LG · Washer Minor
tCL — Tub Clean reminder
tCL is not an error — it is the every-30-cycles maintenance reminder asking you to run the Tub Clean cycle. Detergent and soil residue is building up in the outer tub and gasket.
- Keep using it?
- Yes — fix when convenient
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Verified against
- lg.com ↗
How to fix it
- Empty the drum completely — no clothes, no test rags.
- Wipe the door gasket folds with a damp cloth; pull the dispenser drawer and rinse it.
- Press the Tub Clean button (far right on most models), then Start/Pause.
- For best results, add a tub-cleaner tablet (Affresh, Tide Washing Machine Cleaner) or 1 cup of white vinegar to the empty drum.
- Let the cycle complete (~2 hours) — it uses hot water and high spin to scour the tub.
- Leave the door cracked open between loads to dry the gasket.
- Schedule Tub Clean once a month to keep the reminder satisfied.
Why it happens
Typical signs: tCL appears on display when starting a cycle · Musty or sour smell from the drum · Visible residue on the door gasket or drawer · Reminder returns roughly every 30 wash cycles
- Routine 30-cycle reminder The washer counts cycles and flags this automatically.
- Heavy detergent use Over-dosing accelerates buildup so tCL feels more urgent.
- Cold-water-only washes Cold cycles leave more soap and oil residue behind.
Parts you may need
If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- Washing machine cleaner tablets Common replacementAmazon →
More LG washer codes
Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: lg.com.