Abstract: Cellulose-based soil release ethers are used in detergent compositions containing C.sub.10 -C.sub.12 alkyl benzene sulfonate surfactants, and substantially free from interfering longer-chain length alkyl benzene sulfonates, to provide optimal soil release performance.

Abstract: Detergent compositions, which are particularly suitable for providing hydrophobic fabrics, such as polyester, with a soil release effect for oily soils, are disclosed. These compositions contain surface-active agents, polyester soil release polymers, and a component which dissociates in aqueous solution producing quaternary ammonium cations. The process of laundering hydrophobic fibers in aqueous solutions of these compositions is also disclosed.

Abstract: Detergent compositions, which are particularly suitable for removing oily soils from hydrophobic fibers, such as polyester, are disclosed, containing surface-active agents, polyester soil release polymers, and a component which dissociates in aqueous solution producing lithium, potassium, alkaline earth, zinc or quaternary ammonium cations. An embodiment of this invention includes compositions which contain surface-active agents, polyester soil release polymers, and a sufficient amount of detergency builder such that an aqueous laundry solution of the composition contains at least 1 .times. 10.sup.-4 moles/liter of alkaline earth metal ions. The process of laundering hydrophobic fibers in aqueous solutions of these compositions is also disclosed.