LG washing machines — whether front-load or top-load — are reliable and feature-rich, but getting the most out of them means using the right cycles, settings, and maintenance routines. This guide covers everything from first use to daily operation.
First-Time Setup Checklist
- Remove transit bolts from the rear of front-load models (usually 3–4 bolts with plastic sleeves)
- Connect the water inlet hose securely to a cold tap — check for leaks
- Secure the drain hose in the standpipe or sink (minimum 60 cm from the floor)
- Level the machine using the adjustable feet — all four feet must be firm on the floor
- Run a Tub Clean cycle without clothes before first use
How to Run LG Tub Clean
Press the power button, then select Tub Clean from the cycle selector. On top-load models, the button is usually dedicated. Add a tub cleaning tablet or pour 150 ml of liquid bleach directly into the drum. Press Start. The cycle runs for approximately 1–2 hours depending on the model. Run this once a month.
Selecting the Right Wash Cycle
| Cycle | Best For | Temperature | Approx. Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal/Cotton | Everyday cottons, bedsheets, towels | 40°C | 90–120 min |
| TurboDrum / Fast Wash | Lightly soiled clothes, quick refresh | 30°C | 15–29 min |
| Delicates | Silk, lingerie, thin fabrics | 30°C cold | 40–55 min |
| Woollens | Knitwear, wool garments | 30°C | 40 min |
| Allergiene (Steam) | Baby clothes, allergy sufferers | 60°C steam | 75 min |
| Tub Clean | Drum cleaning | Hot | 60–120 min |
LG Smart Diagnosis — How It Works
If your LG washing machine shows an error code or behaves unexpectedly, use Smart Diagnosis instead of guessing. Open the LG ThinQ app, tap Smart Diagnosis, and hold your phone’s microphone near the machine’s speaker while the machine transmits a tone. The app decodes the tone and tells you exactly what’s wrong.
Alternatively, call LG customer care and hold the phone near the machine when prompted — the tone is transmitted to the service agent’s system automatically.
Spin Speed Guide
- 400–800 RPM — Delicates, woollens, silk
- 1000 RPM — Synthetics, light cottons
- 1200–1400 RPM — Heavy cottons, towels, bedsheets
Maintenance Tips
- Clean the detergent dispenser drawer every month
- Wipe the door gasket (front-load) after each wash to prevent mould
- Clean the mesh filter on the water inlet hose every 6 months
- Leave the door ajar after use so the drum dries out
For LG error codes and what they mean, see our complete LG washing machine error codes guide. Not sure whether a front-load or top-load suits your home? Read our front-load vs top-load washing machine comparison.