How to Clean LG Washing Machine? (Step by Step)

If you’re like most homeowners, you rely on your washing machine to keep your clothes neat and clean. And just like any other appliance in your home, your LG washing machine needs regular cleaning to maintain its performance.

There are a few reasons why it’s important to clean the LG washing machine. First, it helps to remove any built-up dirt and grime that can lead to wear and tear on the machine. Second, it can help improve the efficiency of your washing machine, saving you time and money on your utility bills.

Finally, regular cleaning can help prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your health.

In this article you will learn:

  • How to clean LG Washing machine?
  • Tips to keep your LG washer in good shape
  • Commonly asked questions
  • And More…

Let’s get started.

How to Clean LG Top Load Washing Machine?

Cleaning your LG washing machine is not difficult, but it does require a bit of time and effort. The good news is that you don’t need any special cleaners or tools to get the job done.

Here are the steps you need to take to clean your LG Top-Load washing machine:

What you will need

  • Vinegar
  • Toothbrush
  • A cloth
  • Water
  • Lemon

Note: If you don’t feel comfortable with Vinegar you can either use other cleaners.

Also Read: How to troubleshoot a portable washing machine?

Unplug the machine

The very first step is to unplug the machine from the power outlet and turn off the water supply. Unplugging the machine is an important step as it ensures that there is no power running through the machine while you’re working on it. It not only helps to avoid shock but also prevents any accidents from happening.

Also Read: How to hook up a portable washer?

Remove the Laundry

Next, you need to remove all the laundry from the machine.

Removing the laundry will give you access to the empty drum so that you can start cleaning it.

Prepare the cleaning solution

In order to make a homemade laundry machine cleaner you will need the following:

  • Vinegar
  • Water
  • Lemon
  • A cloth OR Sponge

All you need to do is, take a bowl of warm water and pour 1 cup of vinegar, followed by 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix it well, dip the cloth and start wiping the exterior.

Also Read: 6 things you should know about washing machine bearings

Clean the detergent and fabric softener dispensers

Once you’re done cleaning the exterior of the machine, it’s time to move on and clean the detergent and fabric softener dispensers.

These are the two places where dirt and grime tend to build up the most.

To clean the detergent dispenser, you will need a toothbrush and some vinegar. Dip the toothbrush in vinegar and start scrubbing the dispenser. It’s important to get into all the nooks and crannies to ensure that all the dirt and grime are removed.

Once you’re done scrubbing, rinse the dispenser with water and dry it off with a clean cloth.

To clean the fabric softener dispenser, you will need to follow the same steps as above.

Also Read: How to clean a portable washing machine?

Clean the filter

In LG, the filters are usually located at the backside of the washer. Once you have located the filter simply detach it by either pushing and rotating it OR by simply pushing it.

After detaching the filter you can use the same solution i.e. combination of vinegar, lemon, and water to clean the filters.

In order to clean the filters in the LG washing machine follow the below steps.

  • Soak the lint screen in a hot water solution.
  • Rinse the filter in hot water that already has the vinegar solution mixed.
  • Clean the lint with a toothbrush if needed.
  • Run the self-cleaning function OR longest and hottest cycle.

Note: The last cycle empty wash cycle needs to be run after the filter has been cleaned.

Also Read: How to clean a washing machine agitator?

Clean the drain hose

The next step is to clean the drain hose.

Start by unplugging the washing machine and then detaching the drain hose from the back of the machine.

Once you have detached the drain hose, you need to clean it with a vinegar solution.

To do this, simply mix one part of vinegar with one part of water and then pour it into the drain hose. Post which, clean the drain hose thoroughly and reattach it safely.

Note: If you are following this step, it’s important to run an empty cycle to see if the hose has been reattached properly or not.

Also Read: How to get rid of washing machine smell?

Clean the Water Inlet Valve

The water inlet valve is located on the back of the machine and is responsible for supplying water to the washing machine.

In order to clean the water inlet valve, you will need a toothbrush and some vinegar.

Start by unplugging the machine and then removing the hose that is connected to the water inlet valve.

Once you have removed the hose, take a toothbrush and dip it in vinegar. Start scrubbing the valve until all the dirt and grime are removed.

Once you’re done scrubbing, rinse the valve with water and dry it off with a clean cloth.

Now reattach the hose to the valve and plug in the machine. Run an empty cycle to check if everything is working properly or not.

Also Read: Why does the sink gurgle when the washing machine drains?

Clean the Interior of the Washing Machine

The next step is to, fill the tub with hot water and add two cups of white vinegar. Then, let the machine soak for about an hour.

After an hour simply follow the below instructions:

  • Run the washing machine on an empty cycle so that vinegar and water can do their magic. Make sure, you select the longest and hottest possible cycle.
  • Once the cycle is complete, allow the water to move out, and then you can start cleaning the interior of the machine.
  • To do this, you will need a long-handled brush and a soft cloth. Start by scrubbing the tub with the long-handled brush to remove any build-up of dirt and grime.
  • Once you’re done with that, wipe the tub down with a soft cloth dipped in a white vinegar solution.
  • The last step is to run an empty cycle using the vinegar solution.
  • After the wash cycle is completed, wipe the washer and keep the lids open to air dry.

Also Read: How to calculate washing machine capacity?

Clean around and under the washer

Now that you have cleaned the washer, it’s time to clean around and under the washer.

Start by unplugging the machine and then moving it out so that you can access the area behind and beneath it.

If possible, use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to clean around and under the washer. This will help you to remove any dirt and dust that has accumulated over time.

Once you’re done vacuuming, wipe the area down with a damp cloth.

Also Read: What causes a washing machine motor to burn out?

How to Clean LG Front-load washing machine?

Front-load washing machines have become increasingly popular in recent years because they are not only energy-efficient but save a lot of money on utility bills.

But like Top-Load, Front-Loaders too need to be cleaned on a regular basis to maintain their performance.

Here are the steps you need to take to clean your LG Front-Load washing machine:

What you will need

  • Vinegar
  • Lemon
  • A Cloth or Sponge
  • Warm Water

Note: If you don’t feel comfortable with Vinegar you can either use an affresh washing machine cleaner OR other cleaners.

Also Read: How to fix E1 error in washing machine?

Unplug the Washer

Start by unplugging the appliance from the power socket. This is an important step as it will prevent the washing machine from turning ON while you are cleaning it.

Remove the laundry

Next, you need to remove all the laundry from the washing machine.

Once all the laundry has been removed, open the washer door and leave it ajar so that air can circulate inside the tub.

Also Read: How to Bypass water level sensor washing machine?

Prepare the cleaning solution

Make the cleaning solution by mixing 1 cup Vinegar, 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice, and 2 cups of warm water. Take a bowl and keep the cleaning solution handy.

Clean the Dispenser Drawer

The next step is to clean the dispenser drawer. Start by opening the drawer and then remove all the detergent, fabric softener, and bleach containers.

Once you have removed all the containers, you need to wash the drawer with a cloth or sponge dipped in the cleaning solution. Post which, rinse it with clean water, and then dry it completely before replacing all the containers.

Also Read: Top Load vs Front Load detergents

Clean the Door Seal

The next step is to clean the door seal. Start by wiping the seal with a cloth or sponge dipped in a warm water solution made using vinegar and lemon.

Once you have cleaned the seal, rinse it with clean water and then dry it completely.

Also Read: 12 Things you should know about Laundry Pods

Clean the Pump filter

The pump filter is located at the bottom of the washing machine and it needs to be cleaned at least once a month (recommended by LG).

To clean the filter, start by removing it from the washing machine by rotating it in an anti-clock motion.

Once you have removed the filter, rinse it under running water to remove any dirt and debris.

If it is in an extremely bad state, use a cleaning solution or Vinegar to wash it.

Once you have rinsed the filter, dry it completely before replacing it back in the washing machine.

Also Read: How to use portable washing machines effectively?

Clean the drain hose

The next step is to clean the drain hose.

Disconnect the drain hose from the back of the machine.

Once you have disconnected the hose, flush it with clean water to remove any dirt or debris that might be clogging it.

After flushing it with water, reconnect the hose back to the machine.

Note: If you are cleaning the drain hose after a long time then it’s highly recommended that you use a cleaning solution OR Vinegar.

Also Read: How to keep washing machine in a small bathroom?

Clean the Water Inlet valve screen

Cleaning the water inlet valve in your LG front-load washing machine is easy.

Simply locate the valve at the backside of the washer, disconnect the pipe and remove the valve screen. Post which, wash it thoroughly using either water OR using a cleaning solution.

If there is adamant debris, use a toothbrush.

Finally, reattach it and then run a short empty wash cycle to be assured that everything is working as expected.

Also Read: How to disinfect washing machine without bleach?

Cleaning the Interior Tub

The next step is to clean the tub.

Start by adding 1 cup of vinegar to the detergent compartment.

Next, run a normal cycle with hot water to clean the tub. If you don’t want to use Vinegar, you can also use 1 cup of baking soda and 2 cups of water.

Once the cycle is complete, wipe the interior tub with a clean cloth or sponge.

Leave the washing machine door open for some time to air dry.

Also Read: What is soil level in washing machine?

Clean the Exterior

Once you are done cleaning the interior, it’s time to clean the exterior.

Start by dusting off the control panel and then wipe it using a damp cloth or sponge.

Next, move on to the front glass door and wipe it clean using a glass cleaner.

Finally, use a damp cloth to wipe the washer’s exterior body.

Note: It’s advisable to not use any harsh chemicals or cleaners on the exterior as they might damage the paint or plastic.

Also Read: 20 things you must know about dryer vents

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your LG washing machine is an important part of regular maintenance. In this article, we have outlined the steps necessary to clean both the top load and front load versions of the machine. Cleaning your washer on a regular basis will help keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Moreover, it will prolong the lifespan of your washer.

For more queries related to the washing machine, you can refer to our dedicated FAQ section.

Also Read: 11 things you must know about High Efficiency Detergents

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you use the clean cycle on an LG washer?

To use the clean cycle, make sure the tub is empty. Next, turn on the washer and then turn the know to the Tub clean cycle button. Cover the lid and run and hit the start button. Once the cycle is complete, wipe the interior tub with a clean cloth or sponge. Leave the washing machine door open for some time to air dry.

Does Vinegar Damage Washing Machines?

No, Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and will not damage your washing machine. In fact, it is often used as a cleaning agent to remove stubborn stains and build-up. Having said that, overuse of vinegar may have a negative impact on rubber seals, thereby causing leakage.

Can I use bleach in my LG washing machine?

Yes, you can use bleach in your LG washing machine. However, it is important to use bleach safely. Always add the bleach to the dispenser drawer and never pour it directly into the tub. Moreover, avoid using bleach with other chemicals as it can cause dangerous reactions.

Hemant Sarkar is a seasoned techie with a diploma in computer science and an impressive track record of over 15 years in dealing with speakers, kitchen appliances, and various home appliance-related issues. He is widely recognized for his exceptional expertise in repairing dryers and washing machines from all major brands. In addition to his appliance repair prowess, Hemant maintains engaging blogs on topics related to music and speakers. For any inquiries or assistance regarding appliances or tech-related matters, you can reach out to him at: hemant (at) theportablelaundry.com.