years ago, one of the detergent was available in compressed 'cakes". They were pricey too but I liked to take them on our ski trips when our rooms were in condos where a washer and dryer was part of the package. They didn't take up much room in our luggage or I could stuff them in my ski boots, and didn't have to worry about spilled liquids. I did some wash before we left and didn't have to do it when we got home!