What the Self-Clean cycle does and when to use it

Samsung's Self-Clean cycle is a cleaning program that runs hot water and detergent through your washer's drum and internal pipes to remove bacteria, mold, and detergent buildup. It does not wash clothes — it cleans the machine itself. You should run it once a month, or more often if you notice odors, visible mold on the rubber gasket, or if you use cold water frequently (cold water leaves more residue behind).

The cycle takes between 1 and 2 hours depending on your model. During this time, the drum will fill, heat, agitate, and drain several times. You do not add clothes or detergent — the machine dispenses its own cleaning agent or uses the hot water alone, depending on the model year.

Key Takeaways

  • Self-Clean runs automatically without clothes and takes 1 to 2 hours; check your manual to see if your model requires a cleaning tablet or uses water alone.
  • Start the cycle by pressing the Self-Clean button (or selecting it from the cycle menu on touchscreen models) and pressing Start.
  • Do not open the door or interrupt the cycle once it begins, as this can damage the machine or leave it in an unsafe state.
  • Run Self-Clean monthly, or when ready if you notice odors, visible mold, or slime on the rubber gasket.
  • If your model uses cleaning tablets, buy Samsung-brand tablets or equivalent; generic tablets may not dissolve properly or may damage seals.

Finding and starting the Self-Clean button on your model

On older Samsung washers (roughly 2015 and earlier), the Self-Clean button is a physical button on the control panel, usually labeled "Self-Clean" or "Tub Clean." Press it once, then press Start. The cycle will begin when ready.

On newer models with a touchscreen display, Self-Clean is usually found in the cycle menu. Tap the menu or cycle selection area, scroll to find "Self-Clean," "Tub Clean," or "Drum Clean," tap it, and then tap Start. Some models also have a dedicated Self-Clean button above or beside the screen — check the area around your display first.

If you cannot find the button or menu option, consult your user manual. Samsung posts manuals for free on its support website — search for your model number (printed on a sticker inside the door frame or on the back of the machine) and read the PDF. The manual will show you exactly where the button is and what the cycle does on your specific model.

Whether your model needs a cleaning tablet

Some Samsung washers require you to place a cleaning tablet in the drum before starting Self-Clean; others do not. Check your manual to find out which applies to you. If your manual says to use a tablet, buy Samsung-brand cleaning tablets (often sold as "Washer Tub Cleaner" or "Drum Cleaner") or an equivalent tablet designed for front-load washers. Do not use generic or off-brand tablets — they may not dissolve fully or may leave residue that damages rubber seals.

If you use a tablet, place it in the bottom of the empty drum before closing the door and starting the cycle. If your model does not require a tablet, straightforward start the cycle with an empty drum. The machine will heat water to a high temperature and circulate it through the system to break down buildup.

What to do while the cycle runs

Once you press Start, do not open the washer door or interrupt the cycle. The machine will lock the door automatically during operation. Interrupting the cycle can leave water trapped inside, damage the door lock, or leave the machine in a state where it will not drain properly.

The cycle typically runs for 1 to 2 hours. You can leave the house or do other tasks while it runs. When the cycle finishes, the door will unlock automatically and you will hear a chime or see a notification on the display (depending on your model).

After the cycle ends

Open the door and inspect the rubber gasket (the seal around the door opening) for any remaining mold, slime, or debris. If you see buildup, wipe it down with a damp cloth or an old toothbrush. Leave the door open for at least 30 minutes to allow the drum and gasket to dry completely — this prevents mold from returning when ready.

If you notice a strong chemical smell after the cycle, this is normal and will fade within a few hours. Do not run a load of clothes when ready; wait at least one cycle or a few hours to allow any residual cleaning agent to evaporate.

Troubleshooting if Self-Clean will not start

If you press the Self-Clean button and nothing happens, first check that the door is fully closed and latched. The machine will not start any cycle if the door is ajar. Close it firmly until you hear a click.

If the door is closed and the cycle still will not start, unplug the washer from the wall outlet, wait 5 minutes, and plug it back in. This resets the control board. Try starting Self-Clean again. If it still does not work, the control board or door lock may need service — contact Samsung support or a local appliance repair technician.

How often to run Self-Clean and signs you need it sooner

Run Self-Clean once a month as routine maintenance. If you use cold water for most loads, use a lot of detergent, or live in a humid climate, run it every two weeks instead. If you notice any of these signs, run it when ready: a sour or musty smell when you open the door, visible black or pink slime on the rubber gasket, or a smell that lingers on your clothes after washing.

If odors return within a week of running Self-Clean, the problem may be standing water in the drain pump or a clogged drain filter. Check your manual for instructions on cleaning the drain filter (usually located at the bottom front of the machine) and make sure the drain hose is not kinked or blocked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash clothes while Self-Clean is running?

No. Self-Clean must run on an empty drum. The cycle uses very hot water and strong agitation designed to clean the machine, not clothes. If you start the cycle with clothes inside, they may be damaged or the cycle may not work properly.

Do I need to add detergent to the Self-Clean cycle?

No. If your model uses a cleaning tablet, place the tablet in the drum as instructed. If your model does not use a tablet, add nothing — the machine will use hot water alone or will dispense its own cleaning agent. Adding regular laundry detergent will create excess suds and may damage the machine.

What if the Self-Clean cycle stops in the middle?

If the cycle stops and the door unlocks, check that the drain hose is not kinked or blocked. If the hose is clear, unplug the washer, wait 5 minutes, and plug it back in to reset the control board. If the cycle stops repeatedly, the drain pump may be clogged — consult your manual for drain filter cleaning instructions or contact a repair technician.

Is it normal for the washer to smell like chemicals after Self-Clean?

Yes. The cleaning agent or hot water used in the cycle can leave a chemical smell. Leave the door open for 30 minutes after the cycle ends to allow the drum to dry and the smell to fade. If the smell is very strong or does not fade within a few hours, run a rinse cycle with no clothes to flush out any remaining residue.

Can I use a generic cleaning tablet instead of Samsung brand?

It is not recommended. Generic tablets may not dissolve fully in the water temperature your machine uses, or they may leave residue that damages rubber seals and gaskets. Use Samsung-brand tablets or tablets specifically labeled for front-load washers to avoid damage.