| abstract |
Peroxygen bleach compositions which can be used together with oxygen-sensitive wash aids are disclosed. Combination products comprising these bleach compositions together with the oxygen sensitive wash aids are disclosed as well as are methods of laundering employing them. The bleach compositions include a peroxygen source, a surface active or hydrotropic bleach activator or catalyst therefor and a quaternary ammonium salt. As compared to equivalent compositions not containing the quaternary ammonium salt, these bleach compositions are characterized by a delayed onset of active oxygen production when they are added to wash solutions. When these bleach compositions are used in combination with oxygen-sensitive wash aids, the sensitive wash aids have an initial period when they can act before the active oxygen level rises to a level that it interferes with their action. The bleach compositions of this invention which contain the added quaternary ammonium salt are also characterized by achieving higher ultimate levels of active oxygen than do equivalent compositions which do not contain the ammonium salt. |