What is control lockout on a washing machine?

Author: Ms. Julia Kozey  |  Last update: Tuesday, February 24, 2026

You can set the Control Lock feature when the appliance is not in use or during a wash cycle. The controls can be locked or unlocked after a cycle has started. Children cannot accidentally start the appliance when this option is selected.

How do I get my washing machine out of control lock?

You should just need to press and hold the control lock button in the bottom right corner of your control panel for 5 seconds to remove the control lock. If that won't work, unplug the washer for 5 minutes and try again.

How do I turn off Ctrl lock?

Go to Start / Settings / Control Panel / Accessibility Options /Keyboard Options. b. Turn off CTRL lock if it's on.

How do you reset a locked washing machine?

If the plug is difficult to reach, or is hard-wired to the power supply, shut it off at the breaker. 2. Wait for a minute: Wait for 1-5 minutes before plugging the washer back in to reset the internal systems. This allows any residual power to clear and can help reset the door lock mechanism.

How do you reset a GE washer lock?

Make sure the Washer is paused (press the Start/Pause button). During the spin cycle, this can take up to 3 minutes for the basket to stop spinning and allow you to open the lid. Unplug the Washer for a minute to reset the appliance.

How to Activate Control Lock on Front Load Washer

What is control lockout?

The Gas/Control Lockout feature on a Gas Range or Dual Fuel Range disables the surface burners and oven. The oven control panel is locked so pressing the buttons/pads does not activate the controls. Gas flow is stopped to both the cooktop burners and the oven.

Why is my washer locked and won't start?

Sometimes, when using the machine, people accidentally hit the control lock or delay start button. Try opening and closing the washing machine door, and then try another cycle. If that doesn't work, you may want to completely restart and reset the wash cycle.

How do I force my GE washer to unlock?

If the Washer is running, press the START/PAUSE button once it will pause the Washer and unlock the door. It will take a few seconds for the door to unlock after pressing PAUSE. Press again to restart the wash cycle. In some cycles the Washer will drain first, and then unlock the door when it is paused.

How do I clear the CL on my LG washing machine?

➔ To unlock CL on the washer, hold the Spin button on the washer control panel for 3 seconds. This guide was created for all models, so the images or content may be different from your product. Please fill out the required field. Please fill out the required field.

How long is washing machine locked for?

Most washing machines use a thermal lock that releases the door two minutes after a cycle is complete.

Why did my washer lock up?

Cause: An unbalanced load washer or a drainage problem might trigger the washing machine's safety lock to prevent damage. Fix: Check if the load inside the machine is distributed evenly.

Does unplugging a washing machine unlock it?

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.

How do I force restart my washing machine?

If you want to try resolving issues with your washing machine, such as power surges or error codes, it's possible you might need to perform a quick reset. One way you can reset a washer is by unplugging the unit for at least one minute, then plugging it back in and restarting the appliance.

How do you unblock a washing machine?

Use a funnel to pour about a quarter of a cup of baking soda into the pipe. Next, empty a baster full of vinegar into the drain hose. Top tip: If the blockage is not completely gone, you can repeat the above process. Once you have cleared any debris from the hose, pour hot water in to flush everything out.

What does control lock washer mean?

You can set the Control Lock feature when the appliance is not in use or during a wash cycle. The controls can be locked or unlocked after a cycle has started. Children cannot accidentally start the appliance when this option is selected.

Why does my Whirlpool washer say control locked?

There is no Error - Control Lock is activated

If you try to push buttons, you may see the code "LoC" or "LC" (depending on your model). This is a reminder that you have set the control lock and need to de-activate it to allow the washer controls to function.

How to stop a locked washer?

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.

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