Phosphate surfactants containing ether and hydroxyl groups were prepared by a simple reaction between the corresponding epoxide and the diethyl phosphate. The relationships between the structure and colloidal properties were evaluated in terms of the critical micelle concentration (CMC), cCMC, foaming ability, and water absorbing and holding abilities. Based on these results, it was concluded that the ether and hydroxy groups synergistically worked together to decrease the CMC and increase the foaming ability. The degree of neutralization remarkably affected the colloidal properties. The highly neutralized states showed a more positive effect on water holding power but an opposite effect on the foaming ability.