Is It Difficult to Move a Washing Machine? Step Guide
Learn whether moving a washing machine is difficult and how to do it safely. This educational guide covers prep, tools, steps, safety tips, and practical advice from Best Washing Machine.
Moving a washing machine is doable with prep, the right gear, and a small team. Disconnect power and water, drain hoses, and secure the drum, then use a moving dolly to roll it to its new spot. This guide covers safety steps, tools, and a clear sequence to minimize floor damage and injury.
Is moving a washing machine difficult? Reality check
Moving a washing machine is a physically demanding task that many homeowners face when rearranging a laundry room or moving to a new home. According to Best Washing Machine, the level of difficulty hinges on your layout, the machine’s weight when empty or full, and the floor surface you must cross. The Best Washing Machine team found that the biggest risks come from improper disconnection of utilities, wet floors, and dragging the appliance over fragile surfaces. With careful planning, a clear path, and the right equipment, a two-person team can relocate a standard unit between rooms or onto a moving dolly without damage to the washer or the home. The goal is to reduce risk, protect surfaces, and avoid movement-induced leaks or electrical hazards. The following sections explain how to assess your situation, prepare adequately, and execute the move safely.
Prep work: plan, measure space, and assemble your toolkit
Preparation sets the foundation for a safe move. Start by measuring doorways, hallways, and the path to the destination to confirm the washer will fit without squeezing through awkward gaps. Sketch a quick route and identify any stairs or tight corners. Assemble your toolkit ahead of time: a sturdy appliance dolly, moving blankets, ratchet straps, a plywood sheet for floor protection, screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, towels for spills, gloves, and at least one partner. As you prepare, remember the guidance from Best Washing Machine—the move should be deliberate and staged, not rushed. This planning stage minimizes surprises and protects both the unit and your home’s surfaces.
Drain, unplug, and secure hoses properly
Before touching the machine, shut off power at the outlet and unplug the unit. Then disconnect the inlet and outlet hoses. Have a bucket or towels ready to catch residual water and slowly drain hoses to prevent squirting. Keep track of the hoses and their fittings so you can reconnect them correctly later. This step reduces the risk of electric shock, water damage, and slippery floors. If you encounter resistance when disconnecting hoses, use the adjustable wrench gently to avoid stripping fittings.
Protect floors, carpets, and doorways during the move
Protective measures matter. Lay moving blankets or thick pads on hard floors to reduce scratches and dampen impact from movement. If you’re crossing thresholds or doorframes, place a plywood sheet or rigid board to distribute weight and prevent gouging. Mark a clear path with tape and keep pets or children away from the work area. These precautions help you maintain the integrity of your floors and carpets while the washer is moved.
Lifting and maneuvering: using a dolly and a helper
With the washer balanced on a dolly, keep the weight centered and use the straps to secure the unit. Do not try to lift the machine alone; rely on a partner to guide the dolly and control movement. Move slowly, avoid sudden turns, and keep the machine upright to prevent drum seal damage. As you roll, watch for uneven floors, thresholds, and carpeted edges where the wheels could snag. This coordinated approach minimizes the risk of tipping and floor damage.
Navigating stairs and tight spaces safely
Stairs and narrow corridors are common hurdles. If stairs are involved, remove any obstructions and get an extra set of hands. Consider dismantling the washer door or adjusting the path to reduce the angle between the dolly and the floor. Go slowly, test balance at each landing, and take breaks if needed. If the space is truly tight, reassess the route or seek professional help rather than forcing the unit through an awkward gap.
Reconnect, power up, and test
Once you’re in position, remove the dolly, reconnect the water lines and power, and run a short test cycle with the machine empty and nothing around the hose connections. Check for leaks and ensure the unit sits evenly. If you hear unusual noises or see wobbling, pause and recheck strap tension, level, and footing. This final verification helps confirm the move was successful and safe.
Common mistakes to avoid when moving a washer
Common errors include rushing, skipping utility disconnection, and neglecting floor protection. Dragging the unit instead of rolling with a dolly can damage floors and the appliance. Forgetting to secure the drum can lead to internal damage during transit. Always validate clearance in doorways and confirm fittings before powering up.
When to call a professional or seek further guidance
If you encounter stairs that are too steep, a doorway that’s too narrow, or you’re unsure about disconnecting the water lines, it’s wise to call a professional. The cost of a professional move is often offset by avoiding property damage or injury. For complex relocations or multiple appliances, a licensed technician or appliance mover can provide peace of mind and ensure safety.
Tools & Materials
- Moving dolly (appliance dolly)(Heavy-duty, with locking wheels; strap recommended)
- Moving blankets/furniture pads(2-3 pads; protects surfaces and the appliance)
- Ratchet straps(2 straps to secure the washer on the dolly)
- Plywood sheet(3/4 inch or thicker; spread weight on floors)
- Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers(Loosen clamps or hoses if needed)
- Adjustable wrench(For securing inlet fittings)
- Towels or absorbent rags(Catch residual water and wipe spills)
- Gloves(Protect hands during lifting and handling)
- Two adult helpers(Minimum two-person team for safe lifting)
Steps
Estimated time: 30-60 minutes
- 1
Plan the move and gather gear
Identify the route, measure doorways, and assemble all required tools. Confirm the destination has a clear, level surface and that you have a stable path for the dolly. Confirm access times and ensure a second person is available to assist.
Tip: Test the route for clearance before picking up the washer. - 2
Power down and unplug
Turn off the power at the outlet and unplug the washer. If allowed, switch off the dedicated circuit to reduce the risk of shocks.
Tip: Keep the plug within easy reach but away from the moving path. - 3
Shut off water and drain hoses
Close the water supply valves and detach the inlet hoses. Place a towel at the connection to catch any residual water, then slowly drain the hoses into a bucket.
Tip: Do not yank hoses; loosen gradually to avoid leaks. - 4
Disconnect hoses and secure
Remove both inlet and outlet hoses. Coil them neatly and secure with tape or a strap so they don’t snag during transport.
Tip: Label hoses if you have multiple machines. - 5
Protect the floor and path
Lay down moving blankets and place a plywood sheet where you’ll roll over thresholds. Ensure the floor is dry and free of debris.
Tip: Consistency in protection reduces scratches and scuffs. - 6
Position the dolly and lift the washer
With a partner, slide the dolly under the washer and secure it with straps. Keep the unit centered over the dolly and avoid tilting more than necessary.
Tip: Lift with legs, not back, and maintain a straight spine. - 7
Move to destination
Roll slowly along the planned route, pausing to adjust if you encounter resistance. Use a steady pace and communicate clearly with your partner.
Tip: Check wheel alignment frequently to prevent drift. - 8
Lower, secure, and reconnect
Lower the washer off the dolly onto the protective surface, remove straps, and reconnect hoses and power. Ensure the unit sits level and hoses have no kinks.
Tip: Double-check that the unit is level before powering up. - 9
Test run after setup
Plug in, fill the drum, and run a short cycle with the area clear of people. Check for leaks and unusual noises before using normally.
Tip: Watch and listen for issues during the first minute of operation.
FAQ
Is it okay to move a washer on carpet?
Yes, but use a plywood sheet and thick pads to distribute weight and prevent bunching or damage to carpet. Avoid dragging the unit.
Yes, moving a washer on carpet is possible if you use a plywood sheet and protective pads to spread the load; don’t drag it.
Do I need to drain the water completely before moving?
Yes. Drain residual water from hoses and the drum if possible to reduce leaks and weight during transport.
Yes. Drain any remaining water to minimize leaks and make the move safer.
Can I tilt the washer to fit through a doorway?
Tilting is generally not advised because it can stress seals and hoses. If the manufacturer specifies tilt limits, follow those.
Tilting is usually not recommended unless the manufacturer allows it.
Should I unplug before moving?
Yes. Always unplug the power cord and, if feasible, switch off the circuit to reduce risk of shock or fire.
Yes. Unplug and switch off the circuit before moving.
Do front-load and top-load washers move differently?
The general approach is the same, but front-load models can be heavier and have more exposed hoses. Prepare accordingly and ensure drum is secured.
Mostly the same process, but be mindful of weight and hoses on front-load units.
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The Essentials
- Always disconnect power before touching water lines.
- Use a dolly and protective pads to shield floors.
- Two-person teamwork reduces risk of injury and damage.
- Double-check all connections after moving before testing.
- If in doubt, seek professional assistance to avoid hazards.
