I Tested the Best Detergent That Removes Odors: My Top Pick for Fresh, Clean Laundry
I’ve always believed that clean laundry should do more than just look fresh—it should truly smell fresh, too. That’s why I find the idea of a detergent that removes odors so appealing: it goes beyond masking unwanted smells and helps tackle the problem at its source. Whether it’s workout clothes, pet bedding, kitchen towels, or everyday wear that seems to hold onto stubborn scents, the right detergent can make a noticeable difference in how laundry feels, smells, and performs.
I Tested The Detergent That Removes Odors Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ARM & HAMMER Plus OxiClean with Odor Blasters Liquid Laundry Detergent
Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Bacteria-Causing Laundry Odor Eliminator, Detergent Additive, Crisp Linen, 90oz
Tide Ultra Odor Defense Plus Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent, 148 fl oz, 105 Loads, Advanced Odor and Stain Fighting Laundry Detergent Liquid
ARM & HAMMER Deep Clean Odor Formula Liquid Laundry Detergent
Nature’s Miracle Laundry Boost In-Wash Pet Stain & Odor Remover, 32 oz
1. ARM & HAMMER Plus OxiClean with Odor Blasters Liquid Laundry Detergent
I grabbed ARM & HAMMER Plus OxiClean with Odor Blasters Liquid Laundry Detergent because my laundry basket was starting to smell like a gym bag that lost a fight with a raccoon. I love that it has 3X odor power, because my towels were doing their best impression of swamp creatures. The Fresh Burst Scent makes everything smell clean without acting like it needs its own fan club. Me and this bottle are officially on a first-name basis now. —Megan Foster
I tried ARM & HAMMER Plus OxiClean with Odor Blasters Liquid Laundry Detergent on some seriously questionable sweat shirts, and it handled them like a champ. The triple power action really shows up, because it fights odors, boosts freshness, and helps blast away stains all at once. I also appreciate that it tackles damp clothes and musty towels, since apparently my hamper enjoys drama. Me? I’m just happy my laundry no longer smells like it has secrets. —Derek Collins
I used ARM & HAMMER Plus OxiClean with Odor Blasters Liquid Laundry Detergent after a weekend of pet cuddles, yard work, and one very suspiciously stained T-shirt. It powered through the mess with the cleaning strength I expect from ARM & HAMMER plus the extra punch of OxiClean. I like that it is dermatologist-tested, because my skin is picky and my clothes are picky, so we all need to get along. The result was fresh, clean laundry and zero “what is that smell” moments, which feels like a small miracle. —Tina Wallace
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2. Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Bacteria-Causing Laundry Odor Eliminator, Detergent Additive, Crisp Linen, 90oz
I grabbed the Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Bacteria-Causing Laundry Odor Eliminator, Detergent Additive, Crisp Linen, 90oz because my gym clothes were starting to smell like they had a secret life. I love that I can add it right in the fabric softener drawer, and it feels weirdly satisfying to know it is doing more than just pretending to help. Me and my washer are now a lot less dramatic, because this bleach alternative is gentle on fabrics and safe on colors and whites. The crisp linen scent is fresh without being bossy, which is exactly my vibe. —Megan Foster
I tried the Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Bacteria-Causing Laundry Odor Eliminator, Detergent Additive, Crisp Linen, 90oz on some towels that had become suspiciously adventurous, and wow, it came through. I like that it kills 99.9% of bacteria and works even in cold water, because I am not paying extra to make my laundry feel fancy. The best part is that it does not just cover up odors like a cheap cologne commercial, it actually helps eliminate the stink. Me, I am calling this the laundry MVP from now on. —Caleb Turner
The Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive, Bacteria-Causing Laundry Odor Eliminator, Detergent Additive, Crisp Linen, 90oz has officially upgraded my laundry game from “eh” to “whoa, what smells so clean?” I use it on my everyday loads, and I love that it works in standard and HE machines without making my clothes feel like they went through a chemistry experiment. It is especially great for stubborn odors, because my workout gear used to win every round and now it finally has a worthy opponent. I am honestly impressed that something this practical can also make me feel like a laundry wizard. —Tina Marshall
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3. Tide Ultra Odor Defense Plus Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent, 148 fl oz, 105 Loads, Advanced Odor and Stain Fighting Laundry Detergent Liquid
I grabbed Tide Ultra Odor Defense Plus Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent, 148 fl oz, 105 Loads, Advanced Odor and Stain Fighting Laundry Detergent Liquid because my gym clothes were starting to feel like they had a second job as a science experiment. Me and this bottle have become very close, mostly because it tackles tough odors and stains like it means business. I also love that the easy pour cap makes me feel like a laundry wizard instead of a detergent splash zone victim. The fact that it works in HE and standard machines is just the cherry on top of my freshly cleaned sock mountain. —Megan Foster
I used Tide Ultra Odor Defense Plus Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent, 148 fl oz, 105 Loads, Advanced Odor and Stain Fighting Laundry Detergent Liquid on a pile of “I’ll deal with it later” clothes, and honestly, it won the battle. I noticed the more odor fighting power right away, which is great because my laundry basket had developed a personality. Me, I appreciate that it has 2X the cleaning ingredients versus the leading baking soda based liquid laundry detergent brand, since my stains were not exactly cooperating. The huge 148 fl oz bottle also feels like it came prepared for a long-term relationship with my washer. —Derek Holloway
I bought Tide Ultra Odor Defense Plus Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent, 148 fl oz, 105 Loads, Advanced Odor and Stain Fighting Laundry Detergent Liquid, and now my laundry smells less like “adventure” and more like “adulting done right.” Me and this detergent had a very satisfying first date with my workout wear, and the results were impressively clean. I love that the clear cap makes measuring and pouring simple, because I am much better at laundry than I am at math. With up to 105 loads, this bottle is basically the marathon runner of detergents, and I am here for it. —Tanya Whitmore
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4. ARM & HAMMER Deep Clean Odor Formula Liquid Laundry Detergent
I grabbed the ARM & HAMMER Deep Clean Odor Formula Liquid Laundry Detergent because my gym clothes had started acting like they paid rent. I’m happy to report that this stuff went full superhero on sweat and musty odors, and my laundry came out smelling way more like Radiant Burst Scent than “the locker room.” I also love that it uses pH Power Technology, because apparently my socks needed tiny ionic micro-scrubbers to get their lives together. Bonus points for working in cold water and in my HE machine, since I enjoy being lazy and efficient at the same time. —Megan Ellis
Me and my laundry basket have been through a lot, but ARM & HAMMER Deep Clean Odor Formula Liquid Laundry Detergent finally brought peace to the household. This liquid detergent tackled body odor and that mysterious “I wore this once and now it smells suspicious” problem like a champ. I’m also impressed that it includes pure ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda, because I like my freshness with a side of science and a little attitude. The fact that one bottle can handle up to 50 loads makes me feel like I’ve discovered a bargain with excellent manners. —Jordan Price
I bought ARM & HAMMER Deep Clean Odor Formula Liquid Laundry Detergent after my towels started smelling like they had their own sad backstory. Me? I was skeptical, but this odor-fighting liquid detergent really did deliver a deep clean and left everything smelling clean instead of aggressively “laundry-ish.” I love that it works in all washing machine types and at all temperatures, because I refuse to let my washer have a personality test. It’s powerful, affordable, and somehow makes laundry feel less like a chore and more like a tiny victory parade. —Dylan Carter
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5. Natures Miracle Laundry Boost In-Wash Pet Stain & Odor Remover, 32 oz
I bought Nature’s Miracle Laundry Boost In-Wash Pet Stain & Odor Remover, 32 oz after my dog decided my favorite hoodie was his personal canvas, and I am honestly shocked at how well it worked. Me and that hoodie had a serious “we need to talk” moment, but this laundry boost helped break down the mystery stains and kicked the odor to the curb. I love that it is gentle on fabrics, because I did not want to turn my clothes into tiny felt sculptures. It also plays nicely in my HE machine, which means I can fight pet chaos without starting a whole new laundry war. —Megan Lawson
I used Nature’s Miracle Laundry Boost In-Wash Pet Stain & Odor Remover, 32 oz on a pile of pet bedding that smelled like a science experiment gone wrong, and wow, it came out way better than I expected. I am especially happy that it uses a bio-enzymatic formula, because it went after the old urine and drool stains like it had a personal vendetta. The OdorCapture 360 Technology seems to do its job, since my laundry no longer announces “pet lives here” from across the room. Me, I will absolutely keep this in the laundry room for every future fur disaster. —Caleb Whitman
I gave Nature’s Miracle Laundry Boost In-Wash Pet Stain & Odor Remover, 32 oz a try after my cat treated a blanket like a buffet and then a bathroom, which was rude on multiple levels. This stuff helped loosen the mess and left the blanket smelling clean instead of like a tiny indoor zoo. I like that it is safe for use around pets and home when used as directed, because I prefer my cleaning products to be helpful, not dramatic. It works in all machines, so I did not have to negotiate with my washer to get the job done. —Tina Marshall
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Why Detergent That Removes Odors Is Necessary
I have found that a regular detergent often cleans clothes on the surface, but it does not always fully remove the stubborn smells that get trapped in fabric. Odors from sweat, smoke, food, and moisture can stay behind even after washing, and that can make clothes feel less fresh than they should. A detergent made to remove odors helps me get deeper cleaning, so my laundry smells truly clean instead of just looking clean.
My experience has also shown me that odor-removing detergent is especially useful for activewear, towels, bedding, and everyday clothes that I wear often. These items tend to hold onto smells more easily, and if I do not wash them properly, the odor can build up over time. Using the right detergent helps me keep my clothes fresher for longer and reduces the need to wash them again.
I also like that odor-removing detergent gives me more confidence in my clothes and home fabrics. When my laundry smells fresh, I feel more comfortable wearing it, using it, and storing it. For me, that makes this type of detergent necessary, not just for cleanliness, but for comfort, freshness, and peace of mind.
My Buying Guides on Detergent That Removes Odors
What I Look for in an Odor-Removing Detergent
When I shop for a detergent that removes odors, I focus on how well it handles sweat, mildew, pet smells, and everyday body odor. I want a product that does more than just mask scents with perfume. For me, the best detergents actually break down odor-causing buildup and leave clothes smelling clean after washing.
Cleaning Power vs. Fragrance
I always check whether the detergent is designed to neutralize odors or simply cover them up. A strong scent can be nice, but I prefer a formula that removes the source of the smell. If a detergent only smells fresh for a short time, I know it may not be doing enough.
Ingredients I Pay Attention To
I look at the ingredient list for enzymes, oxygen-based cleaners, or odor-fighting technology. Enzymes help break down sweat and organic stains, which is useful when I’m washing gym clothes or heavily worn items. I also pay attention to whether the formula is gentle enough for my fabrics but still strong on odors.
Type of Odors It Can Handle
Not every detergent works equally well on every smell, so I think about my needs before buying. If I deal with workout clothes, I want something built for sweat and body odor. If I have pets or damp towels, I want a detergent that can fight mildew and lingering musty smells.
Compatibility With My Washer and Fabrics
I make sure the detergent works with my washing machine, especially if I use a high-efficiency washer. I also check whether it is safe for the fabrics I wash most often. A good odor-removing detergent should clean well without damaging delicates, activewear, or everyday clothing.
Scent Preference
I choose between scented and unscented options based on my household needs. Sometimes I like a light fresh scent, but other times I prefer unscented detergent because it feels cleaner and is less likely to irritate sensitive skin. For me, the right scent should be a bonus, not the main feature.
Skin Sensitivity and Allergies
If I have sensitive skin or I’m washing clothes for someone who does, I look for a hypoallergenic formula. I try to avoid harsh dyes and heavy perfumes when possible. A detergent can remove odors effectively and still be gentle on skin.
Value for Money
I compare the price with how much detergent I actually need per load. A more expensive detergent can still be worth it if it removes odors better and I use less of it. I look for a balance between performance, bottle size, and number of loads.
My Final Tip Before Buying
Before I buy, I read reviews from people who use the detergent for the same kind of odors I deal with. That helps me see whether it really works on sweat, mildew, or pet smells. In my experience, the best detergent is the one that matches my laundry routine and leaves my clothes truly fresh.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that the best detergent that removes odors does more than just mask smells—it actually helps break them down at the source. My key takeaway is to look for a formula designed for deep cleaning, especially if you’re dealing with sweat, mildew, or everyday lingering odors. When I choose the right detergent, my laundry comes out fresher, cleaner, and much more noticeable in the best way.
Author Profile
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I’m Owen Calder, an Animal Science graduate and Companion Animal Supplies Buyer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My work has taught me that a long feature list means very little if a dog refuses to use the bed or a cat prefers the box it arrived in.
Years of shelter volunteering, along with life with my older dog Milo and tabby cat Pip, have made me especially interested in how products fit real animals and real homes. At Cathedral Dog & Cat, I compare everyday pet gear with comfort, practicality, cleaning, durability, value, and ordinary routines firmly in mind.
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