Cationic surfactants having softening and antistatic properties are characterized by two long hydrophobic alkyl chains in the molecule. Cationics of the quaternary ammonium and imidazolinium type are still the most important compounds used to improve the surface properties of textiles. At the same time, other types of compounds which have appeared in recent years are used only in minor amounts. Quaternary ammonium and imidazolinium compounds used in laundry detergents and aftertreatment aids are poorly soluble in water. However, they can be converted readily into stable dispersions.