Moving a Washing Machine Up Stairs: Safe Step-by-Step Guide

Safety first: Assess and plan

When you ask how to get washing machine up stairs, the answer begins with risk assessment and careful planning. According to Best Washing Machine, safety and planning are the foundation of any stair move for large appliances. Start by measuring the route: width of the stairs, doorway clearances, ceiling height, and whether a turn is involved. Mark landings and note where you can take a short pause if the appliance shifts. Decide who will assist and where you’ll rest between moves. If the stairs are tight, or you’re unsure about your balance, seek professional help before you begin. This planning step reduces the chance of damaging walls, doors, or the washer, and helps you choose the right tools and technique.

Next, consider alternatives—could a re-configuration of the path or temporary removal of doors or trim improve clearance? If the path includes carpet, hardwood, or a threshold, you’ll need different protection strategies. Finally, verify the washer is properly prepared for transport by drainage and weight considerations. By thinking through every angle beforehand, you’ll reduce friction hazards and set up a smoother move.

Tools, gear, and route planning

Having the right gear makes a stair move safer and more efficient. Essential tools include an appliance dolly with a strap, sturdy moving straps, and several thick moving blankets or furniture pads to protect the washer and walls. Place blankets on the stairs to create traction and soften any impact. A measuring tape helps confirm clearance, while a wrench or screwdriver will loosen transit bolts if they are still installed. A second person is essential for balance, and gloves and closed-toe shoes protect hands and feet. Optional items include ramp aids or sliders for door thresholds and a piece of plywood to bridge small gaps. Before you start, practice positioning the dolly with the washer in an open space to understand weight distribution and balance. Double-check all connections and ensure hoses are easily reachable but not snagging the path.

Prepare the washer and space

Prepare the washer by unplugging from the wall outlet and turning off the water supply to avoid leaks or sprays during movement. Drain any residual water in the drum by tilting gently or following the manufacturer’s guidance, then remove transit bolts (if present) to allow for safe rotation. Move the washer away from the wall enough to clear the power cord and hoses, and secure them so they won’t snag during the move. Clean the floor around the staging area and remove any obstacles, including small rugs or clutter. Cover the stairs and the washer with blankets, with extra padding on corners. Verify the door swing and hinges won’t rub the walls as you pass by. This stage protects your equipment and reduces the risk of damage to floors and walls.

Staircase technique: how to navigate safely

Position the dolly under the washer, securing it with the straps, and ensure the weight is centered. Have one person guide and one person push, maintaining three points of contact to keep balance. Move slowly, one to two stairs at a time, pausing to recheck balance on each landing. If a turn is required, approach it at an angle that keeps the center of gravity close to the stairs rather than tipping outward. Use blankets as friction and protection, not as a cushion for impact. Never push from the top or bottom of the stairs with only one person; always maintain two-person control whenever possible. If the load feels unstable, stop immediately, lower to a safe position, and reassess.

Common challenges and how to handle them

Narrow staircases or tight landings increase risk. If the washer doesn’t fit through a doorway or past a ceiling obstruction, consider removing the door hinges or temporarily removing a ceiling light or molding; only do this if you’re confident with basic carpentry and have the right tools. Uneven steps, loose railings, or slick surfaces demand extra traction and slower movement. If the hoses or cords snag, pause, untangle, and reroute before continuing. Weather conditions or slippery floors require extra grip and protective footwear. For multi-story moves, plan for rest stops at each landing to check connections and ensure the washer remains upright. These practical adjustments can save time and reduce the chance of damage.

Alternatives: when to hire professionals or rent equipment

If the stairs are unusually narrow, steep, or you’re moving a very heavy unit, hiring professional movers with experience is prudent. They come equipped with heavy-duty dollies, motorized carts, and door-protection equipment to minimize wall damage. If you’d rather DIY, consider renting a commercial appliance dolly and guard rails, but be sure to get an on-site assessment and a safety plan. In some cases, it may be safer to disassemble the washer system further (as allowed by the manufacturer) to lighten the load; consult the manual and a technician before attempting any disassembly beyond basic transit bolts. Always ensure you have adequate insurance and understand the return policy if something goes wrong.

After-move checks and reassembly

Once the washer is in its new location, reconnect hoses, water supply, and electrical outlet, and run a test cycle at the lowest level to check for leaks and vibration. Inspect all protective padding and door clearances, removing blankets and straps carefully. Rebuild any disassembled parts per the manufacturer’s instructions, and verify the levelness with a bubble level; adjust feet as needed. Finally, clean up the workspace, store equipment properly, and note any lessons learned for future moves. By documenting the process, you’ll improve safety and efficiency for next time.