Sulfo-estolides and methods of making them are described. Useful methods include acid side bleaching, partial hydrogenation of the fatty acid, pretreatment of the fatty acid to provide color inhibition, acid side hydrolysis of the sulfo-estolides, or conversion of SHP to an essentially fully hydrolyzed product (HSHP) or a partially hydrolyzed product (PHSHP). Detergent formulations, such as laundry detergents, softeners, and other materials, containing any of these materials are disclosed. Laundry methods employing these formulations are also disclosed. These formulations are useful as laundry detergents and can be biodegradable, heavy duty liquids, 2.times. or 3.times. and up to 6.times. concentrates, low foaming, and/or effective in a high efficiency washing machine. Methods for laundering fabrics with the compositions are also disclosed.