Many product improvements that catch on come from simplifying a task that is well known to be annoying. Getting the grout between shower tiles clean definitely falls into this category. Currently the caustic chemicals that are primarily used for this purpose are not meant to be breathed in, and yet by their very nature they are sprayed into a fine mist in a confined space!

The Problem
It is difficult to track progress when spraying a clear liquid onto a shower wall; the active ingredient doesn’t stay where it needs to be, instead running down the tiles; and it creates an inhospitable environment which doesn’t allow the time to do a proper job of thoroughly cleaning. These facts cause many to put off tackling this distasteful chore, which only compounds these challenges.

The Opportunity
With a few modifications to the application process of existing products, a process could be developed that does not require the cleaner to be suspended in the air, is much easier to use, and enhances effectiveness by prolonging surface contact.

The Insight
Damp paper/cloth sticks to vertical surfaces, whether wet with plain water or a cleaning product.

The Execution
A fabric similar to disposable industrial rags or heavy duty paper towels could be impregnated with tile cleaner and packaged in large sheets shrink wrapped in boxes, not unlike one-time use wash cloths for baby baths or face cleansing. Once wet, they are simply slapped into place and left to work for however long is necessary. Pieces could be cut to size for difficult to treat areas around fixtures. The same approach could be used on glass doors as well.

The Selling Point
Showers are already coated with water once as we are finishing with them. Consumers need not wait until the weekend to clean their showers, instead they could just do a section each day with hardly any more effort than unfolding a napkin. Various strengths could be marketed depending on the extent of the soap scum or mildew.

The Incidental Benefits
Once the towelette has served to apply the active ingredients, it could then be used to scrub the surfaces in the shower, and even used to wipe down other bathroom surfaces before being disposed. Packing waste would be dramatically reduced by this approach, and the materials used could be recyclable.

ANOTHER OFFICIAL CORPORATE RESPONSE or “What We Are Up Against”
From: Clorox Consumer Services
Subject: Reference Number: 4676867

Dear Mr. Daniels,

Thank you for contacting the Clorox Company. We always appreciate hearing from our consumers.

I understand you would like to submit an idea for our review. It is the policy of The Clorox Company and its subsidiaries not to accept any idea submission under an obligation of confidentiality. Before we can review your idea, I must ask you to sign our standard non-confidential disclosure agreement form. Although this form waives any confidential relationship, it specifically provides that you would retain all patent rights you have or may acquire in your idea.

Again, thank you for contacting us.

Sincerely,

Elise Brown
Consumer Response Representative
Consumer Services

If you have additional questions or comments, please click here