How to Move a Washing Machine Safely: Complete Guide
Moving a washing machine is not a simple lifting job. The appliance is heavy, awkward to handle and likely to contain residual water. It also has an internal drum that can be damaged if it is not secured correctly before transport.
The safest way to move a washing machine is to plan the route, disconnect and drain it properly, fit the correct transit bolts, protect the exterior and use an appliance dolly with help. Whether you are moving it across the room, putting it into storage or taking it to a new home, this step-by-step guide will help you prepare properly.
Before You Move a Washing Machine, Plan the Route
Before you disconnect anything, look at the route from the appliance to the exit. Measure the washing machine's height, width and depth, then measure doorways, hallways, staircases and any tight corners along the way.
Move rugs, shoe racks, small furniture and other trip hazards before starting. If you have wood, laminate or tile flooring, place cardboard, a floor runner or a protective sheet along vulnerable sections of the route.
This is also the right time to decide whether the move is suitable for DIY. Moving a washing machine across a level room with a proper dolly and a helper is very different from taking one down narrow stairs. If the route is difficult or you do not have suitable equipment, professional assistance is the safer option.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Gather your equipment before you begin. This makes the process calmer and reduces the chance of leaving water or fittings behind.
Transit bolts made for your washing-machine model
Adjustable spanner
Bucket or shallow tray
Old towels or absorbent cloths
Appliance dolly with a securing strap
Moving blankets or an appliance cover
Packing tape
Ratchet straps for the van
Work gloves and closed-toe shoes
Cardboard or floor-protection sheets
The manufacturer's manual, if available
Avoid trying to move a washing machine without a dolly, straps or lifting help. Even a smaller appliance can be difficult to control once it is away from the wall.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power and Water Supply
Start by switching the washing machine off at the socket and unplugging it. Secure the power cable to the back of the appliance with tape so it does not drag on the floor or get caught during the move.
Next, turn off the water supply using the isolation valves behind the machine or beneath the sink. These valves control the flow of water to the appliance. If you are unsure which valves belong to the washing machine, do not guess. Check the manual or ask a qualified plumber for help.
Never disconnect water hoses while the water supply is still on. Even a small amount of pressure can cause a significant leak.
Step 2: Disconnect and Drain the Washing Machine
Place old towels on the floor behind the appliance and keep a bucket ready. There will usually be some water left in the hoses, even if the machine has not been used recently.
Carefully unscrew the inlet hose or hoses from the back of the washing machine. Let any remaining water drain into the bucket. Then disconnect the waste hose from its drain connection, again keeping towels nearby for spills.
Many washing machines also have a drain filter near the bottom of the appliance. Check your manufacturer's instructions before opening it, as the procedure varies by model. If you drain it, use a shallow container and plenty of towels to catch residual water.
Once the water has drained, wipe the appliance dry. Clean the detergent drawer, door seal and drum, then leave the door and drawer open for a short time to allow moisture to evaporate. This helps prevent stale smells or mold if the machine will be transported or stored for more than a day.
Step 3: Secure the Drum With Transit Bolts
Transit bolts are one of the most important parts of preparing a washing machine for transport. They hold the drum in place and reduce the risk of internal damage while the appliance is being moved.
Use the original transit bolts supplied with your washing machine and follow the instructions in the manual. The correct bolts are fitted through the rear of the appliance and are designed for that exact model.
If you no longer have them, contact the manufacturer or an approved parts supplier and order a replacement set for your model. Do not use random bolts, improvised materials or loose towels inside the drum as a replacement. Once fitted, keep a note of where the bolts are stored after the move because they must be removed before the machine is used again.
Step 4: Secure the Door, Hoses and Cable
Close the washing-machine door and detergent drawer. Use a small amount of low-tack tape only if needed to prevent them from opening during transport. Avoid placing tape directly onto a delicate control panel or painted surface for a long period.
Secure the inlet hoses, drain hose and power cable against the back of the machine with tape. They should not hang loose, scrape against walls or become trapped beneath the appliance.
Wrap the washing machine in moving blankets or use an appliance cover. This protects the corners, front panel and finish from scratches while also reducing the chance of marking door frames and walls.
Step 5: Move the Washing Machine With an Appliance Dolly
Washing machines should be kept upright as much as possible. With one person steadying the appliance, carefully tilt it back only enough to slide an appliance dolly underneath. Secure the machine tightly to the dolly using its built-in strap.
Do not drag the washing machine across the floor. This can damage flooring, strain the appliance's feet and make the machine difficult to control. Roll the dolly slowly, keeping the load balanced and watching corners carefully.
Use proper lifting technique when positioning the machine on the dolly. Bend your knees, keep your back straight and avoid twisting your body while carrying weight. If the machine feels unstable or too heavy, stop and get more help.
How to Move a Washing Machine Up or Down Stairs
Stairs are the most hazardous part of moving a washing machine. A standard dolly is not suitable for every staircase, and a heavy appliance can quickly become dangerous if it slips or becomes unbalanced.
For stairs, use a suitable stair-climbing appliance trolley and make sure there are enough capable adults to control the load. Clear the staircase completely, plan where to pause if needed and communicate before every step.
If the stairs are narrow, steep or have tight turns, hire professional appliance movers. This is not a situation where rushing or attempting the job alone is worth the risk.
How to Transport a Washing Machine in a Van
Keep the washing machine upright inside the van. Position it against a clean, solid wall and use ratchet straps to stop it moving during the journey. Put moving blankets around the appliance to protect it from rubbing against other items.
Do not stack heavy boxes or furniture on top of the washing machine. Keep sharp items away from its front and sides, and make sure the van load is stable before driving.
If the machine has been tilted during the move, check the manufacturer's guidance before reconnecting and using it. Some models may need to stand upright for a period before they are switched on.
Can You Lay a Washing Machine on Its Side?
The preferred transport position is upright. Laying a washing machine on its side or back can allow any remaining water to move into areas where it does not belong, and it may affect internal components.
If it must be tilted briefly to place it on a dolly, do so carefully and return it upright straight away. For longer transport, follow the instructions for your specific make and model. When in doubt, keep the appliance upright and properly secured.
How to Store a Washing Machine Safely
If you need to store a washing machine between homes or during renovation work, make sure it is fully drained, clean and dry first. Keep it upright in a clean, dry unit and do not place heavy items on top of it.
Protect the exterior with a breathable cover or moving blanket. Avoid wrapping a damp machine tightly in plastic for long periods, as trapped moisture can cause unpleasant odours or mould. Keep the transit bolts fitted while it is being stored and moved.
Step 6: Reinstall the Washing Machine Correctly
Once the washing machine is in its final location, remove all transit bolts before using it. Store them in a labelled bag with the manual so they are ready for any future move.
Reconnect the inlet hose or hoses carefully and make sure the drain hose is secure, not kinked and positioned correctly. Check the hose connections for drips before pushing the machine fully back into place.
Level the appliance by adjusting its feet until it stands firmly without rocking. An unlevel washing machine can shake or move excessively during a spin cycle.
Finally, run an empty rinse or short wash cycle. Watch for leaks, unusual noises, poor drainage or excessive movement. Only use the appliance normally once the test cycle has completed without a problem.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common washing-machine moving mistakes:
Forgetting to turn off the water supply
Leaving residual water in hoses or filters
Moving the appliance without transit bolts
Using transit bolts that are not made for the model
Dragging the washing machine across the floor
Moving it alone without a dolly or helper
Transporting it unsecured in a van
Laying it on its side without checking the manual
Forgetting to remove transit bolts before running a cycle
Skipping the post-move leak and level check
Taking time to prepare properly is much easier than dealing with water damage, a broken drum or a damaged floor later.
When to Hire Professional Washing Machine Movers
Professional help is a sensible choice when your washing machine needs to go up or down stairs, through a difficult route, into storage or on a long-distance move. It is also useful if you have an integrated appliance, a washer-dryer, no suitable dolly or no one available to help lift safely.
For a reliable removal service in Peterborough, A & R Removals can help with the careful handling, transport and placement of heavy household appliances. Our professional team can make moving a washing machine safer and less stressful, especially when it is part of a larger home move.
Final Thoughts
Moving a washing machine safely comes down to careful preparation. Disconnect the appliance properly, drain the remaining water, secure the drum with the correct transit bolts and use a dolly to keep the move controlled. Keep it upright during transport, reinstall it carefully and complete a test cycle before returning to normal use.
If the route is difficult or the appliance feels too heavy to manage safely, professional removal support is the best decision. It protects your appliance, your home and everyone involved in the move.
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