Keeping your LG washing machine clean is crucial to ensure it always performs at its best. No matter how long you’ve had it or how new it may be, regular maintenance is essential, especially if you notice any residue build-up or an unpleasant odor from the tub.
Fortunately, you can quickly and conveniently solve these issues with the built-in LG Tub Clean Cycle.
In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know about the LG Tub Clean Cycle.
How Does the LG Tub Clean Cycle Work?
The LG Tub Clean Cycle is a self-clean function on many LG washing machines. When selected, the washing machine fills the tub with hot water and cleaning solution.
Then, it spins the drum quickly to loosen and remove any built-up residue, dirt, mildew, mold, or bacteria.
Afterward, it rinses out the tub entirely, and you end up with a sparkling washing machine. As an additional perk, it will smell great.
Ultimately, it’s a simple and effective way to keep your appliance clean and working well.
Read also → Best Non-Computerized Washing Machines
How to Select and Use the LG Tub Clean Cycle
Here’s how to select and use this feature. For those with an LG washing machine without the LG Tub Clean Cycle, you can still clean the washing machine. More on that later.
Models With Tub Clean Feature
Most recent LG washing machine models have the Tub Clean Cycle, making cleaning the machine quick and convenient.
Follow these step-by-step instructions below:
- Empty the Washing Machine
- Choose an Appropriate Cleaning Agent
- Load the Cleaning Agent
- Select the LG Tub Clean Cycle
- Run the Full Cycle
- Wipe the Drum and Door
Step 1: Empty the Washing Machine
Be sure to empty the washing machine of any laundry before you begin. You do not want to hinder the cleaning process or ruin your clothing.
Step 2: Choose an Appropriate Cleaning Agent
If you would like an effective cleaning, use the right cleaning agent. LG states you should use tub cleaning solutions in liquid bleach, powder, tablet, or pod forms.
Depending on the type of solution, you’ll need to place it in a different compartment of the washing machine to ensure optimal results.
Many people may suggest using do-it-yourself (DIY) formulas containing chlorine bleach or white vinegar. They may work for many household cleaning tasks.
However, they may be less effective in washing machines, which can accumulate challenging residues from hard water, detergent, and fabric softener.
Tub cleaning solutions are specially formulated. As such, they can cut through these build-ups more effectively than bleach or vinegar.
Plus, harsh chemicals may damage the washing machine components, so LG advises against chlorine bleach.
Once you’ve chosen your preferred cleaning solution, measure it correctly. It’s essential to read the instructions carefully and follow the recommended dosage.
Remember that using more cleaning liquid than recommended won’t necessarily lead to a better clean.
Step 3: Load the Cleaning Agent
It’s important to make sure you pick the correct compartment for your cleaning solution. It guarantees that the cleaning agent will be included in your cycle and added at the proper time.
First, Slide open the compartment designated for your detergent, bleach, and fabric softener when doing laundry.
After that, add the cleaning agent:
- Liquid Bleach Tub Cleaning Solution: Add directly to the liquid bleach compartment
- Tub Cleaning Powder: Take out the liquid detergent cup and add it directly to the Main Wash compartment
- Tub Cleaning Tablet or Pod: Place into the washing machine barrel
Step 4: Select the LG Tub Clean Cycle
There are different types and models of LG washing machines. Since this is the case, it is best to consult your specific owner’s manual to locate and select the right button.
Generally speaking, there are three different ways to choose it:
- A Tub Clean button on your control panel: You can press this button to activate the cleaning cycle
- A Tub Clean option on your cycle selector knob: Turn the knob till it reaches this notch
- A Tub Clean button on your digital screen: Tub Clean may be an option identified with small text and an asterisk* under a primary function. Press and hold the button until Tcl appears on the digital screen. Then, press Start to begin the cycle
Step 5: Run the Full Cycle
Now, it’s time to let the LG Tub Clean Cycle work its magic! Depending on the washing machine model, it can take anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour and a half to complete the cleaning cycle.
The washing machine will take care of using hot water, adding the cleaning agent, spinning the drum, power cleaning the washing machine, rinsing away the dirt and grime, and drying the drum.
Step 6: Wipe the Drum and Door
After the washing machine completes its cycle, make sure the drum and door are completely dry. Even though the machine spins the drum to remove excess water, there could still be some lingering moisture.
Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the drum and door. It’s also a good idea to leave the door open for a few hours to allow air drying.
Models Without Tub Clean Feature
If there is no Tub Clean option on your LG washer, do not worry. You can still clean the washing machine barrel, remove build-up and residue, and eliminate odors.
Follow along with these six steps:
- Empty the Washing Machine
- Choose an Appropriate Cleaning Agent
- Load the Cleaning Agent
- Fill the Tub with Hot Water
- Run a Wash Cycle
- Wipe the Drum and Door
Step 1: Empty the Washing Machine
Always ensure the washing machine is empty before starting a cleaning cycle.
Step 2: Choose an Appropriate Cleaning Agent
Whether you have a Tub Clean option or no Tub Clean option on your LG washer, selecting the right cleaning agents is crucial.
Choose specially-formulated tub cleaning solutions, which can come in liquid bleach formulas, powder, tablet, or pod.
Please refrain from using homemade solutions with bleach or vinegar, as they will not be as effective as tub cleaning options.
Step 3: Load the Cleaning Agent
You must load your tub cleaning solution as though you are completing a regular laundry wash:
- Liquid Bleach Tub Cleaning Solution: Add to the liquid bleach compartment
- Tub Cleaning Powder: Add directly to the Main Wash compartment after removing the cup for liquid detergent
- Tub Cleaning Tablet or Pod: Throw into the washing machine barrel
Step 4: Fill the Tub With Hot Water
Select hot water as your wash temperature, and let the washing machine fill your drum with hot water and a cleaning agent.
Allow the wash cycle to run for a few minutes so your cleaner mixes thoroughly with the water. Then, shut off the process and let the water stand for 2-4 hours.
If you have heavy residue or build-up, let it stand for four hours to loosen the grime completely.
Step 5: Run a Wash Cycle
Run a complete wash cycle with wash, rinse, and spin features. It will get you as close to a power-clean cycle as possible.
Plus, at the end of the wash, the barrel spins to remove any excess moisture.
Step 6: Wipe the Drum and Door
Wipe down the drum and the interior door with a dry cloth. It’s best to leave the door open for a few hours to ensure it dries completely. This will help prevent mold or mildew from forming and keep any odors away.
Is Tub Clean Really Necessary?
LG Tub Clean Cycle is more than just a helpful feature; it is necessary for a well-functioning washing machine.
A washing machine is excellent at removing dirt and grime from clothes.
However, over time, residues from laundry detergent and fabric softener can build up in the drum and other washing machine components.
The warm and damp environment can also result in the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew.
If left unchecked, these issues can cause decreased efficiency and performance. You may see higher utility bills, potential repairs, and machine lifespan.
Additionally, they can leave residue and bacteria on your clothing and create unpleasant odors. Fortunately, the LG Tub Clean Cycle is a simple solution to prevent these problems. By using hot water and powerful cleaning agents, it can eliminate any build-up.
How Often Should I Use the LG Tub Clean Cycle?
LG recommends using this feature every 20-30 washes (or once a month) to keep the washing machine working well. You can also use it if you notice awful smells from the machine or freshly washed clothing.
LG Washer Tub Clean Cycle Not Working
If you need help with your LG Tub Clean Cycle not working, it is best to consult your owner’s manual for information specific to your model. You can also contact LG support for personalized help.
However, there are typically four easy fixes to this problem.
1. Turn On Your Washer First
In many cases, especially with top-load washers, all you need to fix your LG washer tub clean cycle not working is to turn on your washer first.
Then, once your drum fills with hot water, press the Start button on Tub Clean. Then, it will begin its cycle.
2. Press Down the Tub Clean Button
If your control panel has buttons, you may need to press and hold the Tub Clean button for several seconds before it activates. It is mainly the case if your Tub Clean option is a sub-feature under the main function buttons.
3. Deactivate Spin Features
Many people struggling with their tub cleaning feature must deactivate Spin+Rinse or SpinSense. Press this button once to turn it off, then try turning on your Tub Clean Cycle.
4. Reset the Washer
If none of the above options work, you may need to reset your LG washing machine completely. To do this, unplug the washer and press the power button for approximately one minute. After that, plug it back into the wall.
Once you’ve done this, your LG Tub Clean Cycle button should light up and work when pressed.
Sources:
LG Washer Cleaning – How it Works and How to Get the Best Results
