A washing machine’s self-cleaning feature runs a dedicated cycle in an empty drum to help clear residue, soil and moisture from the washer’s interior. The exact temperature, water use, duration and cleaner requirements vary by model, so follow the instructions for your washer rather than treating every “Self Clean” or “Tub Clean” cycle as identical.
What the self-clean cycle does
Manufacturers give this maintenance cycle different names, including Self Clean, Self Clean+, Pure Cycle, Tub Clean and Tub Sterilization. Its purpose is generally to help manage detergent residue, soil and moisture in parts of the washer that are difficult to reach during ordinary laundry cycles.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The method is model-specific. Samsung says its Self Clean targets tub areas where moisture and detergent residue may build up. GE describes the cited UltraFresh washer’s cycle as using more water, with bleach or washer cleaner, to control soil and detergent buildup. LG describes Tub Clean as a hot wash followed by a high spin to help dry the drum. These are examples of particular manufacturers’ guidance, not a universal description of every washer.
For the LG front-load models covered by its guidance published October 27, 2025, Tub Clean or Tub Sterilization maintains water at 60°C. The washer heats cold water if hot water is unavailable, and steam-equipped models inject steam. Those details apply to the models covered by LG’s instructions, not to washers generally. LG’s front-loader tub-cleaning instructions explain that procedure.
#1 Best Overall
- NO. 1 WASHING MACHINE CLEANER TABLET*
- TIME-RELEASE DEEP CLEAN. Affresh tablets are scientifically designed to deliver extended cleaning action throughout the wash cycle, helping power away bacteria, grime and soap scum deep inside the washing machine’s pump, drum and filter to help optimize performance.
- STINKY PET ODOR? Affresh washing machine cleaner helps remove residues that can trap odors from pets, sweat and mildew that can transfer onto clothes and sheets.
- ONE TABLET, ONCE A MONTH. Avoid the twice-monthly cleaning cycles of other appliance cleaners and cut your machine cleaning maintenance time in half.
- TRUSTED BY APPLIANCE EXPERTS. Backed by over 100 years of appliance innovation, affresh is the washing machine cleaner brand recommended by Whirlpool, Maytag, and Amana.**
How to run the cycle
- Check your manual and empty the washer. Do not leave laundry in the drum. Samsung and LG both instruct users to run their cleaning cycles with the washer empty.
- Check whether your model needs cleaner. Requirements differ. Samsung says its routine Self Clean cycle does not need cleaner. Its separate odor guidance discusses bleach for an existing mildew smell. LG’s cited front-load procedure recommends oxygen-based washer cleaner and warns that chlorine-based or acidic washer cleaners may discolor or corrode the machine. Follow your washer’s exact instructions and the cleaner label; do not combine procedures from different brands.
- Select the dedicated cleaning cycle and start it. The name and button sequence vary by model. If your washer has no dedicated cycle, consult its manual instead of assuming another cycle is equivalent.
- Let the full cycle finish. Samsung’s US guidance estimates about one hour for top-load and four hours for front-load Self Clean cycles. These are estimates in that guidance, not standard cycle times across brands.
- Let the washer dry afterward. Samsung and LG advise leaving the lid or door open after cleaning. LG also recommends opening the dispenser drawer to help moisture escape.
For the procedure specific to your washer, start with the manufacturer’s manual. LG’s current tub-cleaning guidance describes its models, while Samsung’s washer-cleaning instructions cover its own cycle and process.
How often to use it
There is no single interval that applies to every washer. LG’s front-load guidance says to run Tub Clean after every 30 uses or when “tcL” appears; another LG support guide recommends monthly tub cleaning. Samsung recommends roughly monthly cleaning or every 30–40 loads. Use your washer’s reminder and manual as the deciding instructions rather than treating those intervals as interchangeable rules.
Rank #2
- Works With All Washers - Perfect For High Efficiency Or Standard Toploader, Front Loading Compatible With GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, Electrolux, Etc. (Not For Dryer)
- Eco-Friendly Tabs - Natural Effervescent Foaming Tablets Are Septic Safe And Made With Less Packaging . Compare To Liquid Descaler And Wipes That Create Unnecessary Waste
- Instant Cleaning Power - Active Self Wash Tablet Cleans So You Don't Have To Brush And Wipe Your Washing Machines. When Exposed To Water, They Break Down Into Deep Scrubbing Powder Cleaners That Breaks Down Grime And Hard Water Build Up
- Bulk 24 Kit - Each Package Includes 1 Year Supply (24 Pods) Vs. Competitor 5 or 6 Tablet Packs Or Liquid Treatments Which Run Out Quickly
- Odor Eliminator- No More Smelly Washer. Descaler Will Freshen Your Laundry Machine Basket, Rubber Gasket, And Internal Parts So Your Clothes Will Come Out Clean And Smelling Fresh.
When the cycle is not enough
A tub-clean cycle may not remove every odor or visible deposit, because other parts of a washer need separate care. Samsung’s odor guidance recommends wiping residue, drying the washer, and using a rinse-and-spin cycle when appropriate. It also covers cleaning the pump filter on applicable front-load models. LG identifies the pump filter, detergent dispenser, inlet filters and door gasket as additional maintenance areas.
If a smell or buildup remains after following the cleaning steps for your model, consult the manufacturer’s support guidance or arrange service. Samsung’s odor troubleshooting steps and LG’s washer tub-cleaning guidance provide brand-specific next steps.
Rank #3
- NO. 1 WASHING MACHINE CLEANER TABLET*
- TIME-RELEASE DEEP CLEAN. Affresh tablets are scientifically designed to deliver extended cleaning action throughout the wash cycle, helping power away bacteria, grime and soap scum deep inside the washing machine’s pump, drum and filter to help optimize performance.
- STINKY PET ODOR? Affresh washing machine cleaner helps remove residues that can trap odors from pets, sweat and mildew that can transfer onto clothes and sheets.
- ONE TABLET, ONCE A MONTH. Avoid the twice-monthly cleaning cycles of other appliance cleaners and cut your machine cleaning maintenance time in half.
- TRUSTED BY APPLIANCE EXPERTS. Backed by over 100 years of appliance innovation, affresh is the washing machine cleaner brand recommended by Whirlpool, Maytag, and Amana.**
What to check when comparing washer cleaning cycles
Cycle names alone do not tell you how a feature works. When comparing models, check the manufacturer’s instructions for:
- Which interior areas and types of buildup the cycle is intended to address.
- Whether it uses hot water, heats incoming cold water or adds steam.
- Whether washer cleaner is optional, required or restricted.
- The cycle’s stated duration.
- Any display reminders and follow-up drying or maintenance instructions.
For example, GE’s description of the cited UltraFresh washer emphasizes added water and cleaner for soil and detergent buildup, while LG’s cited front-load guidance specifies a 60°C Tub Clean or Tub Sterilization procedure. These manufacturer descriptions illustrate why model-specific documentation matters.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Powerful Cleaning: The Bastion Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets effectively eliminate dirt, grime, and limescale from your washing machine, ensuring a thorough clean every time.
- One-Year Supply: With 24 tablets in each pack, our one-year supply ensures you have enough tablets for bi-monthly use, keeping your washing machine fresh and efficient all year long.
- Easy to Use: Simply drop one tablet into the drum, run a hot cycle without any laundry, and let the tablet dissolve to release a cleansing foam that reaches every corner of your machine.
- Extends Machine Lifespan: Regular use of these cleaner tablets prevents residue buildup, optimizing your washing machine's performance and extending its lifespan.
- Versatile Compatibility: Suitable for all types of washing machines, including front-loading, top-loading, and high-efficiency models. Tested and approved for GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, Electrolux machines & More.
Rank #4
- Deep Cleaning Descaler for Every Washer - Powerful foaming tablets penetrate your washer’s drum, tub, gasket, and internal components to break down grime, residue, soap scum, and hard-water buildup that cause odors and reduce performance.
- Easy Drop-In Use — No Measuring or Mess - Simply place one tablet in an empty washer, run a hot or self-clean cycle, and let the active foaming action do the work. Cleans hard-to-reach areas without scrubbing, wiping, or dismantling your machine.
- Compatible With All Washer Types - Safe and effective for HE, front-load, and top-load washing machines. Works with major brands including GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, Electrolux, and more.
- Ultimate Deodorizer & Keeps Laundry Fresh - Refreshes your washer by clearing away built-up residues and wash cycle odors, helping your machine stay clean and operate at its best. Supports consistently fresh laundry results with every load.
- 24 Tablets = Full 12-Month Supply - Bulk pack includes 24 easy-use tablets for a complete year of routine washer maintenance. Outperforms smaller 5- or 6-count packs and helps extend the life of your machine.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
