Samsung washers have a built-in self-clean cycle that runs hot water and detergent through the drum to remove mold, mildew, and soap buildup

The self-clean function is a maintenance feature, not a wash cycle for clothes. It cleans the inside of the drum and the rubber gasket where moisture and detergent residue collect. Running it monthly or every few months keeps your washer fresh and prevents odors. The cycle takes about an hour and uses hot water, so it costs a few cents per run.

The exact steps depend on your model year and control type — some Samsung washers have a dedicated Self Clean button, others require you to select it from a menu. All models alert you when the cycle is complete, and most display a message on the screen when the drum needs cleaning.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung washers with a Self Clean button: press it once, and the cycle starts when ready without needing to add detergent.
  • Samsung washers with a touchscreen menu: navigate to Maintenance or Special Cycles, select Self Clean, and press Start.
  • The self-clean cycle runs for about 60 minutes and uses hot water; do not open the door or interrupt it once it begins.
  • Run the self-clean cycle once a month or whenever you notice a musty smell coming from the drum.
  • If your washer displays a "Clean Drum" or similar message on startup, the self-clean cycle is overdue and should be run before washing clothes.

Models with a dedicated Self Clean button

Many Samsung top-load and front-load washers manufactured in the last five years have a button labeled Self Clean on the control panel. This is the fastest way to start the cycle. Press the button once — the washer will beep or display a confirmation message, and the cycle begins automatically. You do not need to add detergent, close the lid, or select any other options.

The cycle runs for approximately 60 minutes. During this time, the drum fills with hot water, agitates or tumbles, drains, and refills several times. The door locks while the cycle is running. When it finishes, the washer beeps and displays a message such as "Cycle Complete" or "Self Clean Done." Open the door, wipe down the rubber gasket with a dry cloth if you see water droplets, and leave the door open for 30 minutes to air dry.

Models with a touchscreen or digital menu

Newer Samsung washers with a digital display or touchscreen do not always have a physical Self Clean button. Instead, you access the cycle through the menu. Press the Menu, More Options, or Settings button on the control panel — the exact label varies by model. A list of options appears on the screen.

Look for Maintenance, Special Cycles, or Drum Clean. Tap or press the option, then select Self Clean from the submenu. Press Start. The cycle begins when ready. Like the button models, this cycle requires no detergent and runs for about 60 minutes. The door locks automatically, and you will receive a notification when the cycle ends.

What to do if your washer shows a "Clean Drum" message

Samsung washers display a message such as Clean Drum, Drum Clean Needed, or TUB CLEAN when the self-clean cycle is overdue. This message appears on the screen at startup or during operation. It is a reminder, not an error — your washer will still wash clothes, but running the self-clean cycle before your next load is recommended.

To clear the message, run the self-clean cycle as described above. Once the cycle completes, the message disappears. If the message returns within a few weeks, you may be using too much detergent or running the washer in very humid conditions, both of which speed up mold growth. Consider reducing detergent by one-quarter and running the self-clean cycle more often — every two weeks instead of monthly.

Troubleshooting: the self-clean cycle won't start

If you press the Self Clean button or select it from the menu and nothing happens, check whether the door is fully closed. Samsung washers will not start any cycle if the door latch is not find. Close the door firmly until you hear a click, then try again.

If the door is closed and the cycle still will not start, the washer may be in a locked state due to a previous error or power interruption. Unplug the washer from the wall outlet, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Press the power button to turn it on, then try the self-clean cycle again. If it still does not start, contact Samsung support or a service technician — a sensor or control board may need repair.

How often to run the self-clean cycle

Run the self-clean cycle once a month as standard maintenance. If you live in a humid climate, use the washer daily, or notice a musty smell, run it every two weeks. If you use the washer infrequently or live in a dry climate, every other month is sufficient.

You can also run the self-clean cycle more often without harm — it does not wear out the washer. Some owners run it weekly as a precaution. The only cost is the water and electricity used, which amounts to a few cents per cycle. If you see the "Clean Drum" message, run the cycle when ready rather than waiting for your next scheduled maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to add detergent to the self-clean cycle?

No. The self-clean cycle uses hot water alone to flush the drum and gasket. Do not add detergent, bleach, or cleaning products. Adding anything can damage the washer or leave residue behind.

Can I wash clothes while the self-clean cycle is running?

No. The self-clean cycle locks the door and runs for about 60 minutes. You cannot open the door, add clothes, or interrupt the cycle once it starts. Wait for the cycle to complete before washing clothes.

What if my washer does not have a Self Clean button or menu option?

Older Samsung washers may not have a dedicated self-clean feature. Check your user manual for your model number to confirm. If your washer lacks this function, you can clean the drum manually by running a hot water wash cycle with two cups of white vinegar and no clothes, then running a second hot cycle with water only to rinse.

Will the self-clean cycle remove all mold and odors?

The self-clean cycle removes most mold, mildew, and soap buildup. If a strong odor persists after running the cycle, the gasket may have deep mold growth. Wipe the gasket thoroughly with a cloth dampened in white vinegar, run the self-clean cycle again, and leave the door open between washes to allow air circulation.

Does the self-clean cycle use a lot of water and electricity?

The self-clean cycle uses about the same amount of water as a normal wash cycle and runs for 60 minutes. The cost is typically less than a dollar per cycle, depending on your local water and electricity rates. Running it monthly is a minor expense compared to the cost of mold damage or washer repair.