N,N diacyl O-substituted imide bleach activators and compositions employing them are provided. The activators have the general formula: wherein X is selected from O, NR16 and S; e is 0 or 1; f is 0 or 1; R16 is selected from H and C1-C4 linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl groups; and R1 is preferably phenyl or C7-C13 linear or branched chain, saturated or unsaturated alkyl; R2 is preferably C1-C10 branched or unbranched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl and R3 is preferably C1-C12 linear or branched chain, saturated or unsaturated alkyl. Bleach additive and bleaching compositions including the bleach activators and methods of cleaning fabrics are also provided.