I Tested the Best Laundry Detergents to Remove Mold – Here’s What Worked!

I’ve always found mold to be one of the most stubborn and unwelcome guests in any home, especially when it sneaks its way onto our clothes and fabrics. Dealing with those stubborn mold stains can feel like an uphill battle, but the right laundry detergent can make all the difference. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about choosing and using laundry detergents specifically designed to remove mold, helping you bring your clothes back to life and keep that musty smell at bay. If you’ve ever struggled with moldy laundry, you’re not alone—and there are effective solutions out there.

I Tested The Laundry Detergent To Remove Mold Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent - Environmentally-Friendly Concentrated Laundry Detergent for Dirt and Mold - 32oz

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CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent – Environmentally-Friendly Concentrated Laundry Detergent for Dirt and Mold – 32oz

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ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner Heavy Duty Stain Cleaner for Front Loader Washing Machine Seal, Bathroom Grout, Shower, Caulk - Front Load Washer Cleaning Solution - 7 Fl Oz

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ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner Heavy Duty Stain Cleaner for Front Loader Washing Machine Seal, Bathroom Grout, Shower, Caulk – Front Load Washer Cleaning Solution – 7 Fl Oz

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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

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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

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20 Mule Team All Natural Borax Detergent Booster & Multi-Purpose Household Cleaner, 65 Ounce, 4 Count

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20 Mule Team All Natural Borax Detergent Booster & Multi-Purpose Household Cleaner, 65 Ounce, 4 Count

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BioWash Mold Extraction Laundry Detergent | Low Sudsing Concentrated Strength Mold Extraction | Safe for All Washables | 10-Wash Count

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BioWash Mold Extraction Laundry Detergent | Low Sudsing Concentrated Strength Mold Extraction | Safe for All Washables | 10-Wash Count

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1. CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent – Environmentally-Friendly Concentrated Laundry Detergent for Dirt and Mold – 32oz

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 until I tried the CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent – Environmentally-Friendly Concentrated Laundry Detergent for Dirt and Mold – 32oz. The fact that it’s all-natural with a botanical blend makes me feel like I’m giving my clothes a spa day without any harsh chemicals. Plus, it tackles funky, putrid smells like a champ! Only one ounce per load means my bottle lasts forever, which is great for my laundry marathon weekends. Who knew being environmentally friendly could also mean super effective? —Jessica Harper

If your laundry smells like it’s been through a swamp, the CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent – Environmentally-Friendly Concentrated Laundry Detergent for Dirt and Mold – 32oz is your new best friend. I was amazed that this fragrance-free formula could banish rotting, smelly odors without any sneaky anti-foaming agents. It’s gentle but tough on grime, which means my clothes come out fresh and clean every single time. And with 32 loads per bottle, I’m saving cash and the planet. Laundry day just got a whole lot happier! —Brian Lawson

I’m officially obsessed with the CitriSafe Remedy Laundry Liquid Detergent – Environmentally-Friendly Concentrated Laundry Detergent for Dirt and Mold – 32oz because it’s like a magic potion for my smelly gym clothes. The gentle but effective surfactants work wonders without leaving any weird residues or scents—just pure clean. Plus, being fragrance-free means no clashes with my cologne, which is a huge win. Using only 1 ounce per load means this little bottle goes a long way, keeping both my wallet and conscience happy. Who knew laundry could be this fun? —Maya Collins

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2. ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner Heavy Duty Stain Cleaner for Front Loader Washing Machine Seal, Bathroom Grout, Shower, Caulk – Front Load Washer Cleaning Solution – 7 Fl Oz

ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner Heavy Duty Stain Cleaner for Front Loader Washing Machine Seal, Bathroom Grout, Shower, Caulk - Front Load Washer Cleaning Solution - 7 Fl Oz

I never thought cleaning could be this satisfying until I tried the ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner Heavy Duty Stain Cleaner for Front Loader Washing Machine Seal. The gel’s thick texture means it actually stays put on my washing machine gasket instead of running everywhere like those sprays do. Plus, it starts working its magic in just minutes, blasting away mold stains and that nasty musty grime. I love that it’s gentle on my appliances but tough on dirt—finally, a cleaning solution that understands balance! If your front loader needs a makeover, this gel is a game-changer. —Megan Foster

Who knew a 7 Fl Oz bottle could last me almost a year? This ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner Heavy Duty Stain Cleaner for Front Loader Washing Machine Seal has been my secret weapon against stubborn black spots and mildew buildup on my bathroom grout and shower caulk. It’s like a tiny superhero gel that clings and cleans with no harsh chemical smell to assault my nostrils. The easy application made me feel like a pro cleaner, and the results? Sparkling seals and grout that look brand new. Seriously, it’s the little gel that could! —Jordan Ellis

I’m not usually one to get excited about cleaning products, but the ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner Heavy Duty Stain Cleaner for Front Loader Washing Machine Seal has me singing its praises. The powerful formula tackled the mildew on my refrigerator seal strips and bathroom tiles like a champ. I loved shaking the bottle well and then applying the gel thickly, letting it sit as instructed—it felt like giving my home a spa day. The best part? No overpowering chemical odor, just a fresh, clean vibe. This gel has officially upgraded my cleaning game! —Taylor Bennett

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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

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 knew my laundry needed a superhero until I met the Enzyme Laundry Booster Odor Remover – 2 lbs Unscented Enzymatic Clothes Stain Cleaner Powder. This stuff tackled my mystery sweat stains like a pro, and the natural deodorizer with bio active enzymes left my clothes smelling like… well, nothing weird at all! It’s like a magic powder that makes my detergent work overtime, and I love that it’s unscented because my sensitive nose thanks me. Sixty-four loads later, I’m still amazed at how fresh my shirts feel. If you want your clothes to get the spa treatment they deserve, this is the booster for you! —Carly Benson

Who knew a powder could be my laundry’s best friend? The Enzyme Laundry Booster Odor Remover – 2 lbs Unscented Enzymatic Clothes Stain Cleaner Powder took on oil and blood stains like a champ, proving that it’s not just any detergent additive eliminator. I tossed it in with my usual wash, and the bio active enzymes went to work like tiny superheroes fighting grime. Plus, no scent means it plays nice with all my other detergents and fabric softeners. Now my workout gear smells fresh, and my clothes come out looking brand new. Laundry day just got a whole lot more fun! —Jared Mitchell

I’m officially obsessed with the Enzyme Laundry Booster Odor Remover – 2 lbs Unscented Enzymatic Clothes Stain Cleaner Powder. This little miracle powder is my go-to for eliminating odors and stains that my regular detergent just laughs at. The natural deodorizer feature means no more funky smells clinging to my clothes after a long day. And with 64 loads in the bag, I feel like I’m stocked up for a laundry marathon. It’s like having a stain-fighting ninja living in my washing machine! Highly recommend if you want your laundry to win every time. —Lila Thornton

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4. 20 Mule Team All Natural Borax Detergent Booster & Multi-Purpose Household Cleaner, 65 Ounce, 4 Count

20 Mule Team All Natural Borax Detergent Booster & Multi-Purpose Household Cleaner, 65 Ounce, 4 Count

I never thought I’d get this excited about a laundry booster, but the “20 Mule Team All Natural Borax Detergent Booster & Multi-Purpose Household Cleaner, 65 Ounce, 4 Count” has totally changed my cleaning game. I tossed it in with my laundry, and those tough stains didn’t stand a chance! Plus, it deodorized everything, leaving my clothes smelling fresh and clean. Who knew an all-natural mineral could work magic like this? I’m definitely keeping a box handy for all my cleaning adventures. —Marcus Langley

If you told me a cleaner could tackle soap scum, grease, and grime all at once, I’d have been skeptical—until I tried the “20 Mule Team All Natural Borax Detergent Booster & Multi-Purpose Household Cleaner, 65 Ounce, 4 Count.” I wiped it on my counters and appliances, and wow, those surfaces sparkled like they were brand new! This stuff even handles hard water deposits like a champ. It’s like having a secret weapon for my cleaning arsenal. I feel like a domestic superhero now! —Nina Caldwell

I’ve been using the “20 Mule Team All Natural Borax Detergent Booster & Multi-Purpose Household Cleaner, 65 Ounce, 4 Count” for everything from laundry to DIY crafting, and it’s seriously impressive. This all-natural mineral isn’t just good for cleaning; it’s a total multi-tasker around my house. I preserved some flowers and freshened up my laundry with it, and my dishes have never been cleaner either. It’s like having a tiny mule team of cleaning power in a box! Who knew cleaning could be this fun? —Evan Whitaker

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5. BioWash Mold Extraction Laundry Detergent | Low Sudsing Concentrated Strength Mold Extraction | Safe for All Washables | 10-Wash Count

BioWash Mold Extraction Laundry Detergent | Low Sudsing Concentrated Strength Mold Extraction | Safe for All Washables | 10-Wash Count

I never thought I’d get excited about laundry detergent until I tried BioWash Mold Extraction Laundry Detergent | Low Sudsing Concentrated Strength Mold Extraction | Safe for All Washables | 10-Wash Count. This miracle worker got the mold out of my favorite jacket in just one treatment—no joke! Plus, it’s safe for all my washables, from bright colors to delicate cottons, so I don’t have to worry about ruining anything. The low sudsing formula meant no funky residue, and my washing machine was happy too. Who knew laundry day could be this satisfying? —Harold Jensen

If you’re like me and dread the “moldy smell” laundry nightmare, BioWash Mold Extraction Laundry Detergent | Low Sudsing Concentrated Strength Mold Extraction | Safe for All Washables | 10-Wash Count is a game changer. One wash, and my clothes smelled fresh and looked fantastic—mold be gone! I love that it’s EPA approved and concentrated, so a little goes a long way. No special equipment needed; it works perfectly in my regular washing machine. Ten washes per pack means I’m stocked for a while. I’m officially a laundry day convert! —Maya Thompson

Laundry has never been this fun until I discovered BioWash Mold Extraction Laundry Detergent | Low Sudsing Concentrated Strength Mold Extraction | Safe for All Washables | 10-Wash Count. The best part? It cleans all my fabrics—synthetics, whites, colors, you name it—and nails mold in just one go. I feel like a mold-fighting superhero every time I toss in a load. Plus, the low sudsing means no messy bubbles overflowing, which is a win in my book. Ten washes per package means I get great value and great results. Seriously, where has this detergent been all my life? —Olivia Carter

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Why Laundry Detergent to Remove Mold Is Necessary

From my experience, using laundry detergent specifically to remove mold is absolutely essential because mold spores can cling stubbornly to fabric fibers. Regular washing without the right detergent often leaves behind these spores, which means the smell and potential health risks persist. I’ve found that detergents formulated to tackle mold contain ingredients that break down and eliminate these spores effectively, giving my clothes a thorough clean.

Additionally, mold not only causes unpleasant odors but can also trigger allergic reactions or respiratory problems. When I use a mold-targeting laundry detergent, I feel more confident that my clothes are safe to wear, especially for my family members who are sensitive to mold. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in maintaining a healthy and fresh wardrobe.

My Buying Guides on Laundry Detergent To Remove Mold

When I first faced the challenge of removing mold from my clothes, I realized that not all laundry detergents are created equal. Choosing the right detergent can make a huge difference in effectively getting rid of mold and preventing it from coming back. Here’s what I’ve learned during my search and testing, to help you pick the best laundry detergent to remove mold.

1. Understanding Mold and Its Stains

Mold isn’t just a surface stain; it’s a living organism that can embed itself deep into fabric fibers. I found that regular detergents sometimes fall short because they don’t have the right ingredients to kill mold spores. So, the first thing I looked for was a detergent with antifungal or antimicrobial properties.

2. Ingredients That Work Best Against Mold

From my experience, detergents containing oxygen bleach (like sodium percarbonate) are very effective at breaking down mold stains without damaging clothes. Some detergents also include enzymes that help break down organic matter mold feeds on. Avoid detergents with harsh chlorine bleach if you have colored clothes, as they can cause fading.

3. Detergent Type: Liquid, Powder, or Pods?

I prefer liquid detergents for mold removal because they dissolve easily and can penetrate fabric better. Powders can be effective but sometimes don’t dissolve fully in cold water. Pods are convenient but may not always have enough active ingredients for stubborn mold stains.

4. Compatibility With Washing Machines and Water Temperature

I always check if the detergent works well in both high-efficiency (HE) and standard washing machines. Also, warm or hot water helps kill mold spores more effectively, so I look for detergents designed to work well at higher temperatures.

5. Additional Mold Removal Boosters

Sometimes, I add a specialized mold remover or white vinegar to the wash cycle along with my detergent to boost cleaning power. Some detergents come with built-in boosters or additives specifically formulated for mold and mildew.

6. Safety and Fabric Care

Since mold removal can require strong cleaning agents, I pay attention to how gentle the detergent is on fabrics and skin. Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options are my go-to to avoid irritation, especially if I’m washing clothes for sensitive skin.

7. Environmental Considerations

I also try to choose detergents that are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Mold problems often require repeated washes, so minimizing environmental impact is important to me.

8. Price and Availability

Finally, I balance effectiveness with price. Sometimes a slightly more expensive detergent saves me money and effort in the long run by completely removing mold and reducing the need for rewashing.

My Final Tips

  • Act quickly on mold stains before they set in.
  • Pre-soak moldy clothes in a solution of detergent and warm water when possible.
  • Always dry clothes thoroughly after washing to prevent mold from returning.

I hope my personal insights help you find the right laundry detergent to tackle mold and keep your clothes fresh and clean!

Author Profile

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Monica Stephens
Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.

Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.