Top Reasons Your Washing Machine Shakes and How to Stop It

A washing machine should vibrate a little, but when it starts shaking like it’s about to walk across the room, you know something is wrong. A shaking washer doesn’t just make noise—it can damage floors, loosen internal parts, weaken the drum, and shorten the appliance’s lifespan. The good news is that most shaking issues are easy to understand and often simple to fix.

This guide covers the top reasons washing machines shake, how to diagnose the problem at home, and what steps you can take to stop the shaking. Everything is explained in simple, easy-to-follow language so you can handle the issue confidently.

If your washing machine is shaking too much and you want quick professional help, book trusted appliance repair near me or call 833-864-6908.

Why Do Washing Machines Shake?

Shaking happens when the washer loses balance or when something inside stops working properly. Even small issues can create strong movement because washers spin very fast, especially in the final spin cycle.

Let’s look at the most common causes.

Washing Machine Is Not Level

This is the number one reason washers shake.

What happens when it’s not level?

• The drum becomes unbalanced

• The washer rocks back and forth

• Strong vibrations occur

• The machine may “walk” during spin

How to check:

• Place a level on top of the washer

• Check both side-to-side and front-to-back

How to fix it:

• Adjust the washer’s legs

• Tighten the locknuts

• Use anti-vibration pads if needed

Leveling your washer can instantly reduce shaking.

Uneven Load Inside the Drum

If clothes bunch up on one side, the drum becomes unbalanced, causing shaking.

Signs of an uneven load:

• Strong vibrations during spin
• Washer stops mid-cycle
• Clothes soaked on one side

What to do:

• Pause the cycle

• Redistribute clothes evenly

• Wash large items (like blankets) alone

• Never overload the drum

Large items wrapped together cause unbalanced spinning.

If your washer shakes even with balanced loads, get expert help through appliance repair near me or call 833-864-6908.

Worn or Broken Shock Absorbers

Front-load washing machines use shock absorbers to reduce movement. When they wear out, the drum bounces too much.

Signs of bad shock absorbers:

• Washer shakes violently

• Loud banging noise

• Drum feels loose

• More movement during spin

Shock absorbers wear out over time and need replacement.

Damaged Suspension Springs (Top-Load Washers)

Top-load washers rely on suspension springs to keep the drum stable. If one spring breaks, the washer leans or shakes heavily.

Signs:

• Washer leans to one side

• Loud vibrating noises

• Drum jumps during spin

Broken springs must be replaced as soon as possible.

Loose or Broken Drum Bearings

The drum spins on bearings that keep it stable. When these bearings wear out, the machine shakes and becomes very loud.

Signs of bad bearings:

• Grinding or rumbling noise

• Drum feels wobbly

• Shaking worsens during high spin

• Water leaks around the bottom

Bad bearings usually require professional repair.

🌬️ Clothes still damp after a full cycle? See common causes of a dryer not heating.

Shipping Bolts Were Not Removed (New Washers)

Brand new washers come with shipping bolts to protect the drum during transport. If they’re not removed, the washer will shake violently.

Signs shipping bolts are still installed:

• Washer shakes from the first use

• Drum feels stiff or won’t move freely

• Loud banging during spin

Fix:

Remove the bolts according to the manual.

Broken Shock Dampers or Snubbers

Some washers have additional dampers or pads to reduce movement. When these wear out, shaking increases.

Signs:

• Excessive vibration

• Washer hits the sides during spin

• Loud banging noises

These parts are affordable to replace.

Washer Sitting on a Weak or Slippery Floor

Weak floors amplify shaking. Tile, hardwood, and uneven surfaces can cause the washer to vibrate more.

Fixes:

• Use anti-vibration pads

• Add a rubber mat

• Reinforce weak flooring

• Move washer to a sturdier spot if possible

Basement concrete floors are ideal.

If your washer shakes because of mechanical damage, call 833-864-6908 or schedule quick help through appliance repair near me.

Loose Washer Feet

Even if the washer is level, loose feet cause vibration.

Signs:

• Washer rocks when you push it

• Feet slide during spin

• Noise increases over time

Fix:

• Tighten the legs

• Secure them with locknuts

• Place pads under the feet

Overloading or Underloading the Washer

Most people overload their washers without realizing it.

Overloading causes:

• Drum imbalance

• Strain on the motor

• Sudden shaking

• Longer drying times

Underloading causes:

• Clothes gather on one side

• Drum loses balance

Always follow the recommended load size.

Faulty Drive Belt or Motor Issues

The motor and drive belt power the drum. If they slip or weaken, shaking increases.

Signs:

• Burning smell

• Squealing noise

• Drum spins unevenly

• Washer stops mid-cycle

These should be handled by a technician.

Damaged Drum Spider (Front-Load Washers)

The drum is attached to a spider arm. If it cracks or weakens, the drum becomes unstable.

Signs:

• Loud knocking

• Extreme vibration

• Rust flakes in the tub

• Drum wobbling

Spider arm replacement is a major repair.

Washer Not Installed Properly

Improper installation—such as incorrect leveling, loose hoses, or misaligned parts—causes shaking from day one.

Fix:

Have a technician re-install or correct the setup.

How to Reduce Washing Machine Shaking

Here are easy steps to stabilize your washer:

✔ Level the washer properly

Use a level and adjust the feet.

✔ Rebalance the load

Distribute clothes evenly.

✔ Use anti-vibration pads

They absorb shock and reduce noise.

✔ Clean the drum regularly

Removes buildup that affects spin.

✔ Do not overload

Follow manufacturer guidelines.

✔ Move washer to a flat area

Avoid uneven or weak floors.

✔ Tighten all screws and bolts

Loose parts increase shaking.

When to Call a Professional Technician

Call for service if:

• Shaking is severe

• Repair involves shocks, springs, or bearings

• There is a grinding or banging noise

• Water leaks appear

• Washer stops mid-cycle

• You smell burning or rubber

• Shaking continues even after balancing

A technician can diagnose internal issues quickly.

If your washing machine is shaking violently or making noise, schedule expert help through appliance repair near me or call 833-864-6908.

How to Prevent Washing Machine Vibrations in the Future

Follow these simple habits to avoid future shaking:

✔ Keep washer level at all times

Movement loosens the feet.

✔ Wash large items separately

Comforters or blankets cause imbalance.

✔ Use the right wash settings

High spin on heavy loads causes vibration.

✔ Clean filter and drain pump

Blockages affect drum balance.

✔ Inspect shocks and springs yearly

Replace worn parts before they break.

✔ Don’t push washer against the wall

Leave enough space to reduce noise.

Should You Repair or Replace a Shaking Washer?

Consider repair if:

• The washer is under 8–10 years old

• Issues are caused by leveling or load imbalance

• Only minor parts like shocks or springs need replacement

Consider replacement if:

• Bearings or drum spider is damaged

• Washer shakes even after repairs

• Washer is older than 12–15 years

• Repairs cost more than half the price of a new unit

If your washer still shakes or makes noise, get trusted service through appliance repair near me or call 833-864-6908.

A shaking washing machine may look scary, but the cause is usually simple. Most of the time, the problem comes from an uneven load, leveling issues, or worn-out parts like shock absorbers or springs. Checking these areas first can save you time and money. But if the shaking is strong, constant, or linked with loud noises, it’s best to bring in a professional.

Fixing vibration issues early protects your floors, your machine’s motor, and the drum. With the right care and maintenance, your washing machine can run smoothly and quietly for years.

FAQs

1. Why is my washer shaking so much during spin?

Usually because of an uneven load, leveling issues, or worn-out shock absorbers.

2. Can I still use my washer if it shakes a little?

Light vibration is normal, but strong shaking should be fixed quickly to avoid damage.

3. Why is my front-load washer shaking more than usual?

The shock absorbers or bearings may be worn out.

4. Do anti-vibration pads work?

Yes, they help reduce movement, especially on hard floors.

5. Who can repair my shaking washing machine?

Call 833-864-6908 or schedule trusted appliance repair near me.