A portable, self-contained, device for dosing and/or dispensing at least one product into an appliance for treating laundry or dishes is disclosed. The device includes a housing with at least one compartment for containing at least one product. The compartment(s) can be closed by at least one corresponding cover. The device further includes at least one means for storing and releasing energy, so that the product to be dispensed may be released at one or more predetermined point(s) in time during a wash cycle. In one embodiment, the means may be a battery, such as a rechargeable battery. The device may also include at least one sensor and/or at least one actuator for detecting when the wash conditions are optimal and open at least one of the compartments for releasing a product.