Abstract: A concentrated aqueous surfactant solution comprising alkyl ether sulphate and alkaline earth metal, preferably magnesium. The composition is a stable liquid which is suitable for making into cleaning products, especially dish washing liquids. The concentrated surfactant solution can be prepared by partial neutralisation of the acid precursor with the hydroxide or oxide of the alkaline earth metal, followed by a further neutralisation with the hydroxide of an alkali metal or ammonium.

Abstract: A dispensing device for tablet detergent compositions for use in automatic washing machines. The dispensing device has an opening for the insertion of the tablet into the body of the dispensing device, wherein adjacent to the opening there is a restraint for substantially restricting the removal of the tablet after it has been inserted into the dispensing device.

Abstract: A process for the machine-washing of fabrics according to which a dispensing and diffusing device of the reusable type is filled with a particulate product which is active during the washing. This device is placed in the machine together with the fabrics to be washed, and washing is subsequently carried out in the customary way. The device used comprises a flexible bag mounted on a ring made of plastic with helical radial walls providing apertures through the mouth delimited by the ring. A assembly in the form of a cage can be arranged inside the sleeve of the bag in order to maintain the form of the latter during the washing. The product dissolves progressively and little escapes from the device in solid form.

Abstract: A process for quaternization of tertiary amines in a reaction medium comprising a water soluble or water dispersible organic compound of MWt>240 which is liquid at the quaternization reaction temperature, one of the quaternization reactants having a BPt<200.degree. C. and being volatile relative to the other reactants, to permit its removal after the completion of quaternization to leave a product comprising an intimate mixture of a cationic surfactant and the reaction medium in a weight ratio of 2:1 to 1:50. Preferably the reaction medium is an ethoxylated nonionic surfactant.