On the covered LG top-load washer platform, tCL, tcL means a reminder to run the Tub Clean cycle — LG is explicit that this is not an error. First, nothing is wrong; the machine is asking for maintenance. LG says tCL is not an error but a reminder to run the Tub Clean cycle.
Differential
Likely causes of “LG top-load washer code tCL, tcL”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
A tub clean reminder
What separates it tCL shows on the display, which points to a tub clean reminder
How to confirm LG says tCL is not an error but a reminder to run the Tub Clean cycle
- 2
A skipped tub clean
What separates it tCL keeps reappearing, which points to a skipped tub clean
How to confirm LG says the message may continue to reappear if the cycle is not performed
- 3
A dirty or damp tub
What separates it The tub smells or has residue, which points to a dirty or damp tub
How to confirm Run the cycle and follow the care tips
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- The exact characters shown on the display: tCL
- When Tub Clean was last run
- Note whether the tub smells before you start troubleshooting
Try in this order
0 of 6 completedWhat to do first
ReversibleNothing is wrong; the machine is asking for maintenance.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleRun the Tub Clean cycle. LG notes the message will not reappear for some time afterwards.
Run Tub Clean
ReversibleFor models with Tub Clean: power on, select the Tub Clean cycle, pour the recommended amount of washing machine cleaner evenly into the tub, press Start/Pause, and wait for the chime; the washer turns off after 10 seconds.
Or clean without the cycle
ReversibleFor models without Tub Clean: pour in the cleaner, fill the tub about two-thirds full, run a cycle for at least two to three minutes, turn off, wait two to four hours, then run Wash, Rinse and Spin in order.
Dismiss the reminder
ReversibleTo close the reminder, select another cycle or press any other button.
Keep the tub fresh
ReversibleLeave the door open after use until the tub dries, run Tub Clean once a month, avoid soap-based natural detergents, and run the cycle three consecutive times if it has been over six months.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- Displayed as
- tCL.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Do not use chlorine-based or acidic cleaners; LG warns they can discolor or rust the tub
- !Request service if tCL persists after a completed Tub Clean cycle
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Where the manufacturer's article stops. The monthly interval and the cleaner warning are LG's own.
Exact questions
Common questions
What does tCL, tcL mean on a LG top-load washer?+
a reminder to run the Tub Clean cycle — LG is explicit that this is not an error.
How often should I run it?+
Once a month.
Which cleaner should I use?+
An oxygen bleach washing machine cleaner.
What if it persists?+
Request service if tCL persists after the cycle.