Abstract: Plastic components exposed to a washing chamber of a washing machine are flame treated to improve the stain resistance of the plastic components. In accordance with the invention, a plastic component is exposed to flame treatment for a sufficient amount of time for a reaction to occur with the plastic component such that at least a surface layer of the plastic component is modified to enhance the resistance of the plastic component to staining. Plastic dishwasher components that may be treated by the flame treatment include a dishwasher tub, a door liner, spray arms, racks, silverware baskets, a pump housing and the like. Plastic washing tubs, agitators, baffles and the like of clothes washing machines could also be advantageously treated.

Abstract: Plastic components exposed to a washing chamber of a washing machine are treated with a fluorine-containing gas mixture for improving the stain resistance and drying performance of the plastic components. In accordance with the invention, a plastic component is placed in a reaction chamber and exposed to a gas mixture containing fluorine and oxygen for a sufficient amount of time for the gas mixture to react with the plastic component such that the gas mixture modifies at least a surface layer, thereby enhancing the resistance of the plastic component to staining, while improving drying performance characteristics. Plastic dishwasher components that may be treated by the gas mixture include a dishwasher tub, a door liner, spray arms, racks, silverware baskets, a pump housing, and the like. Washing tubs, agitators, baffles and the like of clothes washing machine could also be advantageously treated.