Your washer's Tub Clean cycle is a maintenance program for the machine itself. It is different from a regular load of laundry, and the right way to run it depends on your model.
Quick answer: Empty the washer completely. Check the owner's manual to see whether its Tub Clean, Clean Washer or Self Clean cycle calls for a cleaner. If an approved tablet is allowed, put it in the empty drum or basket—not the detergent drawer. Select the cleaning cycle, let it finish, wipe any remaining residue and leave the door or lid open to dry when safe.
For example, LG describes adding a tub-cleaner tablet directly to the drum, while Samsung says its Self Clean cycle normally needs no added cleaner.
What Does Tub Clean Do?
Tub Clean is designed to rinse or loosen residue that can accumulate in the washer's tub and water-contact areas. Depending on the machine, it may use a particular water level, temperature, soak pattern or run time. Some brands call the program Clean Washer, Self Clean or Pure Cycle instead.
It does not replace cleaning every visible part by hand. A front-load door gasket, detergent drawer, lid rim and user-accessible filter may need separate attention. If a musty smell persists after the cycle, use our washer-odor troubleshooting guide to look beyond the drum.
Before You Start: Check Three Things
- Is the washer empty? Remove clothing, towels and forgotten small items.
- What does the manual say about cleaner? Some programs are intended to run without a product; others permit a specified washer cleaner. Follow the model's instructions and the cleaner label together.
- Where does your cleaner go? If your manual permits a washer-cleaner tablet, its label may direct you to place it in the drum. KLEKPUE tablets go directly into the empty drum or basket. Liquids and powders can have different placement rules. See our tablet-placement guide if the dispenser compartments are confusing.
Do not add laundry detergent or fabric softener. Do not combine a cleaner tablet with bleach, vinegar, ammonia or another cleaning product unless both the washer manual and product labels expressly allow it.
How to Run the Tub Clean Cycle
Step 1: Remove laundry and visible debris
Look inside the drum or basket. On a front-load washer, check the exposed gasket folds for coins, lint or standing water. Wipe accessible debris before starting; the cycle cannot remove a trapped object.
Step 2: Add an approved cleaner only if instructed
If your washer allows a tablet, unwrap it and place the label-recommended amount inside the empty drum or basket. Do not put a solid tablet in the detergent, bleach or softener compartment. KLEKPUE Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets – 12 Pack are one pre-measured option when your model permits this type of cleaner.
If the washer's cleaning program specifies no added product, run it as directed. A cleaner is not automatically necessary simply because the machine has a Tub Clean button.
Step 3: Select the maintenance program
Close the door or lid, turn on the washer and select Tub Clean, Clean Washer, Self Clean or the equivalent listed in your manual. On some machines it appears on the cycle dial; on others it is a button or menu option. Press Start and let the program run to completion.
Avoid trying to override its temperature or water level unless the manual directs you to do so. A low water level at the beginning may be normal on some models; LG notes that some top-load Tub Clean cycles fill in stages. If the washer shows an error or never progresses, consult its troubleshooting guide.
Step 4: Check, rinse if needed and dry
When the program ends, wipe away loosened residue you can reach safely with a soft damp cloth. If the cleaner label or washer manual calls for an extra rinse, run it before the next laundry load. Leave the door or lid and dispenser slightly open to air-dry when safe around children and pets.
What If Your Washer Has No Tub Clean Button?
Look for a differently named maintenance cycle in the manual first. If none exists, follow the manufacturer's alternative cleaning procedure for that model. Do not assume that any hot, heavy-duty or long wash cycle is equivalent; water level, spin pattern and cleaner compatibility vary.
Our general washing-machine cleaning guide explains how to clean the gasket, dispenser and other accessible surfaces separately.
Common Questions
Can I run Tub Clean with clothes inside?
No. Empty the machine first. Cleaning cycles and washer-cleaner products are intended for the appliance, not a load of clothing.
Should I pause the cycle to soak a tablet?
Only if your washer's instructions permit it. The KLEKPUE package describes an optional soaking stage, but some dedicated cleaning programs should run uninterrupted. Use the machine-approved program when the two sets of directions differ.
How often should I run it?
Start with your manual or the washer's reminder. A monthly check is a practical baseline, but usage and model guidance differ. See our washing-machine cleaning schedule for the tasks to do between cycles.
Why does the washer still smell afterward?
The odor may come from the door gasket, dispenser, user-accessible filter, drain area or nearby plumbing. Clean only the parts your manual identifies as user-serviceable. Repeated odor with poor drainage or leaking deserves a closer inspection or service.
Keep the Routine Simple
Empty the washer, check the model's directions, add an approved cleaner only when allowed and complete the designated cycle. Then wipe and dry the areas the program cannot reach. That small routine is easier to repeat—and more reliable—than guessing at a universal button sequence.