REUSABLE CLEANING CLOTH

Abstract

A reusable cleaning article comprising a base layer of microfiber cloth and a top layer of polyester material. The layer of polyester material is secured to the base layer of microfiber cloth. The reusable cleaning article also comprises a layer of foam. The layer of foam is secured between the base microfiber layer and the top polyester layer.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to the field of cleaning cloths and more specifically relates to a cleaning cloths.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many products are offered for cleaning both homes and offices. When cleaning floors, there are products for use in wet conditions and products for use solely for removing dust. Many of these products are disposable upon use. Such disposability is undesirable for long term cost and environmental friendliness. And, many of the currently available products are ineffective, have a short life-span, are non absorbent and are not durable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In example embodiments, the present invention provides a reusable cloth for cleaning. The reusable cloth comprises a microfiber material and an internal foam layer. A reusable cleaning article comprising a base layer of microfiber cloth and a top layer of polyester material. The layer of polyester material is secured to the base layer of microfiber cloth. The reusable cleaning article also comprises a layer of foam. The layer of foam is secured between the base microfiber layer and the top polyester layer.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be understood with reference to the drawing figures and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following brief description of the drawings and detailed description of the invention are exemplary and explanatory of preferred embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a reusable cleaning cloth according to a first example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the cleaning cloth of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a reusable cleaning cloth according to a second example embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of a reusable cleaning cloth according to a third example embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a reusable cleaning cloth according to a fourth example embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a plan view of a reusable cleaning cloth according to a fifth example embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of the invention taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified in this specification are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.

Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

The initial invention relates to a cleaning cloth that has durable qualities and can be reused numerous times after use. This cleaning cloth can also be washed and cleaned without detrimental effects on long-term effectiveness or durability. The cleaning cloth can be hand used or it can be removably secured by a fastener to the head of a mop or alternative similar cleaning device through. Example fasteners include clips, friction fit within a pinch mechanism on the mop head, mating snaps and/or hook-and-loop closures. For example, one side of the cloth can have hook straps that correspond with loop straps on the opposite side of the cloth.

With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a cleaning cloth 100 according to an example embodiment of the invention. The cloth 100 includes a base layer 102 and a second top layer 104. A layer of foam (shown in FIG. 2) is secured between the base layer 102 and the top layer 104 such that no foam exits from underneath the top layer 104. Flexible flaps 107 extend outwardly away from the top layer 104. The flaps 107 can be separate from the base layer 102 or are part of the base layer.

The base layer 102 is constructed of a microfiber material, for example a polyester and polyamide combination. Microfiber is a material that is constructed of fewer than 1 denier per filament and as a result has properties including softness, water repellency, absorption and durability. Preferably, the microfiber base 102 is constructed of a greater percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the microfiber base 102 is a terry material that is constructed of between about 80-90% polyester and about 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the microfiber base 102 is a terry material that is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Alternatively, different combinations of polyester and polyamide can be used. This microfiber material is very durable and absorbent. Dimensions for an example embodiment base layer are about ten inches in length and about eight inches in width.

The second top layer 104 is constructed of microfiber material, for example a polyester and polyamide combination. Preferably, the second layer 102 microfiber is constructed of a greater percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the second layer 104 is a terry material that is constructed of between about 80-90% polyester and about 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the second layer second layer 104 microfiber is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Alternatively, different combinations of polyester and polyamide can be used. This microfiber material is very durable and absorbent. Dimensions for an example embodiment second layer are about ten inches in length and about four and a half inches in width.

The cloth 100 further includes an intermediate layer (shown in FIG. 2) secured between the base layer 102 and the second layer 104. In typical commercial embodiments, the intermediate layer is made of a foam material selected to provide stability and a form. An example foam layer is constructed of polyurethane or a similar synthetic material designed to provide a form. The foam layer provides additional support when increased pressure is placed on the cloth 100. The internal layer is completely secured within the boundaries of the connection between the top layer 104 and the base layer 102.

As shown, the base layer 102 can be secured by a border 106 on all sides. An example border is formed by conventional stitching. This border 106 prevents fraying of the edges of the base layer 102 during repeated use and washing. The cloth 100 further includes stitching 110 on the edges of the second layer 104 to secure this second layer to the base 102 and to restrict any movement of the internal foam layer. The internal foam layer is completely secured within the boundaries of the connection between the top layer 104 and the base layer 102. As shown, the cloth 100 includes at least one, and preferably two, lines of stitching 108 between the second layer boundary stitching 110, and through the second layer 104 to the base layer 102. These stitching lines 108 assist in maintaining the location of the foam layer between the base 102 and the second layer 104 and increasing rigidity. An example type of stitching is that commonly known in the industry.

FIG. 2 represents a cross sectional view of a cloth 200 according to the first example embodiments shown in FIG. 1. As shown, an internal layer of foam 204 is secured between a base layer 206 and a second layer 202. Flaps 207 extend outwardly from the connection point between the base layer 206 and the second layer 202. The flaps 207 and can be arranged to wrap around a designated structure, for example a mop-head. The flaps 207 can extend from the base layer 206 as separate sections or continuing sections of the base layer 206.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a cleaning cloth 300 according to a second example embodiment of the invention. The cloth 300 includes a base layer 302 and a second top layer 304. An internal layer of foam (not shown) is secured between the base layer 302 and the top layer 304 such that no foam exits from underneath the top layer 304. Flexible flaps 307 extend outwardly away from the top layer 304. The flaps 307 can be separate from the base layer 302 or are part of the base layer.

The base layer 302 is constructed of a microfiber material, for example a polyester and polyamide combination. Microfiber is a material that is constructed of fewer than 1 denier per filament and as a result has properties including softness, water repellency, absorption and durability. Preferably, the microfiber base 302 is constructed of a greater percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the microfiber base 302 is a terry material that is constructed of between about 80-90% polyester and about 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the microfiber base 302 is a terry material that is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Alternatively, different combinations of polyester and polyamide can be used. This microfiber material is very durable and absorbent.

The second top layer 304 is constructed of microfiber material, for example a polyester and polyamide combination. Preferably, the second layer 302 microfiber is constructed of a greater percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the second layer 304 is a terry material that is constructed of between about 80-90% polyester and about 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the second layer second layer 304 microfiber is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Alternatively, different combinations of polyester and polyamide can be used. This microfiber material is very durable and absorbent.

The intermediate layer of foam (not shown) is secured between the base layer 302 and the second layer 304. In typical commercial embodiments, the intermediate layer is made of a foam material selected to provide stability and a form. An example foam layer is constructed of polyurethane or a similar synthetic material designed to provide a form. The foam layer provides additional support when increased pressure is placed on the cloth 300. The internal layer is completely secured within the boundaries of the connection between the top layer 304 and the base layer 302.

As shown, the base layer 302 can be secured by a border 306 on all sides. An example border is formed by conventional stitching. This border 306 prevents fraying of the edges of the base layer 302 during repeated use and washing. The cloth 300 further includes stitching 310 on the edges of the second layer 304 to secure this second layer to the base 302 and to restrict any movement of the internal foam layer. The internal foam layer is completely secured within the boundaries of the connection between the top layer 304 and the base layer 302. As shown, the cloth 300 includes at least one, and preferably two, lines of stitching 308 between the second layer boundary stitching 310, and through the second layer 304 to the base layer 302. These stitching lines 308 assist in maintaining the location of the foam layer between the base 302 and the second layer 304 and increasing rigidity. An example type of stitching is that commonly known in the industry.

The cloth 300 further includes at least one scrubber material strip 312 secured to an edge of the second layer 304 and the base layer 302 by stitching 314. The scrubber strip 312 can be secured above the internal layer of foam, or preferably is secured outside of the boundaries of the second layer 304 and at least partially on a flap 307. An example scrubber strip 312 includes an elongated strip with a plurality of synthetic bristles. Example bristle material can be made of 100% polyester or alternatively can be made of nylon. The bristles are more rigid than the microfiber material of the base layer 302 or the second layer 306. The scrubber strip 312 is used for scrubbing surfaces that require more friction than the microfiber alone provides.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of a cleaning cloth 400 according to a third example embodiment of the invention. The cloth 400 includes a base layer 402 and a second top layer 404. An internal layer of foam (not shown) is secured between the base layer 402 and the top layer 404 such that no foam exits from underneath the top layer 404. Flexible flaps 407 extend outwardly away from the top layer 404. The flaps 407 can be separate from the base layer 402 or are part of the base layer.

The base layer 402 is constructed of a microfiber material, for example a polyester and polyamide combination. Microfiber is a material that is constructed of fewer than 1 denier per filament and as a result has properties including softness, water repellency, absorption and durability. Preferably, the microfiber base 402 is constructed of a greater percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the microfiber base 402 is a terry material that is constructed of between about 80-90% polyester and about 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the microfiber base 402 is a terry material that is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Alternatively, different combinations of polyester and polyamide can be used. This microfiber material is very durable and absorbent.

The second top layer 404 is constructed of microfiber material, for example a polyester and polyamide combination. Preferably, the second layer 402 microfiber is constructed of a greater percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the second layer 404 is a terry material that is constructed of between about 80-90% polyester and about 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the second layer second layer 404 microfiber is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Alternatively, different combinations of polyester and polyamide can be used. This microfiber material is very durable and absorbent.

The intermediate layer (not shown) is secured between the base layer 402 and the second layer 404. In typical commercial embodiments, the intermediate layer is made of a foam material selected to provide stability and a form. An example foam layer is constructed of polyurethane or a similar synthetic material designed to provide a form. The foam layer provides additional support when increased pressure is placed on the cloth 400. The internal layer is completely secured within the boundaries of the connection between the top layer 404 and the base layer 402.

As shown, the base layer 402 can be secured by a border 406 on all sides. An example border is formed by conventional stitching. This border 406 prevents fraying of the edges of the base layer 402 during repeated use and washing. The cloth 400 further includes stitching 410 on the edges of the second layer 404 to secure this second layer to the base 402 and to restrict any movement of the internal foam layer. The internal foam layer is completely secured within the boundaries of the connection between the top layer 404 and the base layer 402. As shown, the cloth 400 includes at least one, and preferably two, lines of stitching 408 between the second layer boundary stitching 410, and through the second layer 404 to the base layer 402. These stitching lines 408 assist in maintaining the location of the foam layer between the base 402 and the second layer 404 and increasing rigidity. An example type of stitching is that commonly known in the industry.

The second layer 404 includes alternating elongated strips of microfiber 410 and synthetic scrubber material 408. In the typical commercial embodiment shown, there are five elongated strips of microfiber 410 and five elongated strips of scrubber material 408, however, alternate numbers of each are possible. It is possible to have more or fewer of each of the scrubber strips 408 and/or microfiber strips 410. As further shown, the scrubber strips 408 and microfiber strips 410 can have equivalent size and shape. An example microfiber material used in both layers 402 and strips 410 is similar to the microfiber described in the first and second embodiments. An example scrubber material 408 can include a plurality of nylon loops or a raised weave. The example scrubber material 408 is more rigid than the example microfiber material. In order to increase durability, more than one line of stitching divides each the second layer 404 into a plurality of sections, each section having microfiber 310 and scrubber 308. The stitching secures the second layer to the base layer 302 through the foam layer.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a cleaning cloth 500 according to a fourth example embodiment of the invention. The cloth 500 includes a base layer 502 and a second top layer 504. An internal layer of foam (not shown) is secured between the base layer 502 and the top layer 504 such that no foam exits from underneath the top layer 504. Flexible flaps 507 extend outwardly away from the top layer 504. The flaps 407 can be separate from the base layer 502 or are part of the base layer.

The base layer 502 is constructed of a microfiber material, for example a polyester and polyamide combination. Microfiber is a material that is constructed of fewer than 1 denier per filament and as a result has properties including softness, water repellency, absorption and durability. Preferably, the microfiber base 502 is constructed of a greater percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the microfiber base 502 is a terry material that is constructed of between about 80-90% polyester and about 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the microfiber base 502 is a terry material that is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Alternatively, different combinations of polyester and polyamide can be used. This microfiber material is very durable and absorbent.

The second top layer 504 is constructed of microfiber material, for example a polyester and polyamide combination. Preferably, the second layer 502 microfiber is constructed of a greater percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the second layer 504 is a terry material that is constructed of between about 80-90% polyester and about 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the second layer second layer 504 microfiber is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Alternatively, different combinations of polyester and polyamide can be used. This microfiber material is very durable and absorbent.

The intermediate layer (not shown) is secured between the base layer 502 and the second layer 504. In typical commercial embodiments, the intermediate layer is made of a foam material selected to provide stability and a form. An example foam layer is constructed of polyurethane or a similar synthetic material designed to provide a form. The foam layer provides additional support when increased pressure is placed on the cloth 500. The internal layer is completely secured within the boundaries of the connection between the top layer 504 and the base layer 502.

As shown, the base layer 502 can be secured by a border 506 on all sides. An example border is formed by conventional stitching. This border 506 prevents fraying of the edges of the base layer 502 during repeated use and washing. The cloth 500 further includes stitching 510 on the edges of the second layer 504 to secure this second layer to the base 502 and to restrict any movement of the internal foam layer. The internal foam layer is completely secured within the boundaries of the connection between the top layer 504 and the base layer 502. As shown, the cloth 500 includes at least one, and preferably two, lines of stitching 508 between the second layer boundary stitching 510, and through the second layer 504 to the base layer 502. These stitching lines 508 assist in maintaining the location of the foam layer between the base 502 and the second layer 504 and increasing rigidity. An example type of stitching is that commonly known in the industry.

An example material used for the second layer 504 is glass cloth. Glass cloth is a synthetic material that is effective in cleaning glass without scratching or smudging, and can clean glass without cleaning materials or chemicals. The example glass cloth can be made of a combination of polyester and polyamide. Preferably, the microfiber base 102 is constructed of a higher percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the microfiber base 502 is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. The second layer 504 is secured over the layer of foam to the base layer 502 with stitching 510. At least one, preferably more than one, line of stitching 508 secures the second layer 504 to the base layer 502 to increase durability.

FIG. 6 is a plan view of a cleaning cloth 600 according to a fifth example embodiment of the invention. The cloth 600 includes a base layer 602 and a second top layer 604. An internal layer of foam (not shown) is secured between the base layer 602 and the top layer 604 such that no foam exits from underneath the top layer 604. Flexible flaps 607 extend outwardly away from the top layer 604. The flaps 607 can be separate from the base layer 602 or are part of the base layer.

The base layer 602 is constructed of a microfiber material, for example a polyester and polyamide combination. Microfiber is a material that is constructed of fewer than 1 denier per filament and as a result has properties including softness, water repellency, absorption and durability. Preferably, the microfiber base 602 is constructed of a greater percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the microfiber base 602 is a terry material that is constructed of between about 80-90% polyester and about 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the microfiber base 602 is a terry material that is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Alternatively, different combinations of polyester and polyamide can be used. This microfiber material is very durable and absorbent.

The second top layer 606 is constructed of microfiber material, for example a polyester and polyamide combination. Preferably, the second layer 606 microfiber is constructed of a greater percentage of polyester than polyamide. More preferably, the second layer 606 is a terry material that is constructed of between about 80-90% polyester and about 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the second layer second layer 604 microfiber is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Alternatively, different combinations of polyester and polyamide can be used. This microfiber material is very durable and absorbent.

The intermediate layer (not shown) is secured between the base layer 602 and the second layer 606. In typical commercial embodiments, the intermediate layer is made of a foam material selected to provide stability and a form. An example foam layer is constructed of polyurethane or a similar synthetic material designed to provide a form. The foam layer provides additional support when increased pressure is placed on the cloth 600. The internal layer is completely secured within the boundaries of the connection between the top layer 606 and the base layer 602.

As shown, the base layer 602 can be secured by a border 604 on all sides. An example border is formed by conventional stitching. This border 604 prevents fraying of the edges of the base layer 602 during repeated use and washing. The cloth 600 further includes stitching (not shown) on the edges of the second layer 606 to secure this second layer to the base 602 and to restrict any movement of the internal foam layer. The internal foam layer (not shown) is completely secured within the boundaries of the connection between the top layer 606 and the base layer 602. The cloth 600 includes at least one, and preferably two, lines of stitching 508 (not shown) between the second layer boundary stitching (not shown), and through the second layer 606 to the base layer 602. These stitching lines (not shown) assist in maintaining the location of the internal foam layer between the base 602 and the second layer 606 and increasing rigidity. An example type of stitching is that commonly known in the industry.

An example material used for the second layer 606 is chorded chenille constructed of a polyester and polyamide combination. An example chenille material is manufactured by creating a tightly wound core for a yarn. Then short lengths of fabric, which are referred to in the industry as piles of fabric, are wrapped about the core. Once the fabric is wrapped around the core, its edges stand at right angles from the center of the fabric. The edges of these piles then stand at right angles from the yarn's core, giving chenille both its softness and its characteristic look. An example chenille material is constructed of a higher percentage of polyester than polyamide combination. The chorded chenille layer 506 design includes a substrate layer (not shown) from which extends a plurality of chords 608. The chords 608 are made of a microfiber material and have elongate finger-like shapes. More preferably, the chenille second layer 606 is constructed of between 80-90% polyester and 10-20% polyamide. Most preferably, the chenille second layer 606 is constructed of about 85% polyester and about 15% polyamide. Preferably the second layer 506 is secured to the base layer 502 with stitching (not shown). This stitching can extend through a layer of foam (not shown).

While the invention has been described with reference to preferred and example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions and deletions are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A reusable cleaning article, comprising:

a base layer of microfiber cloth;

a top layer of polyester material secured to the base layer of microfiber cloth;

a pair of flaps extending laterally from the connection between the base layer and the top layer; and

a layer of foam secured between the base microfiber layer and the top polyester layer.

2. The reusable cleaning article of claim 1, wherein the base microfiber layer comprises polyester and polyamide.

3. The reusable cleaning article of claim 1, wherein the flaps continue laterally from the base layer.

4. The reusable cleaning article of claim 1, wherein the top polyester layer further comprises polyamide.

5. The reusable cleaning material of claim 1, wherein the top polyester layer further comprises a scrubber strip comprising a plurality of polyester bristles.

6. The reusable cleaning material of claim 1, wherein the top polyester layer further comprises a scrubber strip comprising at least one nylon bristle.

7. The reusable cleaning material of claim 1, further comprising stitching extending through the base layer, the foam and the top layer.

8. The reusable cleaning material of claim 1, wherein the top polyester layer comprises terry cloth.

9. The reusable cleaning material of claim 1, wherein the top polyester layer comprises glass cloth.

10. The reusable cleaning material of claim 1, wherein the top polyester layer comprises chenille.

11. A reusable cleaning article, comprising:

a base layer of microfiber cloth, wherein the microfiber cloth comprises polyester and polyamide;

a top layer of polyester material secured to the base layer of microfiber cloth;

a pair of flaps extending laterally from the connection between the base layer and the top layer; and

a layer of polyurethane foam secured between the base microfiber layer and the top polyester layer.

12. The reusable cleaning article of claim 11, wherein the top polyester layer further comprises polyamide.

13. The reusable cleaning material of claim 11, wherein the top polyester layer further comprises a scrubber strip comprising a plurality of polyester bristles.

14. The reusable cleaning material of claim 11, wherein the top polyester layer further comprises a scrubber strip comprising nylon bristles.

15. The reusable cleaning material of claim 11, wherein the top polyester layer further comprises a plurality of scrubber strips comprising nylon bristles.

16. The reusable cleaning material of claim 11, wherein the top polyester layer comprises terry cloth.

17. The reusable cleaning material of claim 11, wherein the top polyester layer comprises glass cloth.

18. The reusable cleaning material of claim 11, wherein the top polyester layer comprises chenille.

19. A reusable cleaning article, comprising:

a base layer of microfiber cloth, comprising polyester and polyamide;

a top layer of material, comprising polyester and polyamide and is secured to the base layer of microfiber cloth;

a pair of flaps extending laterally from the connection between the base layer and the top layer; and

a layer of polyurethane foam secured between the base microfiber layer and the top layer.

20. The reusable cleaning material of claim 19, wherein the base layer comprises a larger percentage of polyester than polyamide and the top layer comprises a larger percentage of polyester than polyamide.