Abstract: A method of cleaning household articles entails contacting cleaning water with a container containing a substantially water-insoluble modifying agent able to bind calcium ions. The container is permeable to water and to calcium ions but retains the modifying agent. The container may be a bag, for example of textile or paper.

Abstract: An aqueous cleaning composition for the removal of mould and mildew is provided. The composition includes a water soluble source of chlorine, a surfactant, chitosan and water and has improved anti-fungal activity.

Abstract: A method is provided for deactivating a Der-p and/or Der-f allergen which comprises volatilizing into a space to be treated a deactivating amount of a volatile oil selected from cajeput oil (tea tree oil) or an oil comprising one or more terpene hydrocarbons.

Abstract: The deleterious effects of metal ions in water, for example water hardness and formation of deposits, may be combated by application of an algin, for example alginic acid or a salt of alginic acid, such as sodium alginate or potassium alginate. Such a compound may bring about water purification and/or softening and prevent formation of deposits. Furthermore, such a compound may promote the removal of existing deposits, for example scale.

Abstract: A dispensing device comprising a body defining first and second compartments, separated by a flexible impermeable membrane. The second compartment is closed off by a semi-permeable membrane adjacent which a water container is disposed. An apertured delivery tube leads from the first compartment. The device may be used to dispense a cleaning, disinfectant and/or fragrancing gel into a toilet bowl. On flushing, water enters the container and migrates through the semi-permeable membrane, increasing the pressure in an osmotic agent or swellable hydrogel contained in the second compartment. This imposes a pressure on the flexible impermeable membrane to displace a gel from the first compartment into the toilet bowl through apertures in the tube.