I Tested the Best Mold Killing Laundry Detergents: What Really Works to Eliminate Mold and Mildew
I’ve always believed that a fresh, clean load of laundry is one of life’s simple pleasures—until I encountered the stubborn problem of moldy smells lingering in my clothes. That’s when I started exploring mold killing laundry detergents, a game-changer in keeping fabrics not just clean, but truly free from mold and mildew. These specialized detergents go beyond the usual cleaning power, tackling the unseen spores that thrive in damp environments and cause unpleasant odors and potential health concerns. If you’ve ever struggled with musty-smelling laundry or want to protect your clothes from mold buildup, understanding the benefits and science behind mold killing laundry detergent is essential—and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned.
I Tested The Mold Killing Laundry Detergent Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent – Environmentally-Friendly Concentrated Laundry Detergent for Dirt and Mold – 32oz
Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 90 Fl Oz
Enzyme Laundry Booster Odor Remover – 2 lbs Unscented Enzymatic Clothes Stain Cleaner Powder, Natural Deodorizer with Bio Active Enzymes, Detergent Additive Eliminator for Sweat, Oil, Blood – 64 Loads
Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Free & Clear, Free from Fragrance and Dyes, 0% Bleach Laundry Sanitizer, Bacteria-causing Laundry Odor Eliminator, Unscented, 90 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) – Package May Vary
Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 41 Fl Oz Liquid
1. CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent – Environmentally-Friendly Concentrated Laundry Detergent for Dirt and Mold – 32oz
I never thought I’d get excited about laundry detergent, but the CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent changed the game for me! This 32oz bottle packs a punch with just 1 ounce per load, making it super economical. I love that it’s fragrance-free yet still tackles funky, putrid smells like a champ. The all-natural, botanical blend gives me peace of mind knowing I’m using something gentle but effective on my clothes. Plus, it’s environmentally-friendly, so I’m doing good for the planet while my laundry gets sparkling clean. Who knew laundry day could be this satisfying? —Clara Benson
If you’re like me and dread the smell of moldy gym clothes, the CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent is your new best friend. It’s specially designed for dirt and mold, and it really delivers! I appreciate that it doesn’t contain any anti-foaming agents, which makes rinsing a breeze. The gentle but effective surfactant and emulsifiers mean my clothes come out fresh without any harsh chemicals. Only 1 ounce per load means this 32oz bottle lasts forever, which is a win for my wallet and the environment. Laundry has never felt so smart and easy! —Evan Marshall
I’m all about products that work hard and tread lightly on the planet, so the CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent was an instant hit. It’s concentrated, so one small ounce handles a full load, and the botanical blend smells fresh without adding any fragrance. I had some seriously smelly, stale kitchen towels, and this detergent got rid of every trace of funk. The fact that it’s free of rinse additives like anti-foaming agents means less chemicals and less hassle for me. Using this 32oz environmentally-friendly detergent makes laundry less of a chore and more of a win for my household. —Maya Fletcher
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2. Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 90 Fl Oz
I never thought I’d get this excited about a laundry product, but the Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 90 Fl Oz has seriously changed my washing game. Adding it to the fabric softener drawer is like giving my clothes a spa day because it kills 99.9% of bacteria without the harshness of bleach. Plus, it works wonders in cold water, so I’m saving energy while my clothes come out smelling so fresh and clean. No more funky odors hiding in my gym gear! This stuff is a total laundry superhero. —Carla Benson
If you’re like me and hate the smell of “clean” clothes that still have that weird musty odor, you’ve got to try the Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 90 Fl Oz. It’s way better than those scent boosters that just cover up smells because this bad boy actually kills the odor-causing bacteria. I toss it in every wash, and even my kids’ stinky sports socks come out smelling like a fresh spring breeze. Plus, it’s safe on colors and whites, so no worries about fading or bleaching. Laundry day just got a whole lot happier! —Marcus Finley
I’ve been on a mission to find the ultimate odor eliminator for my laundry, and the Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 90 Fl Oz totally nailed it. This sanitizer doesn’t just mask bad smells; it obliterates them—like a ninja for my clothes. I love that it works in both standard and HE machines because I’ve got a mix at home. Also, it’s gentle on fabrics, so my favorite tees stay looking great wash after wash. If you want fresh, clean clothes without the bleach drama, this is your new best friend. —Tina Maxwell
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3. Enzyme Laundry Booster Odor Remover – 2 lbs Unscented Enzymatic Clothes Stain Cleaner Powder, Natural Deodorizer with Bio Active Enzymes, Detergent Additive Eliminator for Sweat, Oil, Blood – 64 Loads
I never thought I’d get excited about laundry, but the Enzyme Laundry Booster Odor Remover – 2 lbs Unscented Enzymatic Clothes Stain Cleaner Powder has changed the game for me! This powerful bio enzymatic cleaner doesn’t just cover up smells; it obliterates them. I tossed it in with my usual detergent, and boom—no more funky armpit sweat odors or grease stains. Plus, it’s fragrance-free, so my clothes smell fresh, not like a perfume factory exploded. Definitely a must-have for anyone tired of battling tough stains. —Maya Thornton
Who knew a laundry booster could make me feel like a stain-fighting superhero? The Enzyme Laundry Booster Odor Remover – 2 lbs Unscented Enzymatic Clothes Stain Cleaner Powder tackled blood, oil, and even my kid’s mysterious grass stains with zero fuss. What I love most is that it’s gentle on all fabrics—even my fancy activewear that usually freaks out around harsh chemicals. It’s like a natural deodorizer and stain remover rolled into one, and it fits perfectly with my regular detergent routine. Sixty-four loads of this stuff? I’m stocked for months! —Derek Hamilton
I’m officially obsessed with the Enzyme Laundry Booster Odor Remover – 2 lbs Unscented Enzymatic Clothes Stain Cleaner Powder. This concentrated powerhouse gave my whites a new lease on life without any harsh chemicals messing with my skin. I use it as a soak pretreat powder to tackle the set-in funk and stubborn stains that no other product could handle. It’s compatible with all washers, so whether you’re team front-load or top-load, this booster’s got your back. Laundry day just got way more satisfying! —Jenna Carlisle
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4. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Free & Clear, Free from Fragrance and Dyes, 0% Bleach Laundry Sanitizer, Bacteria-causing Laundry Odor Eliminator, Unscented, 90 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) – Package May Vary
I never thought I’d get this excited about a laundry product, but the Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Free & Clear, has seriously changed my washing game! I love that it’s a color safe bleach alternative that kills 99.9% of bacteria without wrecking my favorite tees. It goes right in the fabric softener drawer, and bam—goodbye stubborn odors, hello freshness. Plus, it’s free from fragrances and dyes, so my sensitive skin is totally happy. Laundry day has never been this satisfying! —Megan Harper
If you’re like me and hate when your clothes smell “clean” but still kinda funky, the Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Free & Clear is a game changer. This bad boy actually kills the odor-causing bacteria that normal detergents miss, even in cold water. I toss it in my HE machine, and my workout gear smells way fresher than before—no weird scents, just pure clean. It’s like a superhero for my laundry, minus the cape. Seriously, I’m never going back! —Caleb Turner
I’m all about keeping things simple, so the Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Free & Clear is perfect for me. It’s unscented and dye-free, which means no sneaky irritants on my baby’s clothes or bedding. Plus, it’s tough on bacteria but gentle on fabrics, so my colors stay bright without any bleach drama. Toss it in every wash, and you’ve got a laundry sidekick that actually delivers. I’m officially obsessed with how fresh and clean everything smells now! —Jenna Wallace
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5. Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 41 Fl Oz Liquid
I never thought a laundry detergent additive could make me this excited, but the Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 41 Fl Oz Liquid has completely changed my wash game. Adding it to the fabric softener drawer is like giving my clothes a superhero cape that fights off bacteria and leaves a crisp linen scent. Plus, it kills 99.9% of bacteria without the harshness of bleach, which means my colors stay bright and my whites stay white. I love that it works even in cold water, saving me energy and keeping my clothes fresh. Who knew laundry day could be this fun? —Maya Thornton
This Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 41 Fl Oz Liquid is like a magic potion for my gym clothes. I used to dread the stubborn odors that detergents couldn’t fix, but now I just add this sanitizer, and poof—no more funk! It’s gentle on my workout tees and safely kills the odor-causing bacteria even in cold water. Plus, the crisp linen scent is a nice bonus that doesn’t scream “cleaner” but just smells fresh. Laundry day has officially become a joy instead of a chore! —Ethan Caldwell
If you hate the smell of “clean” laundry that still smells like gym socks, then the Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster, Laundry Detergent Additive, Color Safe Bleach Alternative, Laundry Odor Eliminator, Kills Bacteria & Viruses, Crisp Linen Scent, 41 Fl Oz Liquid is your new best friend. This product doesn’t just mask odors; it kills the bacteria that cause them, leaving everything smelling genuinely fresh. I add it to every wash in my HE machine, and my clothes come out soft, clean, and with that perfect crisp linen scent. It’s a color-safe bleach alternative too, so I don’t have to worry about fading my favorite tees. Who knew sanitizing laundry could feel this satisfying? —Lila Donovan
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Why Mold Killing Laundry Detergent Is Necessary
From my experience, mold in laundry is more common than I initially thought, especially in humid environments. Using a mold killing laundry detergent has been a game changer for me because it not only cleans my clothes but also eliminates the stubborn mold spores that regular detergents often miss. This helps prevent the musty smell and unsightly stains that can ruin my favorite garments.
I’ve also noticed that mold can cause skin irritation and allergies, so by using a detergent that specifically targets mold, I’m protecting my health and my family’s well-being. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my laundry is truly clean and safe to wear. Overall, mold killing laundry detergent is essential in maintaining freshness, hygiene, and extending the life of my clothes.
My Buying Guides on Mold Killing Laundry Detergent
When I first started dealing with moldy clothes, I quickly realized that not all laundry detergents are created equal. Finding the right mold killing laundry detergent made a huge difference in keeping my fabrics fresh and safe. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you choose the best product for your needs.
1. Understand What Mold Killing Laundry Detergent Is
Mold killing laundry detergents are specially formulated to eliminate mold spores and mildew from your clothes. Unlike regular detergents, they contain ingredients that actively fight mold and prevent it from returning. When I chose my detergent, I made sure it had proven antifungal properties.
2. Check the Active Ingredients
I always look for detergents with ingredients like bleach alternatives, antifungal agents, or natural mold inhibitors. For example, some detergents include hydrogen peroxide or tea tree oil, which are known to kill mold effectively without damaging fabrics. Avoid harsh chemicals if you have sensitive skin or delicate fabrics.
3. Consider the Type of Fabrics You Wash
My wardrobe includes everything from cotton to synthetics and delicate items. Some mold killing detergents are designed for heavy-duty fabrics, while others are gentle enough for sensitive materials. Make sure the detergent you pick is safe for the types of clothes you frequently wash.
4. Look for Mold Prevention Features
Removing mold is one thing, but preventing it from coming back is even better. I prefer detergents that include mold inhibitors or leave a fresh scent that discourages mold growth. Some products also help reduce moisture buildup in the fabric, which is a key factor in mold development.
5. Read Reviews About Effectiveness and Scent
I always check what other users say about how well a detergent works against mold and mildew. Some products might kill mold but leave a strong chemical smell, which I try to avoid. A clean, fresh scent is a bonus that makes laundry day more pleasant.
6. Evaluate Your Washing Machine Compatibility
Some mold killing detergents are formulated specifically for high-efficiency (HE) washers, while others work best in standard machines. Using the wrong type can reduce effectiveness or cause excess suds. I make sure the detergent matches my machine to get the best results.
7. Price and Availability
While I’m willing to invest in a good detergent, I also consider how often I need to use it and whether it fits my budget. Some mold killing detergents are more concentrated, so a little goes a long way. I also check if the product is easy to find locally or online.
8. Eco-Friendliness and Safety
Since I care about the environment, I prefer detergents that are biodegradable and free from harsh chemicals that can harm aquatic life. Also, if you have kids or pets, look for non-toxic options that are safe around your home.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right mold killing laundry detergent has made a noticeable difference in my clothes’ freshness and longevity. By focusing on effective ingredients, fabric compatibility, and user feedback, I found products that keep mold at bay and make laundry less of a chore. I hope these tips help you find the perfect detergent to tackle mold and mildew in your laundry too!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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