How to Use Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner (Step-by-Step)
If your washer has started smelling like a damp basement, throwing an Affresh tablet into the machine is one of the fastest ways to break down built-up residue, body oils, and detergent scum.
However, the most common mistake people make is putting the tablet in the wrong place. If you toss it into the detergent dispenser drawer, it won’t dissolve properly and will leave behind a crusty chemical mess.
Here is the foolproof, step-by-step guide to using Affresh in both front-load and top-load washers.
🚨 The Golden Rule: Affresh tablets go directly inside the bottom of the tub, never in the detergent tray. And make sure the washer is completely empty of clothes!
Step-by-Step Affresh Instructions
1. Completely Empty the Washer
Remove all clothes, towels, or stray socks from the drum. Do not add any regular liquid laundry detergent, bleach, or fabric softener to your dispenser drawers during this cycle.
2. Drop the Tablet Directly in the Drum
Take one single Affresh tablet and place it straight into the bottom of the washer drum:
- Top-Load Washer: Drop it directly onto the bottom agitator/impeller plate.
- Front-Load Washer: Toss it into the back or center of the stainless steel drum.
3. Select the Cleaning Cycle
Set your washing machine controls:
- If your machine has it: Select the “Clean Washer” or “Tub Clean” cycle.
- If your machine lacks a clean cycle: Select the Normal / Heavy Duty cycle and manually set the water temperature to HOT.
4. Run the Full Cycle & Wipe Down
Let the machine run its entire cycle. Once finished, open the door:
- For Front-Loaders: Take a damp microfiber cloth and wipe down the inside fold of the rubber door gasket. Affresh loosens trapped grime, and wiping it away keeps mold from returning.
- Leave the Door Open: Leave the washer door cracked open for 1 to 2 hours to let the drum air-dry completely.
Can You Use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner in a Washing Machine?
Because the tablets look almost identical, a common mistake is mixing up the dishwasher and washing machine cleaners.
Do not use the dishwasher tablets in your washing machine. The formulas are chemically different. Dishwasher tablets are designed to break down food grease and hard water calcium, while washing machine tablets are formulated to dissolve laundry detergent scum and body oils. While it won’t break your machine, it will not clean it effectively either.
🛒 Where to Restock
If you run through your pack, you can grab a standard 6-Pack of Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner on Amazon to keep on hand for monthly maintenance.
📚 What to Read Next
If your machine still smells musty even after running an Affresh cycle, the buildup might be trapped deeper in your drain components:
- How to Clean a Washing Machine Drain Filter - The 5-minute fix for cleared debris and trapped coins under your tub.
- What Does the Tub Clean Cycle Actually Do? - How internal sensors and high temperatures work together during maintenance cycles.
- How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine - Clean dirty sneakers safely without damaging your drum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to put Affresh washing machine cleaner?
Place the tablet directly inside the empty washing machine drum. Do not place it in the detergent dispenser drawer.
How to use Affresh washing machine cleaner in a top loader?
Remove all laundry, drop one tablet directly onto the bottom agitator or impeller plate, and run the 'Clean Washer' cycle or a normal cycle with hot water.
How often to use Affresh washing machine cleaner?
For best results, use one tablet once a month, or every 30 wash cycles, to prevent odor-causing residue from building up.
Can I use Affresh dishwasher cleaner in my washing machine?
No. While they look similar, the formulas are designed for different types of grime. Using the dishwasher tablet in your washer won't damage it, but it will not effectively clean laundry detergent residue.