they react, they don't equalize, and the results do a fine job of cleaning / removing smells. look, I'm not going to try to convince you your understanding of chemistry is incorrect, but try it before you knock it.
I don't use them myself but sort of get why people use dishwasher tablets, but laundry pods/tabs make zero sense to me. Not all loads are the same size.
For Dishwasher Tablets. This goes into way more depth than ya need but they skip a whole ass wash cycle - which is why there are 2 places for your soap in your dishwasher.
How so? I guess they are more expensive but I can afford like $2 per pack for the convenience of just throwing them in.
Am I doing it wrong?
Serious question
washing anything that got moldy (like cloth napkins from the kitchen that sat in the hamper) / funky - I use a solid tablet detergent (blue land plastic free) and a baking soda / vinegar. works great.