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Read the guideWhy is my washer shaking during the spin cycle?
A washer that shakes during spin is usually unbalanced, not level, or sitting on an uneven floor. On new washers, leftover shipping bolts are a common cause. On older washers, worn shock absorbers, suspension springs, or drum bearings let the tub move too much.
Some movement during a fast spin is normal. Loud banging, rocking, or a washer that moves across the floor is not.
What are the most common causes?
An unbalanced load
One heavy item, like a bath mat or a single blanket, can pull the drum to one side. Mixing heavy and light items or washing one large item alone often causes shaking.
A washer that is not level
If one foot is higher than the others, the washer rocks during spin. Over time, vibration can loosen the feet.
Shipping bolts left in a new washer
Front-load washers ship with transit bolts that lock the drum. If they were not removed, the washer will shake violently from the first spin.
Worn shock absorbers or springs
Front-load washers use shock absorbers and springs to hold the drum steady. When they wear out, the drum bangs against the cabinet.
Worn suspension rods or bearings
Top-load washers hang the tub on suspension rods. Worn rods let the tub swing. A loud rumble or grinding during spin can also point to worn drum bearings.
How do you fix a shaking washer?
Stop the cycle, spread the load evenly, and restart the spin. Then check that the washer is level front to back and side to side, and tighten the locking nuts on the feet. On a new washer, confirm the shipping bolts were removed.
- Wash heavy items with a few smaller items to balance the drum.
- Place a level on top of the washer and adjust the feet until it is flat.
- Tighten the lock nuts on the feet so they do not loosen again.
- Press on each corner. If the washer rocks, adjust that foot.
- Check the back panel of a new front-loader for shipping bolts.
- Use anti-vibration pads on a smooth or slightly uneven floor.
Washer still banging after leveling and balancing? Call us before worn parts damage the drum or the floor.
Should you secure your washer in an earthquake area?
Yes, it is a good idea in the Bay Area. A level washer on stable feet is less likely to shift. Flexible water and gas connections also reduce the chance of leaks if appliances move during a quake.
The Earthquake Country Alliance's Secure Your Space guide recommends anchoring top-heavy appliances and using flexible gas connections for dryers and other gas appliances.
When should you call a technician?
Call if the washer still shakes with a balanced load and level feet, if you hear grinding or loud banging, or if the drum feels loose when you push it by hand. Our washer repair service replaces shock absorbers, springs, suspension rods, and bearings on top-load and front-load machines.
Before you book, it is worth checking the CPSC recall list for your model. If your washer also leaves water in the drum, read our guide on washers that won't drain. A musty smell? See how to get rid of front-load washer odors.
If your washer is beyond repair, the ENERGY STAR clothes washer guide can help you choose an efficient replacement.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my washer shake so much on spin?
The most common causes are an unbalanced load, a washer that is not level, leftover shipping bolts on a new machine, or worn shock absorbers, springs, or suspension rods.
Is it dangerous if my washer shakes violently?
It can be. Heavy shaking can damage the floor, the water hoses, and the washer itself. Stop the cycle, rebalance the load, and do not keep running it if the shaking continues.
Why does my new washer shake?
New front-load washers ship with transit bolts in the back. If they were not removed during installation, the drum cannot move freely and the washer shakes hard.