How to Stop a Washing Machine from Moving When Spinning

Help & Advice > How to Stop a Washing Machine from Moving When Spinning

Is your washing machine vibrating like a bass speaker and taking a surprise walk across the laundry room during the spin cycle? Don’t worry. This is a common problem with a few easy fixes. Unbalanced loads and uneven footing are the main culprits, but unaddressed shaking can also damage your machine over time. Let’s get your washer back to spinning smoothly and quietly.

Easy DIY Fixes:

• Balance the Load: Uneven loads are often the culprit behind a shaking washer. In top-loading machines, distribute your laundry evenly around the central post. For front-loaders, ensure a mix of heavy and light items for balance.
• Adjust the Feet: If your washer wobbles like jelly, it’s time for a tune-up. Check each corner’s contact with the floor. Most washers have adjustable feet – tweak them until your machine stands firm and steady.
• Level the Floor: Persistent wobbling? Blame it on the floor. An uneven surface can send your washer into a spin. Place a sturdy wooden platform underneath to create a level base and curb the wobble.
• Add Anti-Vibration Pads: Bring on the comfort! Anti-vibration pads act as soft cushions for your washer’s feet. Pop one under each corner to soak up vibrations and bid farewell to the shake, rattle, and roll.
• Clean the Pump Filter: Give your pump filter some TLC. It traps debris that can throw your machine off balance. A quick clean ensures smooth operation and fewer wobbles.

Need more details, tips or expert help? Keep reading for additional advice to keep your laundry room calm and collected.

How to Stop a Washing Machine from Shaking and Moving

If you are wondering why is my washing machine jumping around, it’s important to diagnose the potential problems. Luckily, there are a few common causes that you can look into first before making any major decisions about fixing your machine. Let’s take a closer look at these common causes below, followed by less frequently encountered causes, to determine where your challenge lies.

Diagnose the common cause of washing machine movement

The very first step you will want to take is to diagnose the possible causes of your washing machine’s excessive movement. It’s important to be aware that while limited movement is natural, excessive movement is not and it can cause further damage to your washer. While some of the most common causes are an unbalanced washing machine load and an unlevel washing machine, other less common causes may be a loose washing machine drum.

Uneven load distribution 

When it comes to uneven load distribution, let’s explore the symptoms, causes and solutions in more detail below.

• Symptoms: Excessive shaking and movement during the spin cycle
• Causes: Clothes clumped together, single heavy item (bathrobe, towels) or overloaded washer.
• Solution:

1. Pause the cycle and redistribute clothes: Open the washer and manually redistribute clothes for even weight distribution throughout the drum. Aim for smaller, more evenly distributed loads.
2. Check your owner’s manual: Some washing machines have a “redistribution” spin cycle specifically designed to help even out unbalanced loads. If yours does, follow the instructions in the manual.
3. Follow recommended load capacity: Don’t overload your washer. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended load capacity for your specific model. Using too much detergent can also contribute to imbalance, so be sure to use the correct amount according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Unlevel washing machine

Another common cause of a washing machine that moves is one that is not placed level on the ground. Some of the symptoms, causes and possible solutions are covered in more detail below.

• Symptoms: Machine rocks or sways during spin, may also vibrate excessively.
• Causes: Uneven floor, loose levelling feet on the washing machine.
• Solution:

1. Level the washing machine:
   – Turn off the washer and unplug it from the power outlet.
   – Place a spirit level on top of the washing machine.
   – Adjust the levelling feet (usually located at the bottom corners) with a wrench until the bubble in the spirit level is centred.
   – Repeat for the other feet until the machine is level in both directions (front-to-back and side-to-side).
2. Check for damaged levelling feet: If the levelling feet are cracked, broken or worn, replace them with parts from the manufacturer or a trusted appliance parts store.

Less common causes

We now turn to the less common causes of a washing machine moving when spinning. While one of the major causes is a failure of the washing machine bearings, others may include improper drainage, the shipping bolts have not been removed or an internal component issue. So, without further ado, let’s explore these less frequently encountered causes to help you better understand how to stop a washing machine moving when spinning.

Improper drainage

With improper drainage, you may notice that water is pooling around the washer’s base. The very first culprit of this issue is a clogged washing machine drain hose. Let’s explore the symptoms, causes and solutions to this problem below.

• Symptoms: The washing machine may vibrate excessively during the spin cycle, and you might notice water pooling around the base, which could indicate a clogged washing machine drain hose.
• Causes: A clogged drain hose or pump can prevent the machine from properly draining water, leading to an unbalanced load and vibration.
• Solution:

1. Switch off the washing machine and disconnect it from the mains.
2. Locate the drain hose (usually at the back of the washer) and consult your owner’s manual for specific cleaning instructions. It might involve removing the hose clamp and cleaning out any debris.
3. If you suspect a clogged drain pump, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

Shipping bolts not removed

Shipping bolts are normally attached to the washer when it is purchased brand new. However, they should always be removed before using the washing machine. Below are a few of the ways you can address this issue:

• Symptoms: This is most likely to occur with a brand new washing machine. It will lead to excessive shaking and vibration throughout the wash cycle.
• Causes: New washing machines often have shipping bolts that secure the drum during transport. These bolts need to be removed before first use, and forgetting to do so can cause the machine to vibrate abnormally.
• Solution:

1. Consult your owner’s manual to locate the shipping bolts (usually on the back of the washer).
2. Use the appropriate wrench or tool (specified in the manual) to remove the shipping bolts completely.

Internal component issues

There are also some internal component issues that may arise, causing your washer to move a lot while spinning.

• Symptoms: Excessive shaking and movement throughout the wash cycle, not just during a spin cycle. The machine may also make unusual noises like grinding, squealing or clunking sounds.
• Causes: In rare cases, a broken belt, worn bearings or other internal component failures can cause the washing machine to vibrate abnormally.
• Solution: If you notice unusual noises along with the shaking, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair service technician to avoid further damage. For anything beyond basic troubleshooting, such as levelling or redistributing clothes, consult a professional.

And there you have it: some of the common and less common reasons why washing machines move when spinning and a few simple solutions that you can implement at home to address the issue.

Preventative Measures to Stop Washing Machine Movement

Here are some proactive steps you can take to prevent excessive washing machine movement in the first place:

Use anti-vibration pads for your washing machine 

These rubber or foam pads placed under the washing machine feet can absorb vibrations and add stability, further reducing noise and movement. They are readily available at most appliance stores.

Leave space around the machine

Don’t cram the washer into a tight space and adhere to the washing machine space requirements. Allow a few inches of clearance around the machine for proper ventilation and to prevent movement during the spin cycle.

Wash bulky items separately

Heavy items such as comforters or rugs can cause a load imbalance. Wash them on their own or with lighter items to create a more balanced load.

Call Domex Appliance Repairs in London & South East England!

If you’ve tried these solutions and you are still wondering how do I stop my washing machine from moving, it’s time to call a professional. The Domex engineers are highly trained and experienced in washing machine repairs of all brands. We diagnose the problem quickly and efficiently, fix it affordably and get your laundry room back to peace and quiet. 

Call us or book an appointment online today for washing machine repair service in London and South East England!

Fun Facts About Washing Machine Movement

• Did you know? Excessive washing machine movement can actually be a sign of a healthy machine! A perfectly balanced load with minimal movement can put extra strain on the motor and bearings. A slight wobble during the spin cycle is normal.
• Washing machines on the move: Believe it or not, some washing machines are designed to move! These innovative “dancing” washing machines use small vibrations to clean clothes more effectively and with less water.