Washing machine not responding to buttons? How to turn off the child lock
If the panel doesn't respond, the button lock has most likely switched on. You can turn it off in a few seconds, and below you'll find methods for popular brands.
- Most common cause
- child lock is on (padlock, key or “CL” on the display)
- Time
- 1–5 minutes
- Repair shop, if nothing helps
- 200–610 zł (panel or module)
Before you unplug the washing machine, stop the program, and don't open the door if there is water in the drum. Pull the plug with a dry hand and don't tug the cable. Don't take the control panel apart, because there is mains voltage underneath.
Step by step
Check whether a padlock or key is lit
Look at the display. A padlock, a key or “CL” means the button lock is on. Usually only the power button still works.
Hold the lock button for 3 seconds
On many models, hold the button with the padlock for 3 seconds. Sometimes you need two buttons at once, for example spin and temperature.
Use the method for your brand
Bosch: hold Start for 3 to 5 seconds. If that doesn't work, hold the spin speed (rpm) and “finished in” buttons together for about 3 seconds. LG: hold Temp. and Rinse for 3 seconds, and on models with a Child Lock button, hold Spin for 3 seconds. Samsung: hold spin and temperature together for 3 seconds, and on models with a dial, set Child Lock to Off under Additional functions.
Check the other popular brands
Electrolux: hold the padlock button for 3 to 5 seconds, or two buttons together (for example temperature and spin, for about 5 seconds). Whirlpool: hold Key lock for about 3 seconds. Beko: hold both buttons marked with a key at the same time for at least 3 seconds. Candy: hold the temperature and spin buttons together for 3 seconds. Indesit: hold the lock button for 2 to 3 seconds.
Look in the manual
The buttons differ by model. Search the manual for “Child lock”. You can also find the manual on the manufacturer's website by entering the model number from the rating plate.
Unplug the washing machine for 5 minutes
Turn the washing machine off with the button and unplug it from the socket for 5 minutes. On models with a program dial, the lock sometimes disappears after you turn the dial, and on an Electrolux it can take 5 to 10 minutes without power. Then turn the machine on and try again.
- The panel still doesn't respond after unplugging.
- The buttons only partly work, or change the program “by themselves”.
- An error code appears on the display and keeps coming back.
- You smell burning, or there is water near the electronics around the machine.
How much does a repair shop charge?
| Diagnosis at a repair shop | 80–200 zł |
| Replacing the keypad or button panel | 200–540 zł |
| Control module repair or replacement | 410–1200 zł |
| Module replacement after water damage | 540–1350 zł |
Typical prices at independent repair shops in Poland, October 2026. Authorised service centres and big cities can be more expensive.
Repair or buy new?
You can turn off the lock yourself and it costs nothing. If the panel still doesn't respond, repairing the control module in a washing machine that's a few years old can pay off, but in a very old one buying a new machine often makes more sense. Compare the cost in the calculator.
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Open the calculator →FAQ
Why does the lock turn on by itself?
Usually because buttons were held by accident, for example by a child. Some models also lock automatically once a program starts.
Does the child lock also lock the door?
On most washing machines it locks the panel, while the door has its own lock that opens when the program ends.
What if I don't know which buttons unlock it?
Try holding the padlock button for 3 seconds. If there isn't one, check the manual or unplug the washing machine for 5 minutes.