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How to Stop a Washing Machine from Moving

July 26, 2024

Have you ever started a wash cycle just to have the washing machine shake and produce a grinding or clanking noise?

It’s a common problem that’s not only loud but can also damage the internal components of your new washing machine.

Fortunately, it’s easily fixable in most cases and that’s exactly what we’ll be discussing here.

How to Stop a Washing Machine From Moving and Shaking

There are a few things you can do to prevent a shaking washer, which we will be going over in detail below.

Adjusting the Feet of the Washing Machine

If your washer continues to produce excessive vibration, it may be a good idea to adjust its feet.

Step 1: Check the Balance

check washer balance

Start by checking the balance of the washing machine by pushing on each corner – if it wobbles, the unit is unbalanced.

Step 2: Turn the Power Off

disconnect washer

Before you adjust the feet, disconnect the washer; this means disconnecting the drain hose, and water supply hoses, and unplugging the power cord.
Remember, safety first.

Step 3: Adjust the Feet

washer adjustable legs

Most modern washing machines come with adjustable feet that can be lowered or raised. If your washer is unbalanced, you’ll want to either increase or decrease the height.

You can do so by turning the leveling feet clockwise or counterclockwise.

Depending on your washer, the feet may need to be at different heights to be level with the floor.

Loading Your Laundry Properly

The way you load your laundry can affect whether or not your washing machine will move and wobble.

Supplies:

  • A few towels (optional)

Step 1:

If you have a top-loading machine, make sure your clothes are distributed evenly around the agitator.

If you have a front-loading washing machine, distribute the clothes evenly and loosely; the tub shouldn’t be more than three-quarters full.

 

make sure the load is balanced

Step 2:

If you’re washing only a few items (e.g. a pair of shoes, dog harnesses, and leashes), you can balance the load by adding a few clean towels to the machine.

add laundry to top load washer

If your top-load washer doesn’t have an agitator, place the your clothes around the sides; they will automatically distribute themselves once the cycle starts running.

Adding Anti Vibration Pads

If necessary, you can use anti-vibration pads, which are typically made of foam or rubber, to minimize moving and shaking. Not only that but they’ll protect your floors as well.

Supplies:

  • Anti-vibration pads
make sure washer is level

Step 1:

Make sure your washing machine is level before you begin.

washer antivibration pads

Step 2:

Lifting one side of the machine at a time, carefully place the anti-vibration pads under each leg.

You may need to adjust the leveling feet slightly so that they will hold the pads securely to the floor.

Checking the Pump Filter

If your washing machine is shaking continuously, there may be foreign objects (e.g. coins, buttons) in the pump filter. Here’s how to check whether or not that’s the case.

Supplies:

  • Few towels
  • Container
  • Water

Step 1:

Locate the pump filter (it should be in the bottom right-hand corner of your washer) and carefully flip it open.

washer pump filter

Step 2:

Depending on your washing machine, there may also be a small drain hose adjacent to the cover.

To prevent water from going on your floor, place a container or bowl underneath the area.

pump filter

Step 3:

Remove the hose (if there’s one) and allow the water to drain completely before checking the pump filter for any debris, including hair, dust, and hard objects like coins.

Once you’re done checking the filter, rinse it with water and replace the cover.

rinse with water

We recommend checking the pump filter once every few months.

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Leveling the Floor

This goes without saying but if you have uneven floors, your washer basket will shake and vibrate during the wash or spin cycle. In cases like that, you’ll want to level the floor.

Supplies:

  • Level
  • Laundry platform
level

Step 1:

Using a leveling tool, check whether or not the floor is level.

wooden board

Step 2:

Place a small wooden board below the washer to balance the machine and minimize vibrations.

If you’re handy, you can also build a laundry platform out of concrete.

In many cases, it will be easier to adjust the washer feet until the washer is level and stable, rather than leveling the floor itself.

Using the Right Wash Cycle

Make sure you’re using the right wash cycle for the job. For example, using a heavy-duty wash cycle when you’re washing just a few shirts can cause the washer to shake.

Supplies:

  • Washing machine instruction manual (optional)

Step 1:

Before putting your clothes in the washing machine, make sure to check the care label; it’ll tell you which cycle to use.

care tag label

Step 2:

If necessary, go over the instruction manual – that way, you’ll know what type of cycle to use for different loads.

instruction manual

Check the Washing Machine Components

Faulty bearings on your washing machine can cause shaking and vibrations. Here’s how to check whether or not they need to be replaced.

Supplies:

  • Replacement bearings (optional)
circuit breaker

Step 1:

Switch off the washing machine before you begin. Remember, safety first.

washing machine tub

Step 2:

Place your hand inside the tub and spin it manually; there shouldn’t be any grinding noises.


You can also push your hand up against the top of the drum. If there’s noticeable movement, the bearings are loose and will need to be replaced.


How to Stop Washing Machine From Moving – FAQs

Why is my washer shaking when I’m doing my laundry?

Having an unbalanced load is the most common reason for a shaking or moving washing machine. To prevent that, make sure the clothes are distributed evenly throughout the washer – this goes whether you have a top-loading or front-loading model.

What’s the easiest way to prevent washing machine vibration issues?

Make sure your load is balanced, use the right wash cycle, and adjust the leveling feet, if necessary. You can also use pads or pats to prevent vibrations.

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Picture of Ethan Clarke

Ethan Clarke

Ethan Clarke is a seasoned expert in appliances and household waste systems. Referencing his extensive experience as an appliance repairman, Ethan shares his invaluable knowledge through detailed maintenance & troubleshooting manuals. Ethan’s insights help homeowners understand and maintain their appliances efficiently, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. He’s here to provide practical, easy-to-follow advice for all your appliance needs.

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