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.
Table of Contents
ToggleHow 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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x84.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x74.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x91.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x126.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x75.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x101.jpg)
Step 1:
Make sure your washing machine is level before you begin.
![washer antivibration pads](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x66.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x86.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x90.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x66.jpg)
We recommend checking the pump filter once every few months.
ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner
Don’t forget to clean your washer to help prevent other issues!
![wmc transparent new](https://useactive.com/wp-content/themes/porto/images/lazy.png)
15% Off Your Order on Amazon
×Click below to reveal the 15% off coupon for your entire ACTIVE purchase on Amazon.com
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x66.jpg)
Step 1:
Using a leveling tool, check whether or not the floor is level.
![wooden board](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x66.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x66.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x87.jpg)
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](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x75.jpg)
Step 1:
Switch off the washing machine before you begin. Remember, safety first.
![washing machine tub](https://useactive.com/wp-content/uploads/porto_placeholders/100x70.jpg)
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.
SAVE
15% off
Your Next ACTIVE
Purchase on Amazon
15% Off Your Order on Amazon
×Click below to reveal the 15% off coupon for your entire ACTIVE purchase on Amazon.com
Limited Time Offer