LG washers are known for their reliability, efficiency, and advanced cleaning technology. But one of the most overlooked maintenance tasks is the Tub Clean cycle. Many homeowners in the U.S. ask:
“How often should I run Tub Clean on my LG washer?”
The short answer: At least once a month.
But depending on your usage, water quality, and habits, you may need to run it more often.
This guide will cover:
- Why Tub Clean is essential for LG washers
- LG’s official recommendation vs. real-world use
- How often to run Tub Clean based on U.S. households
- Signs your washer needs Tub Clean immediately
- Step-by-step instructions to run Tub Clean
- Best cleaning products to use (LG tablets, bleach, vinegar)
- Extra tips to keep your LG washer mold-free and odor-free
Why Tub Clean Is Essential
Every wash cycle leaves behind detergent residue, lint, body oils, and hard water deposits. Over time, this buildup:
- Causes musty odors
- Leads to mold and mildew in the drum and gasket
- Makes your washer less efficient
- Shortens the machine’s lifespan
The Tub Clean cycle is designed to:
✅ Kill bacteria and mold
✅ Remove detergent scum and buildup
✅ Keep your washer running smoothly
Without it, even the most advanced LG washer can start showing problems within a few years.
LG’s Official Recommendation
LG recommends running Tub Clean once per month.
However, for households in the U.S., this may vary depending on:
- Laundry frequency (daily vs. occasional)
- Hard water levels (common in many U.S. states like Arizona, Texas, and California)
- Detergent use (using too much or non-HE detergent speeds up buildup)
- Front-load vs. top-load models (front-loaders are more prone to mold)
How Often Should U.S. Households Run Tub Clean?
Here’s a practical schedule for 2025:
- Light Use (1–2 loads/week): Every 3 months
- Moderate Use (3–5 loads/week): Once a month
- Heavy Use (6+ loads/week or large families): Every 2–3 weeks
- Hard Water Areas (USA Southwest & Midwest): Every 2–3 weeks
- High Humidity Homes (Florida, Louisiana, Texas Gulf): Every 2 weeks
👉 If your washer smells bad or clothes come out less fresh, run Tub Clean immediately, regardless of schedule.
Signs You Need to Run Tub Clean Immediately
Don’t wait for problems to get worse. Run Tub Clean right away if you notice:
- Musty or mildew smell in your washer
- Black spots on the rubber gasket (mold)
- Clothes smell sour after washing
- Visible soap residue inside the drum
- Water not draining properly
How to Run the LG Tub Clean Cycle
Running Tub Clean is simple, but doing it right matters.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Front-Load LG Washers:
- Remove all clothes from the drum.
- Add 1 LG Tub Clean tablet, 1 cup bleach, or 2 cups white vinegar.
- Close the door and press the Tub Clean button.
- Wait 60–90 minutes for the cycle to complete.
- Wipe the gasket and leave the door open to dry.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Top-Load LG Washers:
- Empty the drum completely.
- Add your cleaning solution (tablet, bleach, or vinegar).
- Select Tub Clean or the hottest wash cycle.
- When finished, leave the lid open to air dry.
Best Cleaning Agents for Tub Clean
- LG Tub Clean Tablets – Best for deep cleaning; designed for LG washers.
- Bleach (1 cup) – Strongest disinfectant; removes mold and bacteria.
- White Vinegar (2 cups) – Natural and eco-friendly; good for odor removal.
- Baking Soda (½ cup) – Works well with vinegar for scrubbing odors.
⚠️ Never mix bleach and vinegar together – this creates toxic chlorine gas.
Extra Tips to Keep Your LG Washer Fresh
- Always leave the door/lid open after washes.
- Wipe the gasket and detergent drawer monthly.
- Use only HE (high-efficiency) detergent.
- Clean the drain pump filter every 2–3 months.
- Don’t overload your washer—this causes excess residue.
Common FAQs About LG Tub Clean
Q1. What happens if I don’t run Tub Clean?
Your washer will develop mold, odors, and buildup that can cause costly repairs.
Q2. Can I use vinegar instead of LG cleaning tablets?
Yes, but LG tablets or bleach are more effective for deep cleaning.
Q3. How long does the Tub Clean cycle take?
Typically 60–90 minutes, depending on your model.
Q4. Do all LG washers have a Tub Clean button?
Most modern LG washers do. If yours doesn’t, use the hottest cycle with no laundry.
Q5. Is monthly Tub Clean really necessary?
Yes—especially in the U.S. where hard water and humidity speed up buildup.
Final Thoughts
The Tub Clean cycle is not optional—it’s essential. Running it regularly keeps your LG washer fresh, odor-free, and working efficiently for 10+ years.
For U.S. homeowners in 2025:
- Run Tub Clean monthly at minimum.
- Adjust frequency based on laundry load, water quality, and humidity.
- Use LG Tub Clean tablets, bleach, or vinegar for the best results.
By making Tub Clean part of your routine, you’ll save money on repairs, avoid smelly laundry, and extend the life of your LG washer.
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