Does your washing machine sometimes smell a little… off? It’s a common problem, and it’s not your fault! Over time, soap scum, lint, and moisture can build up inside, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. This not only makes your clothes smell less than fresh but can also reduce your washing machine’s efficiency.
Choosing the right washing machine cleaner can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands and types, each promising to be the best. You want something that works well without damaging your machine or leaving behind harsh chemicals. It’s tough to know where to start!
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes a good washing machine cleaner and how to pick the perfect one for your needs. We’ll break down the options so you can make a confident choice and get back to enjoying clean, fresh-smelling laundry.
Top Washing Machine Cleaners Recommendations
No. 1
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria & Grime Deep Inside Pump, Valve & Hoses, 6 Time Release Tablets, 6 Month Supply
- NO. 1 WASHING MACHINE CLEANER TABLET*
- TIME-RELEASE DEEP CLEAN. Affresh tablets are scientifically designed to deliver extended cleaning action throughout the wash cycle, helping power away bacteria, grime and soap scum deep inside the washing machine’s pump, drum and filter to help optimize performance.
- STINKY PET ODOR? Affresh washing machine cleaner helps remove residues that can trap odors from pets, sweat and mildew that can transfer onto clothes and sheets.
- ONE TABLET, ONCE A MONTH. Avoid the twice-monthly cleaning cycles of other appliance cleaners and cut your machine cleaning maintenance time in half.
- TRUSTED BY APPLIANCE EXPERTS. Backed by over 100 years of appliance innovation, affresh is the washing machine cleaner brand recommended by Whirlpool, Maytag, and Amana.**
$11.98
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No. 2
Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler 24 Pack - Deep Cleaning Tablets For HE Front Loader & Top Load Washer, Septic Safe Eco-Friendly Deodorizer, Clean Inside Drum and Laundry Tub Seal - 12 Month Supply
- Works With All Washers - Perfect For High Efficiency Or Standard Toploader, Front Loading Compatible With GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, Electrolux, Etc. (Not For Dryer)
- Eco-Friendly Tabs - Natural Effervescent Foaming Tablets Are Septic Safe And Made With Less Packaging . Compare To Liquid Descaler And Wipes That Create Unnecessary Waste
- Instant Cleaning Power - Active Self Wash Tablet Cleans So You Don't Have To Brush And Wipe Your Washing Machines. When Exposed To Water, They Break Down Into Deep Scrubbing Powder Cleaners That Breaks Down Grime And Hard Water Build Up
- Bulk 24 Kit - Each Package Includes 1 Year Supply (24 Pods) Vs. Competitor 5 or 6 Tablet Packs Or Liquid Treatments Which Run Out Quickly
- Odor Eliminator- No More Smelly Washer. Descaler Will Freshen Your Laundry Machine Basket, Rubber Gasket, And Internal Parts So Your Clothes Will Come Out Clean And Smelling Fresh.
SaleNo. 3
OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters, 4 Count
- Includes: One 4 count box of OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters to supercharge your washing machine cleaning
- Washing Machine Cleaner: Helps remove odor causing residues in any washer
- Easy to Use: Pour one pouch into the drum of your washer without any other items and run using hot water, wiping away any leftover residue with a towel after the cycle is complete
- For All Washing Machines: For use with both standard and HE washing machines, not intended to be used with clothing or other laundry
- Septic-Safe: Won't harm septic tanks so you can keep your peace of mind
$7.48
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No. 4
Tide Washing Machine Cleaner 52 Week Supply with Oxi for Front and Top Loader Washer Machines, Deep Cleaning Residue & Odor Eliminator, 12 Month Supply (Packaging May Vary)
- YOU WILL RECEIVE: Tide Washing Machine Cleaner powder packets, activating 20% faster than tablets, for 12 months of cleaning. Made by Nehemiah Manufacturing. Certain trademarks used under license from The P&G Company or its affiliates
- ODOR ELIMINATOR: Tide Washing Machine Cleaner lifts away & eliminates odor causing residues and deposits with its specially designed surface active ingredients and the cleaning power of Oxi plus TAED
- POWDER WORKS MORE EFFICIENTLY THAN TABLETS: Tide Washing Machine Cleaner is a powder that creates a cleaning action that gets to work faster than tablets. Deep cleaning and septic safe formula
- OXI + TAED FORMULA: Tide Washing Machine Cleaner has the cleaning power of Oxi + TAED, to boost the cleaning action on your washing machine by over 20% .TAED creates a cleaning superboost that works even in hard water which other cleaners can’t do
- AN EVEN BETTER, MILDER, FRESH CLEAN SCENT: The same supercharged cleaning power in a new scent to leave your washer clean and fresh
No. 5
Washing Machine Cleaner by Tide, Washer Machine Cleaner with Oxi for Front and Top Loader Washer Machines, Deep Cleaning Residue & Odor Eliminator, 5 Month Supply (Packaging May Vary)
- YOU WILL RECEIVE: Tide Washing Machine Cleaner powder packets, activating 20% faster than tablets, for 5 months of cleaning. Made by Nehemiah Manufacturing. Certain trademarks used under license from The P&G Company or its affiliates
- ODOR ELIMINATOR: Tide Washing Machine Cleaner lifts away & eliminates odor causing residues and deposits with its specially designed surface active ingredients and the cleaning power of Oxi plus TAED
- POWDER WORKS MORE EFFICIENTLY THAN TABLETS: Tide Washing Machine Cleaner is a powder that creates a cleaning action that gets to work faster than tablets. Deep cleaning and septic safe formula
- OXI + TAED FORMULA: Tide Washing Machine Cleaner has the cleaning power of Oxi + TAED, to boost the cleaning action on your washing machine by over 20% .TAED creates a cleaning superboost that works even in hard water which other cleaners can’t do
- AN EVEN BETTER, MILDER, FRESH CLEAN SCENT: The same supercharged cleaning power in a new scent to leave your washer clean and fresh
$11.49
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No. 6
ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner for Pet Owners Enzymatic Deep Clean Descaler for Cat & Dog Hair, Urine, Odor, Residue, 24 Septic-Safe Tablets for Top Load, Front Loader, HE Washer Tub - 1 Year Supply
- Specially Formulated for Pet Owners: ACTIVE Pet Hair Remover Washing Machine Cleaner with Ultra-concentrated 5-in-1 Active Enzyme Blend powers away pet hair buildup, sludge, oil, soap, limescale, effectively reducing drain clogs and hair accumulation! Keep clothes Fresh & Clean without pet fur clinging
- Pro Washer Pet Odor Eliminator: ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner and Deodorizer gets to the root of bad odors, removing stinky gunk, odor-causing grime, debris from washer drum, drain, seal, valves. Effortlessly eliminate washing machine odor for good
- Suitable for All Washers: ACTIVE Washer Machine Cleaner Tablets are Safe for Septic Systems, HE, Front-Loading Washer, Top-loader, Front Load, Compatible with Whirlpool, LG, Samsung, GE, Speed Queen, Maytag, Amana
- Safe Choice for Pets & Household: Enzyme Washing Machine Cleaner uses Simple ingredients & natural enzymes that are tough on grime, but gentle on machines. Compare pet hair dissolver products with harsh chemicals that leave harmful residue and fragrances
- Best Value Washing Machine Enzyme Cleaner: Bulk 12 Month Supply in each 24-Tablet Pack. Use ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets monthly to Protect your washer, Extend its lifespan, Save over time. Compare Trusted Heavy Duty Washing Machine Cleaner to brands with less tabs and low quality formula
No. 7
True Fresh Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets 25 Pack for Front Load Top Load
- Deep Cleaning Power – True Fresh washing machine cleaner helps remove residue, grime, soap scum, and hard water buildup from your washer for a cleaner laundry routine.
- Works With All Washers – Compatible with front load, top load, and HE washing machines, making it easy to use in almost any washer type.
- Cleans Hidden Washer Areas – Washer machine cleaner tablets help clean where water reaches, including the drum, tub, hoses, pipes, and other internal parts.
- Easy Drop-In Tablet – Just drop 1 tablet into the empty washer, run a normal or cleaning cycle, and let the tablet do the work. Drop, Run, Done.
- 25-Pack Value Supply – This pack includes 25 washing machine cleaning tablets, giving you a long-lasting 52weeks supply for regular washer maintenance.
No. 8
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria & Grime Deep Inside Pump, Valve & Hoses, 12 Time Release Tablets, 1 Year Supply
- NO. 1 WASHING MACHINE CLEANER TABLET*
- TIME-RELEASE DEEP CLEAN. Affresh tablets are scientifically designed to deliver extended cleaning action throughout the wash cycle, helping power away bacteria, grime and soap scum deep inside the washing machine’s pump, drum and filter to help optimize performance.
- STINKY PET ODOR? Affresh washing machine cleaner helps remove residues that can trap odors from pets, sweat and mildew that can transfer onto clothes and sheets.
- ONE TABLET, ONCE A MONTH. Avoid the twice-monthly cleaning cycles of other appliance cleaners and cut your machine cleaning maintenance time in half.
- TRUSTED BY APPLIANCE EXPERTS. Backed by over 100 years of appliance innovation, affresh is the washing machine cleaner brand recommended by Whirlpool, Maytag, and Amana.**
$22.99
Buy on Amazon
Choosing the Best Washing Machine Cleaner: Your Guide to a Sparkling Machine
Your washing machine works hard to keep your clothes fresh and clean. But did you know it needs a good cleaning too? Over time, soap scum, lint, and even mold can build up inside. This can make your clothes smell musty and even damage your machine. Washing machine cleaners are special products designed to tackle these problems. This guide will help you find the right one for your needs.
Why You Need a Washing Machine Cleaner
- Removes Odors: Stinky clothes often mean a stinky machine. Cleaners get rid of the gunk causing those bad smells.
- Improves Performance: A clean machine washes clothes better and more efficiently.
- Extends Machine Life: Regular cleaning prevents rust and buildup that can break your machine.
- Prevents Mold and Mildew: These can grow in damp areas and are bad for your health.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a washing machine cleaner, keep these features in mind:
- Type of Cleaner:
- Powder Cleaners: These are often strong and good for deep cleaning.
- Liquid Cleaners: Easy to pour and use.
- Tablets or Pods: Very convenient, just drop one in!
- Cleaning Action: Look for cleaners that mention they tackle “soap scum,” “mineral deposits,” “odor-causing bacteria,” or “mold and mildew.”
- Machine Compatibility: Make sure the cleaner works with your type of washing machine (front-load, top-load, HE – High Efficiency). Some cleaners are specifically made for certain types.
- Scent: Some cleaners leave a fresh scent. Others are unscented. Choose what you prefer.
- Eco-Friendliness: If you care about the environment, look for biodegradable or plant-based formulas.
Important Materials to Consider
Most washing machine cleaners use a mix of cleaning agents. Common ones include:
- Citric Acid: This is a natural acid that helps break down mineral deposits and soap scum. It’s like vinegar but often less smelly.
- Baking Soda: This is a mild abrasive and deodorizer. It helps scrub away grime and absorbs bad smells.
- Enzymes: These are special ingredients that eat away at organic matter like dirt and stains.
- Bleach or Peroxide: These are strong disinfectants that kill mold and bacteria. Use with caution and follow instructions carefully.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Improves Quality:
- Strong Cleaning Power: A cleaner that effectively removes tough buildup.
- Easy to Use: Simple instructions and a straightforward application process.
- Pleasant or Neutral Scent: A fresh smell is nice, but overpowering chemical smells can be a downside.
- Good Value: A reasonable price for the number of uses you get.
- Reduces Quality:
- Weak Cleaning Action: If the cleaner doesn’t remove dirt and odors, it’s not doing its job.
- Harsh Chemicals: Some cleaners can be too harsh and potentially damage rubber seals or internal parts if used incorrectly.
- Difficult to Rinse Out: Leftover residue can be a problem.
- Strong, Unpleasant Odors: Some cleaners have very strong chemical smells that linger.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a washing machine cleaner is usually very simple. Most products have clear instructions on the packaging.
- Typical Use: You usually add the cleaner directly to the drum or the detergent dispenser. Then, you run a hot water cycle (often called a “clean cycle” or a “heavy duty” cycle).
- Frequency: It’s generally recommended to clean your washing machine every 1 to 3 months. This depends on how often you do laundry and the type of machine you have.
- When to Use:
- Musty Smells: If your clothes come out smelling damp or sour.
- Visible Grime: If you see any gunk or residue inside the drum or around the door seal.
- After a Lot of Use: Especially if you do a lot of laundry.
- For HE Machines: These machines use less water, so buildup can happen faster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Washing Machine Cleaners
Q: How often should I clean my washing machine?
A: You should clean your washing machine about once every 1 to 3 months. If you do a lot of laundry, you might need to clean it more often.
Q: Can I use a washing machine cleaner on any type of machine?
A: Most cleaners work on most machines, but always check the product label. Make sure it’s safe for your specific type of washer, like front-load, top-load, or HE.
Q: Are washing machine cleaners safe to use?
A: Yes, when you use them as directed on the package. Some cleaners have strong chemicals, so it’s important to follow the instructions carefully.
Q: What does a washing machine cleaner do?
A: It cleans out dirt, soap scum, mineral buildup, and stops mold and bad smells from growing inside your washing machine.
Q: Will a washing machine cleaner make my clothes smell better?
A: Yes, by cleaning the machine, it removes the source of bad smells. This helps your clothes come out smelling fresh.
Q: Can I use regular detergent to clean my washing machine?
A: No, regular detergent is not strong enough to clean out the buildup inside the machine. Washing machine cleaners are specially made for this job.
Q: What should I do if I see mold in my washing machine?
A: Use a washing machine cleaner that is good at killing mold and mildew. You might need to run a cleaning cycle twice.
Q: Can I use a washing machine cleaner if I have sensitive skin?
A: Some cleaners are gentler than others. Look for “unscented” or “hypoallergenic” options if you have sensitive skin. Always rinse your machine well.
Q: What is an HE washing machine?
A: HE stands for High Efficiency. These machines use less water and energy. Buildup can happen faster in HE machines because of the lower water levels.
Q: How do I use a washing machine cleaner tablet?
A: Usually, you just drop one tablet directly into the empty washing machine drum. Then, run a hot water cycle according to the cleaner’s instructions.