A cartridge system for dispensing substances into a washing machine is disclosed. One or more preferably different sized or shaped cartridges are located within removable drawers contained in a washing machine. Each cartridge contains a particular substance, such as laundry detergent, bleach, or fabric softener, that is released into the washing machine. The cartridge system also includes a means to identify the substance contained within the cartridge as well as when and how much of the substance should be released into the washing machine. At the appropriate time, the system dispenses an appropriate amount of substance into the washing machine. A pump pulls the substance out of the container and into the washing basin of a washing machine. Alternatively, a valve is opened and the substance pours into the washing basin due to gravitational forces.