Patent ID: 7203999

Claim:
A flexible detachable button protector, comprising: a. enclosure means for forming a cavity surrounding at least one button, said enclosure means having an outer edge, said enclosure means having a top and a bottom, wherein said outer edge and said top and bottom of said enclosure means are substantially sealed so that said cavity is substantially sealed; b. slit means for accommodating insertion of said button into said cavity, said slit means having a first slit outer edge and a second slit outer edge, said slit means extending vertically from said top to said bottom of said enclosure means, said slit means comprises a plurality of mini-flaps disposed in overlapping relation along substantially an entire length of said first slit outer edge, wherein said mini-flaps comprise an upper and lower mini-flap adjacent to one another arranged to form a v-shaped housing adjacent to said second slit outer edge and being appointed to receive and house said second slit outer edge to minimize entry of laundry and dry-cleaning fluids into said cavity; c. mini-slits extending horizontally from a portion on said second slit outer edge of said slit means of said enclosure means, said mini-slit being located central of said cavity and being appointed for accommodating movement of threads attaching said button to a garment during insertion of said button into said cavity; d. sealing means operable by elastic deformation at the edges of said slit means for preventing penetration of cleaning fluids into said cavity; e. heat resistant means for preventing deterioration of said detachable button protector; and f. a surface containing a fluid repellant coating for repelling laundry and dry-cleaning fluids; whereby said flexible detachable button protector seals by elastic deformation against cleaning fluids entering the said button cavity even after repeated exposure to heat and chemicals.