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When it comes to keeping laundry fresh, the Best Laundry Sanitizer can make a noticeable difference for households dealing with odor, bacteria-causing buildup, gym clothes, pet items, or musty fabrics. The right product does more than add fragrance—it helps support a cleaner wash and gives your laundry routine an extra layer of confidence.
As you compare the options below, pay attention to what each product is designed to do, whether you want a liquid additive, powder booster, spray, or machine cleaner, and whether you prefer scented or fragrance-free formulas. It also helps to consider load size, value per ounce, and whether the product is made for everyday laundry, odor removal, or machine maintenance.
Let’s get started!
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Crisp Linen, 90oz | Overall laundry sanitizing and odor elimination | Buy |
| Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Free & Clear, 90 Fl Oz | Fragrance-free and dye-free laundry sanitizing | Buy |
| Clorox FreshGuard Laundry Odor Remover, 80 Fl Oz | Odor removal and value bundle | Buy |
Best Laundry Sanitizer
1. Best Overall: Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Crisp Linen
- LAUNDRY DETERGENT ADDITIVE: Add Lysol Laundry Sanitizer to every wash, in the fabric softener drawer, to sanitize and deodorize smelly laundry. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer kills many bad odors that detergents leave behind.
- COLOR SAFE BLEACH ALTERNATIVE: Lysol Laundry Sanitizer is a bleach alternative that effectively kills 99.9% of bacteria, without the harshness of bleach. It's gentle on fabrics, effective in cold water, and is safe to use on colors and whites.
- LYSOL LAUNDRY SANITIZER: Better than in-wash scent boosters that just mask bad odors. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer kills the odor causing bacteria that laundry detergents alone can leave behind, even in cold water Can be used in standard and HE machines.
This Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive is one of the strongest all-around picks in the lineup because it is specifically positioned as a bacteria-causing laundry odor eliminator and detergent additive. With a 90 oz size and a 4.8 rating, it stands out as a practical choice for regular use in busy households.
The Crisp Linen scent makes it a good fit for shoppers who want their laundry to come out smelling clean and fresh. Since it is designed as a laundry sanitizer additive, it can be a smart option for loads that need a little extra help beyond standard detergent.
If you want a widely recognized product with a strong rating and straightforward purpose, this is an easy top pick to consider.
Pros
- 4.8 rating
- Large 90 oz size
- Designed to eliminate bacteria-causing odor
- Crisp Linen scent
Cons
- Not fragrance-free
- May not appeal to shoppers avoiding scented products
2. Best Fragrance-Free: Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Free & Clear
- LAUNDRY DETERGENT ADDITIVE: Add Lysol Laundry Sanitizer to every wash, in the fabric softener drawer, to sanitize and deodorize smelly laundry. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer kills many bad odors that detergents leave behind.
- COLOR SAFE BLEACH ALTERNATIVE: Lysol Laundry Sanitizer is a bleach alternative that effectively kills 99.9% of bacteria, without the harshness of bleach. It's gentle on fabrics, effective in cold water, and is safe to use on colors and whites.
- LYSOL LAUNDRY SANITIZER: Better than in-wash scent boosters that just mask bad odors. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer kills the odor causing bacteria that laundry detergents alone can leave behind, even in cold water Can be used in standard and HE machines.
For shoppers who want a laundry sanitizer without fragrance or dyes, this Free & Clear version offers a simple and practical alternative. It carries the same strong 4.8 rating and comes in a 90 Fl Oz bottle, making it appealing for routine laundry care.
The product is described as a 0% bleach laundry sanitizer and a bacteria-causing laundry odor eliminator, which makes it a strong fit for those focused on freshness without added scent. Its unscented profile is especially useful for sensitive preferences.
If scent-free laundry care is your priority, this is one of the most straightforward choices on the list.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- 4.8 rating
- Large 90 Fl Oz bottle
Cons
- Unscented finish may not suit those who prefer fragrance
- Only available as a liquid additive
3. Best Value: Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer & Scent Booster
- LAUNDRY DETERGENT ADDITIVE: Add Lysol Laundry Sanitizer to every wash, in the fabric softener drawer, to sanitize and deodorize smelly laundry. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer kills many bad odors that detergents leave behind.
- COLOR SAFE BLEACH ALTERNATIVE: Lysol Laundry Sanitizer is a bleach alternative that effectively kills 99.9% of bacteria***, without the harshness of bleach. It's gentle on fabrics, effective in cold water, and is safe to use on colors and whites.
- LYSOL LAUNDRY SANITIZER: Better than in-wash scent boosters that just mask bad odors. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer kills the odor causing bacteria that laundry detergents alone can leave behind, even in cold water! Can be used in standard and HE machines.
This Lysol option combines laundry sanitizing with a scent booster format, which makes it appealing for shoppers who want more than odor control alone. It is listed as a color safe bleach alternative and a laundry odor eliminator that kills bacteria and viruses, with a 4.8 rating.
The 41 Fl Oz size keeps the purchase affordable at just $6.72, which adds to its value for buyers who want a lower-cost entry point. The Crisp Linen scent also makes it feel like a freshening add-on rather than a purely functional product.
For shoppers balancing price, familiarity, and a multi-purpose laundry additive, this is a strong value pick.
Pros
- Low price point
- 4.8 rating
- Color safe bleach alternative
- Works as a scent booster
Cons
- Smaller size than some alternatives
- Scented formula may not be for everyone
4. Best Bulk Option: Clorox FreshGuard Laundry Odor Remover
- 3 IN 1 ODOR FIGHTING SOLUTION: With 3 in 1 Clorox FreshGuard Laundry Odor Remover, you get fresh clothes, a fresh scent and a fresh machine, so every wash feels like the first; pack may vary
- END THE DREADED REWASH CYCLE: Get odor out the first time with a laundry odor eliminator that wipes out up to 100% of musty odors in just one wash, giving you the perfect clean without extra steps
- SAFE ON ALL WASHABLE FABRICS: This bleach free and color safe laundry additive is easy to use and suitable for all washable fabrics when used as directed, no soak or pretreat required
Clorox FreshGuard Laundry Odor Remover is a good option for shoppers who want a larger pack and a product focused on odor removal. It comes in an 80 Fl Oz pack of 2, which gives it a practical edge for households that do laundry frequently.
This formula is 0% bleach and comes in Clean Linen, so it is aimed at freshness without relying on bleach. With a 4.8 rating, it has solid appeal for routine use.
If your main concern is recurring laundry odor and you want a multi-bottle value setup, this is worth a close look.
Pros
- Pack of 2
- 0% bleach
- 4.8 rating
- Good for regular odor removal
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- May be more than occasional users need
5. Best for Sweat and Musty Odors: OxiClean Odor Blasters Fabric Rinse
- A BETTER CLEAN: 50 fl oz bottle of OxiClean Odor Blasters Fabric Rinse, 4-in-1 Clean Rinse in a Sparkling Fresh scent; designed to be used as a laundry additive with laundry detergent for a sparkling fresh clean
- 4-IN-1 BENEFITS: Laundry rinse with a powerful Clean Rinse formula that eliminates odors*, rinses away clean, and infuses a lasting scent with noticeable freshness (*sweat, body odor, and musty odors)
- POWERFUL ODOR DEFENSE: Packed with 6X the odor-fighting ingredients (vs. leading value liquid detergent per load) and tackles stubborn odors* at the source in a single rinse, leaving behind no residue (*sweat, body odor, and musty odors)
OxiClean Odor Blasters Fabric Rinse is built for people dealing with sweat and musty odors, making it especially relevant for activewear and everyday clothes that need a deeper freshening step. It includes a 4-in-1 clean rinse formula and comes in a 50 fl oz bottle.
With a 4.7 rating and Sparkling Fresh scent, it offers a balanced combination of odor focus and fresh finish. The product’s laundry additive format makes it a simple item to integrate into most wash routines.
This is a sensible pick if your laundry challenge is less about fragrance and more about stubborn smell buildup.
Pros
- Targets sweat and musty odors
- 4-in-1 clean rinse formula
- 4.7 rating
- Fresh scent
Cons
- Smaller than some large-format bottles
- Not specifically labeled as a sanitizer
6. Best Powder Booster: Enzyme Laundry Booster Odor Remover
- Powerful Bio Enzymatic Cleaner: ACTIVE Laundry Odor Removers Boost your normal laundry detergent to effectively target Stains & Odors, not mask them like washing soda or in-wash scent boosters. It uses Lab-proven Biological Cleaning to remove laundry odor & strong smell
- Heavy Duty Stain Remover for clothes: Our Enzyme Laundry Additive Powder is formulated for Stain Removal of dirty clothes, perfect for Funk, Grease, Armpit Sweat stain, Blood stain, Oil and more!
- Gentle on All Fabrics: Our Fragrance Free Laundry Boost Plant-based Formula uses zero harsh chemicals. Natural enhancer for whites & colors. Even safe for pesky activewear fabrics
This unscented enzymatic powder is a strong choice for shoppers who prefer a booster in powder form rather than a liquid. It is described as a detergent additive eliminator for sweat, oil, and blood, and the 2 lb size is stated to handle 64 loads.
Because it uses bio active enzymes, it stands out for shoppers looking for an odor-removing laundry booster with a more targeted approach. Its 4.7 rating and unscented profile make it especially practical for those who want function without added fragrance.
If your preference is a powder additive and you want something built for odor and stain support, this one deserves attention.
Pros
- Powder format
- Unscented
- 64 loads per package
- Targets sweat, oil, and blood
Cons
- Not a liquid sanitizer
- May not suit buyers who want a scented product
7. Best Concentrate: OdoBan Disinfectant Concentrate and Odor Eliminator
- Multi-Purpose: Our cleaning concentrate cleans, disinfects, freshens, and eliminates unpleasant stenches. This one gallon jug features a fresh linen scent. Kill Viruses* in 60 Seconds
- Multi-Surface: Our versatile formula can be used on many household surfaces, including upholstery, carpets, bedding, showers, walls, and floors.
- Multi-Use: Not only is our versatile cleaning and disinfecting formula effective, but it can double as an air freshener or even as a laundry refresher. Contact Time: Leave surface wet for 60 seconds. Use a 10 minute contact time for disinfection against all other bacteria and fungi claimed.
OdoBan Disinfectant Concentrate and Odor Eliminator is a concentrated option in a 1-gallon size, which can appeal to shoppers who prefer a multi-use product with a fresh linen scent. It is rated 4.8 and is positioned as an odor eliminator.
Because it is a concentrate, it may be useful for buyers who like to control how much product they use. That can make it a practical pick for households that want flexibility in their cleaning routine.
If you want a concentrated product with a large volume, this is a solid addition to the list.
Pros
- Concentrate format
- Large 1-gallon size
- Fresh Linen scent
- 4.8 rating
Cons
- May be more product than casual users need
- Not specifically a dedicated laundry sanitizer additive
8. Best Spray Option: Clorox Fabric Sanitizer Aerosol Spray
- KILLS 99.9% OF BACTERIA: Spray, sanitize and go, no pre-cleaning or post-rinse required with this aerosol spray formulated to kill 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria on soft surfaces in 30 seconds
- ONE-STEP SANITIZER: Sanitizes and effectively eliminates odor causing bacteria in clothing and fabrics in 30 seconds, making it ideal when your clothing needs a little refresh in between washes
- BLEACH-FREE: Clorox Fabric Sanitizer Spray sanitizes your clothes and fabrics without bleach-free fabric sanitizer while leaving behind a fresh, clean lavender scent
This Clorox Fabric Sanitizer comes in aerosol spray form, which makes it different from the liquid and powder options in the list. It offers a lavender scent and a 14-ounce size, making it a compact choice for quick fabric freshening.
A spray format can be convenient for targeted use on items that do not need a full wash routine. Since it is specifically labeled as a fabric sanitizer, it may appeal to buyers looking for a fast, direct option.
If convenience and spray application matter most, this product brings something useful to the table.
Pros
- Spray format
- Fabric sanitizer
- Lavender scent
- Compact size
Cons
- Smaller size
- Not a wash additive
9. Best Laundry Booster: ARM & HAMMER Super Washing Soda
- One 55 oz box of ARM & HAMMER Super Washing Soda Household Cleaner and Laundry Booster
- 100% fragrance-free and phosphate-free washing soda neutralizes and eliminates odors naturally without the use of heavy fragrances, leaving a long-lasting fresh and neutral clean scent
- As a laundry additive, it improves liquid laundry detergent performance by up to 15% (1), giving you cleaner, whiter and brighter laundry and upholstery (1) For mustard and blood stains vs leading value detergent alone
ARM & HAMMER Super Washing Soda is a household cleaner and laundry booster in a 55 oz box, making it a straightforward option for shoppers who want a classic laundry support product. It holds a 4.8 rating and comes at a low price point.
Because it is positioned as a laundry booster rather than a sanitizer, it is better viewed as a helpful add-on for washing sessions. The product lends itself well to shoppers who want a simple, widely familiar booster.
If your goal is to strengthen your laundry routine without spending much, this is a dependable budget-minded choice.
Pros
- Low cost
- 4.8 rating
- Useful as a laundry booster
- Household cleaner format
Cons
- Not specifically a laundry sanitizer
- Less specialized than some alternatives
10. Best for Gym Clothes: Lysol Tough Odor Eliminator Laundry Sanitizer Additive
- ELIMINATES 99.9% OF BACTERIA AND VIRUSES*: Including the Covid-19 virus.** *Use as directed. **Eliminates SARS-COV-2 during pre-soak conditions in 5 minutes. EPA Reg No.777-128​
- ELIMINATES ODOR CAUSING BACTERIA FROM SPORTS CLOTHES AND ACTIVEWEAR: Use Lysol Laundry Sanitizer to remove bad smells and sanitize gym clothes, towels, jerseys and uniforms.
- CONTAINS 0% BLEACH, GENTLE ON FABRICS: Bleach and Phosphate free. Gentle on most fabrics, including whites and colors. Can be used in cold water
This Lysol Tough Odor Eliminator is clearly tailored toward gym clothes and activewear, making it a focused pick for people who deal with frequent sweat-related laundry. It is a 0% bleach formula and is described as eliminating odor-causing bacteria.
The 41 oz size keeps it more compact than the larger bottles in the lineup, but its purpose is narrow and practical. With a 4.7 rating and the same familiar brand family, it fits the needs of active households.
If workout gear is your biggest laundry challenge, this product is a smart match.
Pros
- Designed for gym clothes and activewear
- 0% bleach
- 4.7 rating
- Targets odor-causing bacteria
Cons
- Smaller bottle size
- May not be as versatile as general-purpose options
11. Best for Machine Maintenance: Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner
- NO. 1 WASHING MACHINE CLEANER TABLET*
- TIME-RELEASE DEEP CLEAN. Affresh tablets are scientifically designed to deliver extended cleaning action throughout the wash cycle, helping power away bacteria, grime and soap scum deep inside the washing machine’s pump, drum and filter to help optimize performance.
- STINKY PET ODOR? Affresh washing machine cleaner helps remove residues that can trap odors from pets, sweat and mildew that can transfer onto clothes and sheets.
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner is meant to help power away odor-causing bacteria and grime deep inside the pump, valve, and hoses, which makes it different from the standard laundry additives on this list. The pack includes 6 time-release tablets and is meant to provide a 6 month supply.
With an EPA Safer Choice designation and a 4.7 rating, it is a useful companion product for buyers who want to keep the machine itself cleaner. That makes it a strong support item rather than a fabric treatment product.
If your laundry concern includes the washer itself, this belongs on your shortlist.
Pros
- Helps clean the washing machine
- 6 tablet supply
- EPA Safer Choice
- 4.7 rating
Cons
- Not for direct fabric sanitizing
- Different use case from laundry additives
12. Best for Pet Odors: Nature’s Miracle Laundry Boost In-Wash Stain and Odor Remover
- LAUNDRY BIO-ENZYMATIC FORMULA: Helps break down and destroy tough pet stains and odors, such as urine, feces, vomit, blood, grass and drool.
- GENTLE ON FABRICS: Perfect for use on clothing, pet beds and more—not for use on specialty fabrics, including washable silk, khaki, fluorescents, wool, suede and leathers.
- SAFE FOR PETS AND HOME: Formulated without phosphates, parabens, sulfates and bleach, this product is safe for use around pets and home, when used as directed.
Nature’s Miracle Laundry Boost is presented as an in-wash stain and odor removing additive, and the brand is often associated with pet-related cleaning needs. This version comes in a 32 oz spray format and is made for all machines.
Its 4.7 rating and focused stain-and-odor language make it a practical option for households that need more than a basic freshen-up. Because it is a spray, it may also feel versatile for targeting problem areas before washing.
If pet-related smells or stubborn odors are part of your routine, this is a worthwhile option to consider.
Pros
- In-wash stain and odor remover
- Spray format
- Made for all machines
- 4.7 rating
Cons
- Smaller bottle than many liquid additives
- Not specifically labeled as a sanitizer
13. Best Powder Odor Remover: OxiClean Odor Blasters Powder
- One 5 lb box of OxiClean Odor Blasters Versatile Odor Eliminator and Stain Remover Powder laundry booster to get out tough stains and stubborn smells
- Oxygen-based, water-activated laundry booster gets out tough dirt, persistent spots and set-in stains, plus eliminates sweat, musty towel and body odors with OxiClean stain remover
- Works with regular detergent as a clothes stain remover and odor neutralizer to get clothes extra clean. For best results, use as a presoak before washing
OxiClean Odor Blasters Versatile Odor and Laundry Stain Remover Powder is a 5 lb powder option with a 4.8 rating, making it a strong contender for buyers who prefer powder over liquid additives. It is aimed at both odor and stain removal.
This is a versatile format for people who want a simple booster they can add into laundry routines as needed. The larger powder size may also appeal to households that go through laundry quickly.
If you want a well-rated powder with broad use potential, this is a practical pick.
Pros
- Powder format
- Large 5 lb size
- 4.8 rating
- Targets odor and stains
Cons
- Not a liquid sanitizer
- May be less convenient for some users
14. Best Prewash Spray: Shout Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray
- What You'll Get: One 22oz spray bottle of Shout's Prewash Active Enzyme Stain Remover Spray. Bottle, excluding trigger & label, made of 25% Post Consumer Recycled plastic!
- Everyday formula: works on a wide range of stains from food, drinks, makeup, grass, dirt, red wine, blood, and more
- Clings, Penetrates, & Lifts: 50x more concentrated than in-wash powered when applied directly to stain
Shout Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray is a prewash spray designed to cling, penetrate, and lift more than 100 types of everyday stains. It comes in a 22 oz bottle and carries a 4.7 rating.
While it is primarily a stain-removal product rather than a sanitizer, it can still be useful in a laundry routine where stubborn stains and odor-prone fabrics need extra attention. Its spray format makes it easy to apply before washing.
If your focus is stain treatment with a familiar, easy-to-use spray, this is a useful supporting product.
Pros
- Prewash spray
- Targets over 100 types of stains
- Easy to apply
- 4.7 rating
Cons
- Not a laundry sanitizer
- More stain-focused than odor-focused
15. Best for Whitening: OxiClean White Revive Whitener & Stain Remover Liquid Additive
- A BRIGHTER CLEAN: 45 fl oz bottle of OxiClean White Revive Whitener & Stain Remover Liquid Additive; use with detergent to brighten faded whites and remove tough stains
- MORE WHITENING POWER: Laundry whitener and stain fighter with 40% more whitening power (vs. chlorine bleach per load) and 2X the whiteners (vs. leading value liquid detergent per load)
- CHLORINE-FREE AND COLOR-SAFE: Chlorine-free and color-safe formula that revives dingy whites without risking chlorine spills and splatters on colored clothing
OxiClean White Revive is a liquid additive designed as a water-activated oxygen bleach for laundry, making it especially relevant for white fabrics. It comes in a 45 fl oz bottle and has a 4.5 rating.
This product is more about whitening and stain removal than sanitizer performance, so it belongs to shoppers who are focused on keeping whites bright. As a liquid additive, it fits into familiar laundry routines without much effort.
If your laundry goal is keeping white loads looking fresh, this can be a useful option.
Pros
- Good for whites
- Liquid additive format
- Water-activated oxygen bleach
- Helpful for stain removal
Cons
- Lower rating than several others
- Not specifically a laundry sanitizer
Buying Guide
1. Product Type
Start by deciding whether you want a liquid additive, powder booster, spray, or washing machine cleaner. The right format should match how you already do laundry and how much convenience you want.
2. Scent Preference
Some shoppers want a fresh scent like Crisp Linen or Lavender, while others prefer unscented options. If you are sensitive to fragrance or wash baby clothes, a fragrance-free formula may be a better fit.
3. Intended Use
Not every product on the list does the same thing. Some are true laundry sanitizers, others focus on odor removal, and some are better for stains or machine cleaning. Matching the product to your main concern helps avoid disappointment.
4. Bottle Size and Value
Look at the ounce size, pack count, and price together. A smaller bottle may be fine for occasional use, while larger sizes or two-packs can be better for families or frequent laundry.
5. Rating and Reliability
Ratings can help you compare options at a glance. Products with strong ratings, such as 4.7 or 4.8, suggest that many buyers have had positive experiences with them.
6. Fabric and Load Compatibility
Check whether the product is meant for activewear, white loads, everyday fabrics, or all machines. This helps ensure the formula matches the clothes and washer you use most often.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Laundry Sanitizer for everyday use?
The best everyday choice depends on your needs, but a well-rated liquid additive like Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive is a strong all-around option because it is designed to eliminate bacteria-causing odor and comes in a large bottle.
Should I choose a scented or unscented laundry sanitizer?
If you like a fresh smell after washing, a scented option can be a good choice. If you are sensitive to fragrance or want a cleaner-feeling formula without added scent, an unscented version may suit you better.
Are powder laundry boosters as useful as liquid additives?
They can be, depending on what you need. Powder boosters are useful for some odor and stain problems, while liquid additives may be easier for users who want a simpler pour-and-wash routine.
Can I use a laundry sanitizer on gym clothes?
Yes, many shoppers use laundry sanitizers or odor-focused additives for activewear. A product specifically described for gym clothes, such as Lysol Tough Odor Eliminator Laundry Sanitizer Additive, can be a fitting pick.
Do I need a washing machine cleaner too?
If your washer has odor or buildup issues, a machine cleaner like Affresh can help care for the appliance itself. That is separate from treating the clothes, but it can support a fresher laundry routine overall.
Conclusion
The Best Laundry Sanitizer for your home depends on what matters most: scent, fragrance-free care, odor removal, value, or a specialized use like activewear or machine cleaning. If you want the strongest overall balance, Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive is a standout. If you prefer unscented care, the Free & Clear version is a smart choice. And if you want the best value or a more targeted option, several of the other picks above are worth a closer look.
Choose the product that matches your laundry habits, and you will be much more likely to get fresh, clean results that fit your routine.