tCL Minor Easy DIY

LG Washer tCL — Tub Clean reminder

LG Washer · Error code tCL

What tCL Means

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.

Symptoms

  • 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

Common Causes

1
Routine 30-cycle reminder

The washer counts cycles and flags this automatically.

2
Heavy detergent use

Over-dosing accelerates buildup so tCL feels more urgent.

3
Cold-water-only washes

Cold cycles leave more soap and oil residue behind.

How to Fix It

  1. Empty the drum completely — no clothes, no test rags.
  2. Wipe the door gasket folds with a damp cloth; pull the dispenser drawer and rinse it.
  3. Press the Tub Clean button (far right on most models), then Start/Pause.
  4. For best results, add a tub-cleaner tablet (Affresh, Tide Washing Machine Cleaner) or 1 cup of white vinegar to the empty drum.
  5. Let the cycle complete (~2 hours) — it uses hot water and high spin to scour the tub.
  6. Leave the door cracked open between loads to dry the gasket.
  7. Schedule Tub Clean once a month to keep the reminder satisfied.

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.

Common replacement Washing machine cleaner tablets View on Amazon→

More LG Washer Codes

AE AE — Leak / auto shut-off (base pan water detected) CE CE — Overcurrent Error CL CL — Child Lock Is On dE dE / dE1 / dE2 Error — Door Will Not Lock dE1 dE1 — Door not fully closed dE2 dE2 — Door closed but won't lock

All LG codes → All washer codes →

Verified against manufacturer documentation: lg.com

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.