Optically clear CdS films as thick as 0.05-0.35 mu m were deposited on glass supports. The composition of the baths was CdCl2 1-2.5 x 10(-3) M, thiourea 1-2.5 x 10(-2) M and NH3 0.65-1.70 M, in the presence of surfactants such as polyethylene glycol 600 or ether sulfate 12-14, at temperatures of 40-60 degrees C. For the first time, the influence of these surfactants on the growth kinetics of CdS thin films was studied. These evidently decreased the reaction rate, leading to the obtaining of good quality films. Their optical properties were studied. A film of about 0.2 mu m in thickness decreases the near-IR transmittance of the support by 20-25%. The visible transmittance varies between 40-80% and the near-IR reflectance is limited to 13-22%.