The Best Washing Machine Tablet
Keep your washer fresh and residue-free with expertly researched cleaning tablets. We evaluate top options from Affresh, Uproot Clean, and more based on effectiveness, value, and verified user feedback.
By Shane Wheeler
Updated September 11, 2026
Washing machine tablets are a convenient way to keep your washer fresh, free of mold, and running efficiently. Over time, detergent residue, hard water minerals, and bacteria can build up inside your machine, leading to odors and reduced performance.
In this guide, we evaluate the best washing machine tablet options based on expert consensus, verified buyer feedback, and published specifications to help you choose the right product for your laundry routine.
Our top picks from Affresh, Uproot Clean, and ACTIVE are listed below.
| Award | Product | BP Score About BP ScoreThe BP Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets (12 Count)
|
9.9/10 | $18.99 | Buy |
| Best Value |
ACTIVE 24-Pack Washing Machine Cleaner for Pets
|
9.9/10 | $27.95 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets 24
|
9.8/10 | $29.95 | Buy |
| Best Budget |
Affresh 6-Count Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
|
9.7/10 | $10.98 | Buy |
Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets 24
|
9.5/10 | $39.95 | Buy | |
MIGHTY CLEAN Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets 24
|
9.4/10 | $9.98 | Buy |
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets (12 Count)
This tablet-based cleaner uses time-release technology to remove bacteria, grime, and soap scum from washing machine interiors. It helps eliminate odors from pets, sweat, and mildew and is EPA Safer Choice certified. Safe for all machine types including HE and front-loaders.
Pros
- Time-release deep cleaning action
- Removes odor-causing residues
- Only one tablet per month needed
- Recommended by Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana
- EPA Safer Choice and septic safe
- Safe for all washing machine models
ACTIVE 24-Pack Washing Machine Cleaner for Pets
Specially formulated for pet owners, ACTIVE's enzyme tablet cleaner tackles hair, odor, and residue in all washer types. The 24-tablet pack provides a full year of monthly maintenance with a simple tub cycle.
Pros
- Powerful enzyme formula for pet hair and odor
- Septic safe and works in all washer types
- 24 tablets for 12 months of maintenance
- Easy to use with empty washer on hot cycle
- Safe for pets and household with natural enzymes
Cons
- Must use with empty washer, not in detergent drawer
Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets 24
Uproot Clean's washing machine tablets are specially formulated for pet owners, using tea polyphenols and active enzymes to eliminate pet odors and reduce hair accumulation in the drum, valves, and hoses. They dissolve grime and residue in a single hot cycle, making them a targeted solution for laundry freshness and machine longevity.
Pros
- Deep cleans drum, valves, seals, and filters in one cycle
- Effectively eliminates pet odors with tea polyphenols
- Reduces pet hair buildup and clogs with enzymes
- Suitable for front-load, top-load, and HE machines
- Dissolves built-up fats, grime, and residue
Cons
- Requires a hot or clean washer cycle, increasing energy use
- May leave residue requiring post-cycle wipe-down
Affresh 6-Count Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
Affresh's washing machine cleaner tablets use a time-release formula to remove bacteria, grime, and soap scum, tackling odors from pets and sweat. Designed for monthly use, they are EPA Safer Choice certified and septic safe, compatible with all washer types.
Pros
- Time-release deep cleaning action
- Removes odors from pets and sweat
- Only one tablet needed per month
- Recommended by Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana
- EPA Safer Choice certified and septic safe
Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets 24
These ultra-concentrated tablets promise 40% more cleaning power in a single cycle, targeting pet odors and fur buildup. They are designed for front-loaders, top-loaders, and HE machines, making them a versatile option for pet owners.
Pros
- Stronger formula for deep cleaning
- Effectively removes pet odors
- Reduces pet hair clogs
- Works with front and top loaders
- Easy single-tablet application
Cons
- Requires hot water cycle
- Tablet must not go in detergent drawer
MIGHTY CLEAN Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets 24
These tablets offer a year's supply of deep cleaning for any washer type, including front-loaders and HE machines. They target odor-causing residue and are septic-safe, making them a practical choice for regular maintenance.
Pros
- Universal compatibility
- Deep cleaning action
- Odor elimination
- Septic-safe
- Extends washer lifespan
Cons
- Requires regular use for best results
Best Washing Machine Tablet Buying Guide
Why Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly
Most washing machines require periodic cleaning to remove mineral scale and detergent scum. A high-quality washing machine tablet simplifies this task. Regular use helps maintain your washer’s performance and extends its lifespan.
For a deeper look at compatible models, check out our roundup of the basic washing machine for every household. A clean machine also pairs well with effective washing machine cleaners and accessories for complete maintenance.
Key Ingredients to Look For
Effective tablets typically contain enzymes, citric acid, or sodium carbonate to break down oils and mineral deposits. Septic-safe and biodegradable formulas are common in modern products.
When evaluating ingredients, we look at what experts say and what verified buyers report about odor removal and cleaning power. For more appliance upkeep advice, browse our appliances category for related guides.
Compatibility With Your Washer
Most washing machine tablets are designed for both top-load and front-load machines, including high-efficiency (HE) washers. It’s important to check whether the tablet dissolves fully in cold water or requires hot water.
Machines with specific features, such as steam cycles, may have different needs. To learn about different washer types, read our review of the freestanding washing machine for small spaces and the mini washing machine for compact setups.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Many washing machine tablets are septic-safe, phosphate-free, and made with plant-based enzymes. These features matter for households with septic systems or sensitive skin. We prioritize tablets that have strong verified buyer feedback regarding safety and environmental impact.
For a compact laundry solution, see our guide to the portable washing machine for small spaces, which often requires gentle cleaners.
Value and Pack Sizes
Washing machine tablets are available in packs ranging from 6 to 24+ tablets, offering different per-use costs. While a larger pack may seem more economical, the actual value depends on how often you clean your washer (typically once a month).
We assess the price per tablet based on current market data and expert review consensus. For related maintenance tips, check out the clothes dryer maintenance resources and our article on dishwasher cleaning products for similar care routines.
You might also be interested in the best cleaning dishwasher products for a spotless machine.
Why You Should Trust Us
BestProducts evaluates each washing machine tablet using a consistent set of criteria and scores it on our 0, 10 BP Score. Our methodology is based on comprehensive product research, published specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback. This approach ensures our recommendations are unbiased and data-driven.
For additional context, our washing machine shut-off valve guide covers another important washer accessory.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing the top washing machine tablets based on expert opinion and user satisfaction, here are our top picks:
- Best Overall: Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner, 12 Ct., This tablet earned the highest BP Score in our analysis, offering a powerful clean that eliminates residue and odors. It’s a proven choice for maintaining any washer.
- Best for Pet Owners: Uproot Clean Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets for Pet Owners, With an excellent BP Score, this formula targets pet hair, urine, and dander, making it ideal for households with animals.
- Best Value Pack: MIGHTY CLEAN Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets 24 Pack, At a budget-friendly price per tablet, this option delivers solid cleaning performance and is septic safe, suitable for regular use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I use a washing machine tablet?
Most manufacturers recommend using a washing machine tablet once a month to prevent buildup and keep your washer fresh. If you have hard water or run heavy loads, you may need to clean every two weeks.
Can I use a washing machine tablet in an HE washer?
Yes, nearly all washing machine tablets are safe for high-efficiency (HE) washers. They produce fewer suds and dissolve quickly. Always confirm the product packaging, but our top picks are all HE-compatible.
Are washing machine tablets safe for septic systems?
Many washing machine tablets are labeled septic safe, including the Affresh, Uproot Clean, and MIGHTY CLEAN tablets we reviewed. These formulations use biodegradable ingredients that won’t harm your septic system.
How do I use a washing machine tablet correctly?
For best results, place the tablet directly into the empty washer drum (not the detergent dispenser). Run a hot cycle with an extra rinse option if available. Check your washer manual for specific instructions, some models require a cleaning cycle.
Can I use a washing machine tablet with bleach or vinegar?
It’s not recommended to mix washing machine tablets with other cleaning agents, as chemical reactions can reduce effectiveness or damage the machine. Stick to using the tablet alone in a dedicated cleaning cycle.
What should I do if a tablet doesn’t dissolve completely?
If you find undissolved residue, try running a second hot rinse cycle. Ensure your water temperature is hot enough and that the tablet is placed in the drum, not the dispenser. Some washers with low water temperature settings may need a different product formulation.
About the author
Shane covers refrigerators and washing machines for BestProducts, weighing capacity, energy use, and the repair records that decide whether a machine lasts a decade. He helps readers spend on the features that matter and skip the ones that fail early.