CL LG washing machine error CL — child lock is on

What it means

If your LG washing machine shows CL: this is not a fault: the control panel lock (child lock) is on, so the buttons and program dial do not respond and only the power button works.

Likely causes

The lock was switched on, by accident or on purpose, by holding two buttons (or the button with the lock symbol) for more than 3 seconds. It does not switch itself off when the cycle ends.

Full guide to this fault: Washing machine will not turn on or start: what to do

Safe steps you can try

Press and hold the button with the lock symbol (on some models two buttons together, e.g. Temp + Rinse, or Spin) for 3–5 seconds until the chime, and CL disappears. If that does not work, unplug the machine for 5 minutes and check the manual for the lock button.

When to call a technician

If the lock buttons do not respond at all, the control panel buttons or board need checking.