Is your washing machine starting to smell musty or leaving your clothes less than fresh? The culprit is often hidden residue, soap scum, and bacteria building up inside the drum, hoses, and seals. Regular cleaning with a dedicated tub cleaner can restore your machine’s performance and keep your laundry smelling clean.
In this guide, we review ten top-rated washing machine cleaners, from time-release tablets to fast-acting powders. Whether you have a front loader, top loader, or a pet-friendly household, you’ll find the right solution to banish odors and extend your washer’s life.
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Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria & G…
Best forMonthly deep cleaning
- Time-release formula
- Cleans deep parts
ConsiderOnly 6 tablets
Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler 24 Pack – Deep Cleaning Tablets For HE Fro…
Best forYear-long value cleaning
- 24 tablets per pack
- Eco-friendly and septic safe
ConsiderMay require hot water
Tide Washing Machine Cleaner 52 Week Supply with Oxi for Front and Top Load…
Best forFast-acting powder cleaning
- Faster than tablets
- 12-month supply
ConsiderPowder may clump if wet
OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters, 4 Count
Best forQuick odor elimination
- Easy to use
- Works on all washers
ConsiderOnly 4 pouches
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria & G…
Best forYearly maintenance convenience
- 12 tablets for a year
- Deep cleaning action
ConsiderMonthly commitment
Washing Machine Cleaner by Tide, Washer Machine Cleaner with Oxi for Front …
Best forTrial or short-term use
- Fast activation
- Effective odor removal
ConsiderOnly 5 months supply
ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner for Pet Owners Enzymatic Deep Clean Descaler…
Best forPet hair and odor control
- Enzyme blend for pets
- Septic safe
ConsiderMay need extra rinse
Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets 24 pack Powerful Descaler -Deep Cleaning fo…
Best forLimescale and buildup removal
- 24 tablets for a year
- Removes limescale
ConsiderBi-monthly needed
True Fresh Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets 25 Pack for Front Load Top Load
Best forUniversal washer compatibility
- 25 tablets per pack
- Cleans hidden parts
ConsiderTwo tablets per use
ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner Heavy Duty Stain Cleaner for Front Lo…
Best forMold and mildew spot cleaning
- Fast-acting gel
- Versatile use
ConsiderOnly 7 oz bottle
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner – 6 Tablets, Time-Release Deep Clean
Brand: Affresh
A reliable monthly cleaner that targets hidden grime and odors effectively.
The Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner is a top choice for tackling odor-causing bacteria and grime deep inside your machine. Its time-release tablets are scientifically designed to deliver extended cleaning action throughout the entire wash cycle, reaching the pump, valve, and hoses that other cleaners often miss. This means you get a thorough clean that helps prevent musty smells from transferring to your clothes.
Using Affresh is simple: just drop one tablet into the drum and run a normal cycle. You only need to do this once a month, cutting your cleaning maintenance time in half compared to other products that require more frequent use. If you have pets, this cleaner also helps remove residues that trap pet odors, sweat, and mildew, keeping your laundry fresh.
- Time-release formula
- Cleans deep parts
- Once-a-month use
- Only 6 tablets
- Higher price per use
ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler – 24 Eco-Friendly Tablets
Brand: ACTIVE
An economical, eco-friendly option that delivers consistent cleaning all year.
The ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler comes in a bulk 24-pack, giving you a full year of cleaning for both HE front loaders and top loaders. These eco-friendly, septic-safe tablets are made with natural effervescent foaming agents that break down into deep-scrubbing powder when exposed to water, so you don’t have to manually brush or wipe your machine. This makes maintenance effortless and effective.
Compatible with major brands like GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, and Maytag, this cleaner works with all washer types. The 24-tablet supply is a great value compared to competitor packs that often contain only 5 or 6 tablets. Plus, the minimal packaging reduces waste, making it an environmentally conscious choice for your laundry routine.
- 24 tablets per pack
- Eco-friendly and septic safe
- Works with all washers
- May require hot water
- Foaming action might be strong
Tide Washing Machine Cleaner – 52 Week Powder Packets with Oxi
Brand: Tide
A powerful, fast-acting powder that keeps your washer fresh for a full year.
Tide Washing Machine Cleaner offers a 52-week supply in convenient powder packets, providing 12 months of deep cleaning for both front and top loaders. The powder formula activates 20% faster than tablets, so it starts working immediately to lift away odor-causing residues and deposits. This fast action means you can see and smell the difference after just one cycle.
The unique Oxi + TAED formula boosts cleaning power, tackling tough grime and eliminating odors at the source. Since it’s a powder, it dissolves quickly and works efficiently even in cold water, making it a versatile choice for any washing machine. With a full year’s supply, you can maintain a fresh washer without frequent repurchases.
- Faster than tablets
- 12-month supply
- Oxi + TAED formula
- Powder may clump if wet
- Packaging varies
OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner – 4 Count with Odor Blasters
Brand: OxiClean
A dependable, easy-to-use cleaner that quickly refreshes your washing machine.
OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters is a simple, effective solution for removing odor-causing residues in any washer. Each box contains four pouches, and you just pour one into the drum and run a hot water cycle. After the cycle, wipe away any leftover residue with a towel, and your machine is left fresh and clean.
This cleaner is safe for both standard and HE washing machines, and it’s not intended for use with clothing, so you can focus solely on cleaning the tub. The Odor Blasters technology targets the source of smells, making it ideal for those who notice a lingering musty odor. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss option for regular maintenance.
- Easy to use
- Works on all washers
- Targets odors directly
- Only 4 pouches
- Requires hot water cycle
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner – 12 Tablets, 1 Year Supply
Brand: Affresh
A convenient, long-lasting solution for consistent monthly washer care.
This larger pack of Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner gives you 12 time-release tablets, providing a full year of monthly cleaning. Just like the 6-tablet version, these tablets are scientifically designed to power away bacteria, grime, and soap scum from deep inside the pump, valve, and hoses. The extended cleaning action ensures a thorough clean with every use.
If you have pets, Affresh helps remove residues that trap odors, keeping your laundry smelling fresh. The once-a-month usage is convenient and saves you time, making this bulk pack a practical investment. With a year’s supply, you can set a reminder and never worry about a smelly washer again.
- 12 tablets for a year
- Deep cleaning action
- Pet odor removal
- Monthly commitment
- Premium price
Tide Washing Machine Cleaner – 5 Month Supply with Oxi
This Tide Washing Machine Cleaner comes in a 5-month supply of powder packets, offering a shorter-term option if you prefer to try before committing to a full year. The powder formula activates 20% faster than tablets, ensuring quick action against residue and odor. It’s designed for both front and top loaders, making it versatile for any household.
The Oxi + TAED formula provides a deep clean that lifts away odor-causing deposits, leaving your washer fresh and your clothes smelling better. Since it’s a powder, it dissolves easily and works efficiently in various water temperatures. This pack is perfect for those who want a reliable cleaner without a long-term commitment.
- Fast activation
- Effective odor removal
- Works in all washers
- Only 5 months supply
- Powder may be messy
ACTIVE Pet Owner Washing Machine Cleaner – Enzymatic 24 Tablets
Specially formulated for pet owners, this ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner uses an ultra-concentrated 5-in-1 enzyme blend to power away pet hair buildup, sludge, and oils that can accumulate in your washer. It’s designed to tackle the unique challenges of pet households, such as urine, dander, and stubborn odors, leaving your machine fresh and hygienic.
The enzymatic formula is safe for septic systems and works with HE, front-loading, and top-loading washers from brands like Whirlpool, LG, and Samsung. It uses simple, natural ingredients that are safe for your pets and household. With 24 tablets, you get a year’s supply of effective cleaning that keeps pet-related grime at bay.
- Enzyme blend for pets
- Septic safe
- 24 tablets per pack
- May need extra rinse
- Not for all stains
Bastion Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets – 24 Pack Descaler
Brand: Bastion
A powerful descaler that keeps your washer running smoothly all year.
Bastion Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets are designed to effectively eliminate dirt, grime, and limescale from your washing machine, ensuring a thorough clean every time. Each pack contains 24 tablets, giving you a one-year supply for bi-monthly use. This regular maintenance helps keep your washer efficient and extends its lifespan.
Using Bastion is simple: drop one tablet into the drum, run a hot cycle without laundry, and let the cleansing foam reach every corner of your machine. The powerful descaling action prevents residue buildup, optimizing performance and reducing the need for costly repairs. It’s an easy, effective way to protect your investment.
- 24 tablets for a year
- Removes limescale
- Easy drop-in use
- Bi-monthly needed
- Hot water required
True Fresh Washing Machine Cleaner – 25 Tablets for All Washers
Brand: True Fresh
A versatile, easy-to-use cleaner that tackles buildup in any washer.
True Fresh Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets come in a 25-pack, offering deep cleaning power to remove residue, grime, soap scum, and hard water buildup. These tablets are compatible with front load, top load, and HE washing machines, making them a versatile choice for almost any washer type. You can trust them to keep your laundry routine fresh.
The tablets work to clean hidden areas where water reaches, including the drum, tub, hoses, and pipes. Just drop two tablets into the empty washer, run a normal or cleaning cycle, and let the tablet do the work. This simple process ensures your machine stays clean without any scrubbing or wiping.
- 25 tablets per pack
- Cleans hidden parts
- Works with all washers
- Two tablets per use
- May need extra rinse
ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel – For Washer Seals and More
The ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel is a powerful whitening cleaner that quickly removes mold and mildew stains from front loader washing machine seals, bathroom grout, shower, and caulk. Its instant effect works in minutes, making it an essential tool for tackling stubborn black spots and discoloration. This gel is perfect for areas that are hard to clean with regular tablets.
It’s easy to apply: just spread the gel evenly on seals or vertical surfaces without the need for scrubbing. The formula is effective on rubber gaskets, refrigerator seals, and other mold-prone areas. This product is a great complement to your regular tub cleaner, ensuring every part of your washer stays spotless.
- Fast-acting gel
- Versatile use
- No scrubbing needed
- Only 7 oz bottle
- Not for full tub clean
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right washing machine tub cleaner depends on your washer type, cleaning frequency, and specific needs like pet odors or hard water buildup. Here are five key factors to consider before making your purchase.
- Washer Type Compatibility: Check if the cleaner is suitable for your washer type—front load, top load, or HE. Some products are universal, while others may be specifically designed for one type. Using the wrong cleaner could be ineffective or even damage your machine.
- Cleaning Frequency: Consider how often you need to clean your washer. Some tablets require monthly use, while others are designed for bi-monthly or even weekly cleaning. Choose a product that fits your schedule and maintenance routine to keep odors at bay.
- Formula Type: Cleaners come in tablets, powders, or gels. Tablets are convenient and pre-measured, powders dissolve quickly and act fast, and gels are great for spot treatments. Decide which format is easiest for you to use and most effective for your needs.
- Eco-Friendliness and Safety: If you have a septic system or are environmentally conscious, look for septic-safe and eco-friendly options. Many cleaners use natural ingredients that are safe for pets and the environment, reducing your ecological footprint while keeping your washer clean.
- Value and Supply: Evaluate the number of doses per package and the cost per use. Bulk packs with 24 or more tablets often provide better value and ensure you have enough cleaner for a year. Consider how often you'll use it to determine the best supply size for your budget.
Conclusion
Keeping your washing machine clean is essential for fresh laundry and a longer-lasting appliance. Whether you prefer the deep-cleaning power of Affresh tablets, the fast action of Tide powder, or the eco-friendly convenience of ACTIVE, there’s a tub cleaner that fits your lifestyle.
For most households, a monthly tablet like Affresh offers a balanced approach, while pet owners may benefit from the enzymatic ACTIVE formula. Consider your washer type, usage, and any specific odor issues to choose the best cleaner for your needs.
Erica Steven is the founder and lead writer of WorstBrands, a site dedicated to providing honest and trustworthy reviews about outdoor gear and fashion products.
With a passion for exploring the great outdoors and staying up to date on the latest fashion trends, Erica uses her expertise to provide valuable insights into the products that matter most to her readers.
Whether you're looking for camping equipment or the latest fashion accessories, Erica's articles are the perfect resource for finding the best products that fit your lifestyle.