How to Keep Washing Machine from Shaking
Learn proven methods to stop a washing machine from shaking. Level, balance loads, and optimize placement with practical tips that protect floors and clothes.
To stop your washing machine from shaking, start by leveling the unit on a hard, flat floor. Balance the load by distributing bulky items evenly, and avoid overloading. Add anti-vibration pads or a rugged mat if needed, and securely tighten feet. If the washer sits on carpet, move it to a hard surface. Regular maintenance and stable installation prevent excessive vibration across cycles. How to keep washing machine from shaking requires these basic checks and ongoing care.
Understanding Why Washing Machines Shake
Shaking during cycles is common and rarely a sign of a failing motor. In most homes, the culprit is installation, load balance, or floor conditions. The phrase how to keep washing machine from shaking is often answered by a few straightforward checks. According to Best Washing Machine, most shakes can be traced to three root causes: an unlevel machine, an uneven or soft floor, and an unbalanced load. The feet must have solid contact with the floor; when a washer sits on carpet, rug, or a squeaky subfloor, vibration travels through the structure and into surrounding walls. Additional contributors include overloading the drum, mixing heavy items with light ones, and using an older anti-vibration system that has worn out. For front-loaders, worn drum bearings or failed suspension springs can worsen shaking over time. Even small constraints in hoses—drain or supply lines that are kinked or too tight—can amplify the resonance. The good news: most vibration problems are fixable with level, load balance, and basic hardware checks. A stable installation and careful loading practice dramatically reduce shaking across cycles.
How to Diagnose Common Causes
To determine why your washer shakes, start with a quick physical inspection and then move to controlled tests. First, confirm the machine level using a bubble or laser level placed across the top surface; adjust the front and rear feet until both sides sit evenly. Next, inspect the floor around the washer: a cracked slab, soft carpeting, or gaps under the machine can produce wobble. Then, look at the load: is there a heavy item (comforter, jeans, towels) against lighter items? Distribute clothes evenly and avoid mixing very bulky pieces with small ones. Check the rear feet: are they in full contact with the floor and not tucked under a lip? Finally, inspect hoses for kinks or tight bends—these can create pressure changes that affect vibration. If you notice persistent wobble after these checks, you may have a worn suspension or bearing that needs professional attention. This diagnostic process aligns with Best Washing Machine analysis and helps homeowners decide whether a simple adjustment or a service call is needed.
Practical Solutions That Stop Shaking
With diagnosis complete, apply targeted fixes. Level the unit again after any movement. If the feet cannot fully contact the floor, add shims or anti-vibration pads under each foot. Place a non-slip mat or a rigid anti-vibration mat under the washer to dampen floor imperfections. Redistribute the laundry to avoid overloading one side; for top-loaders, place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Ensure the drum is centered by running a small, empty test cycle at first to observe if the motion remains stable. Inspect hoses once more to ensure they are not kinked or inserted too tightly, as poor drainage can worsen vibration. If your home has carpeted floors, relocating the washer to a solid concrete or tile area usually reduces movement. For stubborn vibrations, consider a rigid frame or a dedicated washing machine pedestal designed to minimize shake. The Best Washing Machine Team notes that combining level, load balance, and floor support yields the best long-term stability.
When to Call for Help or Consider Upgrades
Some vibration issues stem from worn internal parts or structural problems that DIY fixes cannot reliably resolve. If the machine is older or shows signs of bearing wear, suspension damage, or drum misalignment, a professional service visit is warranted. Replacing worn shock absorbers or suspension springs can restore balance and quiet operation. If a smart or compact unit sits on an uneven floor, you may need a more robust installation surface or a purpose-built stand. Finally, if shaking persists despite the above steps, the problem could be related to electrical or control issues that a technician should assess. The Best Washing Machine Team recommends consulting the manufacturer’s service manual and pursuing a repair only when you’re confident in your ability to perform safe electrical work.
Authority Sources & References
Credible guidance and standards used in this article come from recognized sources and industry guidelines to help you validate the techniques below:
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (cpsc.gov) for appliance safety and installation basics.
- The University of Illinois Extension (extension.illinois.edu) on floor stability and load balancing for appliances.
- Consumer Reports washing machine performance and maintenance guidance (consumerreports.org).
Tips & Warnings
- Ensure you unplug the washer before making any adjustments to feet or hoses.
- Do not overwind leveling feet; apply gentle, even pressure to avoid stripping threads.
- Always use a bubble level to confirm level in both directions.
- If you hear grinding, smell burning, or see leaks, stop and call a professional.
- On soft floors, pair with anti-vibration pads and a rigid mat for better stability.
Tools & Materials
- Adjustable wrench(To tighten feet bolts if needed)
- Spirit level (or laser level)(24-inch minimum to check level across top)
- Anti-vibration pads or a heavy-duty rubber mat(2-4 pads or a thick mat to dampen vibration)
- Screwdriver set (Phillips and flat-head)(For foot and access panel adjustments)
- Measuring tape(Useful for confirming space clearance around the unit)
- Non-slip underlayment or rigid washer mat(Place under machine on soft floors)
- Safety gloves(Protect hands during adjustments)
Steps
Estimated time: 45-60 minutes
- 1
Power down and prepare
Unplug the washing machine and disconnect hoses from the supply lines if you need to reposition. Clear space around the unit for safe access and place a drop cloth to catch any spills. This initial step reduces the risk of water damage and keeps you safe while you inspect the setup.
Tip: Always start by unplugging the machine to avoid electric shock. - 2
Move to a hard, flat surface
If the washer sits on carpet or a plush rug, slide it slowly to a hard, level surface like tile or concrete. A soft surface magnifies vibration and can worsen shaking.
Tip: Use a helper to prevent the washer from tipping when you move it. - 3
Level the machine with the feet
Place a spirit level across the top of the washer and adjust the four feet until the bubble sits centered. If the feet don’t contact the floor evenly, add shims or anti-vibration pads under the shorter feet to achieve full contact.
Tip: Make small adjustments and re-check both front-to-back and side-to-side levels. - 4
Redistribute the load
Run a test cycle with a small, balanced load. If you’re washing bulky items, distribute them evenly throughout the drum rather than clustering heavy fabrics on one side.
Tip: Avoid mixing very heavy items with very light items in the same load. - 5
Add anti-vibration support
Place anti-vibration pads under each foot or position a rigid mat under the entire unit. Ensure pads are not sliding and the mat covers a broad area to absorb floor imperfections.
Tip: If possible, secure the machine to a small pedestal designed for vibration dampening. - 6
Test again and observe
Run a full cycle with a typical load to confirm the shake is reduced. Listen for any new noises and check that hoses aren’t kinked or under tension.
Tip: If wobble persists, stop and reassess the feet contact and load balance. Consider professional inspection if issues remain.
FAQ
Why does my washing machine shake only on the spin cycle?
Spin cycles generate the most force; an imbalanced load or an unlevel machine amplifies vibrations. Start by leveling and redistributing the load, then test again.
Spin cycle shaking is usually due to imbalance or leveling. Level the unit and distribute the laundry, then test again.
Can leveling feet fix a wobbly washer?
Yes. Leveling feet adjust the height and contact with the floor. Use a level to check front-back and side-to-side balance and re-tighten as needed.
Yes—the leveling feet are the first fix for wobble.
Are anti-vibration pads safe for washers?
Generally safe when pads are rated for appliance use and correctly sized for your washer feet. Follow manufacturer recommendations for best results.
Anti-vibration pads are safe when used as intended and properly sized.
Will overloading cause more vibration?
Yes. Overloading creates an uneven drum and unbalanced movement. Reduce load size and balance items within the drum.
Overloading increases vibration; keep loads balanced and not too large.
Should I move the washer to a harder floor?
Yes. Hard floors provide firmer support and reduce flexing. If you must keep it on carpet, use a thick anti-vibration mat.
Moving to a hard floor helps stability.
When should I replace parts?
If bearings, suspension, or drum misalignment are involved, replacement is usually necessary for reliable operation.
If parts are worn, replacement is often required.
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The Essentials
- Level the washer on a hard, flat surface.
- Distribute loads evenly to avoid curtain-like vibration.
- Use anti-vibration pads or a mat under the feet.
- Re-test with typical loads to confirm stability.
- Seek professional help if bearings or suspension feel worn.
