void space decreases to a third temperature wherein the third temperature is less than about 45°C, preferably less than about 40°C, and more preferably less than about 35°C. This third step can last for a third peπod of time, which can be from about 2 minutes to about 20 minutes, preferably from about 3 minutes to about 10 minutes, and even more preferably from about 3 minutes to about 5 minutes. As discussed in greater detail below, the vapor inside the container is preferably a cleaning and refreshment composition. The cleaning refreshment composition can be added to the container directly, via a sheet/substrate, in a cartridge or any other means that will be known to those skilled in the art. Preferably, the cleaning and refreshment composition is in a cartridge that is introduced into the interior void space of the container and the cleaning and refreshment composition is released from the cartridge into the interior void space of the container. Apparatus The methods of this invention can be conducted in any appropπate apparatus Such apparatuses require a container that substantially encloses the fabric articles being cleaned and refreshed. By "substantially encloses", it is meant that the fabric articles are enclosed in the container, but that the container can, and preferably will, include one or more vents. The container must have an opening to access the fabπc articles, and preferably, there is a bar, hook or other device on which to hang the fabric articles The garments hung in treatment apparatus can also be weighted or stretched to improve wrinkle reduction. Hanging weights and stretching devices will be known to those skilled in the art Preferably, the garments to be treated are mechanically stretched after placing them into the container and before starting the process. This stretching or so-called tensionmg of the garment helps the relaxation of wπnkles duπng the process. Preferred stretching systems include weighted clamps as well as light weight compactable or retractible stretching systems, wherein the system comprises a tensionmg device like a spπng. The latter systems have the benefit of not adding extra weight to the cleaning and refreshing apparatus, along with the possibility of adjusting tensionmg force and direction as required. Preferably, these systems are mounted inside the container at its bottom. One example of such as system is a rollerblmd that is conventionally used as sunfilter for cars and commercially available from Halfords. This system is a rollerblmd which can be extended or compacted by means of a roll-up spring mechanism Only slight modification of this system are needed to adapt it to the tensionmg of garment One preferred adaptation involves attaching the housing of this system at the bottom of the apparatus and providing one or more clamp at the other side so that the clamping and thus the stretching or tensionmg of the garment in the apparatus is obtained. The tension of the spπng can also be adjusted to the desired stretching force for a given garment. The size of the clamp can vary so that more than one clamp are attached to this system. Still, another variation involves having only one clamp which run along or partly along the blind tensionmg system located opposite the housing of the system. The container preferably has only one wall configured like an egg shell. It has been found that the vapor, and subsequently the active ingredients, preferentially condense in the corners and along the sharp edges of a more conventional rectangular shaped cabinet. This is not to say that the methods of this invention cannot be conducted m rectangular cabinets; they can But the fewer sharp edges and corners the cabinet has, the more efficient it is. Thus, cabinets, wardrobes, and garment bags are all appropriate for use in the present invention Moreover, a common tumble dryer may be an appropriate container, but these apparatuses do not normally have humidity controllers, nor do they have the ability to program a multi-step process with respect to both temperature and humidity. Thus, with some additional programming and controllers, a common tumble dryer could be used for the methods of this invention. In addition to the at least one wall that defines an interior void space, the containers of this invention preferably compnse: a vent and/or filter; a heating element, which is capable of heating liquids to produce vapors and which can run dry to heat air; a humidity provider; and an air circulation device, for example, a fan. More preferably, the container additionally compπses an active temperature controller capable of changing and maintaining the air temperature within the interior void space of the container; a passive humidity controller capable of changing and maintaining the relative humidity of the air withm the interior void space of the container, and/or a humidity sink like a condenser. Even more preferably, the air circulation device is a fan and the fan mlet is withm the inteπor void space of the container so that at least a portion of the air withm the void space of the container is recirculated. Preferably, for the optimum deodoπsation, it preferred to have air velocities around the garment between 0.05 to 10 m/s, more preferably between 0J and 5, most preferably between 0.5 and 2 m.s-1. Also, there is preferably provided a filter in, or adjacent the exteπor of the container The water and actives, that is, the "cleaning and refreshment composition" can be added to the container in any appropnate way. The composition can be poured into the bag, poured into a reservoir that feeds into the heating element/humidifier, canisters can be used to inject the composition, or an absorbent substrate saturated with the composition can be placed in the bag Substrates and compositions suitable for use in the methods of this invention are descπbed in greater detail below. It is understood that those skilled in the art will know of other methods ot adding actives to the container and those methods are within the scope of this invention. Cleaning/Refreshment Composition The cleaning/refreshment composition preferably compnses water and optionally a member selected from the group consisting of surfactants, perfumes, preservatives, bleaches, auxiliary cleaning agents, shrinkage reducing compositions, organic solvents and mixtures thereof. The preferred organic solvents are glycol ethers, specifically, methoxy propoxy propanol, ethoxy propoxy propanol, propoxy propoxy propanol, butoxy propoxy propanol, butoxy propanol, ethanol, isopropanol and mixtures thereof. Fabric shrinkage reducing compositions that are suitable for use in the present invention are selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, all isomers of propanediol, butanediol, pentanediol, hexanediol and mixtures thereof. More preferably, the fabric shrinkage reducing compositions are selected from the group consisting of neopentyl glycol, polyethylene glycol, 1,2-propanedιol, 1,3-butanedιol, 1- octanol and mixtures thereof. The surfactant is preferably a noniomc surfactant, such as an ethoxylated alcohol or ethoxylated alkyl phenol, and is present at up to about 2%, by weight of the cleaning/refreshment composition. Typical fabric cleaning/refreshment compositions herein can comprise at least about 80%, by weight, water, preferably at least about 90%, and more preferably at least about 95% water. The Examples below give specific ranges for the individual components of preferred cleaning/refreshment compositions for use herein. A more detailed descnption of the individual components of the cleaning/refreshment compositions, that is, the organic solvents, surfactants, perfumes, preservatives, bleaches and auxiliary cleaning agents can be found in U S. Patent No. 5,789,368, which issued on August 4, 1998 to You et al. The entire disclosure of the You et al. patent is incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, cleaning/refreshment compositions are described m co-pending U.S. Patent Application No. 08/789,171, which was filed on January 24, 1997, in the name of Tπnh et al. The entire disclosure of the Tπnh et al. Application is incorporated herein by reference. And shrinkage reducing compositions for use in this invention can be found in co-pendmg U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/097,596, entitled "Cleaning Compositions that Reduce Fabnc Shrinkage", which was filed by Strang and Siklosi, on August, 24, 1998. The entire disclosure of the Strang and Siklosi application is incorporated herein by reference. Pre-treatment composition In one embodiment of this invention, the cleaning/refreshment composition can be used to pre-treat the fabrics before their placement into the container defined m step a) of the present invention. Indeed, this pre-treatment of the fabπcs has been found highly beneficial for the JO- removal of clay like horse mud as well as of creamy or pasty deodorant stains that stick to localised part of the fabrics articles, e.g. fabric underarm. Further, this pre-treatment step has also been found beneficial for improving the deodorising as well as the dewrmkling performance of the apparatus on the treated fabrics. Accordingly, there is provided a method for treating the fabrics, whereby the fabrics are contacted with a cleaning/refreshing composition as defined herein prior to being placed in the container defined m step a) Preferably, the contacting occurs by spraying the fabrics with a handspray bottle commercially available under the reference 7292458 for the 1000ml and 7292457 for the 500ml from VEL or aerosol spray like the aluminium aerosol cans with polyethylene coating and a 18 bar pressure resistance as commercially available from Boxal part of the Al group Wheaton. Suitable valves for the cans are aluminium cup spray valves from Seaquist. Preferably, the filling of the can by propellant is done with nitrogen at 10 bar for the initial pressure filling while the cans are filled with the pre- treatment composition up to 60% of the can total volume. Typical disclosure of such spray dispenser can be found in WO 96/04940 page 19 line 21 to page 22 line 27. Optionally, for more improved deodoπsmg performance, cyclodextπn can be used, in particular β-cyclodextnn like the β-hydroxypropyl cyclodextrm or the β-methylated cyclodextrm, while for improved dewrmkling, lubncant like the D5 cyclomethicone from Dow Corning or diester quaternary ammonium compound like dι(tallowyloxyethyl)dιmethyl ammonium in the cleaning/refreshment composition. Typical levels of such cyclodextrm are of from 0.01, preferably of from 0.1% to 5% by weight. Substrate In one embodiment of this invention the cleaning/refreshment composition can be releasably absorbed in an absorbent substrate, herein after referred to as a "substrate". The substrate releasably contains the composition By "releasably contains" means that the composition is effectively released from the substrate onto the soiled fabπcs as part of the cleaning and fabπc refreshment processes herein. This release occurs mainly by volatilization of the composition due to the heat from the supplemental heat source. The substrate can be in any desired form, such as powders, flakes, shreds, and the like However, it is highly preferred that the substrate be in the form of an integral pad or "sheet" that substantially maintains its structural mtegnty throughout the process. The substrates and sheets of this invention are sometimes referred to in the literature as "earners" or "absorbent carrier sheets"; it is understood that all of these labels refer to liquid absorbing materials that can be used to conveniently transport liquids. Such substrates are described in detail in U.S. Patent No 5,789,368, to You et al. which was incorporated herein by reference above. The manufacture of these sheets forms no part of this invention and is already disclosed m the literature. See, for example, U.S. Patents 5,009,747, Viazmensky, et al, April 23, 1991 and 5,292,581, Viazmensky, et al., March 8, 1994, which are incorporated herein by reference. The substrate is intended to contain a sufficient amount of the cleaning/refreshment composition to be effective for the intended purpose. The capacity of the substrate for such a composition will vary according to the intended usage. The size of the substrate should not be so large as to be unhandy for the user. Typically, the dimensions of the substrate will be sufficient to provide a macroscopic surface area (both sides of the substrate) of at least about 360 cm^, preferably in the range from about 360 cn to about 3000 cm-2. For example, a generally rectangular substrate may have the dimensions (X-direction) of from about 10 cm to about 35 cm, and (Y-direction) of from about 18 cm to about 45 cm. In one preferred embodiment of this invention, the substrate is either a dark material, or is covered with a dark material, such as a black fabric. It is well known that dark matenals absorb heat better than whiter matenals. Thus, a dark substrate would tend to absorb more heat and volatilize more cleaning and refreshing composition if, for example, solar radiation is used as the supplemental heat source. As discussed, the substrate can optionally be covered with a fibrous, preferably heat resistant and, most preferably, hydrophobic, coversheet as described in detail in U S. Patent No 5,789,368, to You et al. which was incorporated herein by reference above. Additionally, co- pending U.S. provisional application 60/077,556, which was filed on March 11, 1998, in the name of Wise et al., descπbes certain improvements to the coversheets of this invention. The entire disclosure of the Wise et al. application is incorporated herein by reference Suitable combinations of the coversheets descnbed in You et al. with the improvements descπbed in Wise et al. can be employed, according to the desires of the manufacturer, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Spot Cleaning Composition The user of the present process can be provided with various spot cleaning compositions to use m the optional pre-spottmg procedure of this invention. These compositions are used to remove localized stains from the fabπcs being treated, either before or after the cleaning and refreshing process defined herein. Necessarily, the spot cleaning composition must be compatible with the fabπc being treated. That is, no meaningful amount of dye should be removed from the fabπc during the spot treatment and the spot cleaning composition should leave no visible stains on the fabric. Therefore, in a preferred aspect of this invention there are provided spot cleaning compositions which are substantially free of materials that leave visible residues on the treated fabrics. This necessarily means that the preferred compositions are formulated to contain the highest level of volatile materials possible, preferably water, typically about 95%, preferably about 97.7%, and surfactant at levels of about 0 1% to about 0.7%. A preferred spot cleaning composition will also contain a cleaning solvent such as butoxy propoxy propanol (BPP) at a low, but effective, level, typically about 1% to about 4%, preferably about 2%. Preferred spot cleaning methods and compositions are described in U.S. Patent No 5,789,368, to You et al. which was incorporated herein by reference above. Additionally, spot cleaning methods and compositions are descπbed in U S. Patent No. 5,630,847, which issued on May 20, 1997, to Roetker. The entire disclosure of the Roetker patent is incorporated herein by reference. Treatment Member In one embodiment, a treatment member is provided to assist in removing localized stains from fabπcs. In a preferred aspect of this invention, the spot cleaning composition is provided in a dispenser, such as a bottle, and the dispenser has a distal tip that can serve as the treatment member. Additionally, the treatment member can compnse an absorbent base matenal which can be, for example, a natural or synthetic sponge, an absorbent cellulosic sheet or pad, or the like. In contact with and extending outward from this base material can be multiple protrusions. Specific examples of treatment members can be found in U S Patent No. 5,789,368, to You et al. which was incorporated herein by reference above. Absorbent Stain Receiving Article An absorbent stam receiving article, sometimes referred to herein as a stain receiver, can optionally be used m the optional pre-spottmg operations herein. Such stam receivers can be any absorbent material which imbibes the liquid composition used m the pre-spottmg operation Disposable paper towels, cloth towels such as BOUNTY™ brand towels, clean rags, etc., can be used. However, in a preferred mode the stain receiv er is designed specifically to "wick" or "draw" the liquid compositions away from the stained area One preferred type of stain receiver consists of a nonwoven pad, such as a thermally bonded air laid fabπc ("TBAL"). Another highly preferred type of stam receiver for use herein comprises polymenc foam, wherein the polymeπc foam compnses a polymeπzed water-in-oil emulsion, sometimes referred to as "poly- HEPE". The manufacture of polymeric foam is very extensively descnbed in the patent literature. see, for example: U.S. Patent No. 5,260,345 to DesMarais, Stone, Thompson, Young, LaVon and Dyer, issued November 9, 1993; U.S. Patent No. 5,550,167 to DesMarais, issued August 27, 1996, and U.S. 5,650,222 to DesMarais et al., issued July 22, 1997, all incorporated herein by reference Typical conditions for forming the polymeric foams of the present invention are described in co-pending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09/042,418, filed March 13, 1998 by T. A. DesMarais, et al., titled "Absorbent Materials for Distributing Aqueous Liquids", the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Additional disclosure of conditions for forming the polymeπc foams for use m the present invention are described m co-pendmg U S Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/077,955, filed March 13, 1998 by T. A. DesMarais, et al., titled "Abrasion Resistant Polymeπc Foam And Stam Receivers Made Therefrom", the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The various stam receivers described herein, and described in the references incorporated herein by reference, preferably comprise a liquid impermeable backsheet. The backsheet can be made of, for example, a thin layer of polypropylene, polyethylene and the like. The backsheet provides protection for the surface that the stain receiver rests on from the spot cleaning composition. For example, spot cleaning processes are typically performed on a hard surface, such as a table top. The stain receiver is placed on the table and the fabnc to be treated in placed on the stam receiver. Spot cleaning composition is applied to the stained area of the fabπc and then drawn into the stam receiver. But in the absence of a back sheet, the spot cleaning composition can leak onto the table top, possibly causing damage thereto. The following Examples further illustrate the invention, but are not intended to be limiting thereof. EXAMPLE I Two extra-large men's jackets that have been exposed to cigarette smoke and wrinkled using standardized methods, are placed on clothes hangers. These jackets are then hung on the mside of a plastic bag that has two co-planer flat ends (the top and bottom) with the side walls being cylindrical and slightly outwardly bowed near the center. For illustration purposes only, the bag can be thought of as shaped like an egg shell with the top and bottom cut off. The container has a door for accessing the mtenor, and the door is closed with a zipper. A small slit near the bottom of the bag serves as the vent and the vent remains open at all times duπng this process On the interior of the bag is a fan, a heating element, a thermocouple and a reservoir that is m fluid communication with the heating element Approximately 100 to 125 is ot a composition comprising approximately 99% water and 1% perfume, by weight, is poured into the reservoir and the door is closed. An exterior "on/off switch is turned on to begin the fabric refreshment process. The switch is connected to a programmable microprocessor that controls the multi-step process. First, the temperature is raised to about 70°C with a relative humidity of about 50%. This is accomplished by running the fan and the heating element, with little or no cleaning and refreshment composition m contact with the heating element. This first step lasts for about 10 to 15 minutes. For the second step, the temperature is reduced to about 50°C and the relative humidity is raised to greater than about 95%. This is accomplished through the introduction of the vaporized cleaning and refreshment composition. The fan continues to run dunng this second step, which lasts for about 7 to 9 minutes. Finally, with the fan running the heating element is turned off and the mtenor of the bag cools naturally to about 45°C in less than about 10 minutes. The fan is turned off automatically, and an indicator light signals that the process is complete. The jackets are removed and they are substantially wnnkle free, deodorized and ready to wear. EXAMPLE π Two extra-large men's jackets that have been exposed to cigarette smoke and wnnkled using standardized methods, are placed on clothes hangers. The areas with the most wπnkles were then pre-treated with a hand-held spray commercially available under the reference 7292457 from Vel and containing demmerahsed water so that the wnnkled areas were slightly damp but not soaked. These jackets are then hung on the inside of a plastic bag that has two co-planer flat ends (the top and bottom) with the side walls being cylmdncal and slightly outwardly bowed near the center. For illustration purposes only, the bag can be thought of as shaped like an egg shell with the top and bottom cut off. The container has a door for accessing the mtenor, and the door is closed with a zipper. A vent is provided near the bottom of the bag, but the vent remains closed when the ozone is present m the bag. On the mtenor of the bag is a fan, an ultra violet lamp, a heating element, a thermocouple and a receptacle for receiving a cartridge that contains a cleaning and refreshment composition. The receptacle is m fluid communication with the heating element. The cleaning and refreshment composition compπses approximately 100 to 125 mis of a composition compπsmg approximately 99% water and 1% perfume, by weight. After the cartndge is connected to the receptacle, the door is closed. An exterior "on off switch is turned on to begin the fabric refreshment process. The switch is connected to a programmable microprocessor that controls the multi-step process. First, the ultraviolet lamp is turned on to produce ozone. The lamp remains lit for approximately 10 minutes. The fan is optionally run during this first step. For the second step, the temperature is raised to about 50°C and the relative humidity is raised to greater than about 95%. This is accomplished through the introduction of the vaporized cleaning and refreshment composition. The fan continues to run during this second step, which lasts for about 7 to 12 minutes. Finally, with the fan running the heating element is turned off and the interior of the bag cools naturally to about 45°C in less than about 10 minutes. The fan is turned off automatically, and an indicator light signals that the process is complete. The jackets are removed and they are substantially wrinkle free, deodorized and ready to wear. EXAMPLE m Cleaning and Refreshing Compositions While the cleaning and refreshment compositions of this invention can comprise water and perfume only, additional fabric treatment components can also be included. For example, fabric cleaning/refreshment compositions according to the present invention, for use in the methods described herein, are prepared as follows: Ingredient % (wt.) Sheet Cartridge Emulsifier (TWEEN 20)* 0.5 0 Perfume 0.5 0.5 KATHON® 0.0003 0 Sodium Benzoate 0.1 0 Water Balance Balance *Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate available from ICI Surfactants. Additionally, preferred compositions for use in the methods of this invention are as follows. Ingredient % (wt.) Range (% wt.) Water 99.0 95 J -99.9 Perfume 0.5 0.05-1.5 Surfactant* 0.5 0.05-2.0 Ethanol or Isopropanol Optional to 4% Solvent (e.g. BPP) Optional to 4% Hydrogen peroxide Optional to 4% pH range from about 6 to about 8. EXAMPLE IV Spot Cleaning Compositions A spot cleaning composition for use in the present invention, preferably with a dispenser as defined above, and with a TBAL or poly-HIPE foam stain receiver, is prepared as follows: INGREDIENT Anionic Composition (%) Hydrogen peroxide 1.000 Amino tris(methylene phosphonic acid)* 0.0400 Butoxypropoxypropanol (BPP) 2.000 NH 4 Coconut E j S 0.285 Dodecyldimethylamine oxide 0.031 Magnesium chloride 0.018 Magnesium sulfate 0.019 Hydrotrope, perfume, other minors, 0J 01 Kathon preservative 0.0003 Water (deionized or distilled) 96.5 Target pH 6.0 * Stabilizer for hydrogen peroxide Preferably, to minimize the potential for dye damage as disclosed hereinabove, H2O2- containing pre-spotting compositions comprise the anionic or nonionic surfactant in an amount (by weight of composition) which is less than the amount of H2O2. Preferably, the weight ratio of surfactant:H2θ2 is in the range of about 1 : 10 to about 1: 1.5, most preferably about 1 :4 to about 1:3.

Claims: WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A method for treating a fabric article comprising the steps of: a) placing the fabnc article m a container having an opening and at least one wall that defines an mtenor void space; b) raising the temperature and relative humidity of the air withm the inteπor void space of the container to a predetermined first temperature and a predetermined first relative humidity for a predetermined first period of time; and c) changing at least one of the temperature or the relative humidity of the air withm the inteπor void space of the container at the end of the first peπod of time to a predetermined second temperature and a predetermined second relative humidity for a predetermined second period of time 2. A method according to Claim 1, wherein said fabπc is contacted with a pre-treatment composition pnor to being placed withm the container of step a). 3. A method according to Claim 1, wherein said contacting occurs by spraying. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein vapor is used to raise the temperature and relative humidity of the air withm the interior void space of the container. 5 The method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of allowing the temperature within the mtenor void space to decrease to a third temperature wherein the third temperature is less than about 45°C, preferably less than about 40°C, and more preferably less than about 35°C 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the container further compnses: a) a heating element b) a humidity provider, preferably a passive humidity controller capable of changing and maintaining the relative humidity ot the air within the mtenor void space of the container; c) a vent and/or filter; and d) an air circulation device. 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the container further comprises an active temperature controller capable of changing and maintaining the air temperature withm the interior void space of the container. 8. The method according to claim 6, wherein the container further compnses a passive humidity controller capable of changing and maintaining the relative humidity of the air withm the mtenor void space of the container. 9. The method according to claim 6, wherein the vent remains open at all times. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein vapor is introduced into the interior void space of the container compπses water and a perfume. 11. The method according to claim 6, wherein the air circulation device is a fan and the fan inlet is within the interior void space of the container so that at least a portion of the air within the void space of the container is recirculated. 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first temperature is at least about 45°C, preferably at least about 60°C, and most preferably at least about 70°C and the first relative humidity is at least about 20 %, preferably at least about 50%. 13. The method according to claim 1, wherein the second temperature is greater than T as defined by the equation: T = 60 - (0.17 * H2), wherein RH2 is the second relative humidity in percent. 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein RH2 is of at least 50%, preferably of at least 15%, more preferably of at least about 85%, most preferably at least about 90%. 15. The method according to claim 13, wherein the second temperature is less than about 90°C, more preferably less than about 80°C, and most preferably less than about 70°C. 16. A method for treating a fabπc article comprising the steps of: a) placing the fabric article in a container having an opening and at least one wall that defines an mtenor void space; b) introducing ozone into the mtenor void space for a predetermined first peπod of time; and c) changing at least one of the temperature or the relative humidity of the air within the interior void space of the container at the end of the first period of time to a predetermined second temperature and a predetermined second humidity for a predetermined second period of time. 1.7. The method according to claim 16, wherein the first temperature is at least about 45°C, preferably at least about 60°C, and most preferably at least about 70°C. 18. The method according to either one of claim 16 or 17, wherein the ozone is generated by an ozone source within the interior void space of the container. 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the ozone source is an ultraviolet lamp or a high voltage source. 20. The method according to Claim 18, wherein the ozone provides benefits on treated fabrics selected from malodour reduction or removal, stain removal , sanitisation, and mixtures thereof. 21. The method according to claim 16, wherein vapor is used to change the temperature and relative humidity of the air within the interior void space of the container. 22. The method according to claim 16, further comprising a cool down step after the second period wherein the temperature within the interior void space is allowed to decrease to less than about 45°C, preferably less than about 40°C, and more preferably less than about 35°C. 23. The method according to claim 16, wherein the container further comprises: a) a heating element b) a humidity provider, preferably a passive humidity controller capable of changing and maintaining the relative humidity of the air within the interior void space of the container; c) a vent and/or filter; and d) an air circulation device. 24.The method according to claim 23, wherein the container further comprises an active temperature controller capable of changing and maintaining the air temperature within the interior void space of the container. 25. The method according to claim 23, wherein the container further comprises a passive humidity controller capable of changing and maintaining the relative humidity of the air within the interior void space of the container. 26. The method according to claim 23, wherein the vent remains closed at all times. 27. The method according to claim 21, wherein vapor is introduced into the interior void space of the container comprises water and optionally a perfume. 28. The method according to claim 23, wherein the air circulation device is a fan and the fan inlet is within the interior void space of the container so that at least a portion of the air within the void space of the container is recirculated. 29. The method according to Claim 28, wherein the air circulation device provides air velocities around the garment between 0.05 to 10 m.s "1 , more preferably between 0J and 5m.s " ', most preferably between 0.5 and 2 m.s " \ 30. The method according to claim 16, wherein the second temperature is greater than T as defined by the equation: T = 60 - (0J7 * RH2), wherein RH2 is the second relative humidity in percent. 31. The method according to claim 30, wherein RH2 is of at least 50%, preferably of at least 75%, more preferably of at least about 85%, most preferably at least about 90%. 32. The method according to claim 16, wherein the second temperature is less than about 90°C, more preferably less than about 80°C, and most preferably less than about 70°C. 33. The method according to claim 1 or 16, wherein a cartridge containing a cleaning and refreshing composition is introduced into the interior void space of the container and the cleaning and refreshment composition is released from the cartridge into the interior void space of the container. 34. The method according to claim 16, wherein the container further comprises a filter. 35. The method according to Claim 34, wherein the filter is in close proximity of the fan. 36. The method according to any one of Claims 1-35, wherein the garments are stretched or tensioned prior to the start of the cycle, preferably by means of one or more stretching device.

Inventors: BETTIOL JEAN-LUC PHILIPPE, BOUVETTE MARIANNE MAI ANH, DEWAELE JOOST IGNACE, PASIN MERIH, VAN HAUWERMEIREN TIM, VOS EDDY, BETTIOL, JEAN-LUC, PHILIPPE, BOUVETTE, MARIANNE, MAI, ANH, DEWAELE, JOOST, IGNACE, PASIN, MERIH, VAN HAUWERMEIREN, TIM, VOS, EDDY
Applicants: BETTIOL JEAN LUC PHILIPPE, BOUVETTE MARIANNE MAI ANH, DEWAELE JOOST IGNACE, HAUWERMEIREN TIM VAN, PASIN MERIH, PROCTER & GAMBLE, VOS EDDY, BETTIOL, JEAN-LUC, PHILIPPE, BOUVETTE, MARIANNE, MAI, ANH, DEWAELE, JOOST, IGNACE, PASIN, MERIH, THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY, VAN HAUWERMEIREN, TIM, VOS, EDDY
Application year: 2000
Main classification: D06F43
IPC codes: D06F43, D06F73