Your washing machine is meant to simplify laundry day, not sound like it’s staging a demolition. But when it starts shaking violently, thumping, or clanging during the spin cycle, it’s not only annoying—it could signal serious trouble. Here’s the lowdown on why this happens and how to restore peace (and spin) to your laundry routine.
🌀 Top Reasons Your Washer Shakes
1. Unbalanced Load
One of the most common culprits: unevenly distributed laundry. Whether you’re doing a small load or heavy towels, if the weight’s off-center, expect banging during the spin Maytag+4Asurion+4EZ LAUNDRY+4.
Fix it: Stop the cycle, redistribute the clothes evenly, or add extra items to balance the load .
2. Overloading
Stuffing your washer past its capacity can make it wobbly. Top-loaders should be around 80% full, front-loaders about 60% TCL+3Asurion+3Reddit+3.
Fix it: Reduce the amount of laundry per load and space items evenly.
3. Unleveled Triangle
If your machine isn’t sitting flat, the spin cycle will make it act like an earthquake simulator Asurion.
Fix it: Use a level tool and adjust the feet so all four touch the floor securely.
4. Shipping Bolts Still On
New washers often ship with bolts to secure the drum. If you don’t remove them, expect extreme vibration LG Electronics+9Whirlpool+9Maytag+9.
Fix it: Check your manual and remove any shipping hardware before first use.
5. Worn Suspension or Shock Absorbers
These parts dampen the drum movement. When they wear out or snap, shaking gets intense .
Fix it: Inspect and replace worn rods or shocks; often best handled by a professional.
6. Faulty Drum Bearings or Basket
You might hear grinding, clanking, or heavy vibration if internal drum parts, bearings, or stabilizers fail .
Fix it: Loose screws, cracked drum spiders, or worn bearings need professional repair or part replacement.
7. Damaged Belt or Pulley
A squealing or whining noise often points to a loose or worn belt or pulley Maytag+3EZ LAUNDRY+3Better Homes & Gardens+3.
Fix it: Inspect under the cabinet and replace any worn components.
8. Obstructions in the Drum
Coins, buttons, and other stray items can rattle during high-speed spins GS Appliance Repair NYC+8LG Electronics+8EZ LAUNDRY+8.
Fix it: Check and clear the drum before each load. Use mesh laundry bags for small items.
🔧 DIY vs. Pro: Whose Job Is It?
| Problem | DIY-Friendly? | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Unbalanced load, overloading, leveling, shipping bolts, obstructions | ✅ | Easily handled at home |
| Worn suspension, bearings, basket, belt | ❌ | Seek a professional unless you’re confident with repairs |
🚨 Warning Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Washer
Even after attempting fixes, sometimes a washing machine is just too far gone. According to Better Homes & Gardens, if your washer is over 10 years old and struggles with persistent noise, leaks, spin failures, or won’t drain, it’s often more cost-effective to upgrade Reddit+4Whirlpool+4Maytag+4EZ LAUNDRY+1GS Appliance Repair NYC+1GS Appliance Repair NYC+9Better Homes & Gardens+9Maytag+9.
🛠️ Comprehensive Troubleshooting Checklist
- Reduce load size and spread clothes evenly
- Ensure legs are level; use a spirit level front-to-back and side-to-side
- Remove shipping bolts in brand-new units
- Inspect drum for coins or small objects
- Open cabinet (when unplugged) to check suspension rods, belts, and drum screws
- Test for worn bearings (grinding sounds or wobbles)
- Replace failing components or call in a repair pro
💭 Final Take
Minor issues like unbalanced loads or poor leveling are easily fixed—and often all you need to restore quiet operation. But if internal parts like suspension rods, bearings, or the spin basket are worn, repairing them can be complex and costly. Weigh repair costs against machine age—especially if your washer is nearing or beyond that 10-year mark.
For a smooth-running laundry routine, keep loads balanced, remove shipping bolts, level your machine, and stay on top of maintenance. Do this, and you’ll prevent the drama—and noise—without an expensive service call.