Run a cleaning cycle monthly to prevent mold and odor buildup

The fastest way to clean a Samsung washing machine is to run the Tub Clean cycle, which most Samsung models have built into the control panel. This cycle uses hot water and extra agitation to scrub the drum and remove detergent residue, mold, and bacteria that collect over time. You do not need to add anything—just start the cycle empty and let it run for about 40 minutes to an hour.

If your model does not have a Tub Clean button, look for Self Clean, Drum Clean, or Sanitize on the display. Some older Samsung models require you to select a hot water wash cycle manually and run it empty. Check your user manual or the inside of the lid for the exact name on your machine.

Run this cycle once a month if you use your machine regularly, or every two weeks if you notice musty smells. This single step prevents most mold and odor problems before they start.

Key Takeaways

  • Use your Samsung's built-in Tub Clean cycle monthly to remove mold, bacteria, and detergent buildup without adding anything.
  • Clean the rubber door seal by hand every month—pull it back gently and wipe the groove with a damp cloth to catch trapped lint and moisture.
  • Empty the drain filter at the bottom front of the machine every three months or when you notice slow draining.
  • Wipe down the detergent dispenser drawer after every few loads to stop mold from growing in the compartment.
  • Leave the door open between loads so air can dry the drum and prevent mildew from forming.

Clean the rubber door seal where mold hides

The rubber gasket around the door is the most common place mold grows because water and lint get trapped in the groove. Once a month, pull the seal back gently with your fingers and look inside the channel. You will likely see lint, hair, or a thin black film.

Dampen a cloth or old toothbrush with plain water or a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water. Wipe along the entire groove, paying special attention to the bottom where water pools. Dry the seal with a clean cloth when you are done. This takes about five minutes and stops mold before it spreads to the drum.

If mold is already visible on the seal itself, use the vinegar solution and scrub gently. For stubborn black spots, let the vinegar sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing. Do not use bleach on the rubber—it can crack the seal over time.

Empty the drain filter every three months

Samsung washing machines have a small drain filter at the bottom front of the machine that catches coins, buttons, and lint. When it clogs, water drains slowly or not at all. Open the small access panel at the bottom of your machine—it usually pops off or unscrews by hand.

Place a shallow pan or towel underneath before you open the filter, because standing water will spill out. Turn the filter cap counterclockwise and pull it straight out. Empty any debris into the trash, then rinse the filter under running water. Screw it back in firmly and close the access panel.

Do this every three months during normal use, or sooner if you notice water backing up. If water still drains slowly after cleaning the filter, the drain hose itself may be kinked or clogged—check that the hose is not bent behind the machine.

Wipe the detergent dispenser drawer monthly

The detergent drawer is another spot where mold thrives because detergent residue and moisture build up in the compartments. Pull the drawer all the way out—most Samsung models release by pressing a button or tab on the side. Rinse it under warm running water and use an old toothbrush to scrub the inside of each compartment where detergent sits.

If you see mold or buildup, soak the drawer in hot water for 15 minutes, then scrub again. Dry it completely before sliding it back in. While the drawer is out, wipe the slot inside the machine with a damp cloth to remove any residue there as well.

Do this every month or every few loads if you use a lot of detergent. Using the correct amount of detergent—usually less than the bottle recommends—also slows buildup in the drawer.

Leave the door open between loads to let air circulate

The simplest habit to prevent mold is to leave the door open after each wash. This lets the drum dry completely instead of staying damp, which is where mold and mildew grow. Leave it open for at least an hour after the cycle ends, or overnight if possible.

If you have small children or pets, you can prop the door open with a small object instead of leaving it fully open. Even partial air circulation helps. This costs nothing and takes no time, but it cuts mold problems in half.

Use vinegar or commercial cleaner for heavy buildup

If your machine has a strong musty smell even after running Tub Clean, you can add white vinegar to boost the cycle. Pour two cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser drawer and run the Tub Clean cycle as normal. The vinegar cuts through detergent residue and kills mold spores.

For very heavy buildup, you can also buy a commercial washing machine cleaner made for Samsung machines. Follow the instructions on the bottle—most require you to pour the cleaner into the drum or dispenser and run a hot cycle. These cleaners work faster than vinegar but cost a few dollars.

Do not mix vinegar and bleach, and do not use bleach on the rubber seal. Bleach can damage the gasket and other rubber parts over time.

Clean the outside and hose connections twice a year

Wipe the outside of your Samsung machine with a damp cloth to remove dust and spills. Pay attention to the top and the area around the control panel where water can splash.

Once or twice a year, check the inlet hoses at the back of the machine where water enters. Turn off the water supply, disconnect the hoses, and rinse them under running water to clear any mineral buildup. If you see white or orange deposits inside the hose, soak it in vinegar for 30 minutes, then rinse again. Reconnect the hoses firmly and turn the water back on. This prevents slow fill times and keeps water pressure steady.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my Samsung washing machine still smells bad after running Tub Clean?

Run the Tub Clean cycle again, but this time add two cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser. If the smell persists, check the drain filter and rubber seal—they may have heavy mold buildup that needs hand cleaning. Leave the door open between loads going forward to prevent the smell from returning.

Can I use bleach in the Tub Clean cycle?

No. Do not add bleach to the Tub Clean cycle or to any regular wash cycle in a Samsung machine. Bleach can damage the rubber seal, gasket, and internal parts. White vinegar is a safer alternative that kills mold and removes odors without harming the machine.

How do I know if the drain filter is clogged?

Water drains slowly at the end of the cycle, or the machine does not drain at all. You may also see water pooling at the bottom of the drum. Open the access panel at the bottom front and empty the filter. If water still drains slowly after cleaning, the drain hose may be kinked or blocked.

Is it normal for my washing machine to have a musty smell?

No. A musty smell means mold or bacteria is growing inside. This is common in machines that stay damp between loads. Run the Tub Clean cycle monthly, clean the rubber seal, and leave the door open after each wash to stop the smell from starting.

How often should I run the Tub Clean cycle?

Run it once a month during normal use. If you use your machine heavily, wash a lot of towels, or live in a humid climate, run it every two weeks. If you notice a smell or see visible mold, run it when ready and then clean the seal and filter by hand.