CL on a supported Samsung washer indicates Child Lock. It is an enabled safety feature, not proof that the door lock has failed. Samsung warns that restarting the washer does not necessarily turn Child Lock off, and the buttons used to control it vary by model.
Use the markings on your own panel
Look for “Child Lock” text, a smiling-lock or child-face icon, and lines pointing to two buttons. If the panel is not clearly marked, use the full model number to open the correct user manual. Do not copy a button pair from a different Samsung washer; FlexWash models can even have separate settings for each control panel.
Some models provide a temporary-off mode. Samsung describes a two-stage action on those machines: the first hold can make the icon flash and temporarily release the door, while another hold turns the feature off. That behavior is not universal.
Why CL can be followed by draining
On newer Samsung models, CL may appear after Child Lock has drained water from the tub. Samsung explains that this can occur when Child Lock is on, the water level is unsafe, and the door has been opened. Certain top-load designs drain to a safer level instead of simply leaving the tub full.
If this happens, keep the drain path clear and turn Child Lock off before opening the lid again. Do not clamp the drain hose or bypass the safety feature to preserve the water.
CL is not every lock-related display
- A smiling lock or child-face icon points to Child Lock.
- A plain padlock or key icon can mean the door is locked because a cycle is running or conditions are unsafe.
- dC and related codes concern door detection or closure on supported models.
Wait for the drum to stop and water to drain before trying the door. Never pull the door or lid against an illuminated lock.
When the model procedure does not work
If the correct manual procedure does not change the icon, note whether a cycle is active and whether water remains. A lock can stay engaged until those conditions are safe. Request support when the exact buttons are unresponsive with the cycle ended, the lock mechanism is visibly damaged, or a different error appears. Do not remove the top or front panel to release the lock.
The exact control sequence is model-dependent
Samsung uses different control layouts, so the buttons used to turn Child Lock on or off are not universal. Read the labels on the panel and use the model’s manual instead of copying a button pair from another washer. Holding the wrong controls can enable another option without clearing CL.
On supported top-load models, Child Lock behavior can include draining if the lid is opened while the feature is active. That is a designed safety response, not proof that the drain pump has failed. If the washer remains locked after the documented sequence and the drum is safe and stationary, note the model and display for support rather than forcing the lid or door.
Related Guides
- Samsung Washer Error Codes — Compare CL with Samsung door and drain fault codes.
- Washer Door Locked — Use this if Child Lock is off but the door remains safely locked.