Your washing machine puts forth a lot of effort to maintain clean and fresh clothes, but who cleans the machine? Fabric fibers, mildew, hard water minerals, and detergent residue can accumulate inside the washer over time. Mold development, unpleasant odors, and even machine failures may result from this. Washing machine cleansers can help with that.
We’ll go over what a washing machine cleaner is, why American homes need one, how to use it, and the best options in this in-depth 2025 guide.
A Washing Machine Cleaner: What Is It?
The purpose of a washing machine cleaning is to eliminate mold, mildew, residue, and stink from the drum, hoses, pump, and detergent tray of your washing machine.
There are various varieties of it:
Tablets
Powders
Solutions in liquid form
DIY natural mixtures (such as baking soda and vinegar)
These cleaners keep your clothes smelling fresh and help your washer last longer.
Why is a washing machine cleaner necessary?
High-efficiency (HE) detergent does not prevent accumulation in your washer.
Scum from soap
deposits of hard water, particularly in the Midwest and South of the United States
Fabric filaments and lint
Remaining detergent
accumulation of moisture (causing mold)
This accumulation over time may result in:
Bad smells coming from the drum
Mildew and mold in gasket seals
Blockages in the drain filters
Ineffective operation
Higher energy consumption
These issues can be avoided and your laundry will continue to smell fresh by using a washing machine cleaner at least once a month.
Washing machine cleaner types
The most popular kinds of cleaners that are sold in the United States are broken down as follows:
1. Cleaners for Tablets
Simply drop and run a cycle to get started.
Slowly dissolves to provide thorough cleaning.
Well-known brands include OxiClean, Tide, and Affresh.
2. Cleaners in liquid form
Excellent for fast cleaning
It can be put straight into the detergent tray.
frequently contains disinfectants.
3. Cleaners with powder
Strong for substantial accumulation
Measurement is usually necessary before use.
4. Homemade/Natural Cleaners
Baking soda and vinegar (cost-effective)
Using hydrogen peroxide to eradicate mildew
Less efficient for stubborn dirt
Step-by-Step Instructions for Using a Washing Machine Cleaner
Here is a general guide, while the precise procedures may differ depending on the brand and type of washer (front-load or top-load):
Step 1: Select the Appropriate Cleaner
Check your washer’s user handbook to make sure the cleaner is safe for your model and compatible with HE.
Step 2: Take the washer empty
Empty the drum of all clothing, towels, and laundry supplies.
Step 3: Include the Tablets for Cleaning: One tablet should be dropped into the drum rather than the detergent tray.
Liquid/Powder: Add to tray or drum as directed on the label.
4. Run a Cleaning Cycle in Step Four
If your washer has a “Tub Clean” or “Clean Washer” cycle, choose it.
Otherwise, use the longest and highest spin settings for hot water.
Step 5: Clean the Door Seal and Drum
Wipe the inside of the drum and the rubber gasket (particularly on front-loaders) with a microfiber cloth after the cycle.
USA’s Top Washing Machine Cleaners (2025)
The following are highly regarded items that may be found on Amazon, Walmart, and Home Depot:
- EPA-approved Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets Compatible with every manufacturer, including GE, Samsung, and LG eliminates residue that causes odors Six-tablet pack (about six months’ supply) Cost: approximately $11.
- Powdered Tide Washing Machine Cleaner, renowned for its potent stain removal helps get rid of the smell of mildew Ideal for upkeep every month 💵 Five packets for about $8
- OxiClean Odor Blasters and Washing Machine Cleaner
Hidden places are penetrated by foaming action. Great for odorous or outdated washers Use once a month. Cost: about $10 for four packets - Non-toxic, plant-based Eco-Gals Eco Swirlz Washing Machine Cleaner Safe for septic tanks Made for homes that care about the environment 💵 Cost: around 13 for 24 pills
- Industrial-grade, US-made Active Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets Both front-loading and top-loading washers are safe. 💵 24 pills for about $14
Comparing Front-Load and Top-Load Washers for Cleaning
Front-loading washers, top-loading washers, and door Gasket Mold-prone, requires cleaning Not relevant
Tray for Dispensers Every month, remove and clean Clean the area surrounding the lid.
Usually included is the tub clean cycle. Missing occasionally (use hot water)
Airflow After each use, leave the door open. After each use, leave the lid open.
How Frequently Should a Washing Machine Cleaner Be Used?
Type of Usage Frequency of Cleaning
little usage (1-2 loads per week) Every two to three months
Use that is moderate (3–5 loads per week) Every month
Heavy usage (laundry every day) Every two to three weeks
Clean the washer right away if there are any odors, visible dirt, or error codes like Samsung’s “5E” or LG’s “OE.”
Budget-Friendly Natural Cleaning Option: Ingredients:
Two cups of white vinegar
Half a cup of baking soda
Actions to take:
Fill the detergent tray with vinegar.
Fill the drum with baking soda.
Put the washer on the longest cycle with hot water.
After that, clean the tray, gasket, and drum.
📝 Note: This technique may not be as effective as commercial cleaners at removing deep buildup, but it does work for basic cleaning.
Actual Client Testimonials
Our front-loader was spared that foul stench thanks to Affresh. I now use it once a month.
— Michigan resident Heather C.
Eco Swirlz is excellent and non-toxic. I adore that it is created in the USA and is plant-based.
— James T., Oregon
Our LG washer used to give us a “OE” code; it turns out that detergent residue had clogged the filter. No more issues after using Tide’s cleaner once a month.
— Florid, Linda
Concluding remarks
Clean clothing come from a clean washer. A washing machine cleaning is a tiny step that makes a significant difference, whether you’re fighting mildew or stink or simply want to safeguard your investment.
There is a product for every home in the USA, ranging from natural tablets from Eco-Gals to well-known names like Affresh and Tide. Use a washing cleaner once a month and maintain your home well in between for optimal benefits.
With longer life, fewer malfunctions, and fresher clothing, your washer will appreciate it.