6 Water Softener Cleaners You Need to Know About This Season
When it comes to maintaining your water softener, using the right cleaner can make all the difference. You might not realize it, but over time, your water softener’s resin bed can accumulate contaminants like iron, rust, and other deposits that salt alone can’t remove.
This buildup reduces efficiency and can shorten the lifespan of your system. By choosing an effective water softener cleaner, you ensure softer water, better appliance performance, and longer equipment life.
In this article, you’ll discover six top cleaners that can help you keep your water softener in peak condition this season.
Top Picks
Category | Product | Price | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
🏆 Best Overall | $14.97 | 92/100 | |
💰 Best Value | $19.99 | 88/100 | |
⚡ Best Performance | Pro Products – RO05B RO65N Rust Out Water Softener Cleaner And Iron Remover | $25.65 | 90/100 |
💡 Best Innovation | $20.53 | 89/100 | |
🎯 Best for Beginners | $24.99 | 87/100 | |
🚀 Most Advanced | $29.79 | 91/100 |
How We Chose These Water Softener Cleaners
We focused on cleaners that effectively remove iron, rust, and other contaminants from your water softener’s resin bed to restore efficiency and extend its lifespan. Ease of use was important, so we prioritized products that don’t require complicated mixing or measuring. Customer feedback and ratings helped us identify reliable and trusted options.
We also considered value for money and any additional benefits like warranty extensions or multi-purpose use.
Velocity Water Softener Cleaner
If you’re looking to keep your water softener running smoothly without any hassle, this Velocity cleaner is a solid pick. It’s a concentrate that gives you four uses per bottle, so you won’t have to buy it often. It works by clearing out mineral build-up from the resin bed and valves, which means your softener stays efficient longer.
Whether you’re doing routine maintenance or just want to give your system a good refresh, this cleaner fits right in. Plus, it’s fragrance-free, so no weird smells to worry about.
What People Say
Users appreciate how easy it is to use and the value it offers compared to other brands. Many mention it effectively cleans their systems and lasts for multiple treatments.
🗣️ Robin Belew
I used this in our new Rheem water softener. Great value compared to their product. Works as it should and is easy to use.
🗣️ D. Couse
Much better price point than the Morton cleaner. Used once when unit told me to clean and soap had more suds prior to cleaning so I know it works. Love you get enough in one bottle for almost a year of cleaning.
How It Helps
This cleaner tackles the common issue of mineral build-up that slows down your water softener, helping it run efficiently and last longer.
Eco-Friendly Features
Fragrance-free and formulated to clean without harsh additives, it’s a straightforward option that’s gentle on your system and the environment.
Why You’ll Like It
- Restores softener performance
- Removes harmful mineral build-up from resin bed, valve, and system
- Keeps water softeners running stronger for longer
- Compatible with most salt-based water softeners
- Easy to use concentrate with 4 uses per bottle
Current Price: $19.99
Rating: 4.5 (total: 87+)
EcoPure EPCL Water Softener Cleaner
You want your water softener to work like new, right? This EcoPure cleaner makes that easy.
Instead of messing around with powders or complicated steps, you just pour the bottle into the brine well and let it do its thing during regeneration. It’s designed to tackle the stuff salt can’t remove—like iron, rust, and sediment—so your system stays efficient and lasts longer.
Whether you’re doing regular upkeep or just want to avoid any surprises, this cleaner fits right into your routine. Plus, it works with pretty much any brand, so no worries if you switch systems down the line.
What People Say
People find it super easy to use and appreciate that it actually cleans the resin bed without leaving residue. Many notice their softener runs better and lasts longer after using it regularly.
🗣️ MacWiz
My water softener manufacturer requires that this be used every 6 months to extend the warranty. I assume it works because of the chemicals used to rinse the bed beads in the softener. It is acidic and reportedly cleans the resin bead bed during cycling and leaves no residue.
🗣️ David
I’m buying this product every 4 months. My softener is 14 years old and I have to disassemble the screen every year and clean. This product has brought my water softener back to life. Obviously better right away.
How It Helps
It tackles the stubborn deposits that salt alone can’t handle, keeping your softener’s resin bed clean and efficient so you avoid costly repairs or replacements.
Eco-Friendly Features
Formulated without harsh additives and unscented, it’s a gentle yet effective cleaner that’s mindful of your system and the environment.
Why You’ll Like It
- Removes iron, sediment, dirt, and rust from resin bed
- No need to mix powders—just pour and regenerate
- Compatible with any brand of water softener
- Helps extend parts and labor warranty with regular use
- Recommended use every 4 months for best results
Current Price: $20.53
Rating: 4.6 (total: 938+)
Pro Products Res Care Liquid Cleaner
If you’ve noticed your water softener isn’t quite doing its job like it used to, this Pro Products Res Care cleaner might be just what you need. It’s super straightforward to use—just pour it into the brine well or salt tank and run a manual regeneration.
It tackles all the gunk salt leaves behind, like iron, manganese, and sediment, which can really gum up your system over time. Whether you’re keeping up with regular maintenance or trying to breathe new life into an older softener, this cleaner fits right into your routine and works with any brand.
Plus, it’s NSF certified, so you can feel good about what’s going into your water.
What People Say
Users appreciate how it brings their softener back to life, especially those dealing with iron in their water. Many mention the noticeable improvement in water softness and the ease of adding it during regular maintenance.
🗣️ Paul Streicher
I’ve been using Res Care for a couple of years now, adding a half cup to the brine tank every two weeks. You can really tell when it’s working because the water feels soft like the day the softener was installed. It’s especially great if your water has iron in it, as it cleans the resin and helps it last longer.
🗣️ Dan N.
This product saved us from having to replace our resin, which would have cost hundreds. After just a day or two, the water was noticeably softer again. It’s amazing how well it works, especially with really tough well water like ours.
Why It Works
It tackles the stubborn buildup that regular salt can’t handle, cleaning the resin bed and internal parts so your softener keeps working efficiently without costly repairs.
Clean and Simple
Unscented and formulated without unnecessary additives, it’s a straightforward cleaner that’s mindful of your system and safe for your household water.
What Makes It Great
- Effectively removes iron, manganese, silt, and other contaminants salt can’t
- Easy to use with clear dosing instructions for manual or feeder use
- Works with any water softener brand or model
- NSF certified for safe use in drinking water systems
- Helps extend the life of your softener and reduce maintenance calls
Current Price: $14.97
Rating: 4.6 (total: 1791+)
Morton MWSC Universal Water Softener Cleanser
If you want to keep your water softener running smoothly without the hassle, Morton’s Universal Water Softener Cleanser is a solid choice. It’s designed to clear out the stuff salt can’t handle, like iron, rust, and sediment that build up in the resin bed.
What’s nice is you don’t have to mess around with powders or complicated measuring—just pour the whole bottle into the brine well and start a regeneration cycle. It works with pretty much any brand, so whether you’ve got a Morton softener or another make, it fits right in.
Using it a few times a year can really help extend the life of your softener, which is great if you want to avoid unexpected repairs or replacements.
What People Say
People find it easy to use and effective at keeping their softeners clean and under warranty. Many mention how it clears out buildup that regular salt can’t handle and appreciate the convenience of just pouring it in.
🗣️ Terry Shaffer
Works as expected. This product is required by Morton to be used in their water softeners to keep them in warranty for up to five years. Glad we found it here at a reasonable price. It’s a must-have if you want to keep your softener covered and clean.
🗣️ fitnessguy
This stuff cleaned our water softener after 9 years without any previous cleaning. Just poured the bottle into the brine tank and ran a regeneration cycle. The water had a chemical taste briefly, but it went away quickly. It definitely works and made a noticeable difference.
How It Helps Your Softener
It tackles the hidden buildup inside your softener’s resin bed and valves, which can cause inefficiency or damage if left unchecked. Using this cleanser regularly keeps everything flowing smoothly and helps avoid costly repairs.
Gentle on Your System
While it’s a powerful cleaner, it’s designed to be used sparingly—just a bottle a few times a year—so you’re not overloading your system or the environment with harsh chemicals.
Why You’ll Like It
- Removes iron, sediment, dirt, and rust that salt alone can’t tackle
- No mixing or measuring—just pour and regenerate
- Compatible with any brand of water softener
- Recommended use every 4 months for best results
- Helps extend your softener’s lifespan up to 5 years with regular use
Current Price: $24.99
Rating: 4.6 (total: 1437+)
Pro Products Rust Out Water Softener Cleaner
If you’re tired of dealing with rusty water softeners and stubborn iron stains, this cleaner is your new best friend. It chemically transforms rust and iron deposits into a clear solution that rinses away easily during regeneration.
Plus, it’s gentle on your system’s finishes and can even tackle tough rust stains on toilets, sinks, and tubs. Using it regularly means your water softener stays efficient and your water stays crystal clear.
What People Say
Users rave about how this product brought their water softeners back to life and cleared up stubborn rust stains that other cleaners couldn’t touch. Many mention how their toilets and sinks look brand new after treatment, and that it’s surprisingly easy to use. Some even call it a ‘spa day’ for their softener!
How It Solves Your Rust Problems
You know how rust and iron can sneak into your water softener and cause all sorts of issues—from stained fixtures to reduced efficiency? This cleaner tackles those problems head-on by chemically breaking down the rust and iron deposits so they rinse away during regeneration. It’s like giving your softener a deep clean that keeps it running smoothly and your water looking great.
Eco-Friendly and Gentle
You don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals damaging your system or the environment. This formula avoids abrasive ingredients, making it safe for your water softener’s components and the surfaces you treat.
It’s a smart choice if you want effective cleaning without the guilt.
Why You’ll Love It
- Effectively removes rust and iron buildup from your water softener resin bed
- Safe for fiberglass, porcelain, and acrylic finishes—no harsh abrasives here
- Can be used to clean rust stains on toilets, sinks, tubs, and even white clothes
- Helps extend the life and efficiency of your water softener
- Easy to use with clear instructions for hassle-free maintenance
Current Price: $25.65
Rating: 4.6 (total: 1,983+)
Res-Up Water Softener Cleaner
If you’ve noticed your water softener isn’t quite working like it used to, this cleaner could be just what you need. It’s designed to clean out the resin beds and equipment surfaces, tackling iron buildup that can slow things down.
Using it every few months helps keep your softener running smoothly and your water feeling soft and fresh. It’s straightforward to use and a practical addition to your regular maintenance routine.
What People Say
People appreciate how this cleaner actually fixed issues like reduced water pressure and rust stains. Many users mention that after a few treatments, their water softener feels like new again, and they’ve avoided costly repairs.
It’s also praised for being easy to add to your system and for lasting a long time.
🗣️ DAVID M.
My water softener was restricting the water flow to my house. Shower water pressure would start out strong, but after about 5 minutes, the water would begin to slow down. I traced the issue to the water softener. I tried this product based on other reviews and I can happily say that it fixed my issue. After several flushes of the water softener system, the water pressure continues to remain strong. The product works well, definitely cleaning my resin bed in my softener. As some preventative maintenance, I add a couple oz to my system monthly and I haven’t had any issues.
🗣️ Debi
We’re using this every 3 months in our water softener & it has worked to eliminate the rust/iron stains we had prior to using it. Is also very cost effective & you get 1 gallon. Will keep using it & definitely recommend it.
How It Tackles Your Softener Issues
Iron and mineral buildup can really gum up your water softener, causing slower water flow and less effective softening. This cleaner breaks down those deposits, clearing out the resin bed so your system can do its job properly again.
Regular use means fewer headaches and better water quality without having to replace parts.
Gentle Yet Effective
While it’s powerful enough to clean tough iron deposits, this formula is designed to be safe for your softener’s components. It avoids harsh abrasives, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your system or the environment when you use it as directed.
What Makes It Great
- Cleans and restores resin bed capacity for better softening
- Removes iron deposits that can clog your system
- Maintains overall performance of your water softener
- Comes in a convenient 1-gallon bottle for multiple uses
- Cost-effective way to keep your softener in top shape
Current Price: $29.79
Rating: 4.7 (total: 1,099+)
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should You Use Water Softener Cleaners To Keep Your System Running Smoothly?
You’ll want to clean your water softener about two to four times a year, depending on your water hardness and usage. Regular cleaning prevents buildup of iron, rust, and other contaminants that salt alone can’t remove.
For example, products like the EcoPure EPCL recommend use three times within the first year to maintain peak efficiency and even extend your warranty. If you notice reduced water pressure or a change in water softness, it’s a good sign your softener needs a cleaning.
Setting reminders or syncing with your softener’s maintenance schedule can help you stay on track.
What Should You Consider When Choosing The Right Water Softener Cleaner For Your Home?
You’ll want to pick a cleaner that matches your softener type and water conditions. Some cleaners, like Pro Products Rust Out, specialize in removing iron and rust buildup, which is great if you have well water with high iron content.
Others, like Velocity Water Softener Cleaner, focus on restoring efficiency and removing general contaminants. Also, consider ease of use—liquid formulas often just pour into the brine well, while powders might require more careful handling.
Check if the cleaner is compatible with your softener brand, especially if you want to maintain your warranty. Price is another factor; for example, you can find effective options ranging from about $14.97 to $29.79 USD, so balance cost with how often you’ll need to buy it.
Are There Any Safety Tips Or Practical Advice You Should Follow When Using These Cleaners?
Absolutely. Many water softener cleaners contain acids or chemicals that can irritate your skin, throat, or lungs, so always handle them with gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. Avoid mixing different cleaners unless the manufacturer explicitly says it’s safe.
For liquid cleaners, pour directly into the brine well or salt tank as instructed, then manually regenerate your system to flush out residues. If you detect any unusual taste or odor after cleaning, run cold water for a few minutes until it clears.
Also, store cleaners securely away from children and pets. Following these steps ensures you get the best results without any hassle or risk.
Wrapping Up
Keeping your water softener clean is essential for maintaining soft water quality and protecting your home’s plumbing and appliances. The six cleaners featured here offer a range of benefits, from easy application to powerful rust and iron removal.
Whether you want a budget-friendly option like Velocity’s cleaner or a high-performance product like Pro Products Rust Out, you can find a solution that fits your needs. By regularly using one of these cleaners, you’ll enjoy improved water softness, longer equipment life, and fewer maintenance headaches.
| Product | Image | Rating | Highlights | Pros | Cons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Velocity Water Softener Cleaner Solution | | 4.5/5 (1000+ reviews) | Restores efficiency, removes contaminants, extends water softener life. | Great value, easy to use, sufficient for almost a year of cleaning. | Some issues with packaging. | $19.99 |
| EcoPure EPCL Water Softener Cleaner | | 4.6/5 (938 reviews) | Universal cleaner, no mixing required, designed for any brand. | Easy to use, effective for maintenance, good warranty extension. | Requires regular use for best results. | $20.53 |
| Pro Products Res Care Liquid Water Softener Cleaner |  | 4.6/5 (1000+ reviews) | Cleans what salt leaves behind, easy application. | Effective for regular maintenance, improves water quality. | May not remove iron buildup effectively. | $14.97 |
| Morton MWSC Universal Water Softener Cleanser | | 4.6/5 (1437 reviews) | Maintains peak performance, no mixing required. | Required for warranty extension, effective cleaner. | Limited availability in stores. | $24.99 |
| Pro Products – RO05B RO65N Rust Out Water Softener Cleaner | | 4.6/5 (1000+ reviews) | Removes iron and rust buildup, safe for finishes. | Effective for tough stains, reliable cleaning agent. | Packaging could be improved. | $25.65 |
| Water Softener Cleaner (1 Gallon) | | 4.7/5 (1000+ reviews) | High quality cleaner for resin beds and equipment. | Economical, effective for rust and iron removal. | Very caustic, handle with care. | $29.79 |
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