Why Does Your Washing Machine Move During Spin?
Let’s be real—nobody invited their washing machine to breakdance across the laundry room floor. Yet here we are, wondering why the new shiny washer is moonwalking during the spin cycle.
Spoiler alert: this shaking, shimmying, and sometimes downright sliding isn’t a supernatural act. It’s science (and a bit of bad setup) at work.
When your washing machine spins fast, the drum inside rotates rapidly, creating centrifugal force. If the load is unbalanced or the flooring is uneven, this force gets a little wild and causes the entire machine to shift, rattle, and in bad cases, “walk” across your floor.
A new washing machine moving more than it should often comes down to four main culprits:
- Improper leveling of the machine
- Transit bolts not removed after delivery
- Unbalanced laundry loads
- Lack of vibration-absorbing supports
Buckle up, because we’re diving into clever fixes that will keep your washer planted like a rock during every spin.
Step 1: Level Your Washing Machine Like a Pro
First things first. Even the sturdiest washing machine can’t defy gravity if it’s leaning or rocking on uneven feet. The secret weapon here is a spirit level (bubble thingy) to get the machine perfectly flat.
- Place a spirit level on top of the washing machine—front to back and side to side.
- Adjust the leveling feet by turning them clockwise or counterclockwise. Most machines have four adjustable feet under the base.
- Once level, tighten the locking nuts on the feet so they don’t spin back out of adjustment.
A properly leveled washing machine minimizes excessive vibrations and prevents it from rocking or moving during those high-speed spins. Simple, effective, and a must-do first step.
Step 2: Remove Those Pesky Transit Bolts
New washing machines often arrive with transit bolts in place—these bad boys lock the drum during shipment to protect it from damage. Trouble is, leaving them installed after setup is like strapping a boulder to your washing machine’s legs.
Check the back of your machine for these bolts. You’ll usually find three or four bolts held with nuts. Use a spanner or wrench to remove them carefully. Store these bolts somewhere safe—you might need them if you move your machine again.
Removing transit bolts frees the drum to move naturally and reduces violent shaking and walking during spins. According to Domestic & General, this step is critical for a stable washer.
Step 3: Balance Your Laundry Load With Some TLC
You love that huge towel or your snuggly duvet, but tossing them alone in the washer is a recipe for disaster. An unbalanced load means the drum isn’t spinning evenly, causing that infamous thumping and dance moves across your floor.
Here’s how to keep things balanced:
- Wash bulky items with other similarly heavy clothes—don’t leave single items alone.
- Distribute clothes evenly around the drum to prevent overload on one side.
- If you must wash heavy items solo, try adding towels or other medium weight items to balance the load.
Maytag advises washing one large item with a few other balanced medium items for a smoother spin and less shaking source.
Step 4: Get Smart With Anti-Vibration and Shock Absorber Pads
Here’s where things get a bit fancy—anti-vibration pads can be game-changers to stop your washer from wandering off. These pads are designed to absorb shaking and keep your machine firmly put.
- Shock absorber pads: Rubber or foam pads that go under the feet of the washer, softening the impact and reducing vibrations.
- Anti-vibration mats: Larger mats placed beneath the entire machine, providing a cushioning barrier between the washer and your floor.
Users on Instructables reported 100% success stopping machine walking by placing multiple shock absorber pads, even stacking them if necessary, and securing the machine against a sturdy surface above for extra prevention source. For purchase, consider these handy shock absorber pads (India) or global options including USA.
Step 5: If Problems Persist, Check the Washing Machine Suspension
If your washer is still doing moves worthy of a dance floor after all the above, it might be a sign your suspension system needs attention. The suspension keeps the drum stable during spins, and worn or damaged snubber pads or suspension rods lead to excessive shaking and movement.
Replacing these parts isn’t rocket science but does require some mechanical know-how. Check out our detailed guide on how to repair a washing machine motor for expert tips on handling motor and suspension fixes.
Final Thoughts: Keep it Steady, Keep it Happy
Washing machines may be laundry legends under the hood, but even they have their diva moments when unsettled. Following these steps will get you closer to a calm, collected spin cycle without the shaking, rattling, or walking.
Remember:
- Level your machine properly
- Remove transit bolts immediately post-installation
- Balance your laundry load carefully
- Invest in anti-vibration or shock absorber pads
- Check suspension parts if shaking continues
With patience and the right tools, you’ll have a smooth-spinning, stationary washing machine that gets the job done quietly and efficiently. Your laundry room will thank you, and so will your ears.