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Best Detergent For Smelly Clothes (2024 Update)

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If you’re looking for a solution to get rid of unpleasant smells from your clothes, you might want to consider using a strong detergent. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the best one that suits your needs. Before making any purchasing decision, there are a few factors that you should consider.

First and foremost, it’s essential to determine the type of fabric your clothes are made of, as some detergents may damage delicate materials. You should also check the ingredients and make sure they are safe for you and your family, especially if anyone in your household has sensitive skin or allergies. Furthermore, keep in mind the scent of the detergent and make sure it’s something you enjoy smelling.

Are you tired of putting on clothes that still smell even after washing them? Do you find yourself having to rewash garments repeatedly? Are strong, long-lasting scents important to you, or do you prefer fragrance-free options? In this article, we’ll explore some of the best detergents for smelly clothes that take care of bad odors while keeping your clothes looking and feeling fresh. From natural and eco-friendly options to heavy-duty formulas, we’ve got you covered!

10 Best Detergent For Smelly Clothes

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for washing activewear clothing and is certified asthma and allergy friendly, hypoallergenic, and can handle 45 loads.
2
It is a biodegradable liquid laundry detergent infused with essential oils, ideal for regular use on clothes and linens.
3
This eco-friendly laundry detergent tablet set is perfect for those who want a natural, gentle, and plant-based alternative to typical laundry products.
4
This product is ideal for cleaning workout clothes and other active wear, being scented, gentle, and color-safe.
5
Ideal for those with sensitive skin seeking a natural laundry detergent that effectively fights stains and offers a high load count.
6
Ideal for washing workout clothes and other sportswear, gentle on colors and unscented.
7
This product is ideal for eliminating strong odors from clothes and providing lasting odor prevention and protection in laundry.
8
This laundry detergent is ideal for removing tough stains and odors from your clothes.
9
It is ideal for athletes and those with extreme sweat stains on their clothing.
10
Eliminating tough odors from sports equipment, workout clothes, and other fabrics that attract strong smells.
The product is ideal for washing activewear clothing and is certified asthma and allergy friendly, hypoallergenic, and can handle 45 loads.
It is a biodegradable liquid laundry detergent infused with essential oils, ideal for regular use on clothes and linens.
This eco-friendly laundry detergent tablet set is perfect for those who want a natural, gentle, and plant-based alternative to typical laundry products.
This product is ideal for cleaning workout clothes and other active wear, being scented, gentle, and color-safe.
Ideal for those with sensitive skin seeking a natural laundry detergent that effectively fights stains and offers a high load count.
Ideal for washing workout clothes and other sportswear, gentle on colors and unscented.
This product is ideal for eliminating strong odors from clothes and providing lasting odor prevention and protection in laundry.
This laundry detergent is ideal for removing tough stains and odors from your clothes.
It is ideal for athletes and those with extreme sweat stains on their clothing.
Eliminating tough odors from sports equipment, workout clothes, and other fabrics that attract strong smells.

1. Hypoallergenic Sport Detergent – 45 Loads.

Introducing a specially formulated laundry detergent soap that is designed for activewear and athletic workout apparel. This detergent is capable of removing and eliminating all kinds of stink from fabric, including sweat stench, body odor, and armpit funk from all types of fabrics.

This high-performance detergent is also designed to protect and restore the fabric's performance, including moisture-wicking, compression, and breathability. With its advanced formula, this detergent can effectively tackle your toughest stains, such as mud, blood, grass, baseball clay, wine, pet, and baby food stains.

What makes this laundry detergent soap stand out is that it is the first detergent certified asthma & allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. This certification ensures that the product is safe for use, even for people with allergies or asthma.

This laundry detergent soap is easy to use, and its powerful formula ensures that your clothes come out smelling fresh and clean. It is perfect for anyone who leads an active lifestyle and wants to keep their workout clothes looking and smelling great. Give your activewear and athletic workout apparel the care it deserves with this specially formulated laundry detergent soap.

2. Essential Oil Infused Birchwood Laundry Detergent Duo

This laundry detergent boasts a concentrated formula that works wonders on clothes without causing any damage. Its plant-derived cleaning ingredients are imbued with powerful dirt and stain-fighting enzymes that make tough stains a thing of the past.

This high-performance detergent comes in a generously sized bottle that provides up to 64 loads of laundry, making it a practical and cost-effective choice for busy households. Additionally, it is designed to work equally well in both high efficiency and conventional washing machines, so you can enjoy hassle-free laundry no matter what type of machine you have.

One of the most impressive aspects of this detergent is its biodegradable formula. This means it is environmentally-friendly and will not cause any harm to the planet when disposed of. So, you can feel good about using this detergent and know that you are doing your part to protect the environment.

3. Eco-Friendly Blueland Laundry Tablets – 60 Loads

Introducing the first and only plastic-free laundry tablet – a game-changer in sustainable laundry products. This innovative, patented detergent tablet is powered by enzymes and is proven by independent labs to lift the toughest stains, such as grass, coffee, berries, chocolate, makeup, and more.

The tablet is conveniently single-use and does not come wrapped in a plastic film, making it an eco-friendly choice. Its dry-form formula lifts stains and dirt effectively, giving you a powerful wash without any of the waste.

Using this laundry tablet is incredibly easy – simply drop it directly into the drum of your washing machine, toss in your laundry, and start the wash cycle. You can achieve a clean and fresh laundry load without sending any plastic down the drain.

The small but mighty concentrated tablet is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, dye-free, and optical brightener-free, making it a safe and clean choice for you and your family. It is EPA Safer Choice, Leaping Bunny Cruelty-Free, Vegan, B Corp Certified, and Climate Neutral Certified.

As the world's leading cleaning tablet brand, Blueland has garnered over 50,000 5-star reviews and sold over 10 million products. Its innovative products have been featured in various reputable media outlets, such as The New York Times, Today Show, Vogue, Shark Tank, Oprah, and Forbes.

Blueland stands behind its products and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you encounter any issues with your purchase, their dedicated Customer Experience team will ensure that you are taken care of.

Choose Blueland's plastic-free laundry tablet for a sustainable, effective, and convenient laundry solution that prioritizes the well-being of both you and the environment.

4. Zen Fresh Active Wear Laundry Detergent.

Introducing Nonaste Zen Fresh active wear detergent, the best-in-class sports detergent that is specially formulated to remove odors and residue caused by sweat. Designed for high-performance people, this sports laundry detergent is perfect for your running kit, biking jerseys, and work clothes. Nonaste Zen Fresh leaves behind a mild and fresh clean smell that will make you feel confident and clean.

Compared to traditional laundry detergents, Nonaste’s sport laundry detergent uses advanced technology that combines enzymes and environmentally-safe surfactants to remove odors. Traditional laundry detergent liquid doesn't remove the oil and stink that builds up in synthetic materials, it simply perfumes odors for a short time. However, Nonaste Zen Fresh is here to handle the dirty work so you don’t have to. Our 32-ounce, Pack of 1 athletic laundry detergent is effective in removing even the toughest odors.

Revitalize your activewear with Nonaste Zen Fresh. Workout apparel can be expensive, and that’s why it’s important to increase the lifespan of your activewear by restoring them with a dedicated sport wash laundry detergent. Nonaste’s activewear detergent leaves behind no filmy residue and helps restore the fabric’s moisture-wicking capabilities. Get those workout clothes, gym bags, hats, headbands, and sweatbands back in the gym rotation with Nonaste Zen Fresh.

Nonaste Zen Fresh is simple to use. For mildly stinky workout clothes, use one capful of the included dosing cup. For super stinky workout clothes, use two capfuls. Nonaste activewear laundry detergent can also be used by hand. Simply soak your gear in warm water with the desired amount for 20 minutes before rinsing with clean water.

Nonaste Zen Fresh is good for you and the planet. Made with plant-based surfactants, it is phosphate-free and uses no animal testing, making it safe for you, your family, and the planet. Our sports wash laundry detergent is completely color safe, gentle on clothes, and strong on odors.

5. Sensitive Suds: Earth-Friendly Laundry Powder

This laundry powder is an ideal solution for those who value sustainability and safety for their family and the environment. It is made with five natural ingredients that are tough on stains, yet gentle on most fabrics (excluding silk and leather). The 80.25 oz bag of Laundry Powder comes with a measuring scoop and is capable of deep cleaning up to 120 loads of laundry.

This laundry powder is smart stain prep. It is free of artificial scents, and users should always check for stains before laundering. To get stains out for good, treat the fabric within 24 hours, read and follow laundry care labels, blot stains with a clean napkin or rag, rinse from the inside out, make a paste from the laundry powder, use the right water temperature, and then launder as usual.

This laundry powder is safe for all types of washing machines, including standard, commercial, and HE washing machines. It uses only a few simple ingredients and minimal suds for a safe detergent that launders garments naturally and effectively. It eliminates buildup left behind in clothing fibers from prior washing powders.

This laundry powder is perfect for mothers everywhere. It is made in the USA with plant and earth-based ingredients that are peanut-free, vegan, and certified cruelty-free. It leaves no residue and rinses clean, making it safe for all mothers, babies, people, skin sensitivities, and the planet for cleaning power with compassion. It is available in unscented or lightly scented options so clothes smell fresh.

6. Active Pure: Sport Laundry Detergent

Nonaste understands that high-performance individuals deserve high-quality laundry detergent to match their lifestyle. That's why they developed a best-in-class sports detergent that effectively removes odors and residue caused by sweat. The Nonaste Zen Fresh active wear detergent is perfect for tossing in your running kit, biking jerseys, and work clothes, leaving behind a mild, fresh, and clean scent.

Unlike traditional laundry detergents that only perfume odors for a short time, Nonaste's sport laundry detergent uses advanced technology that combines enzymes and environmentally-safe surfactants to remove odors. It is specifically designed to remove the oil and stink that build up in synthetic materials, making it better than traditional laundry detergent liquid. With Nonaste's 32-ounce pack of 1 athletic laundry detergent, you can trust that it will handle the dirty work so you don't have to.

Active wear can be expensive, and that's why Nonaste's activewear detergent is here to increase the lifespan of your pricey apparel. The detergent leaves behind no filmy residue and helps restore the fabric's moisture-wicking capabilities. This means you can get those workout clothes, gym bags, hats, headbands, and sweatbands back in the gym rotation with Nonaste's sport wash.

Using Nonaste's activewear laundry detergent is simple and easy. For mildly nasty workout clothes, use one capful of the included dosing cup. For super nasty workout clothes, use two capfuls. The detergent can also be used by hand. Simply soak your gear in warm water with the desired amount for 20 minutes before rinsing with clean water.

Nonaste's activewear detergent for workout clothes is made with plant-based surfactants, is phosphate-free, and uses no animal testing, making it safe for you, your family, and the planet. The sports wash laundry detergent is completely color safe, gentle on clothes, and strong on odors. With Nonaste's sport laundry detergent, you can trust that your clothes will be clean, fresh, and odor-free.

7. Silver Ion Laundry Deodorizer – 24 Loads

Looking for an effective solution to eliminate tough odors from your clothes? Look no further than SilverWorks! sheets. With just one sheet in the wash and dryer cycle, you can neutralize odors and keep them from coming back.

SilverWorks! sheets are powered by science, thanks to the natural silver ions embedded deep into fabrics. These ions work to remove odors like sweat, body odor, nicotine, urine, and more, continuously deodorizing while you wear and store your clothes.

What's more, SilverWorks! sheets are an eco-friendly, natural laundry deodorizer. Designed for all fabric and colors, these sheets are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making them a safe and gentle option for even the most sensitive skin.

Don't settle for scent boosters that simply mask odors – SilverWorks! sheets effectively eliminate odors by transferring silver ions to fabrics in the wash, without the use of harsh chemicals. Plus, these sheets are trusted by experts, including professional sports teams, athletes, soccer moms, runners, yogis, hikers, campers, and gym rats.

With just one active ingredient – natural silver ions – SilverWorks! sheets are a safe, effective, and easy-to-use solution for eliminating tough odors from your clothes. Try them today and enjoy fresh, clean-smelling clothes every time.

8. Odor-Crushing Lavender Laundry Detergent, 124 Loads.

Say goodbye to funky laundry with Defunkify Liquid Laundry Detergent! This powerful detergent formula is designed to work on every fiber of your fabric, effectively removing all stains and odors. With its odor-crushing power, you can trust Defunkify to leave your clothes smelling fresh and clean.

Unlike other household supplies that use fake fragrances, Defunkify uses pure essential oils to create its Lavender, Lemongrass, and Fresh Air scents. And for those who prefer unscented cleaning agents, Defunkify's Free and Clear laundry detergent leaves your clothes smelling like invisible roses.

This detergent is perfect for all types of washing machines, including HE and traditional machines. It is super low sudsing for HE machines and formulated for cold water performance. So, whether you spill gravy or any other stain, Defunkify has got you covered!

In addition to its powerful cleaning abilities, Defunkify is also environmentally friendly. It's 87% bio-based and removes more odor than the leading orange bottle detergent. Harnessing the potential of nature, Defunkify is strong like an evergreen.

Toxicity matters, and Defunkify takes safety seriously. The detergent is made with ingredients approved by the EPA Safer Choice Program and undergoes testing to ensure industry-leading safety. The ProvenSafe process guarantees that Defunkify is a safe and reliable addition to your laundry supplies.

Say hello to fresh, clean, and odor-free clothes with Defunkify Liquid Laundry Detergent!

9. Sweat X Sport Extreme Laundry Detergent, 5 Gallon Refill Kit With Reusable Bottle

Introducing a specially formulated laundry detergent soap that is designed for activewear and athletic workout apparel. This detergent is capable of removing and eliminating various types of stink including sweat stench, body odor, and armpit funk from all kinds of fabrics.

This detergent is not only effective in eliminating unpleasant smells, but it also protects and restores fabric performance such as moisture-wicking, compression, and breathability. It is an ideal solution for those who engage in intense workouts and outdoor activities.

Sweat X Sport detergent is also capable of tackling your toughest stains like mud, blood, grass, baseball clay, wine, pet and baby food stains. This feature makes it perfect for households with active children or pets.

The detergent is safe for all fabrics and all washing machines including HE. It is non-toxic, biodegradable, and skin safe, making it an eco-friendly choice for households.

Moreover, the refill package provides more than 14 bottles of Sweat X Sport, making it a cost-effective solution for those who want to save money while still enjoying the benefits of a high-quality laundry detergent.

10. Funkaway Laundry Detergent Booster (32 Oz.)

Introducing the ultimate solution for odor and stain elimination – the Odor Eliminator and Stain Removing Laundry Detergent Booster. This laundry booster is formulated with the unique OM Complex, which is specifically designed to defunkify and unsoil whatever you put in your washing machine.

Whether you're an athlete, a parent of athletes, a gym enthusiast, or someone who sweats for a living, this laundry detergent booster is perfect for you. It's designed to eliminate even the toughest of odors and stains, making it the boost you need for your dirty and smelly clothes.

From gym clothes to work gear, this laundry booster is suitable for all types of fabrics and materials. It's the perfect solution for eliminating the funk and leaving your clothes smelling fresh and clean.

You can use the FunkAway Laundry Detergent Booster in both regular and High-Efficiency (HE) washing machines. So, no matter what type of washing machine you have, you can enjoy the benefits of this powerful laundry booster.

Say goodbye to the unpleasant odors and stains that have been plaguing your clothes. Get the Odor Eliminator and Stain Removing Laundry Detergent Booster today and experience the ultimate solution for odor and stain elimination.

Best Detergent For Smelly Clothes FAQs

Are there any all-natural laundry detergents that are particularly good at eliminating odors?

Yes, there are several all-natural laundry detergents that are effective in eliminating odors. One of the most popular options is baking soda, which can be added to your regular laundry detergent to help neutralize odors. Another option is vinegar, which can be used as a fabric softener and can help eliminate odors as well. Essential oils, such as tea tree oil or lavender oil, can also be added to your laundry detergent for a fresh scent and added odor-fighting power. Some all-natural laundry detergents also contain enzymes that break down and eliminate odors. It's important to note that while all-natural detergents may be better for the environment and your health, they may not be as effective at removing stains as traditional detergents. It's always a good idea to pre-treat stains before washing and to follow the care instructions on your clothing labels for best results.

Are there any fragrance-free detergents that are effective at removing smelly clothes?

Yes, there are many fragrance-free detergents available in the market that are effective at removing smelly clothes. Fragrance-free detergents are specially designed to clean and remove the odors from clothes without leaving any strong fragrance behind. These detergents are perfect for people with sensitive skin or those who prefer a neutral scent on their clothes.

When selecting a fragrance-free detergent, it's important to look for products that are specifically labeled as odor-fighting or odor-eliminating. These detergents contain specialized enzymes that break down and remove the bacteria and other compounds that cause odors in clothes. Some popular fragrance-free odor-eliminating detergents include Seventh Generation Free & Clear, Tide Free & Gentle, and Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear.

To get the best results, it’s important to follow the instructions on the detergent’s label and to use the correct amount for the size of the load you are washing. Additionally, it’s important to avoid overloading the washing machine, as this can prevent the detergent from effectively cleaning and removing odors from clothes.

Can high-efficiency detergents effectively eliminate odors from clothing?

Yes, high-efficiency detergents are effective in eliminating odors from clothing. These detergents are specially formulated to break down and remove tough stains and odors from fabrics without the need for extra water or rinsing. The high-efficiency detergents consist of powerful enzymes and surfactants that penetrate deep into the fibers of the fabric and effectively remove the dirt and odor-causing particles.

Moreover, high-efficiency detergents are designed to work in cold water, which is gentler on fabrics and helps to preserve the colors and textures of the clothing. They are also formulated to be low sudsing, which means they rinse away easily and leave minimal residue on the fabric.

So, if you are looking for a detergent that can effectively eliminate odors from your clothing, then a high-efficiency detergent is a good choice. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the label and use the appropriate amount of detergent for your load size to achieve the best results.

Can using a particular type of detergent help prevent clothes from becoming smelly in the first place?

Yes, using a particular type of detergent can help prevent clothes from becoming smelly in the first place. Some detergents are specifically formulated to combat odor-causing bacteria and remove stubborn smells from fabric. Look for detergents that contain enzymes, such as protease and amylase, which can break down proteins and carbohydrates that contribute to odors. Additionally, some detergents may contain ingredients like baking soda or activated charcoal, which can help absorb and neutralize odors in clothing. It's also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for dosage and washing temperature, as using too little detergent or washing at a low temperature can lead to a buildup of bacteria and odors. Finally, make sure to air out clothing after wearing and avoid leaving damp clothes in a pile, as this can contribute to odor buildup.

How can I find a detergent that effectively removes odors from sweat and bacteria?

To find a detergent that effectively removes odors from sweat and bacteria, you should look for products that contain enzymes and surfactants specifically designed for this purpose. Enzymes, such as proteases, lipases and amylases, break down the proteins, fats and starches that cause odors, while surfactants help to lift dirt and bacteria from the fabric.

Additionally, look for detergents that are labeled as "sport" or "active wear" detergents, as these are formulated to tackle tough odors and stains from athletic clothing that is often exposed to sweat and bacteria.

It is also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the detergent, including the recommended amount to use and the temperature of the water. For particularly stubborn odors, you may want to soak the clothing in the detergent solution for a longer period of time before washing.

If you are still struggling to find a detergent that effectively removes odors, you may want to consider using a laundry booster, such as baking soda or white vinegar, in addition to your regular detergent. These natural remedies can help to neutralize odors and refresh your clothing.

How can I make sure I'm using the right amount of detergent to get rid of clothes' odor?

To ensure the right amount of detergent is used to eliminate clothes' odor, it is essential to read the manufacturer's instructions on the detergent packaging. Generally, most detergents have a measuring cup or cap that assists in determining the appropriate quantity of detergent to use.

It is important not to use too much detergent as excess soap residue can accumulate on the clothes and make them appear dull and lifeless. On the other hand, using too little detergent may not effectively remove the odor from the clothes.

Another useful tip is to sort the laundry by color, fabric type, and level of soiling. This helps to determine the appropriate amount of detergent required for each load. For instance, heavily soiled clothes will require a higher amount of detergent compared to lightly soiled clothes.

In addition, using a fabric conditioner or dryer sheets can help to eliminate odors and leave clothes smelling fresh and clean. Lastly, ensure that the washing machine is cleaned regularly as a build-up of dirt and detergent residue in the machine can contribute to unpleasant odors on clothes.

What are the most effective ingredients to look for in a laundry detergent for smelly clothes?

When it comes to laundry detergent for smelly clothes, there are several key ingredients to look for that can help eliminate odors and leave your clothes smelling fresh and clean. One of the most effective ingredients is enzymes, which work to break down and remove organic compounds that can cause odors. Look for detergents that contain protease or amylase enzymes, which are particularly effective at removing protein-based stains and odors.

Another important ingredient to look for is baking soda, which is known for its odor-neutralizing properties. Baking soda can help absorb and eliminate odors from your clothes, leaving them smelling fresh and clean. Additionally, some detergents contain activated charcoal, which is also effective at absorbing odors and keeping your clothes smelling fresh.

Finally, consider looking for a laundry detergent that contains essential oils, which can add a natural, pleasant scent to your clothes without the use of synthetic fragrances. Some popular essential oils for laundry detergents include lavender, lemon, and peppermint.

Overall, when shopping for a laundry detergent for smelly clothes, look for products that contain enzymes, baking soda, activated charcoal, and essential oils for the most effective odor-fighting power.

What is the best detergent for eliminating tough odors from clothing?

When it comes to eliminating tough odors from clothing, there are several detergents that are particularly effective. One of the best options is Tide Plus Febreze Sport Odor Defense, which is specifically designed to target sweat and other tough odors that can linger in athletic wear. Another highly rated option is Persil ProClean Odor Fighter, which uses powerful enzymes to break down and eliminate odors. For those who prefer a more natural option, Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent is a great choice. It is made with plant-based ingredients and is free of synthetic fragrances and dyes. Additionally, adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle can also help eliminate odors from clothing. Ultimately, the best detergent for eliminating tough odors will depend on personal preferences and the specific types of odors that need to be addressed.

What is the best laundry detergent for workout clothes that tend to get particularly smelly?

When it comes to washing workout clothes that tend to get particularly smelly, it's important to choose a detergent that is specifically designed to tackle odors. One of the best laundry detergents for this purpose is Sport Suds. This detergent is designed to remove tough odors and stains from athletic apparel without using harmful chemicals or leaving behind any residue. It is also biodegradable and safe for use in all types of washing machines. Another great option is Tide Sport Odor Defense. This detergent is formulated with special odor-fighting technology that targets and removes sweat and other tough odors from workout clothes. It also helps to keep clothes smelling fresh for up to 24 hours after washing. Both of these detergents are highly effective at keeping workout clothes clean and fresh-smelling, so it's really a matter of personal preference which one you choose.

What is the best way to wash smelly clothes to ensure they come out smelling fresh and clean?

The best way to wash smelly clothes and ensure they come out smelling fresh and clean is to start by pre-treating the clothes before washing. This can be done by soaking the clothes in a mixture of warm water and a laundry detergent for a few hours or overnight. After pre-treating, wash the clothes using a good quality laundry detergent and add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle. White vinegar is a natural deodorizer and will help eliminate any lingering odors. Additionally, adding baking soda to the wash cycle can also help neutralize odors. Finally, make sure to dry the clothes completely before storing them to prevent any musty smells from developing. It's important to note that if the clothes are heavily soiled or have a strong odor, washing them multiple times may be necessary to completely remove the smell.

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