Best Homemade Washing Machine Cleaner Reviews 2026
If you've ever been hit with a stinky, musty smell coming from your washing machine, you know it’s not just unpleasant—it’s frustrating. No need to panic, though! The best homemade washing machine cleaner is an easy, affordable solution that you can make right at home.
Gone are the days of worrying about what harmful chemicals you’re putting in your laundry machine. Instead, why not try natural alternatives that are just as powerful in cleaning, if not more? The right cleaner not only gets rid of grime but helps your washing machine run smoother and more efficiently, saving you cash on repairs and energy bills in the long run. From vinegar and baking soda to citrus-based cleaners, these all-natural ingredients can restore freshness to your machine in a matter of minutes.
So, if you're ready to keep your machine sparkling clean without spending a fortune, keep reading for some of the best homemade washing machine cleaner recipes that will leave you loving your laundry room again
Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler 24 Pack - Deep Cleaning Tablets
The Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler 24 Pack offers a simple, eco-friendly way to maintain your washing machine. It’s designed to clean, deodorize, and break down grime and hard water buildup, eliminating the need for harsh scrubbing or wiping. Let's dive into its features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you decide if it's the right solution for you.
Pros:
- Works for All Washers
Whether you own a high-efficiency model or a traditional top loader, this product is compatible with all washers, including popular brands like GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, and Maytag. Its versatility makes it an easy choice for most households.
- Eco-Friendly
The natural effervescent foaming tablets are septic safe and designed with minimal packaging. Unlike liquid descalers or wipes that often generate unnecessary waste, these tablets promote environmental responsibility without compromising on performance.
- Instant Cleaning Power
No more hassle with scrubbing. These tablets dissolve in water, turning into a deep scrubbing powder that cleans the interior of your washer, removing hard water buildup, grime, and detergent residue, making your washing machine fresh and effective.
- Odor Elimination
If you’re dealing with a musty, smelly washer, these tablets tackle odor at its source. They deodorize the rubber gasket, laundry tub seal, and the inner drum, ensuring your laundry comes out smelling fresh and clean every time.
- Long-lasting Bulk Supply
With a 12-month supply in every pack (24 tablets), this cleaner offers excellent value compared to smaller competitor packs, which tend to run out quickly. You won’t need to buy new cleaning tablets every few months.
- Seamless Maintenance
These tablets work automatically when exposed to water, so you won’t have to manually clean or brush your washer, saving you time and effort.
Cons:
- Not Suitable for Dryers
This product is exclusively for washing machines. If you're looking for a comprehensive cleaner that works for both washers and dryers, this won’t fit the bill.
- Single Use Tablets
While the single-use tablets are convenient, they might be seen as wasteful if you prefer bulk liquid or powder cleaners that offer more control over the amount used.
- Might Not Solve All Deep Issues
Though these tablets do an excellent job of cleaning routine grime and buildup, they might not be as effective for very severe issues, like deep mold infestations or mechanical problems in older machines.
- Requires Regular Use
For best results, it’s recommended to use these tablets regularly. Skipping cleans can reduce their effectiveness in maintaining the freshness and functionality of your washing machine.
Overall, the Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler 24 Pack provides an eco-conscious, hassle-free solution for keeping your washing machine clean and fresh. While it isn’t a cure-all for every washing machine problem, it excels at odor control, grime removal, and offering long-term value with its bulk supply.
OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters
The OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters is a powerhouse in a box. It’s designed to eliminate odors, residues, and grime that build up in your washing machine, giving it a fresh, clean start without the hassle of complicated cleaning routines. Let’s break down its features, benefits, and any downsides, so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your washing machine.
Pros:
- Effective Odor Removal
This cleaner does an excellent job of removing odor-causing residues, ensuring your washing machine doesn’t just look clean but smells fresh, too. It’s perfect for households that experience musty smells or mildew buildup, as it tackles the source of the odors, not just masking them.
- Easy to Use
The simple application process is a major plus. All you need to do is pour one pouch into the drum, run a hot water cycle, and wipe away any remaining residue. There’s no need for extra steps, no scrubbing or wiping down the washer, which saves you time and energy.
- Compatible with All Washers
Whether you have a standard or high-efficiency washing machine, this product works wonders for both types. It’s versatile and eliminates the need to worry about whether or not it’s suitable for your specific model.
- Septic-Safe
For those concerned about their septic systems, this cleaner is septic-safe. It won’t harm your septic tank, so you can keep your peace of mind while cleaning your washer. This makes it a great option for eco-conscious users who still want effective cleaning.
- Convenient 4-Pack
The 4-count box offers a convenient supply for regular use. Each pouch is perfect for a single cleaning, and you don’t have to worry about running out quickly like with some other products that offer fewer doses. It’s a good value for the price, lasting several months depending on how often you clean your washer.
Cons:
- Not for Laundry Use
While it’s great for washing machine maintenance, this product isn’t suitable for clothing or other laundry items. Some may find this limiting if they are looking for a product that can multitask for both cleaning the machine and treating clothes.
- Potential Residue Build-Up
Although the instructions suggest wiping away any leftover residue with a towel after the cycle, there might be instances where some residue remains. This could be a minor inconvenience for users who expect a spotless clean without any extra effort.
- Strong Scent
Some users might find the scent a little too strong. While it’s designed to eliminate odors, the fragrance itself might be overwhelming for those who prefer unscented or more subtle cleaning products.
- Requires Regular Use for Best Results
To maintain a clean washing machine, it’s recommended to use this cleaner regularly. If you neglect to clean your washer for a while, you might find that the cleaner doesn’t fully tackle deeper grime or long-standing buildup without multiple treatments.
The OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner with Odor Blasters is an effective, easy-to-use solution for maintaining a fresh and clean washing machine. With its odor-fighting power and convenience, it stands out as a go-to for those dealing with unpleasant smells or grime in their washers. However, its strong scent and occasional residue might be deal-breakers for some. Still, for many, it’s a solid and reliable choice for routine washer cleaning.
Washing Machine Cleaner, Home Remover Gel
The Washing Machine Cleaner, Home Remover Gel is a game-changing product designed for those who want a thorough clean with minimal effort. Its powerful, multi-surface cleaning action tackles everything from grease to grime, leaving behind a spotless shine without damaging the surfaces you love. Whether you're using it for your washing machine seal or tackling stains in your kitchen and bathroom, this cleaner has something special to offer.
Pros:
- Powerful Cleaning Action
The home remover gel is formulated to handle the toughest grease and grime. It’s not just effective, but it’s fast too, working instantly to break down and remove tough stains. Whether it’s your washing machine seal, refrigerator strips, or grout lines, this cleaner does the job with minimal effort. The cleaning power doesn’t stop at a single use either—this gel offers lasting power of up to 12 months, so you can rely on it to keep your surfaces sparkling clean for a long time.
- Multi-Surface Use
One of the best features of this product is its versatility. It’s designed to clean a wide range of surfaces including washing machine seals, refrigerator strips, tiles, sinks, showers, walls, closestools, and washbasins. This means you don’t need to have separate cleaners for different parts of your home. It can save you money while offering a one-stop solution for your cleaning needs, making it a great product for the entire house.
- Mild Yet Effective Formula
The gel offers a gentle formula that’s safe for use on delicate surfaces without compromising on cleaning power. It’s designed to treat bathroom and kitchen surfaces with care, which makes it ideal for families with small children or pets who are sensitive to harsh chemicals. Despite its mild nature, it packs a punch when it comes to stubborn stains and dirt buildup.
- Long-Lasting Results
With the ability to last up to 12 months, this cleaner provides excellent value for money. The 15.82 fl oz bottle can keep your surfaces clean and fresh for a whole year, meaning you won't have to worry about frequent reapplications. The long-lasting effects make it a reliable choice for those looking for a cleaning product that doesn’t require constant replenishing.
- Easy Application
The application process couldn’t be simpler. With a dedicated applicator tip, you can apply the gel evenly and precisely to any surface, ensuring it stays in place without running down the walls. You just need to apply the gel, wait 5-8 hours, and then scrub for a deep clean. This process requires minimal effort and ensures thorough coverage, saving time and energy.
- Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed
The company behind this product, Balldanllu, places a strong emphasis on customer service. They are committed to delivering a high-quality experience and offer assistance if you encounter any issues. This level of customer care adds to the overall trustworthiness of the product, giving users peace of mind in their purchase.
Cons:
- Wait Time for Best Results
While the gel is easy to apply, it requires a 5-8 hour wait time before it works its magic. This extended wait period may be inconvenient for those looking for immediate results. If you're in a rush and need a quick clean, this might not be the best option.
- May Need Multiple Applications for Stubborn Stains
Though the cleaner is powerful, users with particularly tough stains may find that one application isn't always enough. While it’s effective for regular maintenance, you might need to apply it multiple times to tackle more resistant grime or stains that have built up over time.
- Specific Use Cases
Although it’s labeled as a multi-surface cleaner, it’s still important to note that this gel is tailored to certain areas of the home like washers, sinks, and grout lines. It’s not a universal cleaner for all household cleaning needs, so you may still need separate products for other types of cleaning tasks.
- May Require Scrubbing After Application
After waiting for the gel to sit, users are required to scrub the area to fully clean it. While this is not a huge inconvenience, it does add an extra step to the cleaning process. Some people might prefer a product that provides a cleaner surface without any additional effort.
Overall, the Washing Machine Cleaner, Home Remover Gel excels in providing a powerful yet gentle clean for a variety of surfaces. Its ability to tackle stubborn grime and grease, coupled with its long-lasting results, makes it a standout in the cleaning world. However, it’s important to remember that it requires patience with its waiting period and occasional scrubbing for best results. If you don’t mind these extra steps, it’s a great product that can handle multiple cleaning needs throughout the house.
Oh Yuk Washing Machine Cleaner for All Washers
The Oh Yuk Washing Machine Cleaner for All Washers offers a simple and effective way to clean your washing machine while ensuring it stays in top working condition. With a natural citrus scent, it not only removes grime but also leaves your washer smelling fresh. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this cleaner stand out and where it might fall short.
Pros:
- Scientifically Formulated for Superior Cleaning
The Oh Yuk Washing Machine Cleaner is scientifically formulated to ensure your washing machine remains clean, healthy, and odor-free. It’s designed to remove contaminants that cause foul odors, making it an excellent choice for those who want a cleaner washing machine without harsh chemicals. The formula works effectively to break down build-ups, leaving your machine fresh and ready for the next load of laundry.
- Lab-Tested Results
This cleaner is laboratory and field tested, which means it’s been put through rigorous trials to guarantee superb results. The testing ensures that the product works consistently and effectively, giving you confidence that it will perform as advertised every time you use it. Whether you have a front load or top load washer, Oh Yuk delivers the kind of results you can trust.
- Natural Citrus Fragrance
One of the standout features of this cleaner is its natural citrus scent, which leaves your washing machine smelling fresh and clean. After a cleaning cycle, you don’t have to worry about lingering chemical odors. Instead, your washer has a pleasant, citrusy fragrance that makes the cleaning experience feel fresh and natural. It's a refreshing change from the typical chemical smell found in many cleaners.
- Versatile Use for All Washers
The cleaner is designed for all types of washing machines, including front load, top load, HE (high-efficiency), and non-HE models. This versatility means you don’t have to worry about whether it’s suitable for your specific washer. It’s a one-size-fits-all solution that’s easy to use and effective for most homes, eliminating the need for multiple cleaners for different machines.
- Long-Lasting Value
With four cleanings per bottle, this 16-ounce cleaner gives you good value for the price. Many washing machine cleaners only offer a few uses, but Oh Yuk offers up to four cleanings in a single bottle, making it a practical choice for those looking to maintain their washer on a budget. The long-lasting bottle ensures you don’t have to repurchase as frequently, saving both time and money.
- Septic Safe
For households with septic systems, Oh Yuk is septic safe, which is a major benefit. You won’t have to worry about damaging your septic tank while keeping your washer clean. This makes it an eco-friendly choice for those who want to maintain their washing machine while still protecting the environment.
Cons:
- Limited Number of Uses
While the four cleanings per bottle is a good deal, it may not be enough for households that do frequent wash loads or have particularly dirty washing machines. Some users might need to purchase multiple bottles for more frequent cleanings, especially if they have larger families or a washer that requires deep cleaning often.
- Requires Manual Application
Unlike some automatic washing machine cleaners that work with your washing machine’s cycle, Oh Yuk requires you to manually apply the cleaner. This might be a downside for users who prefer a more hands-off cleaning solution. While it’s not a difficult process (just pour the cleaner in and run a cycle), some people may find this extra step a hassle.
- Not for Use with Laundry
This cleaner is specifically for washing machine maintenance and not intended to be used with laundry itself. While this is typical for many washing machine cleaners, it means you’ll still need to use separate detergent for your clothes, which could be a bit more time-consuming for those looking for a multi-purpose cleaner.
- No Suds Control
Some users might find that the cleaner creates some suds in the washing machine, which could be a concern for those with high-efficiency machines that require a low-suds formula. If you have a particularly sensitive machine, you might want to check for any suds residue after using the cleaner.
The Oh Yuk Washing Machine Cleaner for All Washers is an effective, easy-to-use product that provides great value, leaving your washing machine clean, fresh, and odor-free. Its scientific formulation and natural citrus scent set it apart from other cleaners, making it a strong contender for anyone wanting to maintain a clean washer. However, its limited uses per bottle and manual application process might not be ideal for all users. If you're looking for a reliable cleaner that works across various machines, Oh Yuk is definitely worth considering.
Excelsior HE Washing Machine Cleaner and Deodorizer
The Excelsior HE Washing Machine Cleaner and Deodorizer offers a convenient, efficient, and eco-friendly way to maintain your high-efficiency washer. This 2-in-1 solution cleans and deodorizes, ensuring that your machine stays fresh, clean, and free from residues. With its biodegradable formula and refreshing lemon scent, this cleaner promises a safe and effective solution for your laundry needs.
Pros:
- 2-in-1 Use for Convenience
The Excelsior HE Cleaner and Deodorizer combines two tasks into one easy-to-use product. This dual-purpose solution eliminates both soap residues and unwanted odors in one bottle, saving you money and time. Rather than purchasing separate products for cleaning and deodorizing, this formula does it all. This convenience is perfect for busy households that want a simple and effective cleaning routine.
- Spotless Cleaning Results
This cleaner’s powerful formula ensures that your washing machine stays sparkling clean, just like new. It removes soap residues that can accumulate over time, preventing mold, mildew, and detergent build-up. With just 50 ml of the solution per wash, this cleaner works effortlessly to keep your washer in pristine condition, ensuring that your laundry comes out fresh and clean every time.
- Fresh Lemon Scent
The deodorizing formula leaves a refreshing lemon scent after every use, helping to eliminate any musty smells that can sometimes linger in washing machines. The natural enzymes power the scent, offering an eco-friendly and pleasant fragrance without the harshness of artificial fragrances. This makes for a more enjoyable laundry experience, especially if you're sensitive to strong or chemical odors.
- Safe and Biodegradable
For eco-conscious users, this cleaner is a safe and biodegradable option that’s phosphate-free, solvent-free, dye-free, and preservative-free. The environmentally-friendly nature of the formula means you can clean your washer without worrying about harming the environment or your sewage disposal system. It’s a great choice for those who want an effective cleaner without compromising on safety.
- Generous Supply for Multiple Uses
With a 1-liter bottle that provides up to 20 washes, this cleaner offers excellent value for money. Unlike smaller bottles that may need to be replaced quickly, the generous supply of Excelsior HE Cleaner and Deodorizer means you can maintain your washer for months without constantly needing to repurchase. This makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
- Premium Quality and Performance
Excelsior is known for premium-quality cleaning products, and this washer cleaner is no exception. The powerful formula provides an unsurpassed cleaning performance, leaving your washing machine looking and functioning like new. This cleaner delivers professional-grade results without the professional price tag, offering both efficiency and affordability.
Cons:
- Specific Use for HE Washers
This cleaner is specifically designed for high-efficiency (HE) washers, which means it may not be suitable for standard washers. If you don’t have a high-efficiency machine, you’ll need to find a different cleaner. This could be a limiting factor for households with various types of washers.
- Requires Regular Use for Best Results
For optimal performance, it’s recommended to use the cleaner regularly. If you neglect cleaning your washer for an extended period, you may find that this cleaner doesn’t completely remove deeper residues or odors without more frequent use. Regular cleaning is necessary to keep your washer in top shape, which could be a bit of a commitment for some users.
- May Not Completely Eliminate Stubborn Odors
While this cleaner does a great job of deodorizing and preventing odors, users with machines that have been neglected for a long time or that have deep mold or mildew problems might find that this solution doesn’t fully eliminate particularly stubborn odors. Additional treatments may be necessary for washers with serious long-term issues.
- Manual Application Required
Unlike some automatic washer cleaning systems, this product requires manual application. While it’s simple to use, you do have to measure out the solution and ensure it’s applied correctly. Some users may prefer a more automated process, especially if they’re looking for a hands-off solution.
The Excelsior HE Washing Machine Cleaner and Deodorizer is a solid choice for anyone looking to maintain their high-efficiency washing machine. With its 2-in-1 cleaning and deodorizing formula, eco-friendly ingredients, and long-lasting supply, it stands out as a convenient, effective, and safe option. While it may not be suitable for all washing machines, and might require consistent use for optimal results, it provides excellent value for users with HE washers.



















