Narrow it down
What this symptom can tell you
It happens only with bulky loads
The item may be gathering on one side or exceeding the washer guidance for that cycle.
It happens on nearly every load
The feet, floor, level, installation, or an internal suspension problem may need attention.
The washer is new or was recently moved
Shipping bolts, packing material, hose tension, or an incomplete levelling step may be involved.
These patterns narrow the next check; they do not confirm a failed part. Use the exact model number and any displayed code before ordering parts or authorizing repair.
Try these checks in order
Exact controls and access points differ by model. Stop when a step does not match your appliance or manual.
- 1
Rebalance the load
Pause the washer and spread items evenly. Wash one heavy item with similar items instead of alone.
What you want: The load is distributed around the drum. - 2
Check for contact
Make sure hoses, the cabinet, and nearby shelves are not tapping the washer during spin.
What you want: There is a small clear gap around the cabinet. - 3
Check the floor
The washer needs a solid, level surface. Thick mats, flexible platforms, or weak flooring can increase vibration.
What you want: The floor is firm and the washer does not rock. - 4
Level the washer
Press opposite top corners. Use the installation guide to adjust accessible feet and tighten locking nuts.
What you want: All feet are firmly on the floor. - 5
Confirm shipping hardware was removed
On a recently installed front-load washer, verify that transport bolts were removed exactly as shown in the installation guide.
What you want: No shipping bolts remain in the rear mounting points.
Most common categories
Possible causes to consider
- A single heavy item or unevenly distributed load.
- An overloaded or underloaded drum.
- A washer that is not level or does not have all feet firmly contacting the floor.
- Shipping bolts or packing materials left in place on models that use them.
- A worn suspension, bearing, tub, or drive component requiring service.
Stop and arrange help when
- The drum appears off-center, loose, or rubs the cabinet.
- The machine still walks after leveling and balancing.
- A shipping bolt cannot be removed safely.
- There is a loud metal impact, burning smell, or leak.
If the problem remains
Find the full model number. Open the official manual, check for a recall, and describe which checks you completed before contacting service.
Outcome check
Did these checks resolve the problem?
Your answer helps identify which guides need improvement. No appliance details are submitted.
Common questions
Washing machine shaking or unbalanced: FAQs
Is some washer movement normal?
Minor vibration can occur during high-speed spin, but walking, repeated hard impacts, or movement that strains hoses is not normal.
Can a soft floor make a washer shake?
Yes. Flexible or uneven flooring can amplify movement. Use the installation requirements for floor strength and levelling rather than improvised wedges.
Should I keep using a washer that bangs loudly?
Stop the cycle, rebalance the load, and check stability. Arrange service if hard impacts continue with a normal load or the drum appears loose.
Research and verification
Source basis
This general guide was reviewed against official manufacturer support libraries and safety guidance. Exact controls, access points, installation limits, and reset procedures vary by model; the manual for your exact model takes priority.
See something unclear or incorrect?
Send the page link, appliance model, and the detail that needs review.