A softening finish composition which contains a softening base having an excellent softening effect and satisfactory biodegradability. The composition comprises: (A) a nonionic compound which has at least one C 5-36 alkyl or alkenyl group and an amide bond but contains no dissociative groups giving amino or carboxyl; and (B) at least one member selected among (B-α) cationic or ampholytic surfactants having one C 5-36 alkyl or alkenyl group or one optionally substituted aryl group and (B-β) amino compounds having at least one C 5-36 alkyl or alkenyl group and salts of the compounds.