Unsymmetrical acyclic imide bleach activators are provided. The compounds have formula (I) wherein R1 is a C7-C13 linear or branched chain saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, R2 is a C1-C8 linear or branched chain saturated or unsaturated alkyl group and R3 is a C1-c4 linear or branched chain saturated or unsaturated alkyl group. Preferred compounds include the compounds when R1 is a C7-C11 linear or branched saturated alkyl group, and most preferably when R1 is a linear C8 or C9 saturated alkyl group and R2 and R3 are CH3. Bleach additive and bleaching compositions including the unsymmetrical acyclic bleach activators and methods of cleaning fabrics are also provided.