How to Carry a Washing Machine Upstairs
Learn a safe, practical method to move a washing machine upstairs with two helpers, straps, and proper lifting techniques. Plan the route, protect floors, disconnect utilities, and move slowly with clear communication.
Carrying a washing machine upstairs safely requires planning, two or three helpers, proper lifting technique, and the right equipment. Before moving, disconnect power, water hoses, and drain the drum; empty the drum and secure cords. Measure doors and stair widths, remove obstacles, and use a furniture dolly, moving straps, and protective padding. Move slowly, take breaks, and communicate clearly to prevent injuries.
Assessment and Planning
When you tackle the question of how to carry washing machine upstairs, start with a practical assessment of weight, space, and team. Confirm you have at least one capable helper (two is better) and enough room to maneuver the appliance through doorways and landings. Check stair width, railing clearance, and the floor plan for obstacles. Create a rough route and a backup plan in case a turn or landing proves tighter than expected. This groundwork helps prevent last-minute scrambles and injuries. In this guide to carry washing machine upstairs, you’ll learn step-by-step actions, recommended gear, and safety tips that keep you in control from start to finish.
Tools and Personnel
Before you begin, assemble the people and equipment you’ll rely on. Two strong helpers are ideal, with an extra person if stairs are tight or the washer is a longer model. Secure a sturdy moving dolly, moving straps, and protective padding. Have a measuring tape to verify clearance, a sturdy blanket to cushion corners, gloves for grip, and a plan for alternating who guides and who supports the load. Clear communication beats guesswork, so assign a lead mover and a spotter. This section lays the foundation for a controlled, safer ascent.
Preparing the Washer for Move
Preparation minimizes risk. Start by unplugging the unit and turning off hot and cold water supplies, then detach hoses and drain any residual water. Empty the drum and secure the lid to prevent movement inside. If there are balance feet, check that they are retracted or locked in place as appropriate. Remove any loose items such as hoses or hoses’ retainers that could snag during transit. A well-prepared washer moves more predictably and reduces the chance of leaks or damage along the way.
Clearing the Path and Protecting Surfaces
Inspect the route from the doorway to the destination. Remove obstacles, loosen door hinges if needed, and measure doorways to ensure the machine can pass without turning into a bottleneck. Lay down moving blankets or cardboard to protect floors and walls. Consider temporarily removing a door from its hinges if it allows a straighter line. Mark the route with tape to keep everyone aligned and raise any rugs or cords that could trip you up. Preparation here saves you from mid-move scrambles and scuffs on walls or floors.
Setting Up the Moving Equipment
Set up the dolly on a level surface, then slide the washer onto the dolly with the help of your teammates. Use moving straps to secure the appliance to the dolly, creating three points of contact to minimize sway. Position the center of gravity low and near the dolly’s wheels to ease steering. If available, use a ramp to bridge small steps or thresholds. Confirm that the washer is stable before you begin lifting or rolling, and test with light pressure before committing full movement.
Lifting and Moving: Step-by-Step Technique
With the unit secured, adopt a stable stance—feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, back straight. Instruct one helper to guide from the top while the other supports from the bottom. Push or pull the dolly slowly, maintaining a straight line and allowing the wheels to roll over high spots. Communicate any change in plan, especially when approaching turns. If you must lift briefly, use your legs, not your back, and avoid twisting your torso. Pause if you feel strain; reassess before continuing.
Navigating Stairs: Downward vs Upward
Stairs demand deliberate control. Decide whether to move the load up or down first based on the stair width and the machine’s geometry. A two-person approach with a spotter on each level helps: one person maintains control on the lower steps, while the other steadies the top. Keep the path clear and use a second dolly or a stair climber if the stair angle is steep. Take it one stair at a time, pausing between flights to reset grip and confirm balance.
Positioning, Unloading, and Settling
When you reach the destination, slowly back the washer off the dolly, keeping the machine upright. Shift it onto the padded surface, then remove straps and carefully lower it. Level the appliance with the feet or adjustable legs to prevent rocking. Reconnect hoses and power only after the unit is stationary and level. Do a quick test run with no clothes to confirm that there are no leaks and that the motor and drum rotate smoothly. Securely tilt or reattach any hoses as needed to prevent leaks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Common errors include rushing through corners, neglecting to secure the machine, and attempting to move alone. Skipping route checks or underestimating stairs can lead to damage or injury. Don’t ignore what you can feel—if the load shifts, stop and reassess rather than forcing a move. Never lift with a rounded back or twist to maneuver around a tight doorway; use your legs and let teammates help. Always confirm that the path is free of obstacles before continuing.
When Not to Move It Yourself
If stairs are narrow, the unit is unusually heavy, or you don’t have adequate help, hire a professional mover. Large, heavy appliances can exceed typical home handling limits, increasing risk to you and the machine. In such cases, a pro with proper equipment can complete the move without damaging walls or floors, and with insurance coverage in case of mishap. Safety should always trump tempo when moving a washer upstairs.
Safety Checklist Before, During, and After
Before you start: verify distance, door width, and ramp opportunities; ensure you have two helpers and a dolly. During: walk slowly, communicate constantly, and pause if fatigue sets in. After: inspect hoses, seals, and feet; test spin cycles with no laundry; check for leaks and levelness. This checklist keeps the move systematic and minimizes the chance of post-move issues.
Authority sources and Endnotes
For safety guidelines and general appliance handling, refer to official safety resources at https://www.osha.gov and https://www.cpsc.gov. Always consider local regulations and installer recommendations when planning a washer move. These references provide broad safety context and best practices for moving large household appliances.
Tools & Materials
- Locking furniture dolly(Heavy-duty with wheels and a weight rating that matches or exceeds the washer.)
- Moving straps (sling straps)(Two-person kit rated for the washer’s weight.)
- Protective padding or moving blankets(Protect floors, walls, and edges during the move.)
- Floor protection Mats or plywood(Create smooth surface and protect floors from scuffs.)
- Gloves with grip(Improve grip and hand protection.)
- Measuring tape(Confirm doorway and stair width before starting.)
- Assistant(s)(At least one extra pair of hands; two is ideal.)
- Ramp (optional)(Bridge small steps or thresholds if needed.)
Steps
Estimated time: 60-90 minutes
- 1
Clear the path and size up the route
Identify the starting doorway, typical path, and landing. Remove obstacles, props, and rugs. Measure doorways and assess stair width to confirm you can pass the washer without tilting it excessively.
Tip: Know the narrowest point of your route before you lift; plan your angle of approach. - 2
Disconnect utilities and prep the washer
Unplug the machine, shut off water supply, and detach hoses. Drain any residual water and secure cords inside the drum so nothing moves during transit.
Tip: Never leave hoses attached while moving; leaks create slippery hazards. - 3
Position the dolly and secure the washer
Slide the washer onto the dolly with help, ensuring it sits low and centered. Use straps to lock the appliance to the dolly at three contact points to reduce sway.
Tip: Keep the load centered on the dolly to maintain balance when starting to roll. - 4
Lift with legs, not back
Stand with feet apart, knees bent, and back straight. Use your legs to lift slightly if needed, then roll the dolly forward. Communicate every adjustment with your team.
Tip: Avoid twisting your torso; rotate your feet to steer. - 5
Move slowly up the stairs
Have one person guide from the bottom and another assist from the top. Move in small increments, pausing to recheck balance at each step.
Tip: Take your time—jerky movements increase the risk of slips or drops. - 6
Set down, unload, and level the washer
Back the dolly into the doorway, remove straps, and gently set the unit on a padded surface. Level the feet to prevent rocking and test the program without laundry.
Tip: Leveling prevents vibration and noise during operation. - 7
Reconnect utilities and test
Reconnect hoses and power, then run a brief test cycle with no clothes to verify there are no leaks and proper operation.
Tip: Watch for drips or unusual sounds during the first test run. - 8
Final safety check
Inspect for scuffs, ensure all protective padding is removed, and confirm the door closes cleanly. Keep the area clear for future maintenance.
Tip: Document any damage or gaps in protection for future moves.
FAQ
Can I move a washing machine up stairs by myself?
Moving a washing machine up stairs solo is not recommended. The weight and size make it easy to lose balance. Always involve at least one additional person and use proper equipment.
Moving a washer up stairs alone is risky; two people with a dolly and straps is much safer.
What tools do I need to move a washer upstairs?
Essential tools include a sturdy dolly, moving straps, protective blankets, a measuring tape, gloves, and at least one additional helper. Optional ramps can help on thresholds.
A dolly, straps, blankets, and a helper are the basics you’ll need.
What if the stairs are too narrow?
If stairs are narrow, consider door removal or a professional moving service. A pro can use specialized equipment to navigate tight turns without damaging walls or the appliance.
Narrow stairs are a signal to pause and possibly call in pros.
Is it safe to tilt the washer during the move?
Tilting is risky because it can damage the drum or seals. Keep the machine as upright as possible and rely on a stable dolly and straps to maneuver.
Keep the washer upright and use a dolly; tilting can cause damage.
How can I protect floors during transit?
Use moving blankets or cardboard to cover floors and edges. A ramp or low-friction surface helps slides smooth and reduces scuffing.
Protect the floor with blankets and keep movement slow and controlled.
What should I do if I feel strain or pain?
Stop immediately. Move teammates closer, reassess, and consider pausing or seeking professional help. Your safety comes first.
If you feel pain, stop and get help.
Watch Video
The Essentials
- Plan route and team before lifting
- Use a dolly with straps for stability
- Move slowly and communicate clearly
- Recheck alignment and level after placement
