Why Does My Washing Machine Shake Violently And How To Level It

A washing machine that shakes violently during the spin cycle isn’t just noisy—it can damage flooring, shorten the appliance’s lifespan, and even become a safety hazard. While modern machines are designed for stability, many homeowners encounter excessive movement, especially during high-speed spins. The root cause often lies in improper leveling or installation. Understanding why this happens and how to fix it ensures quieter operation, better cleaning performance, and long-term reliability.

Why Washing Machines Shake: Common Causes

Violent shaking is rarely due to a single issue. Instead, it’s usually the result of multiple contributing factors. Identifying the source is the first step toward resolution.

• Improper leveling: This is the most common reason. If the washing machine isn’t sitting evenly on the floor, it will rock during the spin cycle.
• Uneven flooring: Tile grout lines, warped wood, or concrete slabs with slight slopes can prevent stable placement.
• Shipping bolts not removed: New machines come with transit bolts that secure the drum during transport. Forgetting to remove them causes severe vibration.
• Overloading: Too much laundry shifts weight unevenly, throwing off balance mid-cycle.
• Worn or damaged suspension components: Over time, shock absorbers, springs, or dampers degrade, reducing stability.
• Unbalanced load: Even in a well-leveled machine, clumped clothes can cause temporary wobbling.

Tip: Always check if the shipping bolts have been removed—this one mistake causes more service calls than any other.

How to Level Your Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide

Leveling your washer takes less than 30 minutes and requires only a few tools. Follow these steps carefully to ensure maximum stability.

1. Unplug the machine and turn off water supply. Safety first. Disconnect power and close both hot and cold water valves.
2. Move the washer away from the wall. Pull it out far enough to access the front and sides comfortably. Place towels under hoses to catch drips.
3. Check for existing leveling issues. Gently rock the machine side-to-side and front-to-back. If it rocks, at least one foot isn’t touching the floor.
4. Use a bubble level. Place it across the top of the washer, first front-to-back, then side-to-side. Adjust until the bubble is centered.
5. Adjust the front leveling legs. Most washers have adjustable front feet. Turn them clockwise to raise, counterclockwise to lower. Use a wrench if they’re stiff.
6. Ensure all four feet are firmly on the ground. After adjusting, press down on each corner. There should be no rocking. The rear legs are typically fixed but may self-level when the front is adjusted correctly.
7. Recheck the level in both directions. Fine-tune as needed. Small adjustments make a big difference.
8. Lock the locking nuts (if applicable). Some models require you to tighten a nut against the base after adjusting the foot to prevent loosening over time.
9. Push the machine back into place. Reconnect hoses and power, ensuring hoses aren’t kinked.
10. Test run an empty cycle. Start a spin-only or heavy-duty cycle without clothes. Observe for vibrations or movement.

“Proper leveling isn’t optional—it’s essential for performance and longevity. A washer that moves during spin is working harder than it should.” — Mark Reynolds, Appliance Engineer with 22 years of field experience

Do’s and Don’ts When Leveling a Washing Machine

Do’s	Don’ts
Use a reliable bubble level for accuracy	Don’t rely on visual inspection alone
Adjust one foot at a time and recheck stability	Don’t crank the feet too far—some extend only 1–2 inches
Place anti-vibration pads under the feet if on hard flooring	Don’t use cardboard, books, or makeshift shims
Test with a full spin cycle after leveling	Don’t overload during test runs
Tighten locking nuts to prevent gradual sinking	Don’t ignore persistent shaking after proper leveling—internal parts may be worn

Real Example: Sarah’s Front-Load Washer Shaking Issue

Sarah recently moved into a new apartment and installed her front-loading washer in a tiled laundry closet. On its first use, the machine “danced” across the floor during the spin cycle, alarming her neighbors below. She checked online and discovered that her floor had a slight slope toward the drain. Despite appearing level, the washer rocked slightly when pushed.

She followed the leveling procedure, using a carpenter’s level and adjusting the front feet incrementally. After tightening the lock nuts and placing rubber anti-slip pads under each foot, she ran a test. The machine operated smoothly, with no vibration. Later, she learned that skipping the leveling step voided her warranty—a costly oversight avoided.

This case highlights how subtle imbalances can lead to major issues—and how simple corrections restore function.

When Leveling Isn’t Enough: Other Fixes to Consider

If your washer remains unstable after careful leveling, the problem may go beyond alignment.

Check for Worn Suspension Components

Front-load washers use shock absorbers or spring systems to dampen motion. Over time, these wear out. Symptoms include:

• Loud banging during spin
• Visible tilting of the drum
• Machine shifting despite being level

Replacing shocks or springs is possible but often requires professional help, especially if the cabinet must be disassembled.

Redistribute the Load

Even a perfectly leveled machine can vibrate if clothes are bunched on one side. Pause the cycle, redistribute the laundry, and restart the spin. Many newer models automatically rebalance, but older units may not.

Install on a Reinforced Platform

If your floor is flexible or uneven, consider building a plywood platform anchored to floor joists. This provides a rigid, flat surface. Add anti-vibration mats for extra isolation.

Verify Washer Compatibility with Flooring

Some manufacturers warn against installing heavy washers on raised floors or upper levels without structural reinforcement. Check your user manual for weight and support requirements.

Tip: If your washer is on a pedestal, ensure both the washer and pedestal are level. Pedestals have their own adjustable feet and must be secured properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an unlevel washing machine damage the floor?

Yes. Continuous shaking can scratch tile, dent vinyl, or weaken wooden subfloors over time. In extreme cases, it may even crack grout or loosen floor adhesives. Persistent movement also risks water hose connections failing, leading to leaks.

How often should I check my washer’s leveling?

At least once a year, or whenever you notice increased noise or movement. Also check after moving the machine—even a small shift can affect balance. Homes with settling foundations may require more frequent checks.

Is some vibration normal during the spin cycle?

Minor vibration is expected, especially at high speeds (1200+ RPM). However, violent shaking, loud thumping, or visible movement across the floor is not normal and indicates a problem that needs attention.

Essential Checklist: How to Fix a Shaking Washing Machine

1. Confirm shipping bolts have been removed (for new machines)
2. Unplug the washer and shut off water supply
3. Pull the machine away from the wall
4. Inspect the floor for levelness and stability
5. Place a bubble level on top of the washer (front-to-back and side-to-side)
6. Adjust front leveling feet until the bubble is centered
7. Ensure all four feet are in firm contact with the floor
8. Tighten locking nuts on the leveling legs
9. Consider adding anti-vibration pads for extra stability
10. Return the washer to position and reconnect hoses and power
11. Run an empty spin cycle to test results
12. If shaking persists, inspect internal components or consult a technician

Final Thoughts: Stability Starts with Proper Setup

A violently shaking washing machine is more than a nuisance—it signals a mechanical imbalance that can escalate into costly repairs. While leveling seems like a minor setup task, it plays a critical role in performance, safety, and durability. Taking the time to ensure your washer sits perfectly level protects your investment and prevents disruptions down the line.

Whether you’ve just installed a new unit or are troubleshooting an older model, don’t overlook the basics. A few turns of a leveling foot can transform a rattling appliance into a quiet, efficient workhorse. Regular maintenance and awareness of warning signs keep your laundry routine running smoothly for years.

💬 Did you resolve your washer’s shaking issue by leveling it? Share your experience or ask questions in the comments—your insight could help another homeowner avoid a service call!