Do I put anything in my Samsung washer for self clean?

Author: Dr. Ilene Beahan  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Run a Self Clean or Pure Cycle to clean the interior
  1. To run a Self Clean cycle, first make sure the washer is empty.
  2. Press Self Clean, and then press Start.
  3. You don't need to add cleaner when running Self Clean. However, we do recommend using bleach if you already have an existing mold smell (see our guide for details).

What to put in a Samsung washer for self clean?

You do not have to use a cleaning agent when running the self clean cycle on the washer; however liquid bleach is recommended for any odor issues if present. Please note: If you do decide to use the help of a cleaning agent, we strongly recommend for you to START the cycle immediately.

What do you add to self clean washing machine?

As a natural option in place of washing machine cleaner tabs, pour 2 cups of vinegar into your detergent dispenser and run your washer on the hot cycle. When it's done, add a half-cup of baking soda to the drum and run another hot cycle.

Should I use detergent for a self clean cycle?

Do not use or mix any other detergent or chemicals during the SELF CLEAN cycle. If necessary, run a RINSE+SPIN cycle after the SELF CLEAN cycle has completed to help remove any residual residue.

Do I use detergent with Samsung Drum clean?

no, its OK the Drum clean program will not take in any Detergent or Softener.

Samsung Washing Machine Self Cleaning - How To Use

Do I add anything to Samsung Drum clean?

You can also clean the drum without a cleaning agent. The ECO DRUM CLEAN+ reminder blinks on the control panel once every 40 washes. (It is advisable to perform ECO DRUM CLEAN+ regularly. If the alarm occurs, clean the debris filter as well.)

Is Samsung self clean the same as drum clean?

Samsung washing machines have a self-cleaning cycle called Drum Clean* (or Drum Clean+), which heats up water up to 60 °C and 70 °C to remove any bacteria or build-up from the drum of your washing machine. This can also remove any dirt that has accumulated in the rubber door gasket.

Do I put anything in the washer on the clean washer cycle?

Most machines have a “clean” cycle that can be run without a load in it to flush the drum and internal components of excess dirt, bacteria, or any other buildup of contaminants that can lead to dirty or smelly laundry as you run repeated wash cycles through the machine.

Can I add vinegar to a self-clean Samsung washer?

While you may have seen articles promoting the use of distilled white vinegar as a cleaning product for your washer, Samsung warns against using vinegar because it can damage the machine and its components.

What is the self clean cycle on a Samsung dishwasher?

8 Self Clean: Select this cycle to clean the inside of the dishwasher. Make sure the dishwasher is empty before beginning this cycle.

What does the self clean setting do?

Self-cleaning ovens use high heat to help burn any residue or soil left behind in the oven and turn them into ashes, while steam-cleaning ovens use water to soften stuck on food particles. High heat self-cleaning cycles are typically longer than steam-clean cycles, and require a locked oven door as a precaution.

How often should I run a clean cycle on my washing machine?

It's generally recommended to clean your washing machine once a month, especially if you want to prevent musty odours from forming inside the drum and keep your clothes smelling great. Sometimes, however, you need to pay your machine a bit more attention, and it may be necessary to thoroughly clean the washer.

Should I add anything to my washers self clean cycle?

Run the machine: If your washing machine is fairly new, it should have a self-cleaning cycle. If it does, simply add the amount of bleach specified in the ownership manual and run this cycle.

What can I add to my washing machine for self clean cycle?

Open the washer door and pour one cup (250 ml) of liquid bleach or other washing machine cleaner directly into the wash basket. If not using bleach, 1 cup (250 ml) of vinegar or a store bought washing machine cleaner can be used. Note: SmartDispense does not dispense detergent for this cycle.

How often should I run the self clean on a Samsung washer?

It's recommended that you run a Samsung Self Clean setting on a monthly basis to prevent an overgrowth of mold and mildew. However, the Self Clean indicator will illuminate sooner with more frequent use. In front loading machines the Self Clean indicator light will illuminate after 40 washes.

Where should I put vinegar in my washing machine?

Using vinegar in laundry is simple. You can add it to the fabric softener dispenser in your washing machine or pour it in during the final rinse cycle. When adding vinegar towards the end of the cycle, manually pause your machine right before the final rinse cycle and add a 1/2 cup of diluted white vinegar to the load.

Can you use affresh with Samsung self clean?

A: Yes, the concept on most washers are similar. In fact many different brands are made at the same factories.

Can I add vinegar to a self-clean washing machine?

Run an empty, regular cycle on hot, using two cups of distilled white vinegar instead of detergent. Add the vinegar to the detergent dispenser. (Don't worry about harming your machine, as white vinegar will not damage clothes.) The hot water-vinegar combo removes and prevents bacteria growth.

What is a substitute for affresh?

As an alternative to a formulated washer tub cleaning product like Affresh, you can use a DIY washing machine cleaner to clean and sanitize the inside of the tub with a combination of white vinegar and baking soda, or liquid chlorine bleach (be aware that vinegar and bleach should never be used together).

Can I run my washing machine empty to clean it?

Running your washing machine empty can be particularly beneficial under certain conditions. For instance, if you're transitioning from washing heavy fabrics, like towels, to lighter items, an empty cycle can help prepare the machine and eliminate any residue.

How to deep clean a Samsung washer?

If your Samsung washing machine has visible mold or a mildew smell, let us show you how to take care of it.
  1. Run a Spin-only cycle. ...
  2. Add chlorine bleach. ...
  3. Choose a Self Clean cycle. ...
  4. Wipe down the tub. ...
  5. Run a Rinse+Spin cycle. ...
  6. Allow the washing machine to dry. ...
  7. Clean the pump filter (front load models only). ...
  8. Request service.

What is the difference between Samsung steam and self clean?

SELF-CLEAN OVENS: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? Steam-cleaning ovens use water to create steam, which helps soften and loosen the burnt-on food particles on the interior of the oven. Self-cleaning ovens use high heat to burn off food residue, with a cooling period in between cleaning cycles.

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