Abstract: The physical stability of liquid gel-like compositions based on montmorillonite, attapulgite, hectorite or other inorganic colloid-forming clay or other thixotropic thickener is greatly improved by incorporating in the composition small amounts, such as 0.1 to 0.2 weight percent of long chain fatty acids. The aqueous compositions containing inorganic builder salts and other functional inorganic salts, chlorine bleach, bleach-stable detergent, thixotropic thickener and a fatty acid as a physical stabilizer exhibit a significant increase in apparent viscosity and remain stable against phase separation for an extended period of time. The thixotropic properties can be retained or improved using smaller levels of the clay thixotropic thickener than in the absence of the physical stabilizer. Use as liquid gel-like automatic dishwasher compositions are described.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of cleaning articles of glass or having glazed surfaces (including vitreous enamel) and to detergent compositions which are particularly suitable for use in cleaning such articles. Examples of such detergent compositions are hand dishwashing liquids and powders, machine dishwashing detergents and rinse aids, window cleaning compositions and all purpose cleansers.