Five methods of immersion bleaching were examined for their relative degradative effect upon cellulose fibers from a cotton linter source. Evaluation of the bleaching techniques included estimation of cellulose acidity, carbonyl group content and the viscometry average degree of polymerization, both after bleaching and after bleaching plus accelerated thermal aging. Bleaches tested were pH 9.0 hypochlorite, pH 7.0 hypochlorite, pH 4.5 hypochlorite, chlorite/chlorine dioxide, and stabilized hydrogen peroxide. Results of the analyses are reported and discussed along with suggestions for the use and application of these bleaches for conservation.