Some odor removers work by using oxygen boosts to deodorize your clothing and others contain essential oils to get things smelling fresh again. We researched the best odor removers on the market, evaluating each on effectiveness, ease of use, and convenience. Our top choice, OxiClean Odor Blasters Versatile Stain and Odor Remover, is one of the most powerful and effective odor removers available, and it’s incredibly easy to use. Below are the best laundry odor removers to keep your clothes and linens smelling fresh. OxiClean Odor Blasters won over our hearts because it actually gets deep into the fibers of your clothes, sheets, aprons, and whatever else and lifts the dirt, grime, and stains that caused the odor in the first place. OxiClean works on everything from blood and sweat to grass stains and grease. If you need to tackle both stains and odors (let’s face it: If your clothes have odors, they likely also have stains), this is the perfect one-product answer. To use this odor remover, add a scoop to your normal wash load and enjoy fresher, brighter clothes immediately. If you have extra-smelly clothing on your hands, you may need to soak it with OxiClean Odor Blasters before putting it through your washing machine. That process is also simple: Add one scoop of the powder to a gallon of water, drop it in your clothes, and let them soak for one to six hours, depending on the severity of the odor. After that, wash your laundry as you normally would. This odor remover is chlorine-free and safe for colors—two things that are important if you are washing sweaty gym clothing made of performance fabrics. It works best if you use it periodically, but it’s also safe enough to use in every load. Just make sure that you aren’t washing any delicate fabrics, such as silk or velvet. You can also use OxiClean on other household surfaces, such as upholstery and even tile and grout. We recommend testing a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure that it won’t cause any discoloration. Overall, OxiClean Odor Blasters packs a powerful punch in just one scoop of powder. It’s easy to use, color safe, and doubles as a stain remover for ultimate laundry day efficiency. Price at time of publish: $12 There are three scent options available: fresh burst, tropical paradise, and purifying waters. These scents work to cover up unpleasant odors rather than remove them entirely from the fabric. If you’re sensitive to fragrances, this likely isn’t the best option for you. The baking soda in the formula does help lift some odors and stains, although it is not as effective as other odor removers or other Arm & Hammer products designed for deep cleaning. Price at time of publish: $8 You can opt for the pour bottle or the squeeze bottle—whichever is the easiest application method for you. You can use Nature’s Miracle detergent alongside your normal detergent in the same wash cycle. You can also use it as a presoak treatment for serious smells. Either way, this odor-removing detergent really works. Price at time of publish: $10 Keep in mind that this is a spot treatment and is not intended for overall freshness. To use, spray it on a specific stained area, let it sit anywhere from five minutes to seven days (depending on the stain level), and then wash your clothing as you normally would. Price at time of publish: $10 These pods are a bit expensive, which isn’t surprising given the convenience. They work by getting into the fibers of your clothing and linens for a really thorough clean that removes odor-causing dirt. If you have specific items—such as performance athletic wear—that hangs onto odors, these are well worth the cost. Since this odor remover is in pod form, you won’t be able to adjust the amount dispensed for super tough or very light odors. Price at time of publish: $11 This is more expensive than some other odor removers, and it doesn’t perform quite as well as the hard-hitting chemical formulas. If you just want a boost to your already clean laundry, you’ll be happy with the odor reduction of the Branch Basics Oxygen Boost. If you have really smelly clothes, you might need to try multiple applications, which can get pricey. Price at time of publish: $22 The formula is safe to use in all washing machines and for those with a septic system. It doesn’t include sodium laurel sulfate (SLS), phosphate, bleach, dyes, or softeners. Instead, it is made with plant-based enzymes. You can use it as a regular laundry detergent or as a soaking formula for very soiled or stinky items. While it does come in a large quantity, you’ll go through it quickly if you use it as a soak because it requires up to four scoops. Price at time of publish: $28 You only need to use 2-4 ounces per wash for this odor eliminator to be effective. While the cap and bottle are convenient, there’s no measuring cup included. It is also a bit expensive for the size. Fortunately, it gets the odor-causing molecules out, so your pet is less likely to have an accident on the same item again. And if you’re a pet owner, you know that breaking that habit is priceless. Price at time of publish: $15
Washing Conditions
Most laundry odor removers work with a standard washing machine. Many also work with high-efficiency washing machines, although the recommended amount or instructions for use might change depending on the type of machine you own. If you have a septic system, look for a formula that is septic-safe. Finally, make sure that you follow the instructions for use and pay close attention to the fabric type and water temperature needed for safe and effective results. You may need to wash your clothes on a hotter setting than usual.
Scent
Look for a laundry odor remover that eliminates odors rather than covers them up with fragrances. Once the smells from your dirty laundry are removed, some odor remover boosts use a fragrance to add an extra element of freshness. Some people who are sensitive to chemicals may prefer fragrance-free odor removers.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Katie Begley, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. A Navy Veteran, Katie has used multiple laundry boosts from this list to keep her uniforms and physical fitness apparel clean and fresh. Now a mom of three, she relies on products that are convenient and easy to use. To compile this list, she prioritized effectiveness and simplicity. She also talked to Missouri-based cleaning expert Sadie Wilmes to get tips on how to use odor removers effectively. “Pet urine is some of the toughest to clean, whether it’s in the carpet or on a pet bed,” said Wilmes. “You may need to wash things twice or even three times. Just make sure to wait to dry it until you are sure that it is clean.”
