Why does the washing machine show a key sign?

A key sign on a Samsung washing machine indicates that the door is locked for safety reasons. The washing machine may keep the door locked while the drum is hot, water is still inside the machine, or the wash cycle has not fully completed.

1. Reasons why the washing machine shows a key sign

- The wash cycle is still running

The washing machine keeps the door locked until the selected cycle finishes completely.

- Hot water or steam remains inside the drum

The door may remain locked temporarily to prevent accidental injury from hot water or steam.

- Child Lock is enabled

Some Samsung washing machine models lock the door automatically when Child Lock is activated.

2. Check whether the wash cycle is complete

1. Check whether the wash cycle timer has finished.
2. Verify that all water has drained from the drum.
3. Press Start/Pause if you need to stop the cycle manually.
4. Wait a few moments for the door lock mechanism to release.
5. Check whether the door lock indicator turns off.

The washing machine door may remain locked briefly even after the cycle ends.

3. Check whether Child Lock is enabled

1. Locate the Child Lock buttons on the control panel.
2. Press and hold both Child Lock buttons.
3. Wait for the Child Lock icon to flash.
4. Press and hold the buttons again to disable Child Lock.
5. Check whether the key sign disappears from the display.

Button locations and Child Lock controls may vary depending on the washing machine model.

4. Drain the emergency hose on front load models

1. Turn off and unplug the washing machine.
2. Open the filter cover carefully.
3. Place a large container near the emergency drain hose.
4. Remove the emergency drain tube cap.
5. Allow the remaining water to drain into the container.
6. Close the tube cap after draining finishes.
7. Reinsert the emergency drain tube.
8. Close the filter cover securely.

5. Run a cleaning cycle

1. Turn on the washing machine.
2. Select the Cotton cycle or Baby Care cycle.
3. Set the temperature to 90°C if available.
4. Run the cycle without laundry inside the drum.

6. When to contact Samsung Support

1. Contact Samsung Support if the key sign remains after troubleshooting.
2. Contact Samsung Support if the washing machine door does not unlock.
3. Contact Samsung Support if water remains inside the drum after draining.

Do not force the washing machine door open while the key sign is displayed because this may damage the door handle or lock mechanism.

7. Summary

A key sign on a Samsung washing machine usually indicates that the door is locked for safety reasons. Waiting for the cycle to finish, disabling Child Lock, or draining the emergency hose can help remove the key sign and unlock the door safely.