Abstract: A detergent package for immersion and dissolution in water (e.g. for laundry wash use) comprises a substantially anhydrous isotropic liquid detergent formulation encapsulating in water soluble film based on polyvinyl alcohol. The detergent formulation comprises an anionic surface active agent and a soap both dissolved in a liquid carrier. The formulation provides good water solubility, good detergency, high water softening power and compatability with the water soluble film.