I like the idea of the sheets, but until they are less expensive, I'm not likely to switch. Currently using Persil Free/Sensitive as it got the best reviews from Consumer Reports. It is ultra concentrated, so uses about half as much as most liquid detergents. As I couldn't find it locally, I order through Amazon. A one time order would be 24 cents/load - but as I subscribe to a few items that we routinely use, I get a 15% discount. That brings it down to under 23 cents/load. Bonus, it's delivered to my door!

Amazon has Arm and Hammer sheets on sale. $11 for 50 sheets, for 100 small loads or 50 regular loads. That's about $0.22 per load. And they arrive at my house!
Arm and Hammer Sheets

They are the ones I use. Got them in the grocery store but now will use Amazon. I use one half sheet for most of our laundry and the clothes get clean. We don't have any issues with not dissolving, etc.even in cold water. Just regular county water supply, no wells, etc. I plan to keep using them.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...KIKX0DER&psc=1
Prime deal alert!! limit of 3 for half price: $7.50 today

I used this same recipe too for many years. I used to love the smell of the Fels Napta when i grated it. I used the dry version, stored it in quart Mason jars. I now use Tide pods, one pod only though per large load. When I read the directions for 3 for a large load, 😲 I was in shock. One gets our clothes perfectly clean.

I found more water per load is one secret to getting cleaner and fresher not more detergent. The precise water levels in washers now are a joke. The rinse water used is mostly cold water and much less of it per load. I had to search to find a washer that allowed a full tub of water. I wash small to medium loads in a full tub of water. Sheets gets two rinses. Unless heavily soiled clothes one pod will be enough.

my washer has a deep fill button. I wonder why you have such issues with the laundry. Maybe your water source? We don't do any kind of work that involves dirt/grease etc so unless we spill something like mustard or ketchup laundry goes pretty well with minimal attention.

It does seem like I have laundry issues. LOL But not really. A full load of hot water, a pod, and a maybe two rinses and it's done. I over study most things to get down to the basic to give results for the least amount of bother on my side.

I feel the same way. Had a front loader for 15 years, when it finally died I knew I wanted a top-loading Speed Queen. Fills all the way to the top of the drum. Smaller loads with more water is key to clean and clean-smelling laundry. Fabric content is a factor also. Most of my clothes are cotton or a cotton blend, which come clean easily. Hubby prefers polyester, which is notorious for holding onto odors, so occasionally I'll wash his clothes with vinegar and a small amount of scent beads.
I remember when we went to the showroom to look at washing machines. I'd done research for 2 years prior, so I already knew exactly what I wanted. Had to endure the sales pitch to satisfy hubby. First thing the salesman did was show us his best seller which had the "highest ratings". I said "Highest ratings, based on what criteria?" He said he had never been asked that. Seriously?? Okay, the ratings criteria was energy and water efficiency. I said nope, not what I want. I want a top loader that fills all the way to the top, actually gets the items wet and clean, and is NOT rated a best seller based on energy efficiency. He said "Oh, then you might want a Speed Queen." Bingo, pal.

I wanted a Speed Queen but the only dealer in the area didn't have the one I wanted, and for some reason wouldn't order one. I was too fed up to deal with him. I found a GE top loader that filled the tub full and my husband disconnected the lid lock. The only thing I don't like about it is only cold water for rinses. My husband connected a Y hose to the hot water to by pass that. I can tell a difference when rinsing in heated water instead of cold. The new washers are rather foolish with the settings, sensing, locking, and programming involved.