Disclosed are processes for manufacturing cross-linked cellulosic fibers and tissue products comprising cross-linked cellulosic fibers, manufactured by reacting an oxidized polyol, in particular, an oxidized sugar having at least two aldehyde groups with a plurality of cellulosic fibers to yield treated fibers and heating the treated fibers at a temperature greater than about 140° C. to cure the treated fibers. In particular, said sugar is sucrose and the oxidising agent comprises hydrogen peroxide. The instant cross-linked fibers are manufactured without well-known cross-linking agents such as formaldehyde or polycarboxylic acids, and have good brightness and color and resist yellowing. Furthermore, the cross-linked cellulosic fibers are generally free from off odors and the instant cross-linked cellulosic fibers have enhanced properties, such as improved wet bulk, compared to uncross-linked fibers.