A group of cationic surfactants based on N-alkylamidopropyl-N,N-dimethylamines, R-CONHCH2CH2CH2N(CH3)2, was studied. Caprylamidopropyl, capramidopropyl, lauramidopropyl, stearamidopropyl and oleamidopropyl dimethylamines were prepared, purified and characterized. NMR, IR, and pKbdata are reported. The acetate and methylchloride quaternary salts of these amines were also prepared and evaluated as bactericides gelling agents, and foaming surfactants. Surface tensions, interfacial tensions, critical micelle concentrations and Ross-Miles foam heights were determined. N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)stearamide formed well structured gels in white mineral oil and deodorized kerosene. Further, these amidoamines and their salts showed excellent antistatic properties and were substantive to hair and skin.