Ever noticed an odd odor coming from your freshly washed laundry? You might be due for a tub clean on your LG washing machine. Even the best machines need a little maintenance to stay fresh and run efficiently. Regular tub cleans help prevent mold, mildew, and residue buildup, keeping your clothes—and your washer—at their best.
In this article, you’ll learn step-by-step how to perform a tub clean, plus practical tips for ongoing maintenance and a healthier laundry routine.
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How to Do a Tub Clean on Your LG Washing Machine
Keeping your LG washing machine clean is just as important as washing your clothes. Over time, detergent, fabric softener, and residue from dirty laundry can build up inside the washing drum, leading to unpleasant odors, reduced washing efficiency, and even potential damage to your machine. Fortunately, LG washing machines come equipped with a specialized “Tub Clean” cycle that makes maintaining your washer simple and effective.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of running a tub clean cycle, offer helpful tips, highlight the benefits, and answer some common questions so you can keep your LG washer running in peak condition.
Why Is Tub Cleaning Important?
Before you get started, it’s helpful to understand why cleaning your washing machine’s tub matters:
- Prevents Bad Odors: Residue and mold can create unpleasant smells in your laundry area and on your clothes.
- Ensures Better Washing Results: A clean washer means cleaner clothes, every time.
- Extends Machine Life: Regular cleaning prevents buildup that can damage internal components.
- Reduces Mold and Allergen Growth: Especially in humid environments, regular cleaning keeps bacteria and mold at bay.
Step-by-Step Guide to Doing a Tub Clean on Your LG Washing Machine
Most LG washing machines come with a built-in Tub Clean cycle, sometimes called ‘Tub Wash’ or ‘Drum Clean.’ Here’s how you can run this cycle safely and effectively:
1. Prepare the Washer
- Remove Laundry: Make sure there are no clothes left inside the drum.
- Take Out Accessories: Remove any dispensers, detergent drawers, or other removable components for separate cleaning.
2. Add Cleaning Solution
You can use either a washing machine tub cleaner (commercially available), bleach, or even white vinegar:
- Washing Machine Tub Cleaner: Follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Bleach: Pour about 1 cup (250 ml) of liquid chlorine bleach directly into the drum.
- White Vinegar: Pour about 2 cups (500 ml) of white vinegar into the drum. This is a natural alternative and helps remove odors.
Note: Do not mix bleach and vinegar or use them together.
3. Select the Tub Clean Cycle
- Power on your LG washer.
- Find and press the Tub Clean button.
- On some models, this may be labeled as “Tub Wash,” “Drum Clean,” or accessed via a secondary function.
- If your model does not have a dedicated button, consult your machine’s control panel for the right cycle or refer to the user manual.
4. Start the Cycle
- Close the door or lid tightly.
- Press the Start button.
- The Tub Clean cycle will begin. Typically, it lasts between 60 to 90 minutes, depending on your washer model.
5. Wipe Down the Drum and Seals
Once the cycle finishes:
- Open the door and allow the drum to air dry.
- Use a soft cloth to wipe away any remaining residue from:
- The inside of the drum
- The door (especially the rubber gasket/seal)
- The detergent drawer and other removable parts
6. Clean Accessories
If you removed any parts earlier, wash them with warm soapy water, rinse, dry, and reinstall them.
7. Leave the Door Open
After cleaning, leave the washer door open for a few hours (or overnight) to ensure the interior dries completely and to prevent musty odors.
Tips and Best Practices for Tub Cleaning
- Regular Maintenance: Run a Tub Clean cycle once a month for regular household use. If you wash heavily soiled items or use cold water often, consider cleaning every 2–3 weeks.
- Use the Right Cleaner: Tub cleaning tablets or powder cleaners formulated for washing machines are ideal. Avoid abrasive or harsh chemicals.
- Don’t Overuse Detergent: Too much detergent can cause build-up. Always measure as directed.
- Clean Detergent Drawer: Remove and wash the detergent and softener drawer periodically.
- Inspect the Door Seal: Wipe the rubber gasket after each use—this is a common spot for mold and grime.
- Monitor for Odors: If you notice persistent bad smells, repeat the Tub Clean cycle or use a different cleaner (bleach is often effective).
Benefits of Regular Tub Clean Cycles
- Fresher Clothes: You’ll notice the difference in the scent and cleanliness of your laundry.
- A Longer-Lasting Washer: Preventing buildup reduces maintenance and repair costs.
- A Healthier Home: Removing mold, mildew and bacteria means cleaner air and fewer allergens.
- Less Soap Scum: A clean washer won’t transfer residue onto clothes or linens.
Common Challenges and Solutions
1. Persistent Odors
- Try a Bleach Tub Clean: Bleach is effective at killing mold and bacteria. Run two consecutive cycles if odors persist.
- Check Water Drainage: Sometimes water can pool in the drum or gasket, leading to smells. Ensure the washer drains completely.
2. Visible Mold or Mildew
- Manual Cleaning Needed: If you see black or green patches, wipe them away with a cloth soaked in dilute bleach or a washing machine cleaner.
3. Error Messages or Cycle Issues
- Refer to Your Manual: Occasionally, the machine may indicate an error if excess suds are detected. Try running a rinse cycle or contact customer support if the error persists.
Practical Advice for Busy Households
- Set Reminders: Mark your calendar or set a digital reminder for monthly tub cleans.
- Quick Wipe Downs: After each wash day, take a minute to wipe the door and seal.
- Wash with Hot Water: Occasionally run a hot water load (without clothes) to help keep the washer cleaner between tub cleans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I use the Tub Clean cycle on my LG washing machine?
It’s recommended to use the Tub Clean cycle once a month for regular use. If your washer handles heavily soiled items, pet blankets, or you use cool water often, clean the tub every two to three weeks.
Can I use regular household bleach or white vinegar for the Tub Clean cycle?
Yes, both are effective tub-cleaning agents. Use 1 cup of bleach (do not mix with vinegar) or 2 cups of white vinegar directly in the drum. Never use both together, as this combination produces hazardous fumes.
What should I do if my washer still smells after a Tub Clean?
If odors persist, try running another Tub Clean cycle using bleach. Also, inspect and manually clean the door seal and detergent dispenser. Persistent odors may mean buildup in hard-to-reach areas, so be thorough in your manual cleaning.
Do I need to remove accessories or clean the detergent drawer separately?
Yes, for the most thorough clean, remove the detergent and softener drawers and any other removable parts. Clean these in warm, soapy water while the Tub Clean cycle runs.
Is it safe to leave the washer door open after cleaning?
Absolutely! In fact, leaving the washer door and detergent drawer slightly open after each use helps prevent moisture, which stops mold and mildew from building up inside your machine.
Summary
Regularly running the Tub Clean cycle on your LG washing machine ensures your gloves-off approach to laundry stays efficient, fresh, and healthy for you and your family. By following these straightforward steps and tips, you can maintain your washer’s cleanliness, extend its lifespan, and keep laundry odors at bay. Remember, a clean washer means cleaner clothes and a happier home.