Does your washing machine sometimes smell a little… funky? You might think your clothes come out clean, but the machine itself can hide a secret world of grime, soap scum, and mildew. It’s true! Over time, all that washing builds up gunk inside your appliance.
Choosing the right cleaner can feel like a maze. Should you use vinegar? A store-bought tablet? Which one actually tackles tough mold without damaging your machine? Many people buy the wrong product and waste money, or worse, they skip cleaning altogether, leading to smelly laundry and a shorter machine lifespan. It’s frustrating when you want a sparkling clean without the guesswork.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best types of washing machine cleaners available today. You will learn exactly what ingredients work best for deep cleaning and how to choose the perfect product for your specific machine—whether it’s a top-loader or a front-loader. Get ready to banish those hidden odors for good!
Top Washing Machine Cleaner Recommendations
- 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
- NO. 1 WASHING MACHINE CLEANER TABLET*. *Whirlpool Corporation calculation based on US Whirlpool (Synd) database for the Washing Machine Cleaner category for 52 Weeks Ending 3/22/2025 time period. Copyright 2025, Nielsen Consumer.
- HELPS POWER AWAY SMELLS created by odor causing bacteria, soap scum and stinky grime hiding deep inside the washing machine’s pump, valve, drum, basket/tub and filter to help optimize appliance performance.
- TIME RELEASE TABLET. Affresh time release tablets are scientifically designed to deliver extended cleaning action throughout the wash cycle, working deep inside important washer components for an exceptional clean.
- TRUSTED BY APPLIANCE EXPERTS. With over 100 years of appliance innovation, affresh appliance care gets the tough jobs done right!
- SAFER FOR PEOPLE. SAFER FOR PLANET. Affresh washing machine cleaner is EPA Safer Choice Certified and is septic safe.
- Deep washer cleaner: our washing machine cleaning tablets deep into the hidden areas of your washing machine, these washing machine cleaner tablets break down into deep-scrubbing powdered detergents when exposed to water, effectively dissolving and removing built-up dirt and stubborn detergent residue
- Effortless to use: just put one washing machine cleaner tablet into the washing machine, then follow the regular washing procedure (we recommend using hot water for the best result). After the cycle is completed, wipe off the residue with a towel. The 24p washing machine cleaning tablets specification can be used for over one year
- Extends machine lifespan: regular use of washing machine cleaning tablets can effectively prevent the accumulation of dirt and soap residue, thereby significantly extending the lifespan of the washing machine
- Universal compatibility: these washing machine cleaning tablets are suitable for all types of washing machines, including washing machine cleaner front loader, top-loading washing machines and HE washing machines. They can eliminate peculiar smell and leave fresh fragrance
- Friendly elements: our washing machine cleaner tablets has a strong ability to remove dirt, and is also very safe for the internal components of the washing machine and the sewage system. It is specially designed to maintain the cleanliness of the washing machine and is a reliable and convenient cleaning solution
- 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.
- 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
- Powerful Cleaning: The Bastion Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets effectively eliminate dirt, grime, and limescale from your washing machine, ensuring a thorough clean every time.
- One-Year Supply: With 24 tablets in each pack, our one-year supply ensures you have enough tablets for bi-monthly use, keeping your washing machine fresh and efficient all year long.
- Easy to Use: Simply drop one tablet into the drum, run a hot cycle without any laundry, and let the tablet dissolve to release a cleansing foam that reaches every corner of your machine.
- Extends Machine Lifespan: Regular use of these cleaner tablets prevents residue buildup, optimizing your washing machine's performance and extending its lifespan.
- Versatile Compatibility: Suitable for all types of washing machines, including front-loading, top-loading, and high-efficiency models. Tested and approved for GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, Electrolux machines & More.
- Deep Cleaning: Our washing machine cleaning tablets activate upon contact with water, helping to penetrate deep into the washing machine to clean away common dirt, limescale. This laundry machine cleaner helps maintain your washer's cleanliness and efficiency, leaving your laundry fresher and cleaner after every wash.
- Odor Elimination: Our washing machine cleaner targets and reduces unpleasant odors from the drum, basket, rubber seal, and internal components. This helps contribute to fresher, cleaner-smelling laundry.
- Wide Compatibility: This washer machine cleaner is designed for all common types of washers, including front-loading, top-loading, and high-efficiency models. It's a versatile solution for most households, regardless of machine brand.
- 12-Month Supply: Each box contains 24 washer cleaner tablets, providing a convenient year-long supply when used monthly. Integrating these washing machine cleaner tablets into your monthly routine is a simple way to maintain your appliance, keeping your washer fresh and running smoothly all year. These washer machine cleaner tablets are safe for your septic system.
- Easy to Use: Simply place two washer cleaner tablet directly into the empty drum of your washing machine (do not put it in the detergent drawer). Run a full cycle on a regular or drum-cleaning setting without any laundry. Wipe away any residue with a towel afterward.
- powder
- Made in US
- Designed to penetrate, dissolve and remove odor-causing residue that can occur in all washing machines
- Specially formulated tablet dissolves slowly, lasting throughout the entire wash cycle and breaking up residue better than bleach
- TYH. LI”N RSHBRM ZY”U
The Ultimate Buying Guide to Sparkling Clean Washing Machines
Your washing machine works hard to keep your clothes fresh. Over time, though, it can build up soap scum, mold, and grime. A good washing machine cleaner brings back that new-machine sparkle. This guide helps you choose the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a cleaner, look for these important features:
- Deep Cleaning Action: The cleaner must break down tough residue inside the drum and hoses. Look for products that mention ‘deep cleaning’ or ‘limescale removal.’
- Odor Elimination: A great cleaner doesn’t just hide smells; it removes the source of the odor, usually mold or mildew.
- Compatibility: Check if the cleaner works for both High-Efficiency (HE) and standard washing machines. Most modern cleaners are safe for both.
- Ease of Use: Simple instructions are best. The cleaner should usually run through a cleaning cycle without much effort from you.
Important Materials Inside Your Cleaner
The ingredients determine how well the cleaner works and if it harms your machine. Most effective cleaners use one of two main types of ingredients:
1. Chemical Cleaners (Acids and Bases)
- Citric Acid: This natural acid is excellent at dissolving mineral deposits (limescale) left by hard water. It is generally safe for most machine parts.
- Sodium Percarbonate (Oxygen Bleach): This ingredient releases oxygen when mixed with water. It helps lift stains and kill bacteria, making it great for odor control.
- Stronger Acids/Bases: Some heavy-duty cleaners use stronger chemicals. These work fast but require careful use according to the label instructions.
2. Natural/Enzyme Cleaners
These use natural enzymes to eat away at organic matter like soap scum and body oils. They are usually gentler on the machine seals but might take longer to work.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all cleaners perform the same. Quality is affected by what is inside and how you use the product.
What Improves Quality:
- Concentration: A more concentrated formula often means you need less product for a powerful clean.
- Temperature Stability: High-quality cleaners maintain their cleaning power even in cold water cycles.
- Protective Agents: Some advanced formulas include ingredients that help protect rubber seals from drying out or cracking.
What Reduces Quality:
- Excessive Foaming: If a cleaner produces too many suds, it can actually trap dirt beneath the foam or damage HE pump systems.
- Fragrance Overload: Strong perfumes might mask odors temporarily, but they do not remove the underlying cause of the smell.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a washing machine cleaner is straightforward. You generally follow these steps:
- Place the cleaner directly into the empty drum or dispenser, depending on the product type (powder, liquid, or tablet).
- Run the machine on its hottest, longest cycle (often called the ‘Tub Clean’ cycle).
- Wipe down the door seal and dispenser drawer afterwards.
Use Cases:
- Routine Maintenance: Use the cleaner once a month to keep things fresh, especially if you wash clothes frequently.
- Odor Emergency: If you notice a musty smell, use the cleaner immediately to tackle the mold growth.
- Hard Water Areas: If your area has hard water, use a cleaner containing citric acid every few weeks to prevent limescale buildup.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Washing Machine Cleaners
Q: How often should I clean my washing machine?
A: Most experts suggest cleaning your machine once a month for regular use. If you use your machine every day, consider cleaning it every two to three weeks.
Q: Can I use regular bleach instead of a dedicated cleaner?
A: You can use bleach for sanitizing, but bleach alone does not effectively remove soap scum and mineral buildup like specialized cleaners do. Bleach can also be harsh on rubber parts over time.
Q: Are washing machine cleaners safe for my machine seals?
A: Yes, most reputable cleaners are designed to be safe for the rubber and plastic parts. Always check the label to ensure it is safe for your specific machine type (HE or standard).
Q: Do I need to use a cleaner if I have an HE machine?
A: Absolutely. HE machines use less water, which means detergent residue builds up faster. Regular cleaning is very important for HE models.
Q: Can I wash clothes immediately after using the cleaner?
A: It is best practice to run a short rinse cycle after the cleaning cycle finishes. This ensures all chemical residue is completely flushed out before you put your clothes in.
Q: Should I use the cleaner in the detergent drawer or the drum?
A: This depends entirely on the product. Powders and tablets often go straight into the drum. Liquids sometimes go into the main detergent dispenser. Read the package directions carefully.
Q: Will this cleaner remove all bad smells?
A: It removes most bad smells by killing the bacteria and mold causing them. If the smell is extremely strong, you might need two cleaning cycles.
Q: What is the difference between a cleaner and a descaler?
A: A descaler primarily targets limescale (hard water deposits). A cleaner tackles scum, mold, and odor. Many good products are both a cleaner and a descaler.
Q: Can I use this cleaner on a front-loader and a top-loader?
A: Most cleaners work for both. However, top-loaders sometimes require more product because they hold more water. Check the instructions for separate usage amounts.
Q: What should I do if the cleaner doesn’t work the first time?
A: If the grime is very heavy, let the machine sit with the cleaner solution inside for an hour before starting the hot cycle. If it still fails, try a second, stronger cleaning product.