Patent Publication Number: US-10766051-B1

Title: Apparatuses for wetting mildew-removal strips and related methods

Description:
FIELD OF INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to apparatuses and methods for wetting absorbent strips with a solution for removing mildew stains on grout and caulk. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Mildew can be a problem in damp areas, such as bathroom tub and shower areas. Mildew stains frequently appear on caulk and grout lines in bathrooms. These mildew stains are unsightly and may release mold spores into the air that can create an unpleasant smell. General purpose cleaning products may be ineffective at removing these mildew stains. 
     Some commercial products, such as TILEX® Mold and Mildew Remover, are marketed for bathroom mildew removal. These commercial products typically contain bleach (sodium hypochlorite) to facilitate mildew removal and are dispensed using a spray bottle. When spraying a bleach solution to treat the mildew-affected area (e.g., a narrow line of caulk or grout), a relatively large amount of overspray typically is dispensed onto surrounding areas, such as tile, that are not affected by mildew. This overspray can waste a large amount of the bleach solution. The wasted bleach solution, when rinsed down the drain, may harm the environment and water supplies. Sprayed bleach solution can evaporate quickly when exposed to air, which can produce irritating bleach fumes and require one or more reapplications of spray. Additionally, these commercial products may require scrubbing of the mildew-affected area to remove the mildew. 
     The article “How to Get Rid of Black Mold in Your Shower Caulking” by Katelyn Fagan discloses an alternative way to dispense a mildew-removing solution. Lengths of commercially-available cotton coil can be immersed in a bowl of bleach solution and thereafter pressed against mildew-affected sections of caulk or grout. Surface tension can keep the wetted cotton coils removably attached to the grout or caulk line. Use of the wetted cotton coils can eliminate the overspray problem caused by spray bottles. In addition, the cotton coils can keep the grout or caulk wetted with bleach solution for a greater duration than is possible with a single-spray application of bleach solution. Although the cotton coil method generally consumes less bleach solution than the spray bottle method, the cotton coil method can still generate a significant amount of waste. Commercially-available cotton coils are typically large in diameter relative to narrow grout lines and thus may absorb more bleach solution than is necessary to treat the mildew-affected area. And to permit coil immersion in the bowl of bleach solution, the bowl typically must contain more bleach solution than is necessary for the treatment, which can further leave wasted solution. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present apparatuses can be configured to wet one or more absorbent strips with a mildew-removing solution, such as bleach, in a manner that creates less waste than conventional bowl-soaking techniques. These absorbent strip(s) can be sized to cover lengths of narrow grout and/or caulk lines while being narrower—and thus requiring less solution to be wetted—than the cotton coils used in conventional treatments. Some apparatuses can include a solution tray, a dispenser tray, and an applicator tray and at least some of the apparatus components—such as those trays—can be detachable, allowing the apparatus to be easily disassembled for storage and re-assembled for use. One or more absorbent strips can be placed on the applicator tray and a packet of mildew-removing solution—which can contain a pre-measured quantity of mildew removing solution that is sufficient but does not significantly exceed the volume required to wet the absorbent strips and treat the mildew-affected area—can be placed onto the solution tray. The mildew-removing solution can be released from the packet (e.g., by piercing the packet). The dispenser tray can be positioned below the solution tray and above the applicator tray such that the dispenser tray can receive the released solution from the solution tray and dispense it onto the absorbent strip(s) disposed on the applicator tray via one or more dispensers. Each of the dispenser(s) can include a tube and a flow restrictor such that the solution can be dispensed onto the strip(s) in a controlled manner. In the manner, the absorbent strip(s) can be wetted using less mildew-removing solution to treat a section of moldy grout or caulk than that typically used when employing conventional mildew removal spay bottles and cotton coils. 
     The wetted absorbent strip(s) can be removed from the dispenser and applied to grout and/or caulk lines. Once applied to the grout and/or caulk lines, each of the wetted absorbent strip(s) can remain in contact with the grout or caulk during treatment through surface tension. By remaining in contact with the grout or caulk, the absorbent strip can reduce the rate at which the mildew-removing solution evaporates and keep the treated area wetted with solution for a longer duration. By treating the affected area for a longer duration, the need to manually scrub the area can be reduced or eliminated. 
     Some of the present apparatuses comprise a dispenser tray. In some apparatuses, the dispenser tray comprises a base that defines opposing upper and lower surfaces and one or more openings. In some apparatuses, the dispenser tray comprises a sidewall that extends away from the upper surface and is disposed along a periphery of the base. The dispenser tray in some apparatuses has a length measured in a first direction and a width measured in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction that is less than or equal to 30% of the length. 
     In some apparatuses, the dispenser tray comprises one or more dispensers. In some apparatuses, the dispenser tray comprises four or more dispensers. In some apparatuses, the dispenser comprises a tube extending between first and second ends. In some apparatuses, the first end is coupled to the base of the dispenser tray such that the tube is configured to receive solution from a respective one of the opening(s) of the dispenser tray. In some apparatuses, the dispenser comprises a flow restrictor coupled to the second end of the tube and defining an outlet of the dispenser. In some apparatuses, the flow restrictor has a maximum internal transverse dimension that is less than or equal to 90% of a maximum internal transverse dimension of the tube. In some apparatuses, the flow restrictor has a maximum internal transverse dimension that is less than or equal to 40% of a maximum internal transverse dimension of the tube. In some apparatuses, a maximum internal transverse dimension of the flow restrictor is less than or equal to 0.10 inches. 
     Some of the present apparatuses comprise an applicator tray that is configured to receive one or more absorbent strips. In some apparatuses, the applicator tray comprises two or more platforms. In some apparatuses, the two or more platforms include one or more upper platforms and one or more lower platforms that are positioned lower than each of the upper platform(s). The dispenser tray and applicator tray, in some apparatuses, are positionable such that when the dispenser tray receives the solution, the solution is permitted to flow through the opening(s) of the dispenser tray into the dispenser(s) and through the dispenser(s) onto the applicator tray. In some apparatuses, the dispensers are positioned in two or more sets of two or more dispensers, each of the sets configured to overlie a respective one of the platforms. In some embodiments, for each of the sets of dispensers, at least two of the dispensers are separated by a distance, measured in the first direction, that is greater than or equal to 50% of the length of the dispenser tray. 
     Some of the present apparatuses comprise a solution tray. In some apparatuses, the solution tray comprises a base that defines opposing upper and lower surfaces and one or more openings. In some apparatuses, the solution tray comprises a sidewall that extends away from the upper surface and is disposed along a periphery of the base. The solution tray and the dispenser tray, in some apparatuses, are positionable such that when the solution tray receives the solution, the solution is permitted to flow through the opening(s) of the solution tray onto the base of the dispenser tray. 
     In some apparatuses, the solution tray comprises a lid. The lid in some apparatuses is movable between an open position and a closed position in which the lid overlies at least a majority of the base of the solution tray. In some apparatuses, the lid comprises one or more spikes configured to puncture a packet that is disposed on the solution tray when the lid is moved to the closed position. 
     In some apparatuses, each of the solution tray, the dispenser tray, and the applicator tray has a length measured in a first direction and a width measured in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction. In some apparatuses, for each of the dispenser tray and the applicator tray, the width of the tray is less than or equal to 30% of the length of the tray. In some apparatuses, the length of the solution tray is less than or equal to 50% of each of the lengths of the dispenser tray and the applicator tray. 
     Some of the present apparatuses comprise one or more dispenser rails. In some apparatuses, the dispenser rails are slidable to an open position in which solution is permitted to flow from the dispenser(s) onto the applicator tray. In some apparatuses, the dispenser rails are slidable to an open position in which solution is permitted to flow from the dispensers of the set onto one of the platforms of the applicator tray. In some apparatuses, the dispenser rails are slidable to a closed position in which solution is not permitted to flow from the dispenser(s) onto the applicator tray. In some apparatuses, the dispenser rails are slidable to a closed position in which solution is not permitted to flow from the dispensers of the set onto one of the platforms of the applicator tray. The dispenser rails in some apparatuses comprise one or more plugs positioned such that, when the dispenser rail is in the closed position, each of the plugs engages a respective one of the flow restrictor(s) to seal the outlet defined by the flow restrictor. The dispenser rails in some apparatuses comprise one or more openings positioned such that, when the dispenser rail is in the open position, for each of the opening(s) solution from a respective one of the dispenser(s) is permitted to pass through the opening. 
     In some apparatuses, each of the sets of dispensers comprises a rail support. The rail support in some apparatuses is coupled to dispensers of the set. The rail support in some apparatuses defines a guide that is disposed below the flow restrictors of the set and is configured to receive a respective one of the dispenser rails. 
     Some of the present apparatuses comprise first and second support frames. In some apparatuses, the dispenser tray and the applicator tray are configured to extend between and be removably coupled to the support frames such that the dispenser(s) overlie the applicator tray. In some apparatuses, the solution tray is not configured to extend between the support frames when the dispenser tray and the applicator tray extend between the support frames. The applicator tray in some apparatuses is configured to be pivotably coupled to the second support frame. In some apparatuses, the applicator tray is pivotable to a first position in which at least a majority of the dispenser(s) do not overlie the applicator tray. In some apparatuses, the applicator tray is pivotable to a second position in which the dispenser(s) overlie the applicator tray and the applicator tray. 
     Some of the present methods of wetting one or more absorbent strips with a solution comprise placing one or more absorbent strips onto an applicator tray. Some of the present methods comprise disposing the solution on a solution tray such that the solution flows through one or more openings defined by the solution tray onto a base of the dispenser tray and through two or more openings defined by the base of the dispenser tray into two or more dispensers. In some methods, each of the dispensers includes a tube coupled to the base of the dispenser tray. Some of the present methods comprise sliding one or more dispenser rails from a closed position in which the dispenser rail(s) do not permit fluid to flow from the dispensers onto the applicator tray to an open position such that the solution exits the dispensers and flows onto the absorbent strip(s). 
     In some methods, disposing the solution on a solution tray comprises disposing a packet that contains the solution onto the solution tray. Disposing the solution on a solution tray in some methods comprises puncturing the packet. 
     In some methods, the tube extends between first and second ends. In some methods, the first end is coupled to the base of the dispenser tray. In some methods, the dispenser comprises a flow restrictor coupled to the second end of the tube and defining an outlet of the dispenser. In some methods, the flow restrictor has a maximum internal transverse dimension that is less than or equal to 40% of a maximum internal transverse dimension of the tube. 
     In some methods, each of the solution tray, the dispenser tray, and the applicator tray has a length measured in a first direction and a width measured in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction. In some methods, for each of the dispenser tray and the applicator tray, the width of the tray is less than or equal to 30% of the length of the tray. In some methods, the length of the solution tray is less than or equal to 50% of each of the lengths of the dispenser tray and the applicator tray. 
     The term “coupled” is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically; two items that are “coupled” may be unitary with each other. The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more unless this disclosure explicitly requires otherwise. The term “substantially” is defined as largely but not necessarily wholly what is specified—and includes what is specified; e.g., substantially 90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includes parallel—as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. In any disclosed embodiment, the term “substantially” or “approximately” may be substituted with “within [a percentage] of” what is specified, where the percentage includes 0.1, 1, 5, and 10 percent. 
     The terms “comprise” and any form thereof such as “comprises” and “comprising,” “have” and any form thereof such as “has” and “having,” and “include” and any form thereof such as “includes” and “including” are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, an apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those elements. Likewise, a method that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more steps possesses those one or more steps, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps. 
     Any embodiment of any of the apparatuses, systems, and methods can consist of or consist essentially of—rather than comprise/include/have—any of the described steps, elements, and/or features. Thus, in any of the claims, the term “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of” can be substituted for any of the open-ended linking verbs recited above, in order to change the scope of a given claim from what it would otherwise be using the open-ended linking verb. 
     Further, a device or system that is configured in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but it can also be configured in other ways than those specifically described. 
     The feature or features of one embodiment may be applied to other embodiments, even though not described or illustrated, unless expressly prohibited by this disclosure or the nature of the embodiments. 
     Some details associated with the embodiments described above and others are described below. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The following drawings illustrate by way of example and not limitation. For the sake of brevity and clarity, every feature of a given structure is not always labeled in every figure in which that structure appears. Identical reference numbers do not necessarily indicate an identical structure. Rather, the same reference number may be used to indicate a similar feature or a feature with similar functionality, as may non-identical reference numbers. Views in the figures are drawn to scale, unless otherwise noted, meaning the sizes of the depicted elements are accurate relative to each other for at least the embodiment in the view. 
         FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of one of the present apparatuses configured to wet one or more absorbent strips; the depicted apparatus includes a solution tray, a dispenser tray, and an applicator tray. 
         FIG. 1B  is a front view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 2A  is a top view of the solution tray of the apparatus of  FIG. 1A  when the lid of the solution tray is in the open position. 
         FIG. 2B  is a bottom view of the solution tray of  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 3A  is a side view of the dispenser tray of the apparatus of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIGS. 3B and 3C  are a top and front views, respectively, of the dispenser tray of  FIG. 3A   
         FIG. 4  is a top view of a rail assembly that can be used to selectively block and permit the flow of solution from the dispenser tray of  FIG. 3A . 
         FIGS. 5A and 5B  are top and front views, respectively, of the applicator tray of the apparatus of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 5C  is a cross-sectional view of the applicator tray of  FIG. 5A  taken along line  5 C- 5 C. 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of one of the support frames of the apparatus of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1A  when the applicator tray is pivoted to a position in which one or more absorbent strips can be disposed on the applicator tray. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A and 1B , shown is an apparatus  10  that can be used to wet one or more absorbent strips with a solution (e.g., such that the wetted strip(s) can be placed on a mildew-affected area to remove mildew therefrom). Apparatus  10  can include a solution tray  14 , a dispenser tray  18 , and an applicator tray  22 . Solution tray  14  can be configured to receive a solution and—as described in further detail below—dispenser tray  18  can be positioned to receive the solution from the solution tray and convey the solution onto applicator tray  22  in a controlled manner such that waste is mitigated. For example, solution tray  14 , dispenser tray  18 , and applicator tray  22  can be positioned such that the dispenser tray is disposed below the solution tray and above the applicator tray, thereby allowing the solution to flow from the solution tray to the dispenser and applicator trays under the influence of gravity. Applicator tray  22  can be configured to receive the absorbent strip(s) such that solution conveyed by dispenser tray  18  can wet the absorbent strip(s) disposed thereon. 
       FIGS. 2A and 2B  show solution tray  14  of apparatus  10 . As shown, solution tray  14  can comprise a base  26  defining opposing upper and lower surfaces  28   a  and  28   b  and a sidewall  30  that extends away from the upper surface and surrounds the base&#39;s periphery to define a cavity such that the sidewall can (at least temporarily) contain solution received by the solution tray. Solution tray  14  can have any suitable shape and size to accommodate an adequate volume of solution to wet the absorbent strip(s). For example, solution tray  14  can be shaped and sized such that its cavity can receive a packet containing the solution; the use of a packet may allow greater precision with respect to the amount of solution introduced into the absorbent strip(s), compared to pouring solution directly into the solution tray&#39;s cavity, which can mitigate waste. To illustrate, solution tray  14  can, but need not, be rectangular; in other embodiments, however, the solution tray can have any shape suitable for accommodating a packet, such as triangular, square, or otherwise polygonal (whether having sharp and/or rounded corners), circular, elliptical, or otherwise rounded, or an irregular shape. In a preferred embodiment, solution tray  14  has a length  46 , measured in a first direction, that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 9 inches (e.g., between 5 and 7 inches, or approximately 6 inches), a width  50 , measured in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction, that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, or 5.5 inches (e.g., between 2.5 and 3.5 inches, or approximately 3 inches), and a depth  54 , measured perpendicularly to each of the length and width, that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 0.30, 0.40, 0.50, 0.60, 0.70, 0.80, 0.90, 1.0, or 1.1 inches (e.g., between 0.65 and 0.85 inches, or approximately 0.75 inches). 
     To allow solution to flow onto dispenser tray  18 , base  26  of solution tray  14  can define one or more openings  34 , such as greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of,  1 ,  2 ,  3 ,  4 ,  5 ,  6 ,  7 , or  8  openings; as shown, the base defines three openings. In this manner, solution received by solution tray  14  is permitted to flow through opening(s)  34  onto dispenser tray  18 . In some embodiments, base  26  of solution tray  14  can be sloped toward opening(s)  34  to facilitate this flow. 
     Solution tray  14  can comprise a lid  38  that is movable between an open position ( FIG. 2A ) and a closed position in which the lid overlies at least a majority (up to and including all) of base  26  of the solution tray ( FIG. 7 ). Lid  38  can have substantially the same length and width as solution tray  14  and, optionally, has one or more walls around its perimeter such that, when the lid is in the closed position, the lid&#39;s wall(s) are disposed within the cavity defined by the solution tray. In a preferred embodiment, lid  38  has a thickness that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 0.20, 0.30, 0.40, 0.50, 0.60, 0.70, 0.80, or 0.90 inches (e.g., between 0.40 and 0.60 inches, or approximately 0.50 inches). Lid  38  can be attached to solution tray  14  in any suitable manner, such as with a hinge. 
     Lid  38  can be configured to release solution from a packet disposed on solution tray  14 . For example, lid  38  can comprise one or more spikes  42  protruding outwardly from an interior surface of the lid. A packet can be placed on solution tray  14  when lid  38  is opened, and when the lid is closed, spike(s)  42  can puncture the packet such that solution drains from the packet into the solution tray and/or through opening(s)  34 . Spike(s)  42  can be positioned such that the spike(s) are configured to puncture the top and, preferably, bottom portions of the packet. To illustrate, lid  38  can comprise a spike  42  for each of opening(s)  34 , the spike(s) being positioned such that when the lid is in the closed position each of the spike(s) extends through a respective one of the opening(s). To do so, each of spike(s)  42  can have a length that is larger than depth  54  of solution tray  14 ; for example, each of the spike(s) can have a length that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, or 2.0 inches (e.g., between 1.3 and 1.7 inches, or approximately 1.5 inches). Puncturing the packet at each of opening(s)  34  can facilitate the flow of solution through the opening(s). 
     As shown in  FIG. 2B , solution tray  14  can comprise one or more braces  58 , such as greater than or equal to any one of or between any two of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more braces (e.g., four or more braces). Each of brace(s)  58  can protrude away from a lower surface of base  26  of solution tray  14 . As described below, solution tray  14  can be coupled to dispenser tray  18  via brace(s)  58 , which can facilitate proper alignment between the solution and dispenser trays. 
       FIGS. 3A-3C  show dispenser tray  18  of apparatus  10 . Dispenser tray  18  can also comprise a base  62  defining opposing upper and lower surfaces  64   a  and  64   b  and a sidewall  66  that extends away from the upper surface and is disposed along a periphery of the base to define a reservoir  70 . Reservoir  70  can collect solution released from solution tray  14  and base  62  can define one or more openings  74  through which that collected solution can flow, such as greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of,  1 ,  2 ,  3 ,  4 ,  5 ,  6 ,  7 ,  8 ,  9 ,  10 ,  20 ,  30 , or more openings (e.g., two or more or four or more openings). Sidewall  66  can have any suitable height  68 , measured perpendicularly to length  118  and width  122  of dispenser tray  18 , for containing an adequate volume of solution, such as a height that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, or 2.0 inches (e.g., between 1.3 and 1.7 inches, or approximately 1.5 inches). Dispenser tray  18  can include one or more slots  78 , such as one slot for each of brace(s)  58  of solution tray  14 , that are sized and positioned such that each of the brace(s) can be received in a respective one of the slot(s) to couple the trays together (e.g., such that the solution tray rests on top of the dispenser tray). For example, each of slot(s)  78  can be positioned on one of the lengthwise sections of sidewall  66 . 
     Dispenser tray  18  can include one or more dispensers  82 , such as greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 30, or more dispensers (e.g., two or more or four or more dispensers); as shown, there are three rows of nine dispensers. Each of dispenser(s)  82  can comprise a tube  86  extending between first and second ends  90   a  and  90   b , the first end coupled to lower surface  64   a  of base  26  such that the tube can receive solution from one of opening(s)  74 . Each of dispenser(s)  82  can also include a flow restrictor  94  that can be coupled to second end  90   b  of tube  86  and define an outlet  98  of the dispenser through which solution can be deposited onto applicator tray  22 . Flow restrictor  94  can have a maximum internal transverse dimension  102  that is smaller than a maximum internal transverse dimension  106  of tube  86  to dispense the solution in a controlled manner. To illustrate, transverse dimension  102  of flow restrictor  94  can be less than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 0.10, 0.09, 0.08, 0.07, 0.06, 0.05, or 0.04 inches (e.g., between 0.04 and 0.08 inches, or approximately 0.0625 inches) and transverse dimension  106  of tube  86  can be greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, or 0.30 inches (e.g., between 0.22 and 0.28 inches, or approximately 0.25 inches). Each of opening(s)  74  can have substantially the same shape and size as a cross-section of each of tube(s)  86  (e.g., such that a transverse dimension of opening  74  is substantially the same as transverse dimension  106 ). 
     Tube(s)  86  and flow restrictor(s)  94  can each have a length suitable to facilitate flow and to contain the volume of solution to be dispensed. For example, each of cylinder(s)  86  can have a length  110 , measured between first and second ends  90   a  and  90   b , that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 inches (e.g., approximately 1 inch) and each of flow restrictor(s)  94  can have a length, measured between second end  90   b  and outlet  98 , that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, or 0.40 inches (e.g., approximately 0.25 inches). 
     Dispenser tray  18  can include multiple dispensers  82  positioned in one or more, optionally two or more, sets of dispensers (e.g., one set for each of the absorbent strip(s) to be wetted) such that each of the set(s) is configured to deposit solution onto a respective one of the strip(s). Because the absorbent strip(s) to be wetted can be relatively long (e.g., having a length that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, or 24 inches) (e.g., such that the strip(s) can cover long but narrow grout and/or caulk lines), for each of the set(s) of dispensers  82 , the dispensers can be positioned to deposit the solution onto different locations along the length of the absorbent strip, thereby facilitating a uniform wetting thereof. As shown, dispenser tray  18  includes three sets of nine dispensers  82 , each of the sets defining a row of dispensers along length  118  of the dispenser tray such that the dispenser tray is configured to deposit solution onto three absorbent strips. For each of the set(s) of dispensers  82 , at least two of the dispensers can be spaced apart by a distance, measured in a direction aligned with length  118  (e.g., in the first direction), that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of length  118 . To accommodate a suitable lengthwise positioning of dispensers  82  and to distribute solution to the dispensers, length  118  of dispenser tray  18  can be relatively long (e.g., relative to length  46  of solution tray  14 , whose shorter length may be better suited for accommodating a solution packet). For example, length  118 , measured in the first direction, can be greater than or equal any one of, or between any two of, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, or 25 inches (e.g., approximately 20 inches) and/or length  46  of solution tray  14  can be less than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% (e.g., less than or equal to 50%, or between 25% and 35%) of the length of the dispenser tray. 
     Because each of the absorbent strip(s) can be relatively narrow, dispenser tray  18  can have a relatively narrow (relative to its length  118 ) width  122 . For example, width  122  can be less than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% (e.g., less than or equal to 30%, or between 5% and 15%) of length  118 , such as less than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 3.0, 2.8, 2.6, 2.4, 2.2, 2.0, 1.8, 1.6, 1.4, or 1.2 inches (e.g., between 1.5 and 2.5 inches, or approximately 2 inches). 
     Referring additionally to  FIG. 4 , apparatus  10  can comprise a rail assembly  138  that comprises one or more dispenser rails  142  configured to selectively permit and block the flow of solution from dispenser(s)  82 . Dispenser rail(s)  142  can be slidable between an open position in which solution is permitted to flow from dispenser(s)  82  onto applicator tray  22  and a closed position in which solution is not permitted to flow from the dispenser(s) onto the applicator tray. For example, each of dispenser rail(s)  142  can define one or more openings  146  positioned such that when the sliding dispenser rail is in the open position, each of the opening(s) aligns with one of flow restrictor(s)  94 , allowing solution to escape the flow restrictor, pass through the dispenser opening, and fall onto applicator tray  22 . Each of opening(s)  146  preferably has a larger cross-sectional area than that of outlet  98  defined by a flow restrictor  94  that overlies the opening when rail  142  is in the open position to allow solution to pass through the dispenser opening unimpeded. As depicted, each of dispenser opening(s)  146  has a rectangular shape, but in other embodiments may have any suitable shape, such as square, oval, or circular. Each of dispenser rail(s)  142  can also include one or more plugs  150  positioned such that when the sliding dispenser rail is in the closed position, each of the plug(s) engages a respective one of flow restrictor(s)  94  to seal outlet  98  defined by the flow restrictor and prevent solution from passing therethrough. For each of dispenser rail(s)  142 , each of plug(s)  150  can protrude from a top surface of the dispenser rail and can be spaced apart from one of opening(s)  146  by a distance that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, or 0.40 inches (e.g., approximately 0.25 inches). In a preferred embodiment, each of plug(s)  150  has a transverse dimension that is substantially the same as the outside transverse diameter of a flow restrictor  94  that the plug is configured to engage and/or the plug comprise rubber material. 
     When apparatus  10  includes multiples sets of dispensers  82 , rail assembly  138  can include multiple dispenser rails  142 , one for each of the sets; each of the dispenser rails can define one opening  146  and one plug  150  for each of the dispensers of the set. In the illustrated embodiment, rail assembly  138  includes three dispenser rails  142 —one for each of the three rows of dispensers  82 —each having nine dispenser openings  146  and nine plugs  150 —one for each of the nine dispensers of a row. In a preferred embodiment, dispenser rails  142  are connected to a bar  154  that can comprise pull tab  158  that extends from the bar such that the rails can be slid between the open and closed positions at the same time by pulling or pushing the pull tab. 
     Dispenser tray  18  can comprise, for each of the sets of dispensers  82 , a rail support  130  that is coupled to each of tubes  86  of the set at second end  90   b  and defines a guide  134  configured to receive a respective one of dispenser rails  142  such that the dispenser rail is slidably supported in the guide. Guide  134  can be disposed below outlets  98  defined by flow restrictors  94  of the set. 
       FIGS. 5A-5C  show applicator tray  22  of apparatus  10 . Applicator tray  22  can comprise a base  166  and a sidewall  170  disposed along at least a majority of the base, and can be configured to receive one or more absorbent strips, such as greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of,  1 ,  2 ,  3 ,  4 ,  5 ,  6 , or  7  absorbent strips. For example, to accommodate relatively long and narrow strip(s), a length  174  (measured in the first direction) and width  178  (measured in the second direction) of applicator tray  22  can be substantially the same as length  118  and width  122 , respectively, of dispenser tray  18 , such as any of those described above with respect to the dispenser tray. In this manner, dispenser tray  18  and applicator tray  122  can be positioned such that dispenser(s)  82  of the dispenser tray overlie the applicator tray and can deposit solution onto absorbent strip(s) received thereon. 
     To accommodate multiple absorbent strips, applicator tray  22  can define two or more platforms  162   a  and  162   b , each extending in a direction aligned with length  174  of applicator tray  22  (e.g., in the first direction) and configured to hold a respective one of the absorbent strips. Platforms  162   a  and  162   b  can be arranged in any suitable manner; for example, those platforms can include one or more lower platforms  162   a  and one or more upper platforms  162   b  that are positioned lower than each of the upper platforms; as shown, applicator tray  22  includes one lower platform  162   a  disposed between two upper platforms  162   b  such that the tray can accommodate three absorbent strips. In other embodiments, however, base  166  of applicator tray  22  need not be divided into upper platform(s)  162   b  and lower platform(s)  162   a  (e.g., such that the base is planar and defines coplanar platforms, whether or not one or more structures segregate those coplanar platforms). For these multi-platform embodiments configured to wet multiple strips, each of the sets of dispensers  82  can be positioned to overlie a respective one of platforms  162   a  and  162   b  such that the set can deposit solution onto an absorbent strip disposed on the platform. 
     Apparatus  10  can be configured to permit easy assembly and disassembly thereof for storage. For example, apparatus  10  can comprise first and second support frames  190   a  and  190   b , wherein dispenser tray  18  and/or applicator tray  22  are configured to extend between and be removably coupled to the support frames such that dispenser(s)  82  overlie the applicator tray. As mentioned above, solution tray  14  can be removably coupled to dispenser tray  18  (e.g., via brace(s)  58  and slot(s)  78 ) and, because it has a length  46  smaller than length  118  of the dispenser tray, need not extend between the support frames. In a preferred embodiment, each of support frames  190   a  and  190   b  has two legs  194  that, optionally, are extendable. When dispenser tray  18  and applicator tray  22  are coupled to support frames  190   a  and  190   b  and solution tray  14  is coupled to the dispenser tray, legs  194  of the frames can be disposed on the ground such that apparatus  10  is freestanding and the solution tray, dispenser tray, and applicator tray are positioned away from the ground. 
     To promote stability, each of support frames  190   a  and  190   b  can be “A-shaped,” with the width of the frame tapering such that a bottom portion is wider than the top portion. Apparatus  10  can also include a stabilizing body  198  that can extend between and be connected to support frames  190   a  and  190   b  to stabilize a bottom portion of apparatus  10 ; dispenser tray  18  can provide stability for a top portion of the apparatus. 
     Dispenser tray  18 , applicator tray  22 , and stabilizing body  198  can be coupled to support frames  190   a  and  190   b  in any suitable manner. For example, dispenser tray  18  can include a plurality of hangers  126  such that each of the widthwise sections of sidewall  66  includes at least one of the hangers protruding therefrom and—referring additional to  FIG. 6 , which shows first support frame  190   a —each of support frames  190   a  and  190   b  can have one or more dispenser slots  206 , each sized, shaped, and positioned to receive a respective one of dispenser tray&#39;s the hangers. First support frame  190   a  can also have a pull tab opening  218  disposed below dispenser slots  206 . Pull tab opening  218  can be sized, shaped, and positioned to allow pull tab  158  of rail assembly  138  to extend through the opening when apparatus  10  is assembled and the assembly is coupled to dispenser tray  18  (e.g., via rail support  130 , as described above). Pull tab  158  can accordingly be accessed such that it can be pushed to slide dispenser rails  142  into the open position; when in the open position, bar  154  can contact first support frame  190   a  to prevent removal of assembly  138  through pull tab opening  218 . 
     Referring additionally to  FIG. 7 , applicator tray  22  can be pivotably coupled to second support frame  190   b  such that the applicator tray is pivotable between a first position in which at least a majority of dispenser(s)  82  do not overlie applicator tray  22  ( FIG. 7 ) and a second position in which the dispenser(s) overlie the applicator tray ( FIG. 1A ). To achieve this pivotable coupling, applicator tray  22  can comprise a hook  182  that protrudes from a widthwise edge of the applicator tray and second support frame  190   b  can have an eye  214  protruding from an inner surface thereof, the eye being sized, shaped, and positioned to receive and support the applicator tray&#39;s hook. Hook  182  can be inserted into eye  214  and when the applicator tray  22  pivots from the second position to the first position, the hook can pivot in the eye. Applicator tray  22  can also include a swivel hanger  186  protruding from a widthwise edge of the applicator tray that is opposite the widthwise edge on which hook  182  is disposed. First dispenser support frame  190   a  can have a grommet  210  protruding from an inner surface thereof, the grommet being sized, shaped, and positioned to support swivel hanger  186  of applicator tray  22 . By placing swivel hanger  186  into grommet  210 , applicator tray  22  can be supported and pivoting thereof can be prevented; the swivel hanger can be configured to be removed from the grommet such that the applicator tray can pivot. 
     This pivotability of applicator tray  22  may facilitate disposal and removal of absorbent strips. When applicator tray  22  is pivoted open to the first position, one or more absorbent strips can easily be placed thereon. After placing the absorbent strip(s), applicator tray  22  can be swung closed to the second position such that the strip(s) can be wetted and swivel hanger  186  can reengage grommet  210  to secure the applicator tray. After wetting the strip(s), applicator tray  22  can be pivoted open to the first position again such that the strip(s) can easily be removed. 
     To couple stabilizing body  198  to support frames  190   a  and  190   b , the stabilizing body can include two or more tabs  222  and each of the supports frames can have one or more floor slots  202 , each sized, shaped, and positioned (e.g., below slot(s)  206 , pull tab opening  218 , and grommet  210  or eye  214 ) to receive a respective one the stabilizing body&#39;s tabs. Stabilizing body  198  can be coupled to support frames  190   a  and  190   b  by inserting its tabs  222  into floor slots  202 . 
     Solution tray  14  (including its lid  38 ), dispenser tray  18 , applicator tray  22 , support frames  190   a  and  190   b , and stabilizing body  198  may be made of an extruded, continuous-cast, or cell-cast polymeric material. In some embodiments, solution tray  14  (including its lid  38 ), dispenser tray  18 , applicator tray  22 , support frames  190   a  and  190   b , and stabilizing body  198  may be produced via injection molding of a polymeric material. 
     Some of the present methods of wetting one or more absorbent strips comprise assembling an apparatus (e.g.,  10 ) including a solution tray (e.g.,  14 ), a dispenser tray (e.g.,  18 ), and an applicator tray (e.g.,  22 ) (e.g., any of those described above) in any of the ways described above, such as with first and second support frames (e.g.,  190   a  and  190   b ) and, optionally, a stabilizing body (e.g.,  198 ). During assembly, the stabilizing body can be coupled to the support frames before the dispenser tray and applicator tray are coupled to the support frames to promote stability. Some methods comprise a step of disposing the absorbent strip(s) on the applicator tray (e.g., after pivoting the applicator tray open to the second position). Each of the strip(s) can comprise any suitable absorbent material, such as cotton, paper, hemp, bamboo, and/or the like, and can have a length that is greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, or 24 inches (e.g., approximately 18 inches). 
     Some methods comprise a step of disposing a solution—which can be a mildew-removing solution—on the solution tray. Suitable mildew-removing solutions include bleach, borax, phenol, sodium phenate, vinegar, ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, detergent, baking soda, or a combination thereof; in a preferred embodiment, the mildew-removing solution comprises bleach. In some methods, disposing the solution comprises disposing a packet that contains the solution onto the solution tray and puncturing the packet (e.g., with one or more spikes  42  of a lid  38  of the solution tray as described above). The packet can comprise, for example, plastic and/or metal foil and can contain greater than or equal to any one of, or between any two of, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 fluid ounces (e.g., between 4 and 6 fluid ounces) of solution. The solution can be disposed on the solution tray such that it flows through one or more openings (e.g.,  34 ) defined by the solution tray onto a base (e.g.,  62 ) of the dispenser tray and through one or more, optionally two or more, openings (e.g.,  74 ) defined by the base of the tray into one or more, optionally two or more, dispensers (e.g.,  82 ), each of which can include a tube (e.g.,  86 ) that extends between first and second ends (e.g.,  90   a  and  90   b ), the first end coupled to the base of the dispenser tray, and a flow restrictor (e.g.,  94 ) coupled to the second end of the tube and defining an outlet (e.g.,  98 ) of the dispenser. As described above, the flow restrictor can have a maximum internal transverse dimension (e.g.,  102 ) that is less than or equal to 90% (e.g., less than or equal to 40%) of a maximum internal transverse dimension (e.g.,  106 ) of the tube. 
     Some methods include a step of sliding one or more dispenser rails (e.g.,  142 ) (e.g., any of those described above) from a closed position in which the dispenser rail(s) do not permit fluid to flow from the dispenser(s) onto the applicator tray to an open position such that the solution exits the dispenser(s) and flows onto the absorbent strip(s). By beginning in the closed position, the dispenser rail(s) may allow the solution received by the dispenser tray to accumulate in the dispenser(s). When the dispenser tray includes multiple dispensers, this accumulation allows the dispensers to deposit solution at the same time when the dispenser rail(s) are moved to the open position. Without this accumulation, some dispensers may begin depositing solution before others, which can yield non-uniform wetting of the absorbent strip(s). To ensure solution can accumulate in the dispenser(s), some methods comprising verifying that the dispenser rail(s) are in the closed position (e.g., with each of plugs  150  engaging a respective one of flow restrictors  94 ). 
     After the solution drains into the applicator tray and is absorbed by the absorbent strip(s), some methods comprise removing the wetted absorbent strip(s) (e.g., by pivoting the applicator tray open to the second position). The wetted absorbent strip(s) can be disposed on a mildew-affected area, such as on grout and/or caulk lines. 
     The above specification and examples provide a complete description of the structure and use of illustrative embodiments. Although certain embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the scope of this invention. As such, the various illustrative embodiments of the methods and systems are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims, and embodiments other than the one shown may include some or all of the features of the depicted embodiment. For example, elements may be omitted or combined as a unitary structure, and/or connections may be substituted. Further, where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples having comparable or different properties and/or functions, and addressing the same or different problems. Similarly, it will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments. 
     The claims are not intended to include, and should not be interpreted to include, means-plus- or step-plus-function limitations, unless such a limitation is explicitly recited in a given claim using the phrase(s) “means for” or “step for,” respectively.