Samsung Washing Machine Error Code CL
CL means the control lock / child lock feature is active. The buttons are locked on purpose; nothing is broken.
Common causes
- Child lock switched on, often by holding a button combination
- Lock left on after a previous wash
What to check, in order
- Press and hold the two buttons marked with the child-lock symbol (often Temp and Rinse, model-dependent) for about 3 seconds to release it.
- Check your model's manual for the exact button pair if that does not work.
Clear the code and test
- Fix what the checks above found first — a filter cleaned, a hose straightened, taps opened. Clearing the code without fixing the cause only brings it back.
- Close the door, plug the machine back in and restore the water supply.
- Run a short rinse and spin, or the shortest wash programme, and watch the stage where the code appeared before (filling, washing, draining or spinning).
- If the cycle finishes with no code, the fault is cleared. If the code returns at the same stage, write down the code and that stage before calling a technician — it speeds up the diagnosis.
When to call a professional
This display is not a fault, so there is normally nothing to book. Call a technician only if the machine also behaves abnormally, or if any of these apply:
- The code comes back after you have run the checks and a test cycle.
- You smell burning, see sparks or scorch marks, or the breaker trips.
- Water is leaking and you cannot stop it at the tap.
- The fix needs panels opened beyond what your manual describes, or a part tested with a meter, and you are not set up for that.
When you call, give the brand, the code CL, your model number (on a label inside the door or on the back) and the checks you already ran. It shortens the visit.
Questions people ask about CL
What does CL mean on a Samsung washing machine?
CL means: Child lock is on (not an error). CL means the control lock / child lock feature is active. The buttons are locked on purpose; nothing is broken.
Can I fix Samsung CL myself?
There is nothing to fix: code CL is a status display, not a fault. The checks on this page show how to exit the mode or confirm the setting.
How do I clear Samsung CL?
Fix the cause first — clearing the code on its own brings it straight back. Then restore power and water, run the shortest programme, and watch the stage where the code appeared. If the programme finishes with no code, it is cleared.
Sources checked
- Samsung support: washing machine information codes
- Samsung support: dishwasher information codes
- Samsung support (US): dishwasher troubleshooting
The meaning and checks for this code were checked against the sources above in November 2026. Codes vary by model and region; if your manual lists a different meaning for your exact model, follow the manual.