CONTAINER

PRIORITY

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Pat. App. No. 63/154,916, entitled “Stemless Cleaning Brush and Method of Cleaning a Reusable Container” filed March 1, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Reusable containers are widely used and offer environmental benefits compared to disposable containers. Such reusable containers include drinking containers, such as water bottles among others. Utilizing reusable containers reduces the amount of material waste (e.g., plastic waste) that ends up in a landfill or is otherwise not recycled. FIGS. 1- 1A show an exemplary reusable container (10), which may have a variety of shapes and sizes. More specifically, FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a reusable container (10), and FIG. 1A shows a sectional view of reusable container (10) of FIG. 1. Reusable container (10) includes an optional lid (12) that is removably coupled with reusable container (10) between open and closed configurations. Lid (12) may be securely attached to reusable container (10) to completely enclose reusable container (10). An optional flexible strap (14) prevents lid (12) from being completely separated from reusable container (10). Reusable container (10) is shown as a plastic bottle, such as a NALGENE® bottle, commercially available from Thermo Fisher Scientific.

[0003] Reusable container (10) has a wall (15) that forms an inner surface (16) and an outer surface (18). Inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) defines a cavity (20) configured to contain contents (e.g., a drinkable liquid). As shown, reusable container (10) includes a neck (22) and a main body (24). The narrowest portion of neck (22) has a first diameter (Dl). Main body (24) has a second diameter (D2). As shown, first diameter (Dl) of neck (22) is less than second diameter (D2) of main body (24). Neck (22) includes a closure mechanism (shown as a threaded closure (26)) and an opening (28) to allow for contents to enter and exit reusable container (10). Reusable container (10) has a bottom (30) disposed opposite opening (28) of neck (22). Reusable container (10) and lid (12) may be formed from a variety of materials, including one or more polymeric and/or metallic components. Lid (12) includes an inner surface (32) and an outer surface (34). Lid (12) may include a closure mechanism (shown as a threaded closure (36)) that is configured to engage the closure mechanism (e.g., threaded closure (26)) of reusable container (10) to completely enclose reusable container (10). Engagement of threads (38, 40) of threaded closures (26, 36) completely enclose reusable container (10) preventing contents, including liquid, from escaping reusable container (10).

[0004] Despite the benefits of reusable containers (e.g., reusable container (10)), cleaning reusable containers may be difficult. Some cleaning instructions advise using a stemmed bottle brush having a long handle/stem that is configured to be manually gripped by a user to manipulate the stemmed bottle brush. However, long handled stemmed bottle brushes are not common fixtures in households and may not obtain the desired level of cleaning. As a result, it remains difficult to clean certain portions (e.g., neck (22) or bottom (30)) of reusable container (10). As such, reusable containers may not be thoroughly cleaned which may deter use of the reusable container and may result in increased use of disposable, single use, containers. Using unclean reusable bottles may result in being exposed to unhealthy contaminants, such as fungus or bacteria. It remains desirable to clean the reusable container (e.g., reusable container (10)) in a quick, straightforward, and effective manner. However, it is believed that no one prior to the inventor has made or used the invention described in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention, and, together with the general description of the invention given above, and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the present invention. [0006] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a prior art reusable container;

[0007] FIG. 1A depicts a sectional view of the prior art reusable container of FIG. 1;

[0008] FIG. 2 depicts a front perspective view of a first exemplary stemless cleaning brush;

[0009] FIG. 3 depicts a front view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 2;

[00010] FIG. 3 A depicts a cross-sectional view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 3, taken along section 3A-3A of FIG. 3;

[00011] FIG. 4 depicts a front perspective view of a second exemplary stemless cleaning brush;

[00012] FIG. 5 depicts a front view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 4;

[00013] FIG. 5A depicts a cross-sectional view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 5, taken along section 5A-5A of FIG. 5;

[00014] FIG. 6 depicts a front perspective view of a third exemplary stemless cleaning brush;

[00015] FIG. 7 depicts a front view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 6;

[00016] FIG. 7A depicts a cross-sectional view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 7, taken along section 7A-7A of FIG. 7;

[00017] FIG. 8 depicts a front perspective view of a fourth exemplary stemless cleaning brush;

[00018] FIG. 9 depicts a front view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 8;

[00019] FIG. 9A depicts a cross-sectional view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 9, taken along section 9A-9A of FIG. 9; [00020] FIG. 10 depicts a front perspective view of a fifth exemplary stemless cleaning brush;

[00021] FIG. 11 depicts a front view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 10;

[00022] FIG. 12 depicts a front perspective view of a sixth exemplary stemless cleaning brush;

[00023] FIG. 12A depicts a cross-sectional view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 12, taken along section 12A-12A of FIG. 12;

[00024] FIG. 13 depicts a front perspective view of a seventh exemplary stemless cleaning brush;

[00025] FIG. 13A depicts a cross-sectional view of the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 13, taken along section 13A-13A of FIG. 13;

[00026] FIG. 14 depicts an exemplary method using a stemless cleaning brush;

[00027] FIG. 15A depicts the stemless cleaning brush of FIG. 13, a dishwashing composition, and a liquid in the reusable container of FIG. 1, prior to manually shaking the reusable container; and

[00028] FIG. 15B depicts the stemless cleaning brush, the dishwashing composition, and the liquid in the reusable container of FIG 15 A, but after manually shaking the reusable container.

[00029] The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the invention may be carried out in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present invention, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention; it being understood, however, that this invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00030] The following description of certain examples of the invention should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is by way of illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[00031] To the extent that spatial terms such as “upper," "lower," "vertical," "horizontal," or the like are used herein with reference to the drawings, it will be appreciated that such terms are used for exemplary description purposes only and are not intended to be limiting or absolute. In that regard, it will be understood that devices such as those disclosed herein may be used in a variety of orientations and positions not limited to those shown and described herein. Further, the terms “about” and “approximately” as used herein for any numerical values or ranges indicate a suitable dimensional tolerance that allows the part or collection of components to function for its intended purpose as described herein.

[00032] I. Exemplary Stemless Cleaning Brushes and Method

[00033] A. First Exemplary Stemless Cleaning Brush

[00034] FIGS. 2-3A show a first exemplary stemless cleaning brush (110). More specifically, FIG. 2 shows a front perspective view of stemless cleaning brush (110), FIG. 3 shows a front view of stemless cleaning brush (110) of FIG. 2, and FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectional view of stemless cleaning brush (110) of FIG. 3, taken along section 3A-3A of FIG. 3. Stemless cleaning brush (110) includes a weighted core (112) and a plurality of projections (shown as bristles (114)). Weighted core (112) includes a center point (116) (see FIG. 3A), an outer surface (118), and a plurality of cavities (120) (see FIG. 3 A) extending inwardly from outer surface (118). Outer surface (118) of weighted core (112) may have a variety of shapes and sizes. The shape, size, and material of weighted core (112) may alter the characteristics of stemless cleaning brush (110), which may affect the buoyancy of stemless cleaning brush (110) when placed in the liquid. Stemless cleaning brush (110) may have a specific gravity greater than 1, such that stemless cleaning brush (110) sinks when submerged in a liquid (see FIGS. 15A-15B).

[00035] While FIG. 3 A shows weighted core (112) as being integrally formed together as a unitary piece, although weighted core (112) may alternatively include multiple layers. While not shown, weighted core (112) may include an interior hollow space that may include center point (116). Cavities (120) of weighted core (112) are spaced apart along outer surface (118) of weighted core (112). Each cavity (120) includes an inner surface (122) (see FIG. 3 A). Cavities (120) extend inwardly from outer surface (118) of weighted core (112). As shown in the present version, cavities (120) are uniformly spaced apart from adjacent cavities (120), such that cavities (120) are equally spaced along the entirety of outer surface (118) of weighted core (112). In other versions, the spacing of cavities (120) may be non-uniform.

[00036] Bristles (114) may displace dirt and debris upon striking inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) and lid (12). Bristles (114) are substantially rigid so as to resist significant deflection when bristles (114) directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). As shown in FIG. 3A, bristles (114) are affixed within each of plurality of respective cavities (120). Bristles (114) are configured to directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). Distal portions (126) of bristles (114) define a contact surface configured to contact at least one of container (10) or lid (12). Distal portions (126) of bristles (114) form a generally spherical shape shown by the dashed line circle (134) of FIG. 3A). However, other shapes for stemless cleaning brush (110) are also envisioned. In some versions, at least one of weighted core (112) or bristles (114) include a dishwashing composition (not shown).

[00037] As shown in FIGS. 2-3 A, bristles (114) are arranged in a plurality of bundles (124). The number and arrangement of bristles (114) within each respective bundle (124) may be uniform or non-uniform. For example, the number of bristles (114) within each respective bundle (124) may be the same or different. While stemless cleaning brush (110) includes 26 bundles (124), only 17 bundles (124) are shown in FIG 3. Bundles (124) are spaced along stemless cleaning brush (110) in a generally uniform manner. In FIG. 3 A, bundles are spaced apart at angle theta (Q), which is shown at about 45 degrees. However, the arrangement of bundles (124) may be non-uniform, such that bundles are not spaced at angle theta (Q). Bundles (124) of individual bristles (114) are shown schematically in FIG. 3 A. For example, while bristles (114) of a particular bundle (124) are shown as having a generally uniform length, bristles (114) of the same bundle (124) may have different lengths. In some versions, bundles (124) include at least first and second sets (130, 132) of bundles (124). For example, first set (130) of bundles (124) have a different length and/or stiffness than second set (132) of bundles (124). For example, first set (130) of bristles (114) have a first stiffness, and second set (132) of bristles (114) have a second stiffness that is different than first stiffness.

[00038] B. Second Exemplary Stemless Cleaning Brush

[00039] FIGS. 4-5A show second exemplary stemless cleaning brush (210). More specifically, FIG. 4 shows a front perspective view of stemless cleaning brush (210), FIG. 5 shows a front view of stemless cleaning brush (210) of FIG. 4, and FIG. 5 A shows a cross-sectional view of stemless cleaning brush (210) of FIG. 5, taken along section 5A-5A of FIG. 5. Stemless cleaning brush (210) includes a weighted core (212) and a plurality of projections (shown as bristles (214)). Weighted core (212) includes a center point (216) (see FIG. 5 A), an outer surface (218), and a plurality of cavities (220) (see FIG. 5 A) extending inwardly from outer surface (218). Outer surface (218) of weighted core (212) may have a variety of shapes and sizes. The shape, size, and material of weighted core (212) may alter the characteristics of stemless cleaning brush (210), which may affect the buoyancy of stemless cleaning brush (210) when placed in the liquid. Stemless cleaning brush (210) may have a specific gravity greater than 1, such that stemless cleaning brush (210) sinks when submerged in a liquid (see FIGS. 15A-15B).

[00040] While FIG. 5A shows weighted core (212) is shown as being integrally formed together as a unitary piece, weighted core (212) may include multiple layers. While not shown, weighted core (212) may include an interior hollow space that may include center point (216). Cavities (220) of weighted core (212) are spaced apart along outer surface (218) of weighted core (212). Each cavity (220) includes an inner surface (222). Cavities (220) extend inwardly from outer surface (218) of weighted core (212). As shown, cavities (220) are uniformly spaced apart from adjacent cavities (220), such that cavities (220) are equally spaced along an entirety of outer surface (218) of weighted core (212). In other versions, the spacing of cavities (220) may be non-uniform.

[00041] Bristles (214) may displace dirt and debris when bristles (214) strike inside surface (16) of reusable container (10) and lid (12). Bristles (214) are substantially rigid so as to resist significant deflection when bristles (214) directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). As shown in FIG. 5A, bristles (214) are affixed within each of plurality of respective cavities (220). Bristles (214) are configured to directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). Distal portions (226) of bristles (214) define a contact surface configured to contact at least one of container (10) or lid (12). While FIG. 4 shows distal portions (226) of bristles (214) forming a generally spherical shape, other shapes for stemless cleaning brush (210) are also envisioned. In some versions, at least one of weighted core (212) or bristles (214) include a dishwashing composition (not shown). [00042] As shown in FIGS. 4-5A, bristles (214) are arranged in a plurality of bundles (224). The number and arrangement of bristles (214) within each respective bundle (224) may be uniform or non-uniform. For example, the number of bristles (214) within each respective bundle (224) may be the same or different. Bundles (224) are spaced along stemless cleaning brush (210). Stemless cleaning brush (210) has more bundles (224) than stemless cleaning brush (110). Bristles (214) of the same bundle (224) may have different lengths. In some versions, bundles (224) include at least first and second sets (230, 232) of bundles (224). For example, first set (230) of bundles (224) have a different length and/or stiffness than second set (232) of bundles (224). For example, first set (230) of bristles (214) have a first length, and second set (232) of bristles (214) have a second length (L2) that is greater than first length (LI).

[00043] C. Third Exemplary Stemless Cleaning Brush

[00044] FIGS. 6-7A show a third exemplary stemless cleaning brush (310). More specifically, FIG. 6 shows a front perspective view of stemless cleaning brush (310), FIG. 7 shows a front view of stemless cleaning brush (310) of FIG. 6, and FIG. 7A shows a cross-sectional view of stemless cleaning brush (310) of FIG. 7, taken along section 7A-7A of FIG. 7. While FIG. 6 shows weighted core (112) of stemless cleaning brush (310) having a cube shape, other shapes are also envisioned. Stemless cleaning brush (310) includes a weighted core (312) and a plurality of projections (shown as bristles (314)). Weighted core (312) includes a center point (316) and an outer surface (318), and a plurality of cavities (320) (see FIG. 7A) extending inwardly from outer surface (318). Outer surface (318) of weighted core (312) may have a variety of shapes and sizes. The shape, size, and material of weighted core (312) may alter the characteristics of stemless cleaning brush (310), which may affect the buoyancy of stemless cleaning brush (310) when placed in the liquid. Stemless cleaning brush (310) may have a specific gravity greater than 1, such that stemless cleaning brush (310) sinks when submerged in a liquid (see FIGS. 15A-15B). [00045] While weighted core (312) is shown as being integrally formed together as a unitary piece, weighted core (312) may include multiple layers. While not shown, weighted core (312) may include an interior hollow space that may include center point (316). Cavities (320) of weighted core (312) are spaced apart along outer surface (318) of weighted core (312). Each cavity (320) includes an inner surface (322). Cavities (320) extend inwardly from outer surface (318) of weighted core (312). As shown, cavities (320) are uniformly spaced apart from adjacent cavities (320), such that cavities (320) are equally spaced along an entirety of outer surface (318) of weighted core (312). In other versions, the spacing of cavities (320) may be non-uniform.

[00046] Bristles (314) may displace dirt and debris when bristles (314) strike inside surface (16) of reusable container (10) and lid (12). Bristles (314) are substantially rigid so as to resist significant deflection when bristles (314) directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). As shown in FIG. 7A, bristles (314) are affixed within each of plurality of respective cavities (320). Bristles (314) are configured to directly contact an inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). Distal portions (326) of bristles (314) define a contact surface. While FIGS. 6-7A show distal portions (326) of bristles (314) forming a generally spherical shape, other shapes for stemless cleaning brush (310) are also envisioned. In some versions, at least one of weighted core (312) or bristles (314) include a dishwashing composition (not shown).

[00047] As shown in FIGS. 6-7 A, bristles (314) are arranged in a plurality of bundles (324). The number and arrangement of bristles (314) within each respective bundle (324) may be uniform or non-uniform. For example, the number of bristles (314) within each respective bundle (324) may be the same or different. Bundles (324) are spaced along stemless cleaning brush (310). While stemless cleaning brush (310) includes 26 bundles (324), only 17 bundles (324) are shown in FIG 7. In FIG. 7A, bundles are spaced apart at angle theta (Q1), which is shown at about 45 degrees. However, the arrangement of bundles (324) may be non-uniform, such that bundles are not spaced at angle theta (Q1). For example, while bristles (314) of a particular bundle (324) are shown as having a generally uniform length, bristles (314) of the same bundle (324) may have different lengths. In some versions, bundles (324) include at least first and second sets (330, 332) of bundles (324). For example, first set (330) of bundles (324) have a different length and/or stiffness than second set (332) of bundles (324). For example, first set (330) of bristles (314) have a first stiffness, and second set (332) of bristles (314) have a second stiffness that is different than first stiffness.

[00048] D. Fourth Exemplary Stemless Cleaning Brush

[00049] FIGS. 8-9 A show a front perspective view of a fourth exemplary stemless cleaning brush (410). More specifically, FIG. 8 shows a front perspective view of stemless cleaning brush (410), FIG. 9 shows a front view of stemless cleaning brush (410) of FIG. 8, and FIG. 9 A shows a cross-sectional view of stemless cleaning brush (410) of FIG. 9, taken along section 9A-9A of FIG. 9. Stemless cleaning brush (410) includes a weighted core (412) and a plurality of projections (shown as bristles (414)). Weighted core (412) includes a center point (416) and an outer surface (418), and a plurality of cavities (420) (see FIG. 9 A) extending inwardly from outer surface (418). While FIG. 8 shows weighted core (112) of stemless cleaning brush (410) having a spheroid shape, other shapes are also envisioned. Outer surface (418) of weighted core (412) may have a variety of shapes and sizes. The shape, size, and material of weighted core (412) may alter the characteristics of stemless cleaning brush (410), which may affect the buoyancy of stemless cleaning brush (410) when placed in the liquid. Stemless cleaning brush (410) may have a specific gravity greater than 1, such that stemless cleaning brush (410) sinks when submerged in a liquid (see FIGS. 15A-15B).

[00050] While weighted core (412) is shown as being integrally formed together as a unitary piece, weighted core (412) may include multiple layers. While not shown, weighted core (412) may include an interior hollow space that may include center point (416). Cavities (420) of weighted core (412) are spaced apart along outer surface (418) of weighted core (412). Each cavity (420) includes an inner surface (422). Cavities (420) extend inwardly from outer surface (418) of weighted core (412). As shown, cavities (420) are uniformly spaced apart from adjacent cavities (420), such that cavities (420) are equally spaced along an entirety of outer surface (418) of weighted core (412). In other versions, the spacing of cavities (420) may be non-uniform.

[00051] Bristles (414) may displace dirt and debris when bristles (414) strike inside surface (16) of reusable container (10) and lid (12). Bristles (414) are substantially rigid so as to resist significant deflection when bristles (414) directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). As shown in FIG. 9A, bristles (414) are affixed within each of plurality of respective cavities (420). Bristles (414) are configured to directly contact an inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). Distal portions (426) of bristles (414) define a contact surface. In some versions, at least one of weighted core (412) or bristles (414) include a dishwashing composition (not shown).

[00052] As shown in FIGS. 8-9A, bristles (414) are arranged in a plurality of bundles (424). Bundles (424) are spaced along stemless cleaning brush (410). The number and arrangement of bristles (414) within each respective bundle (424) may be uniform or non-uniform. For example, the number of bristles (414) within each respective bundle (424) may be the same or different. In FIG. 9A, bundles are spaced apart at angle theta (Q2), which is shown at about 90 degrees. However, the arrangement of bundles (424) may be non-uniform, such that bundles are not spaced at angle theta (Q2). For example, while bristles (414) of a particular bundle (424) are shown as having a generally uniform length, bristles (414) of the same bundle (424) may have different lengths. In some versions, bundles (424) include at least first and second sets (430, 332) of bundles (424). For example, first set (430) of bundles (424) have a different length and/or stiffness than second set (432) of bundles (424). For example, first set (430) of bristles (414) has a first stiffness, and second set (432) of bristles (414) has a second stiffness that is different than first stiffness.

[00053] E. Fifth Exemplary Stemless Cleaning Brush [00054] FIGS. 10-11 show a fifth exemplary stemless cleaning brush (510). More specifically, FIG. 10 shows a front perspective view of stemless cleaning brush (510), and FIG. 11 shows a front view of stemless cleaning brush (510) of FIG. 10. Stemless cleaning brush (510) includes a weighted core (512) and a plurality of projections (shown as bristles (514)). Weighted core (512) includes a center point (not shown) and an outer surface (518), and a plurality of cavities (520) extending inwardly from outer surface (518). While FIG. 10 shows weighted core (112) of stemless cleaning brush (510) having a pyramid shape, other shapes and sizes are also envisioned. The shape, size, and material of weighted core (512) may alter the characteristics of stemless cleaning brush (510), which may affect the buoyancy of stemless cleaning brush (510) when placed in the liquid. Stemless cleaning brush (510) may have a specific gravity greater than 1, such that stemless cleaning brush (510) sinks when submerged in a liquid (see FIGS. 15A-15B).

[00055] While weighted core (512) is shown as being integrally formed together as a unitary piece, weighted core (512) may include multiple layers. While not shown, weighted core (512) may include an interior hollow space. Cavities (520) of weighted core (512) are spaced apart along outer surface (518) of weighted core (512). Each cavity (520) includes an inner surface (not shown). Cavities (520) extend inwardly from outer surface (518) of weighted core (512). As shown, cavities (520) are uniformly spaced apart from adjacent cavities (520), such that cavities (520) are equally spaced along an entirety of outer surface (518) of weighted core (512). In other versions, the spacing of cavities (520) may be non-uniform.

[00056] Bristles (514) may displace dirt and debris when bristles (514) strike inside surface (16) of reusable container (10) and lid (12). Bristles (514) are substantially rigid so as to resist significant deflection when bristles (514) directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). Bristles (514) are affixed within each of plurality of respective cavities (520). Bristles (514) are configured to directly contact an inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). In some versions, at least one of weighted core (512) or bristles (514) include a dishwashing composition (not shown).

[00057] As shown in FIGS. 10-11, bristles (514) are arranged in a plurality of bundles (524). Bundles (524) are spaced along stemless cleaning brush (510). The number and arrangement of bristles (514) within each respective bundle (524) may be uniform or non-uniform. For example, the number of bristles (514) within each respective bundle (524) may be the same or different. As shown, stemless cleaning brush (510) includes 8 bundles (524). As shown in FIG. 10, bundles extend from each face (534) of weighted core (512) and from teach terminal edge of weighted core (512). Distal portions (526) of bristles (514) define a contact surface. For example, while bristles (514) of a particular bundle (524) are shown as having a generally uniform length, bristles (514) of the same bundle (524) may have different lengths. In some versions, bundles (524) include at least first and second sets (530, 532) of bundles (524). For example, first set (530) of bundles (524) have a different length and/or stiffness than second set (532) of bundles (524). For example, first set (530) of bristles (514) have a first stiffness, and second set (532) of bristles (514) have a second stiffness that is different than first stiffness.

[00058] F. Sixth Exemplary Stemless Cleaning Brush

[00059] FIGS. 12-12A show a sixth exemplary stemless cleaning brush (610). More specifically, FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of stemless cleaning brush (610), and FIG. 12A shows a cross-sectional view of stemless cleaning brush (610) taken along section 12A-12A of FIG. 12. As shown in FIG. 12A, stemless cleaning brush (610) is integrally formed together as a single unitary piece using a single molding operation. In some versions, stemless cleaning brush (610) may include a dishwashing composition (not shown). Stemless cleaning brush (610) may have a specific gravity greater than 1 to cause stemless cleaning brush (610) to sink when inserted into water. Stemless cleaning brush (610) includes a weighted core (612). Weighted core (612) includes a center point (616) (see FIG. 12 A) and an outer surface (618). [00060] A plurality of projections (614) extends radially outward from center point (616) of weighted core (612). Projections (614) may displace dirt and debris upon striking inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) and lid (12). Projections (614) may be substantially rigid so as to resist significant deflection when projections (614) directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). The force of stemless cleaning brush (610) being moved around in reusable container (10) may cause projections (614) to deflect and enhance the cleaning of projections (614) against inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) and lid (12). In FIG. 12A, projections (614) are uniformly spaced apart at angle theta (Q3), which is shown at about 30 degrees. However, the arrangement of projections (614) may be non-uniform, such that projections (614) are not spaced at angle theta (Q3).

[00061] Projections (614) may be the same or different (as shown in phantom in FIG. 12A). Alternatively, projections (614a-d) are shown in phantom in FIG. 12A. In some versions, projection (614a) has a first stiffness and projection (614b) has a second stiffness that is different than the first stiffness. For example, thinner projections may have greater flexibility than thicker projections as the cross-sectional area of projections (614) affects the flexibility of projections (614). As shown, projection (614a) has a first cross-sectional area (CA1) that is less than a second cross-sectional area (CA2) of projection (614b). As shown in phantom, in some versions, projection (614c) may have a third length (L3) and projection (614d) has a fourth length (L4) that is longer than third length (L3). Projections (614) include distal ends (626). FIG. 12A shows each distal end (626) as including a concave distal surface. Alternatively, distal ends (626) may be convex or planar. In some versions, weighted core (612) may be formed using molded silicone rubber which can tolerate extremely high temperatures, which may allow for sanitizing of stemless cleaning brush (110) in boiling water or by cleaning in a dishwasher. Plastic bristles may deform at lower temperatures and may deform in a dishwasher or boiling water. [00062] Outer surface (618) of weighted core (612) may have a variety of shapes and sizes. Projections (614) form a generally spherical shape for stemless cleaning brush (610) (which is similar to the dashed line circle (134) of FIG. 3A). However, other shapes for stemless cleaning brush (610) are also envisioned. As shown, outer surface (618) is continuous with projections (614) and does not include cracks or crevices that may allow for dirt, debris or water to collect and accumulate. These cracks or crevices may exist between the bristles and the weighted core. Additionally, less manufacturing steps may be used to form stemless cleaning brush (610) as compared to stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510). Molding of stemless cleaning brush (610) may result in more consistent quality than non-molded apparatuses (e.g., those including bristles). Use of projections (614) prevents bundles of bristles from falling out of cavities or individual bristles from falling out of bundles.

[00063] G. Seventh Exemplary Stemless Cleaning Brush

[00064] FIGS. 13-13A show a seventh exemplary stemless cleaning brush (710). More specifically, FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of stemless cleaning brush (710), and FIG. 13 A shows a cross-sectional view of stemless cleaning brush (710) taken along section 13A-13A of FIG. 13. Unlike stemless cleaning brush (610) which is formed using a single molding operation, stemless cleaning brush (710) includes multiple portions (e.g., layers) as shown in FIG. 13 A

[00065] Stemless cleaning brush (710) includes a weighted core (712) and a plurality of projections (714) extending radially outward from weighted core (712). Weighted core (712) includes a center point (716) (see FIG. 13A) and an outer surface (718). Weighted core (712) includes first and second layers (720, 722); however additional layers are also envisioned. First layer (720) has a first specific gravity, and second layer (722) has a second specific gravity that is different than the first specific gravity. For example, first layer (720) may have a greater specific gravity than second layer (722), which may allow for stemless cleaning brush (710) to sink when inserted into water. First layer (720) may be formed using a first molding operation and the second layer (722) may be formed from a second molding operation after completion of the first molding operation. For example, second layer (722) may be formed completely around first layer (720) so as to encapsulate first layer (720). Alternatively, first and second layers (720, 722) may be formed simultaneously. In some versions, stemless cleaning brush (710) may include a dishwashing composition (not shown). Stemless cleaning brush (710) may have a specific gravity greater than 1 to cause stemless cleaning brush (710) to sink when inserted into water.

[00066] A plurality of projections (714) extends radially outward from center point (716) of weighted core (712). Projections (714) may displace dirt and debris upon striking inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) and lid (12). Projections (714) may be substantially rigid so as to resist significant deflection when projections (714) directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). The force of stemless cleaning brush (710) being moved around in reusable container (10) may cause projections (714) to deflect and enhance the cleaning of projections (714) against inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) and lid (12). In FIG. 13A, projections (714) are uniformly spaced apart at angle theta (Q3), which is shown at about 30 degrees. However, the arrangement of projections (714) may be non-uniform, such that projections (714) are not spaced at angle theta (Q3).

[00067] Projections (714) may be the same or different. Stemless cleaning brush (710) may include alternative projections similar to projections (614a-d) as described above with reference to FIG. 12A. Projections (714) include distal ends (726). FIG. 13A shows each distal end (726) as including a concave distal surface. Alternatively, distal ends (726) may be convex or planar. In some versions, weighted core (712) may be formed using molded silicone rubber which can tolerate extremely high temperatures, which may allow for sanitizing of stemless cleaning brush (110) in boiling water or by cleaning in a dishwasher. Plastic bristles may deform at lower temperatures and may deform in a dishwasher or boiling water. [00068] Outer surface (718) of weighted core (712) may have a variety of shapes and sizes. Projections (714) form a generally spherical shape for stemless cleaning brush (710) (which is similar to the dashed line circle (134) of FIG. 3A). However, other shapes for stemless cleaning brush (710) are also envisioned. As shown, outer surface (718) is continuous with projections (714) and does not include cracks or crevices that may allow for dirt, debris or water to collect and accumulate. These cracks or crevices may exist between the bristles and the weighted core. Additionally, less manufacturing steps may be used to form stemless cleaning brush (710) as compared to stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510). Molding of stemless cleaning brush (710) using first and second layers (720, 722) may result in more consistent quality than non- molded apparatuses (e.g., those including bristles). Use of projections (714) prevents bundles of bristles from falling out of cavities or individual bristles from falling out of bundles.

[00069] H. First Exemplary Method

[00070] FIG. 14 shows an exemplary method (800) of cleaning reusable container (10) using stemless cleaning brushes (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710). As used herein, “stemless” means not including a handle (e.g., an elongate handle) or other gripping portion that is manually manipulated by a user from outside of a container while the cleaning portion is disposed within the container (e.g., cavity (20) of reusable container (10)). For example, it is envisioned that stemless cleaning brushes (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710) may include gripping portions (not shown) to aid the user in retrieving stemless cleaning brushes (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710) from a surface or within a cavity of a reusable container. As used herein, “brush” or “brushes” is not limited to bristles and is intended to include any apparatus that includes projections.

[00071] At step (802), method (800) includes inserting a dishwashing composition (850) (see FIGS. 15A-15B) into cavity (20) of reusable container (10). Dishwashing composition (850) may include a solid, liquid, gel, or a combination thereof. At step (804), method (800) includes inserting at least one stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710) completely into cavity (20) of reusable container (10). While one stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710) is shown in FIGS. 15A- 15B, it is envisioned that more than one stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710) may be used. Additional stemless cleaning brushes (e.g., second and third stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710)) may be the same or different than first stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710). In some versions, two or more stemless cleaning brushes (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710) may be coupled together using one or more connectors (not shown). The connector(s) may be stretchable or non-stretchable, and have a variety of lengths. The connector(s) may be fixably coupled or removably coupled with stemless cleaning brushes (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710).

[00072] At step (806), method (800) includes inserting a liquid (852) into cavity (20) of reusable container (10). For example, liquid (852) may be water or another suitable liquid (852). It is envisioned that steps (802, 804, 806) may be completed in any sequential order.

[00073] In some versions, step (808) includes securely coupling lid (12) with reusable container (10) to completely enclose reusable container (10) preventing each of dishwashing composition (850), stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710), and liquid (852) from escaping reusable container (10) prior to manually shaking reusable container (10). In some versions, step (808) may include securely coupling threads (40) of threaded closure (36) of lid (12) with threads (38) of threaded closure (26) of reusable container (10) to completely enclose reusable container (10) preventing stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710), dishwashing composition (850), and liquid (852) from escaping reusable container (10). In some instances, a user may place their hand or another object over opening (28) of reusable container (10) to enclose reusable container (10).

[00074] At step (810), method (800) includes after inserting dishwashing composition (850), stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710), and liquid (852) into cavity (20) of reusable container (10), manually shaking reusable container (10) so that bristles (114) of stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710), directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10). In some versions, stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710) may directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) and inner surface (16) of lid (12) to clean reusable container (10). In other words, distal portion (126, 226, 326, 426, 526) of bristles (114, 214, 314, 414, 514) or distal ends (626, 726) of projections (614, 714) directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) and inner surface (16) of lid (12). If projections (114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 614, 714) are overly flexible, projections (114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 614, 714) may not provide sufficient rigidity to clean inner surface (16) of reusable container (10). For example, thin elongate silicone bristles may not provide the rigidity to clean inner surface (16) of reusable container (10).

[00075] For example, FIG. 15A shows stemless cleaning brush (710) of FIG. 13, dishwashing composition (850), and liquid (852) in reusable container (10) of FIG. 1, prior to manually shaking reusable container (10). As shown in FIG. 15A, inner surface (16) of container (10) and inner surface (32) of lid (12) includes buildup/grime (854). Regarding reusable container (10) with accompanying lid (12) where threads (38, 40) are not in contact, manually shaking reusable container (10) includes manually shaking reusable container (10) so that projections (714) directly contact inner surface (32) of lid (12) to clean lid (12) and directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean reusable container (10).

[00076] FIG. 15B shows stemless cleaning brush (710) of FIG. 13, dishwashing composition (850), and liquid (852) in reusable container (10) of FIG 15A, but after manually shaking reusable container (10). As shown, buildup/grime (854) is no longer attached to inner surface (16) of container (10) and inner surface (32) of lid (12). This manual shaking reusable container (10) may allow for projections (714) to directly contact inner surface (16) of reusable container (10) to clean neck (22) of reusable container (10). This shaking of reusable container (10) may occur in multiple directions in x, y, z axes. For example, reusable container (10) may be shaken vertically, horizontally, or at variety of angles to ensure stemless cleaning brush (110, 210, 310, 410, 510) contacts inner surface (16) of reusable container (10).

[00077] Method (800) may also include removing lid (12) from reusable container (10) after manually shaking reusable container (10) to remove dishwashing composition (850), stemless cleaning brush (710), and liquid (852) from reusable container (10). Lid (12) may be attached with and removed from reusable container (10) multiple times to ensure container (10) and lid (12) are clean.

[00078] III. Exemplary Combinations

[00079] The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to restrict the coverage of any claims that may be presented at any time in this application or in subsequent filings of this application. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are being provided for nothing more than merely illustrative purposes. It is contemplated that the various teachings herein may be arranged and applied in numerous other ways. It is also contemplated that some variations may omit certain features referred to in the below examples. Therefore, none of the aspects or features referred to below should be deemed critical unless otherwise explicitly indicated as such at a later date by the inventors or by a successor in interest to the inventors. If any claims are presented in this application or in subsequent filings related to this application that include additional features beyond those referred to below, those additional features shall not be presumed to have been added for any reason relating to patentability.

[00080] Example 1

[00081] A method of cleaning a reusable container using a stemless cleaning brush, wherein the reusable container includes an inner surface that defines a cavity, the method comprising: (a) inserting a dishwashing composition into the cavity of the reusable container; (b) inserting the stemless cleaning brush completely into the cavity of the reusable container, wherein the stemless cleaning brush has a specific gravity greater than 1; (c) inserting a liquid into the cavity of the reusable container; and (d) after inserting the dishwashing composition, the stemless cleaning brush, and the liquid into the cavity of the reusable container, manually shaking the reusable container so that projections, extending outwardly from a core of the stemless cleaning brush, directly contact the inner surface of the reusable container to clean the reusable container.

[00082] Example 2

[00083] The method of Example 1, further comprising securely attaching a lid to the reusable container to completely enclose the reusable container preventing each of the dishwashing composition, the stemless cleaning brush, and the liquid from escaping the reusable container prior to manually shaking the reusable container.

[00084] Example 3

[00085] The method of Example 2, wherein the lid includes an inner surface, wherein the manually shaking the reusable container further comprises manually shaking the reusable container so that the projections directly contact the inner surface of the lid to clean the inner surface of the lid.

[00086] Example 4

[00087] The method of any one or more of Examples 2 through 3, wherein the projections are substantially rigid so as to resist deflection when the projections directly contact the inner surface of the reusable container to clean the reusable container.

[00088] Example 5 [00089] The method of any one or more of Examples 6 through 7, further comprising inserting the stemless cleaning brush into the cavity of the reusable container prior to manually shaking the reusable container.

[00090] Example 6

[00091] The method of any one or more of Examples 1 through 5, further comprising inserting a second stemless cleaning brush into the cavity of the reusable container prior to manually shaking the reusable container, wherein the second stemless cleaning brush is different than the first stemless cleaning brush.

[00092] Example 7

[00093] The method of any one or more of Examples 1 through 6, wherein the core includes first and second portions, wherein the first portion has a first specific gravity, wherein the second portion has a second specific gravity that is different than the first specific gravity.

[00094] Example 8

[00095] The method of any one or more of Examples 1 through 7, wherein the reusable container is a bottle having a neck having a diameter that is smaller than a remainder of the reusable container, wherein manually shaking the reusable container further comprises manually shaking the reusable container so that the projections directly contact the inner surface of the reusable container to clean the neck of the reusable container.

[00096] Example 9

[00097] The method of Example 8, wherein the bottle is a polymeric bottle, and wherein the dishwashing composition is a liquid.

[00098] Example 10 [00099] The method of any one or more of Examples 1 through 9, wherein the projections include bristles, wherein the bristles are arranged in a plurality of bundles, wherein the plurality of bundles are spaced along the stemless cleaning brush.

[000100] Example 11

[000101] The method of Example 10, wherein the bristles include at least first and second sets of bristles, wherein the first set of bristles have a first stiffness, wherein the second set of bristles have a second stiffness that is different than the first stiffness.

[000102] Example 12

[000103] The method of any one or more of Examples 10 through 11, wherein the core includes a weighted core, wherein the weighted core includes an outer surface, and a plurality of cavities extending inwardly from the outer surface, wherein the cavities are spaced apart along the outer surface of the weighted core, wherein the bristles are affixed respectively within the plurality of cavities, wherein the plurality of cavities extend outwardly from the weighted core.

[000104] Example 13

[000105] The method of any one or more of Examples 1 through 9, wherein an entirety of the stemless cleaning brush is integrally formed together as a unitary piece using a single molding operation.

[000106] Example 14

[000107] The method of any one or more of Examples 1 through 9, wherein the core includes first and second layers, wherein the second layer completely surrounds the first layer, wherein the second layer and the projections are integrally formed together as a unitary piece.

[000108] Example 15 [000109] The method of Example 14, wherein the first layer is formed using a first molding operation and the second layer is formed from a second molding operation after completion of the first molding operation.

[000110] Example 16

[000111] The method of any one or more of Examples 1 through 9 and Examples 13 through 15, wherein the projections include first and second projections, wherein the first projection has a first length, wherein the second projection has a second length that is different than the first length, wherein the first and second projections having first and second lengths directly contact the inner surface of the reusable container to clean the reusable container.

[000112] Example 17

[000113] The method of any one or more of Examples 1 through 11, wherein the projections include first and second projections, wherein the first projection has a first stiffness, wherein the second projection has a second stiffness that is different than the first stiffness, wherein the first and second projections having first and second stiffnesses directly contact the inner surface of the reusable container to clean the reusable container.

[000114] Example 18

[000115] The method of any one or more of Examples 1 through 11, wherein the projections include distal ends, wherein the distal ends are concave shaped.

[000116] Example 19

[000117] The method of any one or more of Examples 1 through 11, wherein the core includes a weighted core, wherein each projection includes a bundle of bristles that extend outwardly from the weighted core.

[000118] Example 20 [000119] A method of cleaning a reusable container using a stemless cleaning brush, wherein the reusable container includes an inner surface that defines a cavity and a neck that includes a closure mechanism, the method comprising: (a) inserting the stemless cleaning brush completely into the cavity of the reusable container; (b) inserting a liquid into the cavity of the reusable container; (c) securely coupling a closure mechanism of a lid with the closure mechanism of the reusable container to completely enclose the reusable container preventing the stemless cleaning brush and the liquid from escaping the reusable container; and (d) after securely coupling the closure mechanism of the lid with the closure mechanism of the reusable container, manually shaking the reusable container so that projections, extending outwardly from a core of the stemless cleaning brush, directly contact each of the inner surface of the reusable container and an inner surface of the lid to clean the lid and the reusable container.

[000120] Example 21

[000121] The method of Example 20, wherein the closure mechanism of the reusable container includes a threaded closure, wherein the closure mechanism of the lid includes a threaded closure, wherein securely coupling the closure mechanism of the lid with the closure mechanism of the reusable container further comprises securely coupling threads of the threaded closure of the lid with threads of the threaded closure of the reusable container to completely enclose the reusable container preventing the stemless cleaning brush and the liquid from escaping the reusable container.

[000122] Example 22

[000123] A method of cleaning a reusable container using a stemless cleaning brush, wherein the reusable container includes an inner surface that defines a cavity, the method comprising: manually shaking the reusable container so that bristles, extending outwardly from a core of the stemless cleaning brush, directly contact the inner surface of the reusable container to clean the reusable container. [000124] Example 23

[000125] The method of Example 22, wherein the reusable container includes an opening, wherein manually shaking the manually shaking the reusable container further comprises with the opening covered, manually shaking the reusable container so that bristles, extending outwardly from the core of the stemless cleaning brush, directly contact the inner surface of the reusable container to clean the reusable container.

[000126] Example 24

[000127] A stemless cleaning brush comprising: (a) a core; and (b) a plurality of projections extending outwardly from the core, wherein the projections are configured to directly contact an inner surface of a reusable container to clean the reusable container, wherein the stemless cleaning brush has a specific gravity greater than 1 and is configured to sink when inserted into water.

[000128] Example 25

[000129] The stemless cleaning brush of Example 24, wherein the projections include bristles, wherein the bristles are arranged in a plurality of bundles, wherein the plurality of bristles include first and second bundles, the first bundle has a first stiffness, wherein the second bundle has a second stiffness that is different than the first stiffness.

[000130] Example 26

[000131] The stemless cleaning brush of Example 24, wherein the projections include bristles, wherein the bristles include at least first and second sets of bristles, wherein the first set of bristles have a first stiffness, wherein the second set of bristles have a second stiffness that is different than the first stiffness.

[000132] Example 27 [000133] The stemless cleaning brush of Example 26, wherein the bristles are arranged in a plurality of bundles, wherein the plurality of bundles include first and second bundles, wherein the first bundle has a first length, wherein the second bundle has a second length that is different than the first length.

[000134] Example 28

[000135] The stemless cleaning brush of any one or more of Examples 25 through 27, wherein the bristles are not formed from silicone.

[000136] Example 29

[000137] The stemless cleaning brush of any one or more of Examples 24 through 28, wherein the outer surface of the core has one of a pyramid shape, a cube shape, a cuboid shape, or a spheroid shape.

[000138] Example 30

[000139] The stemless cleaning brush of any one or more of Examples 24 through 29, wherein at least one of the core or the projections include a dishwashing composition.

[000140] Example 31

[000141] The stemless cleaning brush of any one or more of Example 24 through 26 and Examples 27 through 30, wherein the plurality of projections include first and second projections, wherein the first projection has a first length, wherein the second projection has a second length that is different than the first length.

[000142] Example 32

[000143] The stemless cleaning brush of any one or more of Example 24 and Examples 27 through 31, wherein the plurality of projections includes first and second projections, wherein the first projection has a first stiffness, wherein the second projection has a second stiffness that is different than the first stiffness. [000144] Example 33

[000145] The stemless cleaning brush of any one or more of Examples 24 through 32, wherein the core includes first and second portions, wherein the first portion has a first specific gravity, wherein the second portion has a second specific gravity that is different than the first specific gravity.

[000146] Example 34

[000147] The stemless cleaning brush of any one or more of Examples 24 and Examples 29 through 32, wherein the projections are formed from silicone rubber.

[000148] Example 35

[000149] The stemless cleaning brush of any one or more of Examples 24 and Examples 29 through 33, wherein an entirety of the stemless cleaning brush projections is formed from silicone rubber.

[000150] Example 36

[000151] The stemless cleaning brush of any one or more of Examples 24 and Examples 29 through 33, the plurality of projections and at least a portion of the core is integrally formed together as a unitary piece.

[000152] IV. Miscellaneous

[000153] It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. that are described herein. The above-described teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. should therefore not be viewed in isolation relative to each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein may be combined will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[000154] Having shown and described various embodiments of the present invention, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may be accomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, the examples, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, and the like discussed above are illustrative and are not required. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered in terms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to the details of structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.