True Fresh vs. Affresh: Which Washing Machine Cleaner Should You Choose?

Eliana Martiin
Aug 19
3 min read

A clean washing machine isn’t just about hygiene—it ensures your clothes stay fresh, your appliance lasts longer, and your laundry cycles run efficiently. Two popular cleaning tablets often compared are True Fresh and Affresh. While Affresh has been a trusted brand for years, True Fresh is quickly gaining popularity for its strength, eco-conscious formula, and cost savings.

Product Snapshots

True Fresh Washing Machine Cleaner

True Fresh washing machine cleaner tablets are designed for deep cleaning your washing machine, targeting hidden spots like the drum, pipes, and seals. They use non-toxic, eco-friendly ingredients to remove odor, residue, limescale, and detergent build-up. With 25 tablets per pack, it offers long-term cleaning at an affordable price—making it ideal for families, sensitive skin, and eco-conscious households.

Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner

Affresh has been a longstanding, trusted brand in washer cleaning. Its oxygen-based foaming action helps loosen dirt and grime while leaving behind a light, fresh scent. Each pack contains 6 tablets, offering a simple drop-in cleaning solution that many users rely on for routine maintenance.

Comparison: True Fresh vs. Affresh

1. Cleaning Effectiveness

True Fresh: Targets dirt, soap scum, limescale, and odors. Its deep-clean formula reaches the drum, pipes, and seals, tackling buildup in hidden spots with fewer washes.
Affresh: Relies on foaming action to loosen grime. Works well, but tougher deposits may require repeated treatments.

Edge: True Fresh – Delivers faster and more thorough cleaning.

2. Ingredients & Safety

True Fresh: Made with non-toxic, chemical-free ingredients. Safe for families, pets, and individuals with sensitive skin.
Affresh: Contains stronger chemical agents like oxygen bleach, plus added fragrance.

Edge: True Fresh – Gentle yet effective, without harsh additives.

3. Fragrance Factor

True Fresh: Completely fragrance-free, perfect for those who dislike or react to added scents.
Affresh: Light fresh scent, which some users enjoy, while others find unnecessary.

Edge: True Fresh – A truly clean washer doesn’t need perfume.

4. Washer Compatibility

Both products are compatible with all washing machines—front-load, top-load, or high-efficiency (HE).

Result: Tie – Both work universally.

5. Ease of Use

Simply pop a tablet into an empty washer and run a cycle. No powders, liquids, or extra steps with either brand.

Result: Tie – Simple, no-fuss cleaning from both.

6. Residue & Rinsing

True Fresh: Leaves no film or leftover chemicals. Clothes remain free from any residues after washing.
Affresh: Some users report a faint smell or residue buildup after repeated use.

Edge: True Fresh – Cleaner results without lingering effects.

7. Cost Comparison

True Fresh: $22.97 for 25 tablets (≈ $0.91 each).
Affresh: $11 for 6 tablets (≈ $1.83 each).

Edge: True Fresh – Nearly double the value at half the price.

8. Packaging & Convenience

True Fresh: Bulk pack with 25 tablets, making it a practical choice for long-term use.
Affresh: Smaller 6-count blister pack, requiring more frequent repurchases.

Edge: True Fresh – More convenient for consistent maintenance.

9. Eco-Friendly Choice

True Fresh: Focuses on minimal impact with non-toxic, fragrance-free ingredients and reduced packaging waste.
Affresh: Standard formula and packaging, less emphasis on sustainability.

Edge: True Fresh – A greener option for eco-conscious homes.

10. Best Suited For…

Heavy buildup & deep cleaning: True Fresh
Sensitive skin & fragrance-free homes: True Fresh
Those who prefer a light scent & brand familiarity: Affresh
Budget-conscious families & frequent use: True Fresh
Environmentally responsible cleaning: True Fresh

Final Verdict

While Affresh remains a trusted option, True Fresh outperforms it in most categories—cost, safety, eco-friendliness, and cleaning power. If you want a washing machine cleaner that’s powerful, affordable, fragrance-free, and environmentally responsible, True Fresh is the smarter choice.