Abstract: Novel bleach and oxidation catalysts, a method of bleaching substrates using these catalysts and bleaching (detergent) compositions containing the catalysts are reported.The catalysts are manganese complexes of formula:[L.sub.n Mn.sub.m X.sub.p ].sup.z Y.sub.qwherein Mn is manganese or iron or mixtures thereof, which can be in the II, III, IV or V oxidation state or mixtures thereof; n and m are independent integers from 1-4; X represents a co-ordination or bridging species; p is an integer from 0-12; Y is a counter-ion, the type of which is dependent upon the charge z of the complex which can be positive, zero or negative; q=z/[charge Y]; and L is a ligand being a macrocylic organic molecule.

Abstract: A shampoo composition contains surfactant together with a cationic derivative of guar gum and an insoluble non-volatile silicone present as emulsified particles having average particle size below 2.mu.m. The silicone is preferably incorporated as a pre-formed emulsion.

Abstract: A fabric softening particle is provided comprising a mixture of quaternary ammonium ion-exchanged clay having an ion-exchange capacity of at least about 10 meq/100 gms and preferably about 50 meq/100 gms and a water-insoluble quaternary ammonium salt in the ratio of 1:3 to 3:1. The particle softens more efficiently than either of its components. When incorporated into a detergent powder, detergency is not diminished as would occur when either of the particle components are separately incorporated.