Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner Review (2025): The Easiest Way to Eliminate Odors and Keep Your Washer Fresh

You’ve just finished a load of laundry, but instead of smelling clean, your clothes come out with a damp, musty odor. Sound familiar? It’s not your detergent’s fault; the real problem lies inside your washing machine.

I learned this the hard way when my "freshly washed" towels smelled like a wet dog. After trying several fixes, I discovered Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, and it completely changed how I care for my washer. If you’re tired of dealing with odors, grime, or mildew, here’s everything you need to know about this small but powerful cleaning tablet.

What Is Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner?

Affresh is a specially formulated cleaner made just for washing machines. It comes in tablet or powder form and contains a blend of powerful ingredients such as:

• Oxygen-based bleach to break down grime and buildup
• Citric acid to dissolve hard water minerals
• Cleaning agents that remove soap scum, dirt, and bacteria

Unlike regular household cleaners, Affresh is:

• Designed specifically for washing machine parts
• Safe for both top-load and front-load washers
• Compatible with high-efficiency (HE) models

Why Washing Machines Get Dirty Over Time

Even though your washer cleans clothes, it also collects residue inside. Over time, this buildup leads to odors, mold, and reduced performance. Here’s what typically causes it:

• Detergent residue: Excess soap doesn’t rinse away and sticks to the drum.
• Hard water minerals: Leave white, chalky deposits on internal parts.
• Mold and mildew: Thrive in damp, dark environments like washer doors and seals.
• Lint and dirt: Get trapped in hidden corners or filters.

If you don’t clean your machine regularly, it can:

• Make clothes smell musty
• Leave gray or greasy marks on fabrics
• Reduce cleaning efficiency
• Cause mold to grow inside the washer

How Affresh Works

Using Affresh couldn’t be easier:

1. Drop one tablet directly into the empty drum.
2. Run a hot water cycle with no clothes or detergent.
3. After the cycle, wipe down the door seal and detergent tray.

During the wash, the tablet slowly dissolves, releasing active ingredients that:

• Break down detergent scum and grime
• Remove odor-causing bacteria
• Help prevent future buildup

My Experience with Affresh

After months of putting up with that unpleasant smell, I finally gave Affresh a try, and the difference was incredible.

Before using Affresh:

• Visible grime around the rubber door seal
• A lingering mildew smell in every load
• Cloudy film on the stainless steel drum

After using Affresh:

• The drum looked shiny and clean
• The odor disappeared completely
• My laundry smelled truly fresh again

The results lasted around six weeks before I needed to use another tablet.

Who Should Use Affresh?

Affresh is especially useful if you:

• Own a front-loading washer that is more prone to mold
• Live in an area with hard water
• Notice musty smells on clean clothes
• Use fabric softeners or heavy detergents
• Wash gym or workout clothes often

Common Questions

How often should I use it?

• Front-loaders: Once per month
• Top-loaders: Every two to three months
• Hard water areas: More frequently

Is it safe for my machine?
Yes, it’s recommended by major brands like Whirlpool and Maytag.

Can I use it with bleach?
No need, the oxygen-based formula already deep cleans effectively.

Is it safe around kids or pets?
The cleaner is safe once dissolved, but keep unused tablets out of reach.

Affresh vs. DIY Cleaning Methods

You’ve probably heard that vinegar and baking soda can clean a washer. While they work for light cleaning, Affresh performs better for deep maintenance:

• More effective on heavy buildup
• Kills odor-causing bacteria
• Doesn’t damage rubber seals, which vinegar sometimes can

3 Tips for Best Results

1. Always run the hottest cycle available.
2. Clean the filter and detergent tray during or after cleaning.
3. Leave the door open after each wash to prevent moisture buildup.

Where to Buy and Price

You can find Affresh almost anywhere, including:

• Walmart at around $5 to $8 for a 6-count box
• Amazon with subscription discounts
• Lowe’s and Home Depot in the appliance section

At roughly $1 per cleaning, it’s far cheaper than dealing with mold or odor problems later.

Final Thoughts: Is Affresh Worth It?

After trying everything from vinegar to expensive professional cleaners, Affresh has become my go-to solution. It’s effective, affordable, and so easy that I actually remember to use it.

If your washer hasn’t been cleaned in months or your laundry doesn’t smell as fresh as it should, grab a box of Affresh. You’ll notice the difference immediately. Your clothes, your washer, and even your nose will thank you.

Pro tip: Set a monthly reminder on your phone so you never forget to clean your washing machine again.