Why this maintenance matters
- Detergent, fabric-softener residue, lint, body oils, and moisture can build up inside the basket, tub, gasket, dispenser, or recirculation paths.
- Too much detergent or non-HE detergent can contribute to residue and odor in high-efficiency machines.
- Leaving the door, lid, or dispenser wet and closed can slow drying and encourage odor.
- A cleaning cycle cannot repair a failed drain pump, heater, valve, sensor, bearing, or control board.
Safe steps in order
- 1
Identify the exact cleaning cycle and cleaner rules
- Find the full model number and check the owner manual for the maintenance-cycle name and whether cleaner, bleach, or no additive is specified.
- Do not assume one brand’s cleaner instructions apply to another model. Samsung notes that routine Self Clean may not require added cleaner, while Whirlpool and LG procedures can differ by model.
- 2
Empty the washer completely
- Remove clothes and loose items before starting the maintenance cycle.
- Never run a tub-cleaning cycle with laundry inside unless the exact manual explicitly says otherwise.
- 3
Use only the amount and location the manufacturer specifies
- If the manual calls for a washer-cleaning product or another additive, follow its exact dose and placement.
- Never mix bleach, vinegar, ammonia, acids, descalers, or multiple cleaners. Do not pour an additive into a dispenser compartment unless the exact procedure tells you to.
- 4
Run the complete maintenance cycle
- Select the documented Tub Clean, Self Clean, Pure Cycle, Clean Washer, or equivalent program and let it complete normally.
- If you recently ran a very hot cycle, allow the machine and water to cool before opening filters or handling residual water.
- 5
Dry the washer after the cycle
- When the cycle is finished, remove any visible residue with a soft cloth if the manual allows it.
- Leave the door or lid and dispenser open enough to dry when the manufacturer recommends ventilation and when doing so is safe around children and pets.
- 6
Treat recurring odor as a maintenance clue, not a parts diagnosis
- Check the owner-serviceable dispenser, gasket, and pump filter only where the model documents them.
- If odor, residue, drainage trouble, leakage, or an error returns after normal maintenance, switch to troubleshooting instead of repeating aggressive cleaning.
Brand and model differences
- Samsung uses Self Clean, Self Clean+, or Pure Cycle on many models and says the washer should be empty. Routine cleaner requirements vary by model and situation.
- LG commonly uses Tub Clean and recommends model-specific washer cleaner instructions plus ventilation afterward.
- Whirlpool commonly uses Clean Washer / Clean Washer with affresh and warns that cleaner placement and bleach compatibility vary by model.
- Cleaning frequency, additive type, cycle time, reminder lights, and follow-up rinsing are model-specific.
Actions not recommended
- Do not mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, acids, descalers, or other cleaners.
- Do not run the cleaning cycle with laundry inside unless the exact manual explicitly permits it.
- Do not improvise cleaner quantities or pour chemicals into undocumented compartments.
- Do not remove service panels or attempt energized testing as part of routine cleaning.
When to stop and get help
- The washer leaks during the cleaning cycle or cannot drain afterward.
- A burning smell, smoke, electrical noise, or repeated breaker trip occurs.
- The maintenance cycle will not start or repeatedly stops with an error after basic controls are checked.
- Strong odor or residue persists after normal model-approved maintenance and owner-accessible areas are clean.
Official manufacturer sources
- Samsung SupportHow to clean your Samsung washer ↗
- LG USA SupportHow to Clean the Tub of Your LG Washing Machine ↗
- Whirlpool Product HelpCleaning the Interior - Front Load Washer ↗
Reviewed: September 22, 2026.