The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →For removable surface rust or mineral buildup inside a washing machine, CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover is a reasonable product to consider because its manufacturer lists washing machines as a use. That is not proof it is best in a comparative test, nor does it mean every washer maker approves it. Check your washer manual first. Rust-like marks may originate in the water supply, while a scratched drum finish or structural corrosion requires service—not stronger cleaner.
First identify what is causing the rust marks
“Rust in the washer” can mean a removable film on the drum, damage to the drum’s finish, or iron-bearing water leaving stains on laundry. The right response depends on which problem you have.
Marks on clothes or recurring stains inside the tub
Samsung says rust-like stains inside a washer drum or tub are likely to come from the water supply, as stains on clothes can. Iron or manganese in the water, a rusty water heater, or pipes may be responsible. If marks affect multiple garments or return across loads, investigate the supply instead of repeatedly cleaning the washer. See Samsung’s guidance on laundry stained or damaged after using a Samsung washing machine.
A removable film after washing a metal object
A surface film may be removable with a suitable product. To reduce the chance of another mark, remove metal objects from pockets, close zippers and fasteners, and put small or delicate items in a laundry bag.
#1 Best Overall
- TACKLES TOUGH STAINS: One 22 oz spray bottle with a convenient trigger helps tackle calcium, lime, and rust deposits for families and homeowners targeting home, bathroom and kitchen cleaning
- MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING SPRAY: Rust remover spray cleans stainless steel, ceramic tile, chrome, glass, porcelain, fiberglass, and more for multipurpose whole-home cleaning
- HEAVY DUTY CLEANER: Use on shower doors, car wheels, garage equipment, faucet water spots, bathtub crust, kitchen sinks, refrigerator stains, hard water stains, shower heads, dishwashers, washing machines, humidifiers, and mor
- SAFER FOR FAMILIES: Safer Choice certified, septic safe cleaner with no ammonia or phosphates for environmentally conscious families seeking trustworthy household cleaning products
- TRUSTED FOR 40 YEARS - A staple in households since the 1980s, CLR offers a wide variety of everyday household cleaning supplies including Brilliant Bath, Active Clear, and Spot Free Stainless Steel
A scratch through the drum finish or visible corrosion
Cleaner cannot restore a damaged surface. Zanussi says that when metal has scratched through the drum surface, the damage cannot be removed and the drum must be replaced. Samsung advises contacting the manufacturer if the washer itself is rusty. Arrange appliance service rather than treating physical damage as a stain. See Zanussi’s guidance on rust on a washing machine drum.
Washer cleaners: what the manufacturers say
| Product | Washer-use evidence | Important limits |
|---|---|---|
| CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover | CLR lists washing machines for surface rust and mineral buildup. | Follow the product label and washer manual. CLR’s directions call for ventilation, dilution, a spot test, no more than two minutes of contact, and thorough rinsing. This is not a comparative test or universal washer-maker approval. |
| Hercules Iron Ike Rust Remover | Oatey lists washing machines among possible applications. | Oatey says it is not septic safe. Check the appliance manual and current product label before use. It is not an independently tested recommendation. |
How to use CLR on a washer surface
These are CLR’s product directions; they do not override a washer manufacturer’s instructions. Do not use the product if your manual prohibits it or if you cannot safely follow the label.
Rank #2
- NO. 1 WASHING MACHINE CLEANER TABLET*
- TIME-RELEASE DEEP CLEAN. Affresh tablets are scientifically designed to deliver extended cleaning action throughout the wash cycle, helping power away bacteria, grime and soap scum deep inside the washing machine’s pump, drum and filter to help optimize performance.
- STINKY PET ODOR? Affresh washing machine cleaner helps remove residues that can trap odors from pets, sweat and mildew that can transfer onto clothes and sheets.
- ONE TABLET, ONCE A MONTH. Avoid the twice-monthly cleaning cycles of other appliance cleaners and cut your machine cleaning maintenance time in half.
- TRUSTED BY APPLIANCE EXPERTS. Backed by over 100 years of appliance innovation, affresh is the washing machine cleaner brand recommended by Whirlpool, Maytag, and Amana.**
- Check the washer manual and CLR label. Confirm the product is suitable for the surface and follow any model-specific cleaning guidance.
- Ventilate and dilute. Work in a properly ventilated area. CLR directs users to dilute the product with an equal amount of warm water.
- Spot test. Test the diluted solution on a discreet area first.
- Apply briefly. Use a sponge, cloth, or brush and leave it on for no longer than two minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly. CLR directs users to rinse with cold water. Repeat only if required by the product directions.
Never mix CLR with bleach or any other household cleaner. Follow the label’s protective-equipment and handling instructions, keep the product away from children, and stop if the washer’s finish appears damaged.
Rust stains on clothes need a fabric treatment
Do not use a garment stain treatment as a washer-drum cleaner. Rust-Oleum directs consumers to Whink Rust Stain Remover for rust stains on colorfast fabrics, and Maytag Commercial Laundry also names Whink as a garment treatment. Follow the current label, test colorfastness first, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry before deciding whether the stain remains. A fabric product’s directions do not establish that it is safe for appliance surfaces.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesRank #3
- Works With All Washers - Perfect For High Efficiency Or Standard Toploader, Front Loading Compatible With GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, Electrolux, Etc. (Not For Dryer)
- Eco-Friendly Tabs - Natural Effervescent Foaming Tablets Are Septic Safe And Made With Less Packaging . Compare To Liquid Descaler And Wipes That Create Unnecessary Waste
- Instant Cleaning Power - Active Self Wash Tablet Cleans So You Don't Have To Brush And Wipe Your Washing Machines. When Exposed To Water, They Break Down Into Deep Scrubbing Powder Cleaners That Breaks Down Grime And Hard Water Build Up
- Bulk 24 Kit - Each Package Includes 1 Year Supply (24 Pods) Vs. Competitor 5 or 6 Tablet Packs Or Liquid Treatments Which Run Out Quickly
- Odor Eliminator- No More Smelly Washer. Descaler Will Freshen Your Laundry Machine Basket, Rubber Gasket, And Internal Parts So Your Clothes Will Come Out Clean And Smelling Fresh.
Why bleach is the wrong fix
Chlorine bleach does not remove rust and can make rust stains darker, according to Clorox’s guidance on bleach and rust. Do not use bleach as a rust treatment or combine it with a rust remover.
When stains keep coming back
Repeated orange, yellow, or red marks across loads point to a possible water-supply problem, such as iron or manganese, rusty plumbing, or a rusty water heater. An iron test can help assess the water; Maytag Commercial Laundry notes that suspended iron may be difficult to remove without filtration. Treat testing and filtration as possible next steps, not a guarantee that a particular product will solve the problem. If the washer itself is corroding, contact the manufacturer or an appliance service provider.
Rank #4
- Goodbye Rust: Remove rust stains around the home with a heavy-duty rust removal product trusted for over 60 years. The unique cleaner gel clings to dissolve rust stains on contact for difficult-to-reach places.
- Super Strength: The heavy-duty stain remover is specifically formulated to easily rinse away the toughest rust stains, eliminating the need for scrubbing. This product is septic-friendly when used as directed.
- Multi-Purpose: Rust-colored stains happen for many reasons, especially with high iron, hard water. Use the rust remover for vertical and hard-to-reach surfaces like showers, tubs, sinks, colorfast carpets, tile, and more.
- Easy To Use: Typical cleaning sprays and gels, bleaches, and soaps aren’t cut out for rust removal. Utilize our special solution as needed to keep your items and surfaces looking clean and new. Please refer to package instructions for best results.
- Performance Guarantee: Our cleaning products come with a satisfaction guarantee. We will meet or exceed your expectations with our specially-formulated cleaners, proudly made in the USA.
Safety before you treat any surface
- Use each product only for the surface and purpose stated on its current label.
- Ventilate as directed and use the protective equipment specified by the product label.
- Never mix rust removers with bleach or other household cleaners.
- Keep cleaners away from children and follow label instructions for contact, rinsing, and disposal.
- For clothing treatments, follow fabric precautions and test colorfastness.
Product formulas, labels, and washer manuals can change. Confirm the current directions for your exact product and washer model before treating a surface.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Best on Rust: #1 Heavy-Duty Rust Stain Remover Brand
- Most versatile powder, ideal for use in bathroom, kitchen, laundry, water softeners and more
- Easily rinses away heavy-duty rust stains, eliminating the need for scrubbing
- Removes heavy-duty iron build-up in water softener, maintains softener performance and extends life of machine
- Ideal for geographic regions with hard water and high iron
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
