An LG washing machine is one of the most popular washer brands in the USA, known for reliability and advanced features. But even the best washers can develop a frustrating problem over time: mold and mildew buildup.
If you’ve noticed a musty smell, black spots on the rubber door gasket, or clothes that don’t feel as fresh as they should, your washer may have a mold problem. Don’t worry—this issue is common and fixable.
This detailed guide will show you how to remove mold from an LG washer step by step, explain why it happens, and give you prevention tips so you never have to deal with it again.
Why Do LG Washers Develop Mold?
Front-loading washers, including LG models, are especially prone to mold. Here’s why:
- Rubber door gasket stays damp and traps detergent, lint, and dirt.
- Low airflow inside the drum keeps moisture locked in.
- Excess detergent use leaves residue that feeds mold.
- Hard water buildup creates rough surfaces for mold to cling to.
- Closed door storage keeps everything damp, creating the perfect environment for mildew.
👉 Mold doesn’t just cause bad smells. It can also lead to:
- Skin irritation or allergies
- Stains on laundry
- Reduced washer efficiency
Signs of Mold in an LG Washer
- Musty or sour odor, especially after a wash
- Black or green spots on the door gasket
- Slimy buildup in the detergent drawer
- Clothes coming out smelling bad even when freshly washed
If you’ve noticed any of these, it’s time for a deep clean.
Step-by-Step LG Washer Mold Removal
Here are three proven methods for getting rid of mold in your LG washing machine.
🔹 Method 1: LG Tub Clean Cycle with Bleach
Best for deep cleaning and killing mold spores.
- Empty the washer completely.
- Add bleach. Pour 1 cup of liquid chlorine bleach directly into the drum.
- Select Tub Clean. Press the Tub Clean cycle on your LG washer.
- Run the cycle. This will use hot water and extra rinsing to disinfect the drum.
- Wipe down gasket and door. Mix 1 part bleach with 4 parts water, dip a cloth, and scrub the rubber seal.
⚠️ Run an extra rinse cycle afterward to remove bleach residue.
🔹 Method 2: Vinegar & Baking Soda Natural Cleaner
Great for USA homeowners who prefer eco-friendly mold removal.
- Add vinegar. Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the drum.
- Run Tub Clean or hot cycle. This helps break down mold and mineral deposits.
- Add baking soda. After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drum.
- Run another hot cycle. This deodorizes and neutralizes remaining mold.
- Clean the gasket. Make a paste of baking soda + water, scrub rubber seals, and rinse with vinegar.
🔹 Method 3: Mold Spray or Commercial Cleaner
If mold is stubborn, use a washer-safe commercial mold remover (like Affresh, OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner, or LG Tub Clean Tablets, available in the USA).
- Spray the gasket and detergent drawer with mold remover.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Scrub with an old toothbrush or sponge.
- Run the Tub Clean cycle with hot water.
How Often Should You Clean Mold from an LG Washer?
- Light use households (1–2 people): Every 2–3 months
- Family households (3–5 people): Monthly
- Hard water areas (common in USA states like Arizona, Texas, California): Every 2–3 weeks
Preventing Mold in an LG Washer
The best way to handle mold is to stop it before it starts.
✅ Leave the door open after each wash to let air circulate.
✅ Wipe the rubber gasket dry with a towel after every use.
✅ Use HE detergent only, and don’t overfill.
✅ Remove wet clothes immediately after the cycle.
✅ Clean the detergent drawer monthly.
✅ Run the Tub Clean cycle once a month (with bleach, vinegar, or LG tablets).
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
❌ Closing the washer door immediately after use
❌ Using too much detergent
❌ Skipping monthly Tub Clean cycles
❌ Ignoring the gasket (the #1 mold hotspot)
❌ Mixing vinegar and bleach (dangerous chemical reaction!)
Cost of LG Washer Mold Removal
- DIY (vinegar or bleach): $2–$5 per cleaning
- LG Tub Clean Tablets: $10–$20 (pack of 3–6)
- Professional washer cleaning service (USA): $100–$200
👉 For most households, DIY cleaning once a month is enough to keep mold away.
FAQs – LG Washer Mold Removal
Q1. Why does my LG washer smell bad?
Because mold, mildew, or detergent buildup is inside the drum or gasket.
Q2. Can I use vinegar instead of bleach to clean mold?
Yes. Vinegar is natural and safe, though bleach is stronger for stubborn mold.
Q3. How often should I run Tub Clean on my LG washer?
At least once a month in the USA, more often in hard water areas.
Q4. Does LG warranty cover mold issues?
No, mold prevention and cleaning are part of regular homeowner maintenance.
Q5. What’s the fastest way to get rid of washer mold smell?
Run a Tub Clean cycle with bleach, then wipe the gasket and door seal.
Final Thoughts
Mold in an LG washer is a common issue, but with the right care, it’s easy to fix and prevent.
- Use the Tub Clean cycle monthly
- Wipe down the gasket and door after each wash
- Choose the right detergent and cleaning routine
By following these simple steps, you’ll keep your LG washer mold-free, odor-free, and running efficiently for years to come.
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