Abstract: The invention relates to new surface-active quaternary ammonium compounds having the general formula: ##STR1## wherein: R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each hydrocarbon groups having from about twelve to about forty carbon atoms;R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are selected from the group consisting of methyl, ethyl and hydroxyethyl;A is an oxyalkylene group derived from both ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, having a ratio of oxyethylene units to the total number of oxyalkylene groups within the range from about 1:6 to about 5:6;m is a number corresponding to the valence of X;n.sub.1 and n.sub.2 represent the average number of oxyalkylene units and are within the range from about 6 to about 30; andX is an anion.The compounds impart to the treated textiles and cellulosic materials a reduced tendency to retain an electrostatic charge and/or improved softness and/or reduced mechanical strength due to a reduction in interfiber bonding, and at the same time preserve good hydrophilic properties.