Durable‐press finishing agents that neither contain nor release formaldehyde when applied to cotton fabrics are reviewed and compared with conventionalN‐methylolamides in regard to fabric wrinkle resistance, smooth drying properties, strength retention and yellowing imparted. The need for agents that are not derived from formaldehyde results from international recognition that formaldehyde is a probable human carcinogen. When formaldehyde‐free cellulose crosslinking agents are screened to eliminate those having toxicity, odour and environmental problems of their own, the most likely candidates are seen to be polycarboxylic acids and 1,3‐dimethyl‐4, 5‐dihydroxy‐ethyleneurea (also known as DHDMI). These differ in cost and effectiveness, and will require further research and development to become fu