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A washing machine’s self-cleaning feature runs a dedicated cycle with the drum empty to help remove or control moisture, detergent residue, and soil inside the washer. The exact temperature, water use, motion, duration, and cleaner requirements vary by model, so follow the washer’s manual and on-screen prompts.
What the self-clean cycle does
Manufacturers give this maintenance cycle different names, including Self Clean, Self Clean+, Pure Cycle, Tub Clean, and Tub Sterilization. The cycle is designed to clean parts of the washer’s interior where moisture, soil, or detergent residue can accumulate; it is not a universal cleaning program with identical settings across brands.
For example, Samsung says its Self Clean cycle targets tub areas where moisture and detergent residue may build up. GE says the cited UltraFresh washer’s Self-Clean cycle uses more water, with bleach or a washer cleaner, to help control soil and detergent buildup. LG describes Tub Clean as a hot wash followed by a high spin intended to help dry the drum. These are manufacturer descriptions of specific products, not specifications for every washer. Samsung’s washer-cleaning instructions, Samsung’s odor guidance, LG’s tub-cleaning guide, and GE’s UltraFresh Self-Clean description explain those examples.
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In LG’s guidance for the front-load models covered by its procedure, Tub Clean or Tub Sterilization maintains water at 60°C. The washer heats cold water if hot water is unavailable, and steam-equipped models inject steam. This temperature and behavior apply to the cited LG guidance; they should not be assumed for another washer. LG’s front-loader tub-clean instructions describe the procedure.
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How to run the cycle safely
- Check the manual and empty the washer. Remove laundry before starting the dedicated cycle. Samsung and LG both instruct users to run their cleaning cycles with an empty tub. Samsung and LG provide model-specific directions.
- Check whether your model calls for cleaner. Do not assume that a tablet, bleach, or another additive is required. Samsung says its routine Self Clean cycle does not need cleaner; its separate US odor guidance discusses bleach for an existing mildew smell. LG’s cited front-load procedure recommends oxygen-based washer cleaner and warns that chlorine-based or acidic washer cleaners may discolor or corrode the machine. Other LG instructions cover placement for powder, liquid, or tablet products. Use only the product and placement method specified by your washer’s manual and the cleaner label; do not combine procedures from different brands. Samsung’s routine-cycle guidance, Samsung’s odor guidance, LG’s front-loader instructions, and LG’s general tub-cleaning guidance describe these different cases.
- Select the dedicated cycle and start it. Choose the washer’s own Self Clean, Tub Clean, or equivalent setting. Button sequences and cycle names differ. If your washer has no dedicated cleaning function, consult its manual rather than treating an ordinary wash cycle as equivalent.
- Let the full cycle finish. Samsung’s US guidance estimates about one hour for top-load and four hours for front-load Self Clean cycles. These are estimates in Samsung’s guidance, not universal cycle times. Samsung’s instructions provide those estimates.
- Let the washer dry afterward. LG and Samsung advise leaving the door or lid open after cleaning. LG also recommends opening the dispenser drawer so moisture can dry. Follow the instructions for your model. Samsung and LG describe this follow-up.
How often to run it
There is no single interval for every washer. LG’s 2025 front-load guidance says to run Tub Clean after every 30 uses or when “tcL” appears; another LG support guide recommends monthly cleaning. Samsung recommends about monthly or every 30–40 loads. Follow your model’s displayed reminder and manual rather than treating any one interval as universal. LG’s front-loader guidance, LG’s general guide, and Samsung’s instructions give these recommendations.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do if odor or residue remains
The self-clean cycle may not address every source of odor or visible buildup. Samsung’s odor guidance separately recommends wiping residue, running a rinse-and-spin cycle when appropriate, drying the washer, and cleaning the pump filter on applicable front-load models. LG lists the pump filter, detergent dispenser, inlet filters, and door gasket as separate maintenance areas. Check your manual for which parts are user-serviceable and how to clean them. If the smell persists after following the manufacturer’s cleaning steps, contact the manufacturer or an authorized appliance service provider. Samsung’s odor guidance and LG’s cleaning guide cover these additional steps.
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