A washer that rocks, bangs, or walks during spin is often not sitting evenly on all four feet. Small leveling changes can make a large difference at high spin speed.
This applies to top-load and front-load washers with adjustable leveling legs.
Does this affect you?
Use this if the washer shakes, thumps, walks, or repeatedly goes out of balance during spin.
Safety first
- Unplug the washer before tilting or moving it.
- Turn off water valves if you will move it toward the hoses.
- Get a helper; washing machines are heavy and awkward.
- Keep fingers clear of the underside and corners.
- Tilt only enough to reach feet, not fully off the floor.
Adjust the leveling feet
- Place a bubble level on top of the washer.
- Check side-to-side and front-to-back.
- Find the low corner.
- Tilt the machine slightly with help.
- Turn the foot clockwise to raise or counterclockwise to lower, using small quarter-turns.
- Set the washer down and recheck.
- Repeat until level in both directions.
- Tighten each lock nut against the washer base.
- Run a spin-only test.
Check floor and foot condition
- Check the floor itself for slope or soft spots.
- Replace cracked or stripped leveling feet.
- Use anti-vibration pads on slightly springy floors after leveling.
- Press opposite washer corners to confirm all four feet carry weight.
- On a new washer, confirm shipping bolts were removed before use.
If shaking happens only with one comforter, pillow, or pair of jeans, redistribute the load or add a few towels for balance. If the washer is level and still bangs violently, a shock absorber, suspension spring, or drum bearing may need service.
Sources
- Whirlpool – Leveling Your Washer (2025)
- LG Electronics – How to Level a Washing Machine (2025)
- GE Appliances – Washer Vibrates or Shakes (2024)
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