Turn off the machine for 5-10 minutes and try opening it again: This method works in most cases when the door lock is stuck. Turning off the machine for a few minutes gives it time to reset and release the door lock. After a few minutes, try opening the door again.
The most likely cause is an inoperative drain pump, or a clogged debris filter. If your washer has water inside the Drum, the door will not open to prevent a flood. If you are using to sanitize the cycle and the water is extremely hot, the door will not open to prevent injury.
Water left in the machine is also a common cause of a locked washing machine door. Running a spin/drain cycle can often fix this issue, but if it fails, the machine may need to be drained manually. The door catch, handle, or some part of the door catch mechanism may be broken, preventing the door from opening.
To fix a stuck key, apply a lubricant such as graphite powder or a silicone-based spray to the keyhole. Gently wiggle the key while pulling it out. If this doesn't work, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to grip the key and carefully work it out.
If the cycle has finished and the door is still locked, it may be due to a power outage or a fault in the machine's electrical system. In this case, try unplugging the machine and waiting for a few minutes before plugging it back in.
Normally waiting for the cycle to end is all you need to do to unlock the door, or turn your washer on if it's off. If you get stuck, though, you can drain the water from front load washers using the emergency drain hose; once the water is gone, the door will unlock.
To remove a lock washer, use a wrench or a similar tool to remove the nut or threaded fastener that holds the lock washer in place. Next, use a flathead screwdriver to pry the lock washer loose. If you remove a split washer, place the screwdriver head under the washer or inside the split.
If the door doesn't open as it should after the cycle has ended, the next step is to hold the “control lock” button down for 3 seconds. You should be able to hear an unlatching sound followed by being able to open the door.
To reset the washer control panel, it needs to be disconnected from the power source for one minute. If your washer is plugged into an outlet, simply unplug the unit for one minute and then plug the unit back in.
You should just need to press and hold the "Control Lock" button for 5 seconds to remove the control lock. If that doesn't work, unplug the washer for 5 minutes and plug it back in. The electronics get glitchy sometimes and won't reset. After reapplying power, try to hold the "Control Lock" button again for 5 seconds.
Washer Control Reset
To reset the electronic controls on your washer, shut off the circuit breaker or fuse to the washer or unplug the washer for 2 minutes. For models that have a timer control knob, turn the knob around and back to any position other than final spin for the interrupted cycle. Then, restore power.
Most washing machines use a thermal lock that releases the door two minutes after a cycle is complete.
Most washers will have a manual release to unlock the mechanism and allow you to open the door or lid. The release is normally accessible from below the door lock, or on some models, from inside the soap dispenser housing.
Use strong, thin cord: You could try feeding some trimmer or fishing line around your washing machine's door to release its locking hook. Unplug your machine first, then wrap the cord around the door from the handle area and pull the line to the other side. This will hopefully move the hook back and unlock the door.
Use a can of compressed air or a small brush to clean the keyhole thoroughly. Lubricate the lock: Sticky locks are often due to a lack of lubrication. Apply a graphite-based or silicone-based lubricant specifically designed for locks. Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they can attract more dust and grime.
Unplug the machine and wait a few minutes. Most doors will open once the power is off and the temperature cools off. Try knocking gently on the handle or pressing the pause/start button. Loop fishing line around the locked door and pull away from the door to manually unlock the locking mechanism.
If the machine gets stuck mid-cycle, try stopping it, draining the water and rearranging the laundry. The problem could be that the drum is overloaded. As a rule, you should fill it no more than three quarters. If the items are really heavy, it's best to fill it less.
Power Off/On: Turning off the machine and unplugging it for a few minutes, then plugging it back in and restarting it, could reset the machine and unlock the door.