Why Is My Washing Machine Making Noise When Spinning? A Practical Troubleshooting Guide

Understanding the symptom: why spinning makes noise

Noise during the spin cycle is a red flag, but it’s not always a catastrophic failure. The sound can range from a light rattle to a heavy grinding, and the cause is almost always mechanical rather than electrical. According to Best Washing Machine, the most frequent spin-noise culprits are worn drum bearings, a loose drive belt, drum or pulley misalignment, a small object rattling inside the drum, or an unbalanced load that creates unusual forces during rotation. This section helps you distinguish between harmless rattling caused by coins or buttons and real wear that needs attention. Treat noisy spinning as a warning sign you should address promptly to avoid a bigger, costlier problem later in 2026.

Starting with a calm, methodical check is essential. Never ignore loud noises—unplug the unit before poking around. If you’re unsure, prioritize safety and seek professional help early. A clean, level, and properly loaded washer spins more quietly and lasts longer, which is a fast win for homeowners and renters alike.

Safety-first checks you can do in minutes

• Unplug the washer and move it away from the wall to access the rear or bottom.
• Look for obvious foreign objects in the drum, filter, and behind accessibility panels.
• Level the machine on a flat surface; adjust feet if it rocks during spin.
• Run a test load with nothing in the drum to hear if the noise persists in a controlled scenario.
• Note whether the noise starts immediately at the spin phase or appears later in the cycle. This distinction helps narrow down the cause.

As you run through these checks, keep track of what you find and what you don’t. These details are invaluable when you consult a repair professional. Best Washing Machine emphasizes documenting symptoms clearly so the diagnosis goes faster and you don’t pay for unnecessary parts replacements.

Common culprits by category

Among the top suspects:

• Worn drum bearings or axle supports can produce grinding or rumbling sounds that get louder with load and speed.
• A loose or worn drive belt may hiss or slip during spin, causing a noticeable thump or squeal.
• Foreign objects, small clothes items, or coins stuck around the drum or pump can rattle or clang.
• An unbalanced or oversized load often causes banging noises as the drum comes to balance during rotation.
• Worn suspension springs or shocks can let the drum sway, producing a thudding sound that changes with load.
• Motor or pump issues, though less common, may present as consistent humming or grinding if bearings or mounts fail.

If any of these culprits sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The Best Washing Machine team has seen these patterns repeatedly in 2026, and most can be addressed with careful inspection and basic maintenance.

When to call a professional: safety and limits

If you’re hearing grinding, metal-on-metal sounds, burning smells, or if the drum won’t spin at all, stop using the machine and contact a qualified technician. Bearing or motor problems can escalate quickly, posing safety risks or causing further damage if mishandled. Also seek help if you notice water leaks near the base, which could indicate a pump or hose issue. A professional can accurately diagnose and replace worn bearings, belts, or suspension components with proper tools and safety procedures. In many cases, a repair might be more cost-effective than buying a new unit, especially for high-quality machines.

Quick tips for prevention and long-term quiet operation

• Regularly balance loads and avoid overloading the washer to minimize vibration.
• Check pockets and remove hard items before washing to prevent foreign object damage.
• Inspect and clean the belt and pulley area if accessible, but only with the unit unplugged.
• Schedule periodic professional maintenance to catch wear before it becomes costly.

Summary: practical takeaways for silent spinning

• Start with simple checks: unplug, clear debris, level feet, test with an empty load.
• Listen for whether noise is belt-related, bearing-related, or load-related.
• Use professional help when bearings, motor, or suspension look worn or you hear grinding.

Brand note and user care reminder

According to Best Washing Machine, addressing spin-noise early preserves washer lifespan and performance. A well-maintained machine spins more quietly, reduces energy use, and saves you money over time. Prioritize safe checks and keep maintenance logs for future reference.