Does your washing machine sometimes smell a little… less than fresh? You wash your clothes to make them clean, but what about the machine itself? Over time, soap scum, lint, and mildew build up inside, making your washer a hidden source of odors and grime. It’s a common problem that many of us face but often ignore.
Navigating the world of washing machine cleaning tablets can feel like a chore in itself. Which tablet really works? Are some better for front-loaders versus top-loaders? Reading labels and comparing ingredients can be confusing and time-consuming, leaving you unsure if you are truly investing in a clean machine or just another bottle of fizz.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what these tablets do, what ingredients you should look for, and how to choose the perfect tablet to restore your washer’s performance and banish those lingering smells. Get ready to learn the secrets to a truly sparkling machine.
Top Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets Recommendations
- 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.
- One 4-count box of OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters to help remove odor-causing residues from your washing machine
- This washing machine cleaner and odor eliminator helps keep your machine looking and smelling clean, coming in a pre-measured, no-mess pouch, so cleaning your laundry machine is a breeze
- Standard and HE washer cleaner and odor remover works in all washing machines; not intended to be used with clothing or other laundry items
- Simply remove clothes and items from machine, toss one appliance cleaner pouch into washer, run on Clean Washer Cycle or in a normal hot water cycle; wipe away any remaining residue with a towel when cycle is complete
- Use this septic tank-safe washing machine cleaner once a month to help maintain a clean washing machine; for existing odors or residue, use once a week for three consecutive weeks, then once a month for maintenance
- SUSTAINABLE PLANT POWER - Roobi’s plant-based tablets deliver heavy-duty cleaning without harsh chemicals. Biodegradable, septic-safe, and perfect for eco-conscious HE washing machine care.
- DEEP CLEAN FORMULA - Targets odor, residue, and buildup in Maytag washers using a powerful foaming action. Works as a washing machine cleaner, descaler, and washer deodorizer.
- RESTORES FULL PERFORMANCE - Dissolves residue that affects wash quality and spin efficiency. Designed for Maytag machines needing reliable washer descaling and deep interior cleaning.
- MAYTAG COMPATIBILITY - Specially formulated for all Maytag washing machines models including standard HE, front-load and top-load.
- 1 YEAR SUPPLY - Drop one cleaning tablet every two weeks in an empty washer for effortless maintenance. Includes 24 washing machine cleaner tablets providing one year of simple effective machine care.
- 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.
- Universal Washer Compatibility – HE & Standard Machines: Safe to use for cleaning in all types of washing machines, including High-Efficiency (HE) front loaders and top loaders. Compatible with top brands like LG, GE, Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, Electrolux, and more. (Not for dryers.)
- Eco-Friendly, Septic Safe Formula – Zero Waste Design: Our natural foaming washer cleaner tablets are septic system safe and come with minimal packaging to reduce waste. A cleaner washer with a cleaner conscience—better than messy liquid cleaners or disposable wipes.
- Deep Cleaning Power – No Scrubbing Required: Effervescent tablets activate on contact with water, releasing powerful descaling and deodorizing agents that scrub away grime, residue, and hard water buildup—no brushing or wiping needed.
- 24 Tablets – A Full Year of Cleaner Washes: Get more for your money with 24 tablets — enough wsher tablets for 12 months of regular cleaning. That’s 4x more than typical 5- or 6-pack competitors, and no messy liquids to deal with.
- Eliminates Odors – Leaves Washer & Laundry Smelling Fresh: Neutralizes and eliminates foul smells from your machine’s drum, basket, rubber seal, and internal components, so your laundry always comes out fresh, clean, and odor-free.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: These washer cleaner tablets work with all types of washing machines, including front-load washers, top-load washers, and HE machines
- POWERFUL CLEANING ACTION: Our washing machine cleaner front loader and top load formula delivers a deep clean, effectively removing stubborn dirt, residue, and grime build-up
- ELIMINATES ODORS: This laundry machine cleaner targets and removes odor-causing residues and grime, leaving your washer smelling fresh and clean with every cycle
- SEPTIC-SAFE FORMULA: Designed to be septic-safe, this front load washer cleaner is a responsible choice for maintaining your washing machine without harming your septic system
- EXTENDS WASHER LIFESPAN: Regular use of this washing machine cleaner helps prolong the life of your washing machine by preventing damaging build-up over time
- CLEAN, SIMPLE INGREDIENTS: Made with plant and mineral-based cleaning agents and 100% free from microplastics. Gentle on fabrics and especially suitable for sensitive skin, while still delivering a deep, effective clean.
- PLASTIC-FREE LAUNDRY DETERGENT TABLETS: Tough on everyday stains, kinder to your home and the planet. FabTab laundry tablets deliver powerful cleaning performance in a fully plastic-free format. Designed to tackle messes like food, coffee, makeup, and grass.
- FAMILY-FRIENDLY INCLUDING KIDS AND PETS: Formulated with thoughtfully chosen ingredients that are suitable to use around the whole family, including children and pets, so you can wash with confidence while helping you move away from traditional plastic pods and sheets.
- POWERFUL STAIN-FIGHTING PERFORMANCE: Concentrated cleaning power helps lift stubborn stains and everyday dirt without relying on harsh chemicals, leaving clothes fresh, clean, and residue-free.
- LIGHTLY SCENTED: A delightful yet subtle Fresh Scent for truly clean-smelling laundry, adding a refreshing touch without being overpowering.
- 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
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Keeping Your Washer Sparkling Clean
Washing machines work hard. Over time, they collect soap scum, mineral deposits, and even mold. Washing machine cleaning tablets are a simple solution to keep your appliance fresh and working well. This guide helps you choose the best tablets for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for cleaning tablets, look for these important features:
- **Deep Cleaning Power:** The best tablets actively break down tough buildup inside the drum, hoses, and pumps.
- **Odor Elimination:** Good tablets don’t just mask smells; they remove the sources of bad odors, leaving a clean scent.
- **Material Safety:** Ensure the tablets are safe for all common washing machine materials, including stainless steel drums and rubber seals.
- **Ease of Use:** The best products require very little effort—usually just dropping one tablet into the empty drum.
- **Compatibility:** Check if the tablets work with both high-efficiency (HE) and standard machines. Most modern tablets do.
Important Materials in Cleaning Tablets
The ingredients determine how well the tablets clean and how safe they are for your machine.
Most effective cleaning tablets contain powerful but safe chemicals. Look for:
- **Sodium Percarbonate:** This is a common, oxygen-based bleaching agent. It activates with hot water to lift stains and grime. It is generally safe for most machines.
- **Citric Acid:** This natural acid helps dissolve hard water stains and mineral buildup (limescale). It is a great non-toxic option.
- **Surfactants:** These are cleaning agents that help lift dirt and grease away from the surfaces.
Avoid tablets that use harsh chemicals if you are sensitive to strong smells or if you prefer eco-friendly products. Read the ingredient list carefully.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of the cleaning action depends on a few things.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- **Slow-Dissolving Formula:** Tablets that dissolve slowly during a long wash cycle allow the active ingredients more time to work on tough grime.
- **Pre-Measured Dosing:** Tablets come in perfect doses, which prevents users from using too much or too little product. This ensures consistent results.
- **Dedicated Cycle Support:** Tablets that are specifically designed to work best on a “Tub Clean” or “Hot Wash” cycle provide superior results.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- **Poor Dissolution:** If a tablet clumps up or doesn’t dissolve fully, the cleaning power is wasted. This often happens in cold water cycles.
- **Artificial Fillers:** Too many unnecessary fillers can reduce the concentration of the actual cleaning agents.
- **Incompatibility:** Using a tablet not rated for HE machines can sometimes cause excessive sudsing, which harms the machine over time.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using these tablets is usually very simple, making the user experience excellent.
How to Use: Generally, you just toss one tablet into the empty washing machine drum. Then, run the machine on its hottest, longest setting, or the dedicated “Tub Clean” cycle if your machine has one. Do not add laundry detergent or clothes during this cleaning cycle.
When to Use Them:
- **Routine Maintenance:** Use them once a month to prevent buildup.
- **After Heavy Use:** If you wash muddy sports gear or very dirty towels often, clean the machine more frequently.
- **Odor Removal:** If you notice a musty smell when you open the washer door, use a tablet immediately to eliminate the source of the smell.
A good cleaning tablet saves time because you do not need to scrub the machine manually. It gives you peace of mind knowing your clothes wash in a truly clean environment.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets
Q: How often should I use these tablets?
A: Most manufacturers suggest using them once a month for regular maintenance. If you use your machine daily, you might clean it every three weeks.
Q: Can I wash clothes with the tablet?
A: No. These tablets are for cleaning the machine only. Do not add clothes or regular detergent when using a cleaning tablet.
Q: Will these tablets damage my rubber seals?
A: High-quality tablets are designed to be safe for rubber and plastic parts. Always check the packaging to confirm they are safe for all machine components.
Q: Are cleaning tablets safe for High-Efficiency (HE) washers?
A: Yes, most modern tablets are safe for HE machines. They are usually low-sudsing. However, always confirm HE compatibility on the label.
Q: What is the difference between a tablet and a liquid cleaner?
A: Tablets are often more concentrated and mess-free to store and use. Liquids might be better for very quick, light cleans, but tablets usually offer deeper cleaning action.
Q: Why is my machine still smelling after using a tablet?
A: If the smell persists, you might need a second cleaning cycle. Sometimes mold is deep in the drain pump or hoses, which may require a stronger, dedicated cleaning product or manual inspection.
Q: Do I need to use hot water?
A: Yes. Hot water helps activate the cleaning chemicals, especially the oxygen boosters and acids, allowing them to dissolve buildup effectively.
Q: Can I use these tablets in my dishwasher?
A: No. These products are specifically formulated for the mechanics and materials found inside a washing machine. Using them in a dishwasher can cause damage or poor cleaning.
Q: What if the tablet doesn’t fully dissolve?
A: If you notice residue, run a second short rinse cycle without any product. For future use, make sure you are using the hottest water setting available.
Q: Are “natural” tablets as effective as chemical ones?
A: Natural tablets using citric acid are very effective against limescale and mineral deposits. They might clean odors slightly less aggressively than those containing oxygen bleach, but they are excellent eco-friendly choices.