Using a plastic ball to put washing liquid in with your clothes washing is not new. What is new is that they are now souped up in very bright colours like a fashion statement. The one I've got is from Bold liquid and it's rubberised in a bright pink and blue wrapping that wouldn't be amiss on a sports car or bike helmet (It even has side grilles on the thing). Is it meant to make washing your clothes a better experience or any cleaner? I wouldn't have thought so. Maybe there are people out there who stare at their washing going round and want the enjoyment of spotting a bright thing amongst their washing. Whatever the case I'm taking it with me.