Whirlpool Washing Machine Error rL: Items in Drum During Clean Washer Cycle

1. SAFETY: Disconnect power before inspecting this appliance.
2. Open the washer door and remove all items from the drum.
3. Check the door gasket folds for any small items.
4. Close the door firmly and restart the Clean Washer cycle.
5. Add a washer cleaning tablet to the drum (not the dispenser) for best results.

Error rL on your Whirlpool washing machine means: The washer detected laundry or items in the drum when the Clean Washer (tub clean) cycle was selected. The cycle requires an empty drum to clean the tub effectively and will not proceed until items are removed. Also displayed as F34 on some models. The washer's self-diagnostic system has detected this condition and paused the current cycle.

The most frequent cause is laundry left in the drum when clean washer cycle was accidentally selected. Work through the causes and fix steps below in order — most Whirlpool washer errors are resolved without a service call.

Error rL is DIY-safe. No tools are required and the fix typically takes under 15 minutes. Follow all steps in sequence.

The washer will not proceed until the condition is resolved. Work through all steps before contacting a certified appliance technician.

• Laundry left in the drum when Clean Washer cycle was accidentally selected
• A forgotten item (e.g. a sock or cleaning cloth) remaining in the drum

• Do not run the Clean Washer cycle with laundry inside — the high-temperature hot water and extra agitation are calibrated for tub cleaning, not fabric care

rL appears with a confirmed empty drum — possible drum sensor or control board fault

• Run the Clean Washer cycle monthly on an empty drum — it prevents odor and residue buildup that leads to musty smells