Why Descaling Your LG Washing Machine Matters
Let’s be real: washing machines aren’t magic elves that survive forever without upkeep. Over time, mineral deposits from hard water—aka limescale—like to sneak in, cling to your machine’s drum, pipes, and heater, and slack off your washer’s performance. Not only does this make your LG washing machine less efficient, but it can also shorten its lifespan and leave your clothes less fresh than you’d hope.
Descaling demolishes these pesky deposits, improving washing quality and saving energy. Plus, clean machines stink less (which is a win-win, right?). The good news: LG makes it fairly straightforward with a Tub Clean cycle that helps you get this job done without calling a tech. Ready to dive in?
What You’ll Need Before Getting Started
- Empty your washing machine drum, no socks or shirts allowed.
- An LG-approved descaling powder like LG Scalgo Descaler (India) or Washing Machine Cleaner (Global/USA).
- Soft cloth or sponge for wiping.
- Brush for cleaning detergent drawer and rubber seals (optional but recommended).
- A bit of elbow grease and time — because even machines appreciate a spa day.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Descale Your LG Washing Machine
1. Kick Out the Laundry
No sneaky socks hiding in there. Open that door wide and make sure the drum is squeaky clean before starting.
2. Add the Descaling Powder
Pour the correct amount of descaling powder or washing machine cleaner into the detergent compartment. Don’t just wing it; follow the packaging instructions to a T for best results.
3. Activate the Tub Clean Cycle
Most LG washing machines come with a Tub Clean cycle designed just for this job. Pop the lid, select the cycle, and let your machine do the hard work.
If your model doesn’t have a dedicated Tub Clean button, fret not. Some LG washers require pressing two buttons simultaneously or choosing a cycle with a longer runtime that effectively doubles as a deep clean. Consult your user manual or the official LG support page for model-specific instructions.
4. Clean the Detergent Drawer and Door Seal
Once the cycle finishes, open the detergent drawer and remove any residue build-up. Soak it in warm water if you need to, then scrub gently with a brush. Inspect the rubber door seal—the sneaky trap for grime and detergent scum—and wipe it down thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent mold and bad odors.
5. Clear the Drain Pump Filter
Beneath your LG washer, usually behind a small access panel, lies the drain filter. Don’t skip this: remove and rinse it to clear out lint, coins, and who-knows-what-else that can clog your machine and cause drainage issues.
6. Keep Up the Maintenance
Descale your LG washing machine regularly—ideally every 30 wash cycles or at least monthly if your area has hard water. Staying ahead of limescale means cleaner clothes, better machine efficiency, and less chance of costly repairs later.
Pro Tips and Extra Wisdom
- Skip the harsh chemicals. Use only descalers or cleaners recommended by LG or those designed for washing machines to avoid damage.
- Don’t overload your washer. Overpacking prevents effective cleaning and can accelerate residue buildup.
- Consider water softeners. If hard water has you battling constant scale, a water softener system can save your machine and your headache.
- Combine with other cleaning routines. For a truly fresh machine, check out our guides on how to deodorize your washing machine and mold removal tips.
So, What’s the Big Deal?
In the grand scheme of laundry day, descaling your LG washing machine might seem like a tedious chore. But here’s the deal—it’s a total game changer. You keep your machine’s pipes clear, boost performance, lower power consumption, and keep your clothes cleaner. Think of it as a regular health checkup for your appliance, except with less awkward questions and zero needles.
Plus, following this guide means fewer repairs, fewer funky smells, and a washing machine that actually deserves its spot in your laundry room royal court.