The invention relates to novel liquid detergent compositions consisting essentially of N(2-hydroxy C10-C18 alkyl) derivatives of N-methyl taurine or sarcosine or diethanolamine in combination with an anionic sulfate, zwittenonic, or amphoteric detergent in an aqueous medium. The addition of the N-(2-hydroxy C10-C18 alkyl) derivatives results in substantially increased foamdrainage times and better foaming properties.