A novel cationic bleach activator having an enhanced hydrolytic stability is provided. The novel cationic bleach activator also leads to a reduction in strength loss of cotton fibers compared to conventional hot peroxide bleaching, and achieves this reduction in strength loss without a loss of whiteness. Bleaching compositions and detergent compositions comprising the novel cationic bleach activator also are provided. A method of bleaching cellulosic fibers, such as cotton fibers, and a method for removing a stain or discoloration from an article are further provided.