Is your washing machine starting to smell musty, or are your clothes coming out less than fresh? The culprit is often hidden buildup of detergent, fabric softener, and bacteria deep inside the drum, hoses, and seals. Regular cleaning with a dedicated washing machine cleaner can restore performance and keep your laundry smelling great.
This guide reviews the best washing machine cleaners on the market, from powerful tablets and fast-acting powders to eco-friendly and pet-specific formulas. We’ll help you choose the right one for your machine type, odor issues, and maintenance routine, so you can extend the life of your washer and enjoy fresher clothes every load.
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Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria & G…
Best forMonthly deep cleaning
- Time-release deep clean
- Once-a-month maintenance
ConsiderMore expensive per tablet
Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler 24 Pack – Deep Cleaning Tablets For HE Fro…
Best forEco-friendly bulk cleaning
- Septic safe and eco-friendly
- Works with all washers
ConsiderTablets may dissolve slowly
Tide Washing Machine Cleaner 52 Week Supply with Oxi for Front and Top Load…
Best forFast-acting powder cleaning
- Activates 20% faster
- Oxi and TAED formula
ConsiderPowder may clump if wet
OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters, 4 Count
Best forSimple pouch cleaning
- Easy to use pouches
- Removes odor residues
ConsiderOnly four treatments
ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner for Pet Owners Enzymatic Deep Clean Descaler…
Best forPet odor elimination
- Enzyme blend for pet messes
- Safe for septic systems
ConsiderMay not remove heavy buildup
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria & G…
Best forYear-round maintenance
- Year supply in one box
- Time-release deep clean
ConsiderHigher upfront cost
Washing Machine Cleaner by Tide, Washer Machine Cleaner with Oxi for Front …
Best forTrial or small households
- Fast activation
- Oxi and TAED formula
ConsiderOnly 5 months supply
Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets for Pet Owners, 24 Pack
Best forPet hair reduction
- Tea polyphenols for odors
- Dissolves pet hair
ConsiderMay need frequent use
Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets Ultra 40% Stronger, 24 Pack
Best forHeavy-duty pet cleaning
- 40% stronger formula
- Enhanced odor elimination
ConsiderMore expensive per tablet
True Fresh Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets 25 Pack for Front Load Top Load
Best forHard water buildup removal
- Removes hard water scale
- Works in all washer types
ConsiderRequires two tablets per clean
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner – Time-Release Tablets
Brand: Affresh
A top-rated, time-release tablet that simplifies monthly washer maintenance.
Affresh is the number one washing machine cleaner tablet, and for good reason. Its time-release formula is scientifically designed to deliver extended cleaning action throughout the entire wash cycle, helping to power away odor-causing bacteria, grime, and soap scum that accumulate deep inside your machine’s pump, valve, and hoses. You simply drop one tablet into the drum and run a cleaning cycle.
This six-month supply means you only need to clean once a month, cutting your maintenance time in half compared to other cleaners that require twice-monthly treatments. If you have pets, Affresh also helps remove residues that trap pet, sweat, and mildew odors, preventing them from transferring onto your clothes and sheets. It’s a reliable, hassle-free choice for keeping your washer fresh.
- Time-release deep clean
- Once-a-month maintenance
- Removes pet odors
- More expensive per tablet
- Requires monthly routine
ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler – 24 Eco-Friendly Tablets
Brand: ACTIVE
A bulk, eco-friendly option that cleans effectively without extra effort.
ACTIVE’s washing machine cleaner comes in a bulk 24-pack, giving you a full year’s supply of deep-cleaning tablets. These effervescent foaming tablets are eco-friendly and septic safe, with less packaging than liquid descalers or wipes. They work with all washer types, including HE front loaders and top loaders from GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, and Maytag.
The instant cleaning power means you don’t have to brush or wipe your machine—just drop a tablet in and let it break down into deep-scrubbing powder that cleans the drum and tub seal. This makes it an excellent choice for busy households that want effective, low-effort cleaning without the waste. The 24-tablet pack is a great value compared to competitors that offer only 5 or 6 tablets.
- Septic safe and eco-friendly
- Works with all washers
- Year supply in one pack
- Tablets may dissolve slowly
- Not for dryers
Tide Washing Machine Cleaner – 52 Week Powder Packets
Brand: Tide
A fast-dissolving powder that delivers deep cleaning with Oxi power.
Tide’s washing machine cleaner comes as powder packets that activate 20% faster than tablets, getting to work quickly to lift away odor-causing residues and deposits. The specially designed surface-active ingredients, combined with the cleaning power of Oxi and TAED, boost the deep-cleaning action. This 52-week supply gives you 12 months of maintenance with a simple monthly treatment.
Because it’s a powder, it dissolves rapidly and works more efficiently than tablets, making it a great choice for those who want a fast-acting cleaner. It’s suitable for both front and top loaders, and the formula is septic safe. If you prefer a cleaner that starts working immediately, this is a solid pick.
- Activates 20% faster
- Oxi and TAED formula
- Septic safe
- Powder may clump if wet
- Packaging may vary
OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner – Odor Blasters
Brand: OxiClean
A straightforward pouch cleaner that effectively blasts away odors.
OxiClean’s washing machine cleaner with Odor Blasters is a simple, effective solution for removing odor-causing residues in any washer. Each box contains four pouches; you just pour one into the empty drum and run a hot water cycle. After the cycle, wipe away any leftover residue with a towel, and your machine is fresh.
This cleaner is designed for both standard and HE washing machines, and it’s not intended for use with clothing. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss option if you prefer a pouch format over tablets or powders. The Odor Blasters technology specifically targets the bacteria that cause musty smells, leaving your washer clean and ready for your next load.
- Easy to use pouches
- Removes odor residues
- Works in all washers
- Only four treatments
- Requires hot water cycle
ACTIVE Pet Owner Washing Machine Cleaner – Enzymatic
Brand: ACTIVE
A pet-specific enzymatic cleaner that tackles hair and odors effectively.
If you have pets, this ACTIVE washing machine cleaner is specially formulated for you. It uses an ultra-concentrated 5-in-1 active enzyme blend to power away pet hair buildup, sludge, oil, and grime from your washer drum and drain. The enzymatic formula gets to the root of bad odors, removing stinky gunk and odor-causing debris that can linger.
These tablets are safe for septic systems and compatible with all washer types, including HE, front-loading, and top-loading machines from Whirlpool, LG, and Samsung. The natural ingredients make it a safe choice for your household and pets. If you’re tired of pet odors clinging to your laundry, this cleaner is a targeted solution.
- Enzyme blend for pet messes
- Safe for septic systems
- Works in all washers
- May not remove heavy buildup
- Scent might be strong
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner – 12 Tablets Year Supply
This larger pack of Affresh washing machine cleaner gives you a full year’s supply with 12 time-release tablets. Each tablet is scientifically designed to deliver extended cleaning action throughout the wash cycle, helping to power away bacteria, grime, and soap scum from deep inside your machine’s pump, valve, and hoses. It’s the same trusted formula as the smaller pack, but with better value.
With one tablet per month, you can maintain a fresh washer without frequent cleaning. The formula also helps remove residues that trap pet, sweat, and mildew odors, so your clothes come out smelling clean. If you’re already a fan of Affresh, this bulk option saves you money and ensures you never run out.
- Year supply in one box
- Time-release deep clean
- Removes odor residues
- Higher upfront cost
- Monthly routine required
Tide Washing Machine Cleaner – 5 Month Powder Packets
Brand: Tide
A quick-acting powder cleaner ideal for testing or smaller households.
This smaller pack of Tide washing machine cleaner provides a 5-month supply of powder packets that activate 20% faster than tablets. The powder formula lifts away and eliminates odor-causing residues and deposits, using specially designed surface-active ingredients and the cleaning power of Oxi and TAED. It’s perfect for those who want to try Tide’s cleaner before committing to a larger pack.
Because it’s a powder, it dissolves quickly and works more efficiently than tablets, making it a great choice for busy households. It’s suitable for front and top loaders, and the formula is septic safe. If you prefer a fast-acting cleaner that doesn’t require scrubbing, this is a reliable option.
- Fast activation
- Oxi and TAED formula
- Septic safe
- Only 5 months supply
- Powder may clump if wet
Uproot Clean Washing Machine Tablets – Pet Owners
Brand: Uproot Clean
A pet-focused tablet that dissolves hair and eliminates odors effectively.
Uproot Clean’s washing machine cleaning tablets are designed for pet owners, combining Tea Polyphenols and other ingredients to destroy bad odors and leave your laundry fresh. The advanced formula completely refreshes your drum, valves, hose pipes, seals, and filters in a single wash cycle. It’s an effortless way to deep clean your machine.
Specially formulated for homes with pets, the active enzymes help dissolve hair and fur, reducing excessive pet hair accumulation in your washer. This not only keeps your machine clean but also prolongs its life by preventing buildup. It works as a cleaner for front loaders, top loaders, and more, making it a versatile choice for pet-friendly households.
- Tea polyphenols for odors
- Dissolves pet hair
- Cleans all internal parts
- May need frequent use
- Not for dryers
Uproot Clean Ultra Tablets – 40% Stronger
Brand: Uproot Clean
A powerful, ultra-concentrated cleaner for serious pet-related buildup.
Uproot Clean’s Ultra washing machine cleaning tablets offer 40% more deep cleaning power than standard formulas. These larger, ultra-concentrated tablets completely refresh your drum, valves, hose pipes, seals, and filters in a single wash cycle. They’re designed for households with multiple or large pets, where buildup can be more severe.
The enhanced blend of Tea Polyphenols and active enzymes expertly eliminates pet odors and helps dissolve hair and fur, reducing accumulation. This not only keeps your washer fresh but also extends its lifespan by preventing residue buildup. If you need a heavy-duty cleaner for a busy pet household, these tablets deliver extra strength.
- 40% stronger formula
- Enhanced odor elimination
- Dissolves hair and fur
- More expensive per tablet
- Overkill for light use
True Fresh Washing Machine Cleaner – 25 Tablets
Brand: True Fresh
A straightforward tablet that effectively handles hard water and grime.
True Fresh washing machine cleaner tablets are designed to remove residue, grime, soap scum, and hard water buildup from your washer, ensuring a cleaner laundry routine. They’re compatible with front load, top load, and HE washing machines, making them a versatile choice for almost any washer type. The tablets clean hidden areas where water reaches, including the drum, tub, hoses, and pipes.
Using them is simple: just drop two tablets into the empty washer, run a normal or cleaning cycle, and let the tablets do the work. With 25 tablets in a pack, you have plenty of treatments for regular maintenance. If you’re looking for an easy, drop-in solution that tackles hard water and buildup, this is a practical option.
- Removes hard water scale
- Works in all washer types
- Easy drop-in tablets
- Requires two tablets per clean
- May not be as strong as others
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right washing machine cleaner depends on your washer type, cleaning needs, and preferences. Consider the format, frequency, and specific issues like odors or hard water. This guide helps you evaluate the key factors to make an informed decision.
- Washer Type Compatibility: Ensure the cleaner is suitable for your machine. Front loaders and top loaders may require different formulations, and HE washers often need low-sudsing cleaners. Most products list compatibility, so check that before buying.
- Cleaning Format: Cleaners come as tablets, powders, or pouches. Tablets are convenient and pre-measured, powders dissolve faster, and pouches are easy to pour. Choose based on your preference for ease of use and how quickly you want the cleaner to act.
- Odor and Residue Concerns: If you have pets or musty odors, look for enzymatic or odor-blasting formulas. For hard water buildup, a descaler is essential. Match the cleaner to your specific issues to get the best results.
- Frequency and Supply: Consider how often you need to clean your washer. Some products require monthly use, while others can be used more frequently. Bulk packs offer better value if you plan to clean regularly, but ensure the supply matches your routine.
- Safety and Eco-Friendliness: If you have a septic system or are environmentally conscious, look for septic-safe and eco-friendly options. These use natural ingredients and less packaging, reducing waste while still effectively cleaning your machine.
Conclusion
Keeping your washing machine clean is essential for fresh laundry and a longer-lasting appliance. Whether you prefer the convenience of tablets, the speed of powders, or the eco-friendliness of bulk packs, there’s a cleaner on this list for you. Affresh and Tide offer trusted, effective options, while ACTIVE and Uproot Clean provide pet-specific solutions.
For most households, the Affresh tablets are a reliable, top-rated choice, but if you have pets, consider the enzymatic formulas from ACTIVE or Uproot Clean. Ultimately, the best cleaner is one that fits your routine and addresses your specific washer issues. Choose accordingly and enjoy fresher, cleaner laundry every time.
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.