Why Remove the Pedestal Anyway?
Let’s be honest, pedestals can be the unsung heroes of laundry rooms — raising your washer for easy loading and providing handy storage space. But sometimes, you need to say goodbye to that extra height and storage bin. Whether you’re relocating, fixing a mechanical quirk, or just decluttering, removing the pedestal is your ticket. Plus, no tag-team wrestling is required if you follow the right steps.
Safety First: Unplug It Like It’s Hot
Before you get any closer to your washer than to admire its sparkling finish, unplug the unit. This is basic household safety 101 because water and electricity are frenemies you want nowhere near your fingers when working. Also, shut off the water supply, just in case.
Step 1: Drawer Removal — Say Bye-Bye to That Storage Space
The pedestal’s drawer might have your detergent, dryer sheets, or those mysterious missing socks. Don’t worry, you’re just liberating the drawer, not banishing your laundry goodies forever. To remove it:
- Open the pedestal drawer fully.
- Locate the levers on either side of the drawer slides — these little guys lock the drawer in place.
- Push down one lever and pull up the other simultaneously, then gently pull out the drawer. Some models, like Samsung’s, might have Phillips head screws along the drawer tracks that need to be unscrewed beforehand.
If that drawer fights back, giving it a little wiggle or consulting your model’s manual should do the trick.
Step 2: Lay the Washer on Its Side — Handle With Care
Now comes the heavy lifting part — literally. The washer needs to be tilted on its side to access the bolts and connections hiding underneath the pedestal. Tips for surviving this step unscathed:
- Grab a friend — this is a two-person job unless your goal is a very bruised ego.
- Place padding on the floor — think folded blankets, cardboard, or a thick rug — to avoid scratches and dents.
- Gently tilt and lay the washer on the padded side.
If you’re wondering why the heavy theatrics, it’s because these bolts are tucked underneath where you can’t see them otherwise.
Step 3: Locate and Remove Bolts or Screws Securing the Washer to the Pedestal
With the washer on its side, you’ll spot the attachment points — typically screws or bolts connecting the washer feet or base to the pedestal. Here’s what to do next:
- Identify the screws or bolts — often four, one near each corner.
- Use the appropriate screwdriver or socket wrench to remove all fasteners completely.
- Double-check you’ve freed every connection; a missed screw means an unhappy heavy machine and a potentially busted floor.
Sources confirm this is the key step to unshackle your washer from its pedestal prison [source]. Brands like LG, Whirlpool, and Samsung share similar design principles here — just different bolt counts and placements.
Step 4: Lift and Separate — Wave Goodbye to Your Pedestal
Once those bolts are free, it’s Mommy-and-Me lifting time:
- Carefully lift the washer straight up off the pedestal. Avoid tilting sideways as it can throw off balance or strain connections.
- Set the washer down gently on your prepared floor spot.
- Move the pedestal out of the way — it might be lighter alone but still handle with care.
If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s a solid moment to clean underneath that pedestal or scavenge any lost socks lurking in the dark.
Bonus Tips for a Smooth Operation
- Check your model manual — Some washers have unique fasteners or clip systems. Trust the pros who made your machine.
- Keep screws and bolts labeled in a small container so reassembly won’t turn into a scavenger hunt.
- Consider protective gloves — metal edges and heavy parts don’t like your bare hands as much as you do.
- Review removal videos for your brand — Whirlpool, Samsung, and LG have reliable demonstrations on YouTube, like LG Front Load Laundry Pedestal Installation and Samsung pedestal removal tutorials.
What If You Just Want to Remove the Drawer, Not the Whole Pedestal?
Good news — sometimes, all you need is to free up that drawer for cleaning or repairs. The drawer removal steps outlined earlier let you do that without tilting a single inch of your washer. For tricks on maintaining the rest of your washer’s bits, like clearing out stuck debris, check out articles like How to Remove Object Stuck in Washing Machine Drum or How to Remove Neff Washing Machine Drawer for more pro tips.
When Pedestals Get Old: Consider Replacement Options
If your pedestal is more fragile than a sock on a hot radiator, it might be worth a replacement rather than removal alone. There are solid options available online — check out these handy pedestal choices for India or the global selection including USA. Adding a fresh pedestal can give your laundry nook that smooth blend of form and function.
Final Thoughts — It’s Easier Than It Seems
Removing a washing machine pedestal isn’t just for the pros or muscle-powered superheroes. With the right tools, a solid game plan, and maybe a helpful partner, you can transform your laundry setup without banging your head against the wall. Remember to unplug, remove the drawer, lay down your machine carefully, unbolt, and lift off. Done and dusted.
So go ahead, declutter, fix, or just get that washer closer to earth — your back will thank you. And hey, if you found this guide handy, maybe check out tips on how to remove old washing machine valves or how to get rid of mould in washing machine seals for total laundry mastery.