The Self-Clean Cycle Removes Detergent Buildup and Odors
Samsung washers have a built-in Self-Clean cycle that runs hot water and a cleaning agent through the drum and pipes to dissolve detergent residue, fabric softener, and bacteria that cause musty smells. You do not add anything to the drum—the machine dispenses its own cleaning solution. The cycle takes about an hour and runs automatically when you select it from the control panel.
Running Self-Clean once a month keeps your washer fresh and prevents the gray film that builds up inside front-load and top-load drums. If you notice a sour smell when you open the door, or if clothes come out with spots or odor, Self-Clean will usually clear it in one run. Some Samsung models prompt you to run it after a certain number of wash cycles, but you can also start it manually whenever you want.
Key Takeaways
- The Self-Clean cycle is a built-in feature on most Samsung washers that uses hot water and cleaning solution to remove detergent buildup and odor-causing bacteria.
- You do not add detergent, bleach, or any other product—the washer dispenses its own cleaning agent automatically.
- The cycle takes about 50 to 60 minutes and should be run with an empty drum.
- Running Self-Clean once a month prevents odors and keeps the drum and pipes clean without any extra cost or effort.
How to Start the Self-Clean Cycle on Your Control Panel
The exact steps depend on whether your Samsung has a dial, buttons, or a touchscreen, but the principle is the same on all models. Make sure the washer is empty—do not put clothes or detergent inside. Close the door or lid.
On models with a dial or knob, turn it to the Self-Clean setting. The dial will have a label for it, sometimes shown as "Self-Clean" or a drum icon with a plus sign. Once you turn to that setting, press the Start button. On models with a touchscreen or digital display, tap the menu or cycle selection button, scroll to find Self-Clean (it may be under a "Maintenance" or "Special" submenu), and tap Start. The display will show the cycle time—usually 50 to 60 minutes—and a countdown as it runs.
Do not open the door or lid while the cycle is running. If you need to stop it, press the power button or the Stop button, but this will interrupt the cleaning. Let it finish if you can.
What Happens During the Self-Clean Cycle
When you press Start, the washer fills with hot water and releases a cleaning solution from a dispenser inside the machine. The drum rotates to mix the solution throughout, then drains and refills several times over the course of the cycle. You may hear the drum spinning, water running, and occasional pauses—this is normal.
The water temperature during Self-Clean is hotter than a normal wash, which is why the cycle takes longer. The heat and the cleaning agent work together to break down soap scum, fabric softener residue, and biofilm that clings to the rubber gasket, drum holes, and internal pipes. Near the end of the cycle, the washer may drain and spin to remove excess water.
When the cycle finishes, the display will show "Complete" or "Done," and you may hear a chime. Open the door or lid and wipe down the rubber gasket and the inside of the drum with a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture. This step is optional but helps prevent odor between washes.
When to Run Self-Clean and How Often
Run Self-Clean once a month as routine maintenance, or more often if you notice a smell, visible mold, or staining on clothes. If you use a lot of detergent, fabric softener, or wash in cold water most of the time, buildup happens faster—consider running it every two to three weeks.
Some Samsung models have a Smart Care or Diagnostics feature that alerts you when Self-Clean is recommended. If your washer displays a message like "Run Cleaning Cycle," that is a good time to do it. You can ignore the prompt and run it whenever you want, but the alert means the machine has detected buildup.
You do not need to run Self-Clean before every wash or after every load. Once a month is enough for most households. If you live in an area with hard water or use a lot of detergent, monthly cleaning will keep your washer fresher than waiting until you smell a problem.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not add detergent, bleach, or vinegar to the drum before running Self-Clean. The washer has its own cleaning solution built in, and adding extra products can damage the machine or leave residue. The Self-Clean cycle is designed to work alone.
Do not run Self-Clean with clothes inside. The cycle uses very hot water and a strong cleaning agent meant for the machine itself, not fabric. Clothes will not be harmed if you accidentally start it with a load, but you will waste the cycle and the clothes may come out discolored or damaged.
Do not expect Self-Clean to wash your clothes. It cleans the washer, not your laundry. If you want to clean your clothes, use a regular wash cycle. If you want to clean the machine, use Self-Clean with an empty drum.
What to Do If Self-Clean Does Not Remove the Smell
If you run Self-Clean and the smell returns within a week or two, the problem may be the rubber gasket or the drain hose, not the drum. Wipe the rubber gasket around the door with a damp cloth and let it dry completely. Moisture trapped in the gasket folds is a common source of odor.
Check the drain hose at the back of the washer to make sure it is not kinked or clogged. A blocked drain can trap water and bacteria. If the hose looks clear, you can run Self-Clean again, but if the smell persists after a second cycle, contact Samsung support or a service technician. A persistent odor after Self-Clean usually means a part inside the machine needs cleaning or replacement, which requires professional service.
In the meantime, leave the door or lid open between washes to let the drum dry completely. This is one of the best ways to prevent odor from building up again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use vinegar or bleach instead of the Self-Clean cycle?
No. Vinegar and bleach can damage the rubber gasket, seals, and internal parts of your Samsung washer. The Self-Clean cycle uses a cleaning solution that is safe for all the machine's materials. If you want to clean the washer without using Self-Clean, wipe the gasket and drum by hand with a damp cloth, but do not pour vinegar or bleach into the machine.
Does Self-Clean use extra water or electricity?
Yes, Self-Clean uses hot water and runs for about an hour, so it will show up on your water and electric bill. The cost is usually a few dollars per cycle. Running it once a month is much cheaper than repairing or replacing a washer damaged by buildup, and it keeps your clothes fresher.
What if my Samsung washer does not have a Self-Clean button?
Older Samsung models may not have a dedicated Self-Clean cycle. Check your user manual for your specific model number to see what cleaning options are available. Some older washers have a "Tub Clean" or "Drum Clean" cycle instead, which works the same way. If your model has no cleaning cycle, you can manually clean the gasket and drum with a damp cloth and run an empty hot water cycle to rinse the inside.
How long does the Self-Clean cycle take?
Most Samsung washers complete Self-Clean in 50 to 60 minutes. The exact time depends on your model and water temperature. The display will show the remaining time when you start the cycle.
Can I run Self-Clean if the washer is still under warranty?
Yes. Self-Clean is a normal maintenance feature and running it will not void your warranty. In fact, regular use of Self-Clean is recommended by Samsung to keep the washer in good condition.