Laundry sanitizers are an important addition to any cleaning routine, helping eliminate bacteria and odors that regular detergents may miss. They offer extra protection for clothes, bedding, and activewear, especially in households with kids, pets, or sensitive skin needs. With options ranging from fragrance-free to fabric-brightening formulas, choosing the right sanitizer ensures fresher, cleaner laundry while maintaining the quality and comfort of fabrics over time.

1. Downy Rinse & Refresh Active Fresh Laundry Additive – 48 fl oz

This rinse additive is designed to remove odor-causing residues and buildup left behind by detergents. The Active Fresh scent provides a light, clean aroma while ensuring fabrics feel softer and fresher after each wash.

It works in both standard and HE machines, delivering an extra layer of cleanliness. By breaking down residues, it helps clothes maintain their quality through repeated washing.

Pros:

• Helps remove odor-causing residue

• Adds lasting Active Fresh scent

• Works in HE and standard washers

• Keeps fabrics feeling softer

• Enhances overall wash performance

Cons:

• Not a primary sanitizer

• Scent may not suit everyone

• Requires extra rinse step

• Bottle empties fairly quickly

• Not dye- or fragrance-free

2. Tide Washing Machine Cleaner – 6ct

This cleaner is made for washing machines rather than clothes, but it plays a critical role in sanitizing laundry environments. The oxygenated formula targets residues, musty odors, and bacteria that build up inside washers over time.

By keeping the machine itself fresh and free of residue, it ensures laundry comes out cleaner. Use once a month for effective maintenance of both standard and HE washers.

Pros:

• Cleans hidden washer residues
• Helps control musty odors
• Safe for HE and standard washers
• Easy single-pack use
• Monthly maintenance routine

Cons:

• Not for direct fabric use
• Requires consistent monthly use
• Six-pack runs out quickly
• May need hot water cycles
• Not fragrance-free formula

3. Lysol Free & Clear Laundry Sanitizer – 21 fl oz

This unscented sanitizer eliminates 99.9% of bacteria that detergents may leave behind. It is free of dyes and fragrances, making it suitable for sensitive skin while still providing sanitization.

It works in cold water and is safe for both whites and colors. Simply add during the rinse cycle for an additional layer of protection without introducing scent or dyes to clothing.

Pros:

• Dye- and fragrance-free formula

• Kills 99.9% of bacteria

• Works in cold water cycles

• Suitable for whites and colors

• Safe for sensitive skin

Cons:

• Smaller 21 oz size

• Does not mask odors

• May not remove strong smells

• Frequent refills required

• Not effective against heavy soils

4. OxiClean White Revive Laundry Sanitizer Powder – 3 lbs

This powder is intended to revive whites and fight stains while being chlorine-free and safe for colors. It brightens fabrics without harsh bleach and can be used as a presoak or added directly to the wash.

It removes tough stains such as wine, coffee, or sweat, and helps extend the life of white fabrics. Works in both HE and standard washing machines.

Pros:

• Brightens whites without chlorine bleach

• Removes deep and set-in stains

• Safe for mixed color loads

• Versatile: wash or presoak use

• Works in HE and standard washers

Cons:

• Powder can be messy to measure

• Not primarily for germ sanitizing

• Residue risk if not dissolved

• May require long soak for stains

• Limited effectiveness on odors

5. Lysol Crisp Linen Laundry Sanitizer – 90 fl oz

This liquid sanitizer kills 99.9% of bacteria left behind after washing. The Crisp Linen scent adds freshness while ensuring fabrics remain safe from harsh bleach.

It is compatible with both HE and standard machines and works in cold water cycles. A 90-ounce bottle provides enough volume for frequent use, especially in busy households with large loads.

Pros:

• Kills 99.9% of bacteria

• Large 90 oz size

• Crisp Linen scent option

• Works in cold water

• HE and standard washer safe

Cons:

• Strong scent may be overpowering

• Bulky container can be heavy

• Requires measuring for dosing

• Higher price per unit

• Not fragrance-free