Abstract:
An apparatus includes a mitt having a multi-layer material. The mitt has a first side, a second side and a lower opening. A pocket is disposed on an upper portion of the first side for retaining soap. The pocket includes tight mesh material for generally retaining liquid soap. The tight mesh material has a plurality of apertures for enabling water to enter, and lather from the soap to permeate out. A closure device maintains the pocket in a closed position during use. An exfoliating material is joined to the second side for enabling the user to deep clean during a washing process. Means joins objects to the apparatus for enabling user entertainment during the washing process. A loop is joined to the mitt for enabling the user to hang the apparatus. A securing device is disposed proximate the lower opening for enabling a user to secure the apparatus during use.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present Utility patent application claims priority benefit of the U.S. provisional application for patent Ser. No. 61/177,359 filed on 12 May 2009 under 35 U.S.C. 119(e). The contents of this related provisional application are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. 
     
    
     FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    Not applicable. 
       REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER LISTING APPENDIX 
       [0003]    Not applicable. 
       COPYRIGHT NOTICE 
       [0004]    A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office, patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. 
       FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0005]    The present invention relates generally to personal care items. More particularly, the invention relates to a soap dispensing bath mitt. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0006]    Many children do not enjoy their nightly bath or shower, and it can be difficult for parents to make bath time fun and exciting. Convincing children to wash thoroughly can be a tedious task. Children often find washcloths to be boring and quickly lose interest. Also, it can be difficult for children to maneuver bar soap when using a regular washcloth, especially when the bar becomes small and breaks into little pieces. People typically throw away these small pieces of soap thereby wasting money. Moreover, it is difficult to find space in the bathing area for storing loofahs, toys, washcloths, soap bars and dispensers, etc. 
         [0007]    In view of the foregoing, there is a need for improved techniques for providing means for bathing that interests children and saves space and soap. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0008]    The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which: 
           [0009]      FIGS. 1A through 1C  illustrate an exemplary bath mitt, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 1A  is a partial perspective view of the mitt in which the mitt is secured on the hand of a user.  FIG. 1B  is a partial perspective view of the mitt in which a first side of the mitt is illustrated, and  FIG. 1C  is a partial perspective view of the mitt in which a second side of the mitt is illustrated; and 
           [0010]      FIGS. 2A and 2B  illustrate an exemplary bath mitt, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 2A  is a partial perspective view of the mitt in which a toy has been attached directly to the mitt, and  FIG. 2B  is a partial perspective view of the mitt in which a toy has been attached to the mitt with a third securing means. 
       
    
    
       [0011]    Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    To achieve the forgoing and other objects and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, a soap dispensing bath mitt is presented. 
         [0013]    In one embodiment an apparatus includes means for generally enclosing a hand space, means for retaining a soap, enabling water to enter, and lather from the soap to permeate out, and means for enabling a user to removably secure the apparatus during use, thereby enabling the user to use the apparatus in a washing process. Another embodiment further includes means for generally maintaining the retaining means a closed position during use. Yet another embodiment further includes means for enabling the user to deep clean during the washing process. Still another embodiment further includes means for enabling the user to hang the apparatus when not in use. Another embodiment further includes means for joining objects to the apparatus for enabling user entertainment during the washing process. 
         [0014]    In another embodiment an apparatus includes a covering member including a first side, a second side and a lower opening for generally enclosing a hand space. A pocket is disposed on the first side for retaining a soap, the pocket including a plurality of apertures for enabling water to enter, and lather from the soap to permeate out through the apertures. A securing device is disposed proximate the lower opening for enabling a user to removably secure the apparatus during use, thereby enabling the user to use the apparatus in a washing process. Another embodiment further includes a closure device for generally maintaining the pocket in a closed position during use. Yet another embodiment further includes an exfoliating material joined to the covering member for enabling the user to deep clean during the washing process. Still another embodiment further includes a loop-like structure for enabling the user to hang the apparatus when not in use. Another embodiment further includes means for joining objects to the apparatus for enabling user entertainment during the washing process. In yet another embodiment the exfoliating material is joined to the second side. In still another embodiment the pocket is disposed on an upper portion of the first side. In another embodiment the pocket further includes a tight mesh material for generally retaining liquid soap. In yet another embodiment the covering member further includes a multiple layer material. In still another embodiment an outside layer of the multiple layer material includes terrycloth. In another embodiment an inside layer of the multiple layer material includes a sponge like material. In yet another embodiment the covering member has a mitt shape. 
         [0015]    In another embodiment an apparatus includes a hand-covering mitt including a multi-layer material. The hand-covering mitt has a first side, a second side and a lower opening for generally enclosing a hand space. A pocket is disposed on an upper portion of the first side for retaining a soap. The pocket includes tight mesh material for generally retaining liquid soap. The tight mesh material has a plurality of apertures for enabling water to enter, and lather from the soap to permeate out through the apertures. A closure device generally maintains the pocket in a closed position during use. An exfoliating material is joined to the second side for enabling the user to deep clean during a washing process. Means joins objects to the apparatus for enabling user entertainment during the washing process. A loop is joined to the hand-covering mitt for enabling the user to hang the apparatus when not in use. A securing device is disposed proximate the lower opening for enabling a user to removably secure the apparatus during use, thereby enabling the user to use the apparatus in the washing process. In another embodiment an outside layer of the multi-layer material includes terrycloth. In yet another embodiment an inside layer of the multi-layer material includes a sponge like material. 
         [0016]    Other features, advantages, and objects of the present invention will become more apparent and be more readily understood from the following detailed description, which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0017]    The present invention is best understood by reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein. 
         [0018]    Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to the Figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. For example, it should be appreciated that those skilled in the art will, in light of the teachings of the present invention, recognize a multiplicity of alternate and suitable approaches, depending upon the needs of the particular application, to implement the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond the particular implementation choices in the following embodiments described and shown. That is, there are numerous modifications and variations of the invention that are too numerous to be listed but that all fit within the scope of the invention. Also, singular words should be read as plural and vice versa and masculine as feminine and vice versa, where appropriate, and alternative embodiments do not necessarily imply that the two are mutually exclusive. 
         [0019]    The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 
         [0020]    Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiments are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner. 
         [0021]    It is to be understood that any exact measurements/dimensions or particular construction materials indicated herein are solely provided as examples of suitable configurations and are not intended to be limiting in any way. Depending on the needs of the particular application, those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in light of the following teachings, a multiplicity of suitable alternative implementation details. 
         [0022]    The super soap saver mitt is a mitt/glove used to wash/exfoliate the body; this invention is unique in that it provides a hassle free way to dispense soap, as you wash your body or exfoliate your skin, in one handy device. The “Super Soap Saver” is a glove made of soft terry cloth that can be used for washing the face or body. It can be used by adults and children alike and will make bathing an easier task. It consists of a mitt type glove that will come in small, medium and large sizes and will have an integrated pocket to accept slivers of soap. Simply slip the mitt on, lather up and wash off. The Super Soap Saver would be available in different colors and designs with a variety of pictures, logos, mascots and cartoons. 
         [0023]    Preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a device for holding soap and washing a person&#39;s body. The device in preferred embodiments comprises a cloth mitt with a pocket disposed thereon, which may be filled with soap; the pocket enables soap to permeate through the pocket as a user is washing his or her body. In preferred embodiments the pocket is disposed on a first side of the mitt, and an exfoliating means is disposed on a second side of the mitt. When wearing a mitt according to preferred embodiments, a user can lather his or her body with soap using the pocketed side then use the exfoliating means on the opposite side of the mitt to exfoliate his or her skin. Preferred embodiments are designed to conserve soap and thereby save the user money and to provide a more pleasurable bathing experience. Preferred embodiments generally eliminate the possibility of dropping the soap while bathing and also enable the user to utilize all of the soap, reducing waste. To add to the pleasure of the bathing experience in preferred embodiments, toys may be secured to the mitt. Preferred embodiments are meant to combine a washing device with an exfoliating device and toys, enabling a user to save money, to add convenience and fun to the bathing process, and to conveniently store various items in one place. 
         [0024]      FIGS. 1A through 1C  illustrate an exemplary bath mitt  10 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 1A  is a partial perspective view of mitt  10  in which mitt  10  is secured on the hand of a user  11 .  FIG. 1B  is a partial perspective view of mitt  10  in which a first side  16  of mitt  10  is illustrated, and  FIG. 1C  is a partial perspective view of mitt  10  in which a second side  18  of mitt  10  is illustrated. In the present embodiment, mitt  10  is a combination washing and exfoliating device. Mitt  10  comprises a hand-covering member  12  for enclosing a space for a hand (not shown) of user  11 . It is presently preferred that hand-covering member  12  is in the shape of a mitt; however, in alternate embodiments the hand-covering member may have various different shapes such as, but not limited to, a glove, a round shape, a rectangular shape, etc. In the present embodiment, hand-covering member  12  is preferably made in part of a terry cloth material. Mitt  10  comprises first side  16  and second side  18 . First side  16  comprises a pocket  22  disposed in the upper portion of mitt  10 . Pocket  22  includes a first securing means  24  for securing pocket  22  in a closed position during use. First securing means  24  is preferably a zipper; however various different types of securing means may be used such as, but not limited to snaps, buttons, hook and loop material, etc. In the present embodiment, pocket  22  further includes a plurality of apertures  32 . It is meant that soap (not shown) is to be placed within pocket  22  and, as mitt  10  is wetted and used, such soap lathers and permeates through apertures  32 . For example, without limitation, pocket  22  may be made of a mesh material. The soap placed in pocket  22  may be bar soap, or pocket  22  may be made of a tighter nylon mesh to accommodate liquid soap. Pocket  22  is preferably manufactured from vinyl or nylon; however, other materials may be used. In the present embodiment, an exfoliating means  42  is disposed on second side  18  of mitt  10 . Exfoliating means  42  may be a loofah, a sponge, a scrubbing pad, or a combination thereof for the deep cleaning of the skin. Alternate embodiments may be implemented without exfoliating means. In the present embodiment, mitt  10  comprises multiple layers, and it is presently preferred that hand-covering member  12  has an outer covering of terrycloth and an inner lining of a cotton and polyester blend. In some alternate embodiments the inner lining may comprise a thin sponge, and other alternate embodiments may have no inner layer. In the present embodiment, a second securing means  44  is disposed on the lower portion of mitt  10  for securing mitt  10  to a wrist  45  of user  11  in a releasable manner. Second securing means  44  is preferably a wrist strap that can be adjusted for different wrist sizes. Second securing means  44  may secure to wrist  45  using various different means such as, but not limited to, hook and loop material, elastic, snaps, etc. Mitt  10  may be manufactured in different universal sizes to accommodate hand spaces for children to adults or may be manufactured in specific sizes such as, but not limited to, adult small, adult medium, adult large, child&#39;s small, child&#39;s medium, child&#39;s large, etc. Furthermore, mitt  10  may be made with different colors, designs, logos, and mascots for greater mass appeal. 
         [0025]    Referring to  FIG. 1A  in typical use of the present embodiment, user  11  begins by placing a desired soap into pocket  22  and closes first securing means  24 . Then, user  11  places hand-covering member  12  over his hand. Mitt  10  fits and secures to the hand of user  11  with second securing means  44  around wrist  45  for comfort and ease of washing the body in the shower or tub. Mitt  10  combines the exfoliation and washing of the body in one device by enabling user  11  to wash using first side  16  comprising pocket  22  and exfoliate using second side  18  comprising exfoliating means  42 . Mitt  10  enables user  11  to save money by being able to use an entire bar of soap instead of throwing the soap away after it becomes small or breaks into pieces. Mitt  10  also generally eliminates the cumbersome task of handling bar soap for children. Second securing means  44  may be used to hang mitt  10  in the shower or bath area. In the present embodiment, a hook or loop  47  is disposed on mitt  10  that may also be used for hanging mitt  10  in the shower or bath area. This enables mitt  10  to be stored in a handy location, for example, without limitation, on the wall of the shower. Mitt  10  also saves space by combining the functions of multiple items, such as, but not limited to, a washcloth, a sponge, a loofah, soap, toys etc., into one device. 
         [0026]      FIGS. 2A and 2B  illustrate an exemplary bath mitt  10 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 2A  is a partial perspective view of mitt  10  in which a toy  56  has been attached directly to mitt  10 , and  FIG. 2B  is a partial perspective view of mitt  10  in which a toy  57  has been attached to mitt  10  with a third securing means  52 . In the present embodiment, toys  56  and  57  may be attached to mitt  10  for children to play with in order to make the task of bathing easier and more enjoyable for these children. Toys  56  and  57  may be bath toys such as, but not limited to, squeezable water receiving and dispensing toys, squeaking toys, singing toys, etc. Toys  56  and  57  are preferably made of vinyl and may have various different shapes and designs such as, but not limited to, animals or cartoon characters. These features add more fun and excitement to bath time. Referring to  FIG. 2A , toy  56  is attached directly to a hand-covering member  12  of mitt  10  with means such as, but not limited to, hook and loop material, clips, clamps, etc., and may include a first portion of the attachment means disposed on mitt  10  and a second portion of the attachment means disposed on toy  56 . Alternately, attachment means on toy  56  may attach directly to the terry cloth material of hand-covering member  12 . Referring to  FIG. 2B , toy  57  is attached to hand-covering member  12  by a third securing means  52 , which is disposed on an outer portion of hand-covering member  12 . Third securing means  52  comprises plastic rings with a release clip to attach and remove toy  57  to and from mitt  10 . However in alternate embodiments, different types of securing means may be used as third securing means such as, but not limited to, a plastic wire with a release clip, a terry cloth strap with a snap or hook and loop material, an elastic strap, etc. In the present embodiment, toy  56  is shown attached directly to a first side  16  of mitt  10 , and toy  57  is shown attached to a second side  18  of mitt  10  with third securing means  57 . However, toy  56  may be attached directly to second side  18 , and toy  57  may be attached to first side  16  with third securing means  57  if the user so desires. 
         [0027]    Alternate embodiments of the present invention may comprise a pocket and exfoliating means on the same side of the device. For example, without limitation, one such embodiment is a mitt, similar to mitt  10  described by way of example in the foregoing, with a pocket and exfoliating means disposed on the same side. Another alternate embodiment, which is a flat device rather than a mitt in which a hand can be placed, comprises a pocket and exfoliation means on one side and a strap that secures around a user&#39;s hand disposed on the opposite side. In these embodiments the pocket and the exfoliating means may be combined into a single unit by placing the exfoliating means over the pocket or the pocket and the exfoliating means may be separate from each other. For example, without limitation, the pocket may be disposed on the top of the device with the exfoliating means on the bottom or vice versa. 
         [0028]    Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will readily recognize that alternate embodiments of the present invention may be implemented for washing items other than a person&#39;s body such as, but not limited to, dishes, windows, vehicles, etc. In these embodiments the pockets may be modified in order to accommodate the particular type of cleaner used. 
         [0029]    Having fully described at least one embodiment of the present invention, other equivalent or alternative methods of providing a personal cleaning device according to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention has been described above by way of illustration, and the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. For example, the particular implementation of the cleaning device may vary depending upon the particular type of means for holding the device used. The cleaning devices described in the foregoing were directed to wearable implementations; however, similar techniques are to provide non-wearable devices such as, but not limited to, a sponge-like device that is hand held, devices on long or short handles, etc. Non-wearable implementations of the present invention are contemplated as within the scope of the present invention. The invention is thus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the following claims. 
         [0030]    Claim elements and steps herein have been numbered and/or lettered solely as an aid in readability and understanding. As such, the numbering and lettering in itself is not intended to and should not be taken to indicate the ordering of elements and/or steps in the claims.