What is that odd looking thing? That's what we thought when we opened a box of ECOS laundry detergent packs expecting powdery detergent. These little "detergent packs" are pre-measured doses of detergent in biodegradable, water-soluble wrappers (they also contain Oxo-brite and a soy-based fabric softener). We've been using the sample box ECOS sent us for about two weeks now ...

The packs are kind of nifty, and also kind of unnecessary — unless you're the type of person who feels like measuring out detergent is a waste of time. That being said, we've been pleased with the performance and especially like the fact that the packs are totally unscented. We're a little scent-sensitive, and our current brand has been getting to us.

Then there's the fabric softener that's included in the ECOS packs: It takes a little getting used to — especially if you, like us, don't usually use a fabric softener in your wash. The change in the feel of the clothes is subtle, but we're coming around to it.

All in all we feel pretty good about the packs. And, if ECOS were to offer an alternative without the fabric softener, we'd buy them again.