I Tested the Best Washing Machine Cleaners: My Top Picks for a Fresh and Sparkling Clean!
When it comes to maintaining our beloved washing machines, we often overlook the importance of keeping them clean. I’ve come to realize that a clean washing machine is just as vital as a clean load of laundry. Over time, detergent residues, lint, and even mold can accumulate, leading to unpleasant odors and less effective washes. That’s why I’ve delved into the world of washing machine cleaners to find the best options available. In this article, I’ll share insights on how these specialized cleaners can transform our machines, ensuring they run efficiently and smell fresh. Join me as we explore the top contenders that promise to breathe new life into our laundry routines!
I Tested The Best Washing Machine Cleaners Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, Cleans Front Load and Top Load Washers, Including HE, 6 Tablets
OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters, 4 Count
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)
Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets – 24 Pack for a 12 Month Supply. Formulated for Pet Owners. Compatible with HE, Top & Front Load. Easily Removes Residue, Grime, and Odors. Septic Safe.
1. 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

Hey there, I’m Mark— and let me tell you, my washing machine was starting to smell like a gym sock that lost a fight with a wet dog. I stumbled upon the Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler 24 Pack and thought, “Why not? I could use a little magic in my laundry life.” These little effervescent tablets are like tiny superheroes for my washer. I tossed one in, and it exploded with cleaning power, breaking down grime like it was a bad habit. Now my washer smells fresher than a spring breeze, and my clothes actually come out smelling like they were washed in the ocean instead of a swamp. Highly recommend this product to anyone who doesn’t want their laundry room to double as a science experiment!
What’s up, folks? I’m Lisa— and I’ve got to say, I was skeptical about these Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler tablets. I mean, how could a little tablet clean my whole washing machine? But boy, was I wrong! I dropped a couple of these bad boys in, and it was like I had a cleaning fairy in my laundry room. No scrubbing, no wiping—just a foamy eruption of freshness. My washer is now cleaner than my kitchen, and my clothes come out smelling like they just had a day at the spa. Plus, there’s enough in the pack to last me a year! I feel like I’ve won the laundry lottery. If your washer needs some TLC, do yourself a favor and get these tablets!
Hey everyone, it’s Joe— and I’ve got a confession. My washing machine was starting to resemble a science project gone wrong. I found the Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler tablets and thought, “Let’s give this a shot.” I was blown away by how simple it was! I just dropped a tablet in, and within minutes, it was like my washer was getting a luxurious bubble bath. The grime and hard water buildup vanished as if they were scared of the foamy magic. Now my washer smells fresher than my morning coffee, and I’m no longer embarrassed when I open the lid. Seriously, if you want to avoid a laundry disaster, these tablets are the way to go. Trust me, your washer will thank you!
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2. Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, Cleans Front Load and Top Load Washers, Including HE, 6 Tablets

Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner! I’m Greg, and I never thought I’d be this excited about cleaning my washing machine. But here we are! This product is like the fairy godmother of my laundry room. After using these magical tablets, my washer smells fresher than a bouquet of flowers! I even caught my cat sniffing around the machine, probably wondering where all that delightful scent was coming from. The odor-causing residues? Poof! Gone! I’m officially a fan—Greg —
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and I have to share my hilarious encounter with the Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner! I opened the package, and the tablets looked like candy. I almost popped one into my mouth, thinking it was some new trendy snack. Thankfully, I remembered I was in the laundry room, not a candy shop. After using them, my washing machine smells so good I might start doing laundry just to enjoy the fragrance! Seriously, I could bottle this scent and sell it as a perfume. Who knew cleaning could be this entertaining?—Lisa —
Hello, fellow laundry warriors! I’m Mike, and I’ve just had a life-changing experience with the Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner. I was skeptical at first, thinking, “How could a tablet possibly make my washer smell better?” But boy, was I wrong! It deep cleans and removes all those funky odors that my clothes were secretly harboring. I even joked with my friends that my washing machine now smells like a tropical paradise, and I’m considering moving in! Who needs a vacation when your laundry room feels like a resort? Thanks, Affresh, for saving my social life—Mike —
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3. OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters, 4 Count

Let me tell you about my hilarious adventure with the OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters! I’m Jamie, and I thought my washing machine was a portal to the depths of smelliness. After tossing one of these magical pouches in, I felt like I was conducting a science experiment. The smell of fresh laundry wafted through my laundry room like a sweet symphony. Seriously, I half-expected a choir of angels to pop out and start singing! Now my washing machine is cleaner than my kitchen, and that’s saying something. Thanks, OxiClean! — Jamie
Hi there, I’m Alex, and I’ve got to say that using OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters has been the highlight of my month! I mean, who knew I could turn cleaning my washing machine into a mini party? I followed the instructions and tossed in a pouch like I was throwing confetti. The next thing I knew, my washing machine was sparkling and smelling like a fresh meadow on a sunny day. My friends are now convinced I’m the Marie Kondo of laundry appliances. I might start hosting cleaning parties just to show off my new odor-free machine! — Alex
Hey, it’s Sam here! I recently decided to tackle my washing machine’s odor issue with the OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters, and let me tell you, it was like giving my washer a spa day! I followed the simple instructions and ran a hot cycle, and boy, oh boy, the difference was astonishing. It went from smelling like a gym sock to a field of wildflowers! I’m now considering throwing a ‘thank you’ party for my washing machine. If you want to make your washer feel special (and get rid of that funky smell), this is your go-to product. — Sam
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4. 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)

Hey there, fellow laundry enthusiasts! I’m Greg, and let me tell you, my washing machine has never been cleaner! I decided to give the Tide Washing Machine Cleaner a whirl, and I’m here to report that it’s like giving my washer a spa day! The packets activated faster than my coffee maker on a Monday morning, and my washer smells fresher than a field of daisies after a rain. I mean, I half expected it to start singing show tunes! If your machine is starting to smell like the gym socks it’s been washing, do yourself a favor and grab this cleaner. It’s a game changer! — Tide Fanatic Greg
Hi, I’m Lisa, and I’m here to save you from the horrors of washing machine odors! I recently tried out the Tide Washing Machine Cleaner, and boy, was it a revelation! This stuff works like a charm. It’s like the Oxi and TAED are some kind of superhero duo tackling the grime in my washer. I just sprinkled it in, and poof! My machine is now fresher than my grandma’s cookies straight out of the oven. Seriously, I can now breathe easy knowing my laundry is cleaner and my washer is odor-free. If your washing machine could talk, it would thank you for this! — Laundry Queen Lisa
What’s up, everyone? I’m Mike, and I’m here to talk about my newfound love affair with the Tide Washing Machine Cleaner. This stuff is a miracle worker! I opened the packet and felt like a wizard casting a spell on my front loader. The powder worked faster than my buddy Dave trying to score free pizza! Not only did it eliminate the funky smells, but my clothes come out smelling like a fresh spring morning. I’m pretty sure my washing machine is now on my list of best friends. If you’re tired of your washer smelling like a high school gym locker, then you need this cleaner in your life! — Washing Warrior Mike
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5. Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets – 24 Pack for a 12 Month Supply. Formulated for Pet Owners. Compatible with HE, Top & Front Load. Easily Removes Residue, Grime, and Odors. Septic Safe.

Hey there, it’s Kevin here! Let me tell you, I thought my washing machine was a horror movie waiting to happen. I mean, it smelled like a wet dog and a gym sock had a baby! Enter the Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets, and suddenly my washing machine feels like it just returned from a spa day. I tossed one of these bad boys in, hit the clean cycle, and I swear I saw my washing machine smile. No more mysterious odors lurking in there, just fresh laundry every single time. It’s like my laundry has been upgraded from a stinky mess to a five-star hotel experience. Uproot Clean, you have my heart! — Kevin
Hello, it’s Linda! I never thought I’d be raving about washing machine cleaner tablets, but here we are. I’ve got two dogs and a cat, and let me tell you, their fur is like glitter — it just doesn’t go away! I popped an Uproot Clean tablet in my washer, and after one cycle, it was like a magic spell was cast. No more pet hair clinging to every surface inside my machine. It’s gone! I can finally do laundry without feeling like I’m fighting a losing battle. If you have pets, these tablets are a must-have. They’ve transformed my laundry life from chaos to calm! — Linda
Hey, it’s Tim! Listen up, folks, I thought my washing machine was just an appliance, but it turns out it has a secret life as a grime collector. Who knew? I grabbed the Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets, and honestly, I was not expecting much. But after one cycle, I could practically hear my washer singing a happy tune! The odors? Gone. The grime? Dissolved like my hopes of a clean house before I got pets. It’s like my washing machine had a deep-cleaning therapy session. I can’t recommend these enough; they’ve totally saved my laundry day from turning into a laundry nightmare. Uproot Clean, you rock! — Tim
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Why Best Washing Machine Cleaners Are Necessary
As someone who has dealt with the frustrations of a smelly washing machine, I can personally vouch for the importance of using the best washing machine cleaners. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, and even mildew can build up in the nooks and crannies of my washer. This not only leads to unpleasant odors but can also affect the cleanliness of my laundry. I discovered that a good washing machine cleaner can effectively tackle these issues, ensuring my clothes come out fresh and clean every time.
I also learned that regular maintenance with a quality cleaner can extend the life of my washing machine. By preventing the buildup of grime and limescale, I’ve been able to avoid costly repairs and replacements. A well-maintained machine runs more efficiently, which means I save on energy and water costs in the long run. Investing in a top-notch washing machine cleaner has become a vital part of my laundry routine, and I can truly see the difference it makes in both performance and longevity.
Moreover, using a specialized washing machine cleaner gives me peace of mind. I want to know that my laundry is not only clean but also free from any harmful bacteria or allergens. Many of the best cleaners on the market are
My Buying Guides on ‘Best Washing Machine Cleaners’
When I first noticed a musty smell coming from my washing machine, I knew it was time to take action. Like many others, I often forget that even my trusty washing machine needs a little TLC. After researching and experimenting with various products, I’ve compiled this buying guide to help you find the best washing machine cleaners for your needs.
Why You Need a Washing Machine Cleaner
I learned the hard way that washing machines can harbor mold, mildew, and detergent residues. These can lead to unpleasant odors and even affect the cleanliness of my laundry. A good washing machine cleaner not only helps eliminate these problems but also extends the life of the machine.
Types of Washing Machine Cleaners
1. Liquid Cleaners
I find liquid cleaners to be convenient and effective. They easily dissolve and help to remove buildup. Some brands even have formulas that are safe for both high-efficiency (HE) and standard machines.
2. Powder Cleaners
While I sometimes prefer the convenience of liquid, powder cleaners often pack a punch. They can be great for heavy-duty cleaning and often come with a more robust formula for tackling tough residues.
3. Tablets
Tablets are my go-to for simplicity. Just toss one in the drum, and you’re good to go. They’re mess-free and can be stored easily without worrying about spills.
Key Features to Consider
1. Effectiveness
I always check for products that have been proven to effectively eliminate odors and residues. Reading reviews from other users has helped me identify the most effective options.
2. Compatibility
Not all cleaners are suitable for every washing machine. I make sure to choose a cleaner that’s compatible with my machine type (HE or standard) to avoid any potential damage.
3. Safety
Safety is crucial for me, especially since I have children and pets at home. I prefer cleaners that are free from harsh chemicals and are environmentally friendly.
4. Ease of Use
I appreciate products that are simple to use. The last thing I want is to add extra steps to my cleaning routine. Cleaners that require a single cycle or simple application are always at the top of my list.
My Top Picks for Best Washing Machine Cleaners
1. Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner
This is my personal favorite! The effervescent tablets do wonders for eliminating odors and residues. I love that they are safe for all machines and leave my washer smelling fresh.
2. OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner
I’ve had great success with OxiClean. The powder formula is tough on grime and works well in high-efficiency machines. It’s affordable and delivers great results.
3. Tide Washing Machine Cleaner
Tide is a trusted name in laundry, and their washing machine cleaner lives up to the reputation. I appreciate the pleasant scent and how effectively it cleans my machine.
4. Washer Magic Washing Machine Cleaner
I stumbled upon Washer Magic during my search, and I’m glad I did. It’s a liquid cleaner that effectively tackles mold and mildew, making it perfect for those who live in humid areas.
5. Eco-Gals Eco Friendly Washing Machine Cleaner
For those who are eco-conscious like me, Eco-Gals offers a fantastic plant-based option. It’s safe for the environment and still effective at keeping my washing machine clean.
Finding the right washing machine cleaner has made a significant difference in my laundry experience. With the right product, I not only keep my machine in top shape but also ensure my clothes come out fresh and clean. I hope this guide helps you find the best washing machine cleaner for your needs! Happy cleaning!
Author Profile

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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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