You just retrieved a load of laundry, and I’m going to go ahead and guess that it is stinkier now than when you washed it. That damp, mildewy smell that clings to your clothes? It’s not your detergent’s fault. The real culprit is your washing machine itself.

I discovered the hard way when I emerged from my “clean” towels smelling like a wet dog. My laundry game was totally changed when I found Affresh washing machine cleanser after some research on Google. This is all the information you require about this tiny wonder worker.

What is Affresh washing machine cleaner

Affresh is a specially formulated cleaner designed specifically for washing machines. It comes in tablet or powder form and contains:

Oxygen-based bleach to break down grime
Citric acid to dissolve mineral deposits
Other cleaning agents that target soap scum and bacteria

Unlike regular household cleaners, Affresh is:

✔ Designed to work with your washer’s components
✔ Safe for both front-load and top-load machines
✔ Compatible with high-efficiency (HE) models
The Reasons Your Washer Gets Unclean Despite Cleaning Clothes. When I first understood this, I was astounded: Your washing machine, like all other appliances, needs seed cleaning. This is the reason:

Detergent buildup – Excess soap doesn’t just disappear; it cakes onto your drum
Hard water minerals – Leave chalky white deposits in pipes and hoses
Mold & mildew – That damp interior is paradise for microbes
Lint & dirt – From your clothes, it has to go somewhere

Left unchecked, a dirty washer can:

Make your clothes smell musty
Leave stains or residue on fabrics
Become less efficient at cleaning
Even develop mold in hidden areas

How Affresh Works Its Magic

Using Affresh is ridiculously simple:

Drop 1 tablet into an empty drum
Run a hot water cycle (no clothes or detergent)
Wipe down the door seal and detergent tray afterward

The tablets dissolve during the cycle, releasing cleaning agents that:

Break down stubborn residue
Remove odor-causing bacteria
Help prevent future buildup

Why I Swear By Affresh (Real Results)

After months of ignoring my washer’s musty smell, I tried Affresh. Here’s what happened:

Before:

Visible grime around the door seal
Persistent mildew smell in clothes
Cloudy residue on the drum

After:

The drum looked noticeably brighter
That awful smell completely disappeared
My clothes actually smelled clean again

The effects lasted about 6 weeks before I needed another cleaning.

Who Needs Affresh Most?

You’ll especially benefit if you:

Own a front-loading washer (notorious for mold)
Have hard water
Notice musty smells in the laundry
Use lots of detergent or fabric softener
Wash workout clothes frequently

Common Questions Answered

How often should I use it?

Monthly for frontloaders
Every 23 months for toploaders
More often, if you have hard water

Is it safe for my machine?

Yes! It is genuinely suggested by many major brands, including Whirlpool and Maytag.

Can I use it with bleach?

No need – the oxygen bleach in Affresh is sufficient.

What about pets/kids?

The cleaned machine is safe, but the tablets are out of reach of children and pets.

Affresh vs. Other Cleaning Methods

While vinegar and baking soda work okay for light cleaning, Affresh:
It is more effective on tough buildup
Actually kills odor-causing bacteria
Won’t potentially damage rubber parts like vinegar can

3 Tips for Best Results

Run the hottest cycle your machine offers
Clean the filter and detergent tray too
Leave the door open between uses to prevent mold

Where to Buy & What It Costs

You can find Affresh at:
Walmart ($5$8 for a 6count box)
Amazon (often with subscribe & save discounts)
Lowe’s and other home improvement stores. It’s far less expensive than replacing a moldy washer, costing around $1 per cleaning!

Ultimately, is it worth it?

After trying everything from vinegar to expensive professional cleaners, I can honestly say Affresh is:
✔ The most effective washer cleaner I’ve used
✔ Easy enough that I actually remember to do it
✔ Affordable preventive maintenance
Picked up a box of Affresh if you have not yet cleaned your washer, or your clothes do not smell as fresh as they might. Both your nose and your laundry will thank you for it.
Pro Tip: To avoid forgetting to use your phone, set a monthly reminder

Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner: What It Is & Why You Need It

What is Affresh washing machine cleaner