What is tCL in an LG Washing Machine and How to Use It?

The code “tCL” on an LG washing machine stands for the tub clean program, which cleans the washer tub to keep it free of dirt, mold, and other buildups. Modern LG washing machines often show the “tCL” code if you have started a tub clean program or if the washer thinks the tub needs to be cleaned.

This is important because the washer tub is where your clothes are washed, and if it is not clean, your clothes will not come out as clean as they should.

Why should you run the tub cleaning cycle?

You may want to use your LG washing machine’s tub-clean cycle for a number of reasons.

Let’s take a quick look at some of the common reasons why you may want to clean the wash tub.

Bad Odor

If your LG washing machine is starting to smell due to bacteria or mold that may be growing inside the tub, running a tub clean cycle along with a commercial or homemade cleaning solution can help to get rid of the odor.

Eliminate possible blockage or inefficiency

If your LG washing machine doesn’t seem to be cleaning your clothes as well as it used to, it’s likely due to clogging or a buildup of detergent residue in the tub.

In some cases, if your washer is not draining properly, it can be caused by a number of things, such as a blockage in the drain hose or pump or a problem with the drain system itself.

So, it becomes extremely important to clean your washer from the inside. This is where an LG washing machine’s “tCL” function comes into play.

Bottom line: a clean washing machine will be more energy and water efficient, as it will be able to operate at its optimal performance level.

Keep Allergy causing allergens at bay

By cleaning the washer often, you can get rid of the bacteria that cause allergies and keep your clothes clean.

Ensure you run the “tub clean cycle” at least once a month to maintain hygiene. However, you may need to increase the frequency if you use the washer more often.

What does the tub cleaning cycle do?

The tub clean cycle or “tCL” is a feature on some LG washing machines that are used to clean the wash tub. It gets triggered when the washer senses that the tub is dirty and needs to be cleaned in order to function optimally.

In other words, it keeps the wash drum clean and free of residue from detergents, so your washing machine continues to run smoothly.

In order to keep your washer in optimal condition, it is recommended that you run the tub clean cycle every 30 washes or once a month.

How to run the tub clean program in the LG washing machine?

If your LG washing machine is leaving behind dirt and grime, or if it has turned smelly, it’s time to run a tub clean program.

Here’s how you can run the tub’s clean function effectively.

Step 1: Empty your washer tub

Remove garments from the washtub and make sure the washtub is empty.

Step 2: Add a suitable cleaning solution

When it comes to using a cleaning solution, you can add 1 cup of white vinegar or baking soda to the washing machine tub.

You may also include a commercial cleaning solution designed for washing machines that are available online or at local stores.

Step 3: Run the tub clean program

Select the Tub Clean Program on your LG washing machine and run the clean cycle.

This specific cycle automatically uses hot water in the process, so there is no need to manually add hot water.

Step 4: Wipe inside of the tub

As soon as the clean cycle completes, let the washer cool for a few minutes, and then wipe down the inside of the tub with a clean cloth.

You will be able to clean the surface of the washtub to get rid of any leftover solution or buildup.

Step 5: Run an empty cycle

Finally, you may run an empty cycle with a hot water setting without adding any cleaning solution to the washing machine to rinse out any residues.

Make sure to repeat this process every month or as needed to maintain the efficiency of your washing machine in the long run.

How do you clean the tub of a washer that only uses cold water?

If you do not have hot water settings on your washing machine and your tub has accumulated dirt, grime, or mold, you can follow these steps.

• Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet and remove all the clothes and laundry from the tub. Additionally, you may also take out the detergent drawer and empty it to clean it separately.
• Heat the water separately and fill your washing machine tub with the heated water until it is about ¾ full.
• Then add a cup of vinegar or bleach and allow the mixture to sit and soak for about 30 minutes to an hour.
• Run an empty cycle and then drain the tub, followed by refilling the tub with clean water.
• Once you have refilled the tub with clean water, run a normal cycle to eliminate any leftover cleaning solutions.
• Now, use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe the surface of the washtub, ensuring that the stubborn stains and dirt are completely removed.

How to clean the washer’s tub without the tub clean program?

Run a normal cycle with hot water settings if your washing machine does not have the “tub clean” program.

While running a normal cycle, don’t forget to add a cleaning solution to the detergent drawer or directly into the washtub.

Cleaners such as white vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, or any commercial cleaner that’s safe for washing machines can be used.

Final Thoughts

Not all models of the washer will have the “tCL” feature, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to clean the washer.

You can always wash these types of washer tubs by hand, either with a homemade cleaner or a commercial cleaner that works well.

Regularly cleaning the washtub has more than one benefit. Your washer will run more efficiently, the tub will smell fresher, and your clothes will look better, i.e., they won’t come out dirty or dull.

So, always keep the washer’s tub clean and fresh by running the “clean tub” cycle or doing it manually (at least once a month).