Your LG washing machine is an investment in convenience, efficiency, and clean laundry. But like any appliance, it needs care to keep running smoothly. Without regular maintenance, even the most advanced LG washers can develop problems such as bad odors, mold buildup, drainage issues, or expensive breakdowns.
The good news? With a few simple maintenance routines, you can extend the life of your LG washer well beyond 10 years, avoid costly repairs, and keep your laundry smelling fresh.
This 2025 USA homeowner’s guide covers the top LG washer maintenance tips, expert advice, cleaning hacks, and a suggested schedule to keep your washer in top shape.
Why LG Washer Maintenance is Important
In the USA, washers are often used multiple times a week — sometimes daily in larger households. Neglecting maintenance can lead to:
- Mold & mildew around the door gasket (common in front-load washers)
- Unpleasant smells in freshly washed laundry
- Detergent residue buildup in the drum and drawer
- Drainage problems caused by clogged filters or hoses
- Higher energy bills due to reduced efficiency
- Premature breakdowns costing $150–$400+ in repairs
👉 Regular maintenance is cheaper and easier than repairs. A few minutes of monthly upkeep can save you hundreds of dollars annually.
LG Washer Maintenance Tips for 2025
Let’s break down the key steps USA homeowners should follow to keep their LG washer working like new.
1. Run the Tub Clean Cycle Monthly
LG washers come with a Tub Clean feature designed to deep-clean the drum.
How to use it:
- Ensure the washer is empty.
- Add 1 cup of liquid bleach directly into the drum (or use an LG Tub Clean Tablet).
- Select the Tub Clean cycle and press start.
- Once finished, wipe down the inside with a dry cloth.
👉 Do this once a month, especially in humid climates like Florida, Texas, or Louisiana where mold develops faster.
2. Clean the Rubber Door Gasket
Front-load LG washers are prone to mold growth around the gasket (door seal).
Steps to clean it:
- Mix a solution of vinegar and water (50/50).
- Spray onto the gasket and scrub gently with a toothbrush or microfiber cloth.
- Wipe dry thoroughly to prevent future mold.
👉 Clean weekly to prevent that “musty washer smell.”
3. Leave the Door Open
After each wash, leave the door slightly open for at least 1–2 hours.
This allows airflow, prevents trapped moisture, and reduces the chance of mold or mildew forming.
4. Use the Right Detergent
LG washers are designed for HE (High-Efficiency) detergent. Using too much or the wrong type can cause:
- Excess suds
- Detergent buildup
- Inefficient rinsing
👉 Always check detergent labels and use only the recommended amount for your load size.
5. Clean the Detergent Drawer
Detergent and fabric softener compartments can collect residue.
Steps:
- Pull out the detergent drawer completely.
- Soak in hot, soapy water.
- Scrub off any mold or buildup.
- Rinse and dry before reinserting.
👉 Do this every 4–6 weeks.
6. Check & Clean the Drain Pump Filter
A clogged drain pump filter is a common reason LG washers won’t drain.
How to clean it:
- Locate the small access panel at the bottom front of the washer.
- Place a shallow container or towel underneath.
- Twist open the filter cap slowly to release water.
- Remove debris like lint, coins, or hair.
- Rinse and reinstall the filter.
👉 Clean every 2–3 months, or more often if you have pets or wash heavy fabrics.
7. Inspect Water Hoses
Cracked or leaking hoses can cause major water damage.
- Inspect hoses every 6 months.
- Replace every 5 years or sooner if damaged.
- Upgrade to stainless steel braided hoses for durability.
8. Avoid Overloading the Washer
Overstuffing the drum puts stress on the motor and suspension system.
👉 Rule of thumb: Never fill more than ¾ of the drum capacity.
For bulky items (blankets, comforters), wash separately to avoid unbalancing the washer.
9. Balance the Washer
An unbalanced washer makes loud banging noises and wears out parts faster.
- Use a level to check balance.
- Adjust washer legs until stable.
- Place the washer on a solid, flat floor for best performance.
10. Perform a Deep Clean Quarterly
Every few months, perform a complete deep clean:
- Run a Tub Clean with bleach or vinegar.
- Clean gasket, detergent drawer, and drum.
- Flush the drain pump filter.
- Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.
Cost of LG Washer Maintenance in the USA
- DIY Cleaning (vinegar, bleach): $3–$5/month
- LG Tub Clean Tablets: $10–$20 per pack
- New washer hoses: $25–$40
- Professional washer service: $100–$150 per visit
👉 Regular DIY cleaning can save you hundreds of dollars yearly compared to repair costs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Closing the washer door immediately after a wash
❌ Using too much detergent or non-HE soap
❌ Ignoring the drain pump filter
❌ Overloading with heavy items
❌ Skipping monthly cleaning cycles
Suggested LG Washer Maintenance Schedule (2025 USA Guide)
- Every load → Wipe gasket, remove laundry promptly, leave door open
- Weekly → Clean rubber door gasket
- Monthly → Run Tub Clean, wipe detergent drawer
- Quarterly → Clean drain pump filter, check hoses
- Yearly → Consider professional inspection
FAQs – LG Washer Maintenance 2025
Q1. How often should I run the Tub Clean cycle?
At least once a month, or every 2–3 weeks in humid regions.
Q2. Can I use vinegar instead of LG Tub Clean tablets?
Yes. Vinegar is an effective, eco-friendly alternative.
Q3. Why does my LG washer smell bad?
Usually mold in the gasket or detergent buildup. Cleaning solves the issue.
Q4. Do LG washers need professional servicing?
Not usually. DIY maintenance is enough unless there’s a major issue.
Q5. How long will an LG washer last with proper care?
10–12 years on average with consistent upkeep.
Final Thoughts
Your LG washer is built to last, but only if you give it proper care. By following these 2025 LG washer maintenance tips, you’ll:
- Prevent odors and mold
- Extend your washer’s lifespan
- Save money on repairs
- Enjoy consistently fresh laundry
👉 Remember: A little care after each load goes a long way. With routine maintenance, your LG washer will keep working like new well into the future.
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