Method of replacing solvent from in-home dry cleaning machine

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of eliminating the need to have a track or other delivery service bring solvent to a home where a dry cleaning machine using said solvent is used. Instead, the method involves a method of first monitoring or having monitored level of solvent used and then ordering or obtaining said solvent in a consumer package or kit wherein the solvent can then be directly applied by the consumer or other to a receptacle where said solvent is kept.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to in-home dry cleaning machines and process and, in particular, to methods and kits for the home consumer to replace solvent lost during the dry cleaning process. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Dry cleaning process for cleaning laundry articles are those in which an organic solvent, rather than water, is used as the primary medium for cleaning articles. In general, dry cleaning helps avoid damage which may be associated with aqueous washing (e.g., shrinkage, dye transfer). [0003] The prior art discloses dry cleaning process and machines, which can be used by a consumer in his or her home. (See for example, WO 01 / 94675, assigned to P&G). Typically such dry cleaning machines use a dry cleaning solvent (e.g., typically a non-flammable, non-chlorine containing organic dry cleaning solvent or mixture of solvents). [0004] The dry cleaning solvent composition is typically a composition comprising, in addition to solvent, smal...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is about a machine that allows a home customer to monitor their own cleaning needs and replace the solvent used in the process. This can be done by ordering online or at a store, or by purchasing a kit with the solvent and other necessary parts. The technical effect of this invention is to provide a more convenient and efficient way for customers to maintain the cleaning machines in their own homes.

Problems solved by technology

However, overall, the amount of solvent is depleted and some or all must be replaced after multiple uses.

The solvent is still delivered, however, and there is no teaching or suggestion of a distribution system whereby a home dry-cleaning customer orders (e.g., via internet, telephone) or buys solvent him or herself and tops off lost solvent from a home dry cleaning machine.