A washing machine tray is a must-have accessory for every laundry space, offering essential protection against leaks and spills. Designed to catch drips and prevent floor damage, it ensures peace of mind for homeowners and renters alike. Whether you want to extend your appliance’s lifespan or safeguard your home, choosing the right washing machine tray makes laundry day safer and more convenient.
Washing Machine Trays at a Glance
| Type/Model | Material | Size (Exterior) | Depth | Color | Drainage Option | Intended Application | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Deep Plastic Tray | High-impact plastic | 30″ x 32″ | 2″ | White | 1″ PVC drain | Traditional, most washers | $25-$50 |
| Low-Profile Plastic Tray | High-impact plastic | 31″ x 35″/33″ x 29″ | 1.5-1.64″ | White/Metallic Carbon | 1″ PVC drain | Front-load, pedestal units | $30-$50 |
| Heavy-Duty Stainless Tray | 304 Stainless Steel | 28″ x 30″/30″ x 32″ | 2.5″ | Silver | Varies | Premium/durable use | $50-$130 |
| Oversized/Universal Tray | Poly/Plastic | 31″ x 36″ | 2″ | White | Some with drain | Large/oversized washers | $35-$60 |
| Thermoplastic Washer Pan | Co-polypure thermoplastic | 31″ x 33″ | 2″ | White | Varies | Front-end loading washers | $45-$90 |
Key Features, Usage, and Safety of Washing Machine Trays
What Does a Washing Machine Tray Do?
A washing machine tray, also known as a drain pan or washer pan, is a shallow, sturdy container designed to sit under your washing machine. Its main role is to catch any leaks, overflows, or spills that might occur during operation. By preventing water from reaching the floor, it safeguards your flooring, subflooring, and surrounding cabinetry from moisture damage, mold, and structural issues.
Some trays come equipped with a drain fitting or punch-out holes, allowing you to attach a drain hose that channels water directly to a floor drain for added protection. This makes washing machine trays a smart investment for laundry rooms situated above finished basements or near sensitive areas of your home.
Key Features to Look For
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Material: Most trays are made of high-impact polypropylene, thermoplastic, or stainless steel. Plastic trays are affordable and corrosion-resistant, while stainless steel offers superior durability for heavy-duty or commercial applications.
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Size & Fit: Trays come in various sizes (commonly 28”-36” wide), with both exterior and interior dimensions specified. Ensuring your tray fits your washing machine’s footprint is crucial. Interior size should exceed your washer’s base, but not be so loose as to make alignment with the drain difficult.
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Depth: Standard depths range from 1.5” (low-profile) to over 2.5” for deep trays. A deeper tray holds more water in the event of leaks but may not fit spaces with height restrictions.
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Drainage Capability: Many trays include a fitted drain outlet and adapters, typically for a 1” PVC pipe. Low-profile options often have the drain port closer to the edge for easier installation when the washer sits on a pedestal.
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Profile/Height: Low-profile trays (around 1.5” deep) allow for easy opening of pedestal drawers, crucial with modern front-loading washers.
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Color & Finish: Most trays are white, making leaks or dirt easy to spot. Some higher-end models are available in metallic finishes for a more integrated look.
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Certifications and Warranty: Look for models with a warranty (usually 1 year) and materials certified for household use.
Usage and Installation
Installing a washing machine tray is generally straightforward:
- Preparation: Remove the washing machine (and pedestal, if present) to expose the floor and clean the area.
- Drain Connection: If your tray has a drain fitting, punch or drill out the hole if necessary, then attach the included PVC adapter, gasket, and nut.
- Placement: Center the tray where the washer will sit, ensuring the drain aligns with a floor drain if available.
- Washer Placement: Carefully lift (do not slide) the washer onto the tray to avoid cracking or damaging the pan.
- Final Connections: Connect any drain hoses from the tray to your plumbing as needed.
Properly installed, a tray requires minimal maintenance—occasional cleaning and periodic checks for cracks, blockages, or improper alignment.
Safety Considerations
- Load Support: Trays are designed to support the full weight of a washer (and sometimes a dryer if stacked)—choose heavy-duty models for larger machines or stackable setups.
- Slip Hazard: If water collects and is not drained, promptly address and clean to prevent slippery surfaces.
- Drain Inspection: Periodically inspect attached drain hoses for kinks, leaks, or clogs.
- Installation: Consider professional installation if adding a floor drain or integrating with household plumbing.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
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Measure Twice, Buy Once: Always measure not only the base of your washing machine but also the available floor space, allowing for hose clearance and utility connections.
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Prioritize Drain Functionality: If your laundry room has a floor drain, choose a tray with a compatible drainage fitting. This greatly improves protection, especially for laundry rooms above finished areas.
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Low Profile for Drawers: For machines on a pedestal or with lower clearance, select a low-profile tray to avoid obstructing drawers or increasing washer height.
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Material Selection:
- Choose plastic or thermoplastic for most residential setups.
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Opt for stainless steel in commercial environments or if maximum durability and chemical resistance are required.
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Periodic Inspection: Every few months, inspect the pan for cracks, standing water, or blockages. Even a small crack or misaligned drain can defeat the tray’s purpose.
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Professional Help for Complex Plumbing: If you’re not comfortable connecting drainpipes or cutting floor penetrations, it’s wise to hire a plumber.
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Stacked Washer/Dryer Use: Confirm with product support whether stacking is allowed on your chosen tray, as some lightweight plastic models may not be suited for extra weight.
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Regulatory Requirement: In some regions (especially condos and upper-floor laundry rooms), local codes may require washer pans with drains—check before you buy.
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Allow For Leveled Installation: Extending your washer’s leveling legs a bit may help accommodate the tray’s height and ensure quiet, vibration-free operation.
Technical Comparison Table — Popular Washing Machine Tray Models
| Feature/Model | Everbilt Low Profile (White) | GE Universal Low Profile | Oatey Plastic WM Pan | MUSTEE DURAPAN | Heavy-Duty Stainless |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Polypropylene | Polypropylene | High-impact plastic | Co-polypure thermoplastic | 304 Stainless Steel |
| Exterior Size | 35″ x 31″ | 31″ x 35″ | 28″ x 30″ | 31″ x 33″ | 28″ x 30″ up |
| Interior Size | 33″ x 29″ | 29″ x 33″ | ~26″ x 28″ | ~29″ x 31″ | Varies |
| Depth | 1.5″ | 1.64″ | 2″ | 2″ | 2.5″ |
| Drain Fitting | 1” PVC adapter included | 1″ PVC adapter included | 1” PVC adapter included | Some with punch-out | Varies |
| Profile | Low-profile | Low-profile | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Color | White | White/Metallic Carbon | White | White | Silver/Metallic |
| Washer Type | Universal (Front-load, Pedestal friendly) | Universal | Universal | Front-end load | Universal |
| Stackable Use | Yes (check per model specs) | Yes (low profile for drawer) | Yes | Yes | Yes (strongest) |
| Warranty | 1-Year | 1-Year | Limited | Varies | Varies |
| Price Range | $35-$45 | $35-$45 | $31-$39 | $48-$90 | $60-$130+ |
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Conclusion
A washing machine tray is a small investment that offers big protection—preserving floors, safeguarding against unexpected leaks, and adding peace of mind to your laundry routine. Key decision points are tray size, profile (low vs. standard), material, and drainage capability. By carefully measuring your space and washer, prioritizing proper drainage, and choosing a reputable brand, you can ensure your laundry room stays dry, clean, and problem-free. Remember, local plumbing codes may require a tray—especially for upstairs or multi-floor laundry rooms. Whichever model you select, follow installation and maintenance best practices to maximize safety and effectiveness.
FAQ
- What is a washing machine tray, and do I really need one?
A washing machine tray is a shallow, durable pan placed under a washing machine to catch leaks, overflows, and spills, protecting your floors from water damage. You may need one if your washer is situated on an upper floor, if leaks could cause expensive repairs, or if local codes require it.
- How do I determine what size tray I need?
Measure your washing machine base (width and depth), and choose a tray with an interior size slightly larger than those dimensions. Also, measure the laundry space to ensure the tray fits and allows for hose connections.
- Can I use any washing machine tray with a pedestal drawer or stacked washer/dryer?
Low-profile trays are best for pedestal drawers, as they don’t obstruct opening and closing. Check your washer and tray manufacturer’s recommendations for stacked setups; some lightweight trays may not support both units.
- Is installing a washing machine tray a DIY job, or do I need a plumber?
If you’re comfortable moving heavy appliances and connecting a drainpipe (if needed), most trays can be installed DIY. For complex drain connections or if cutting the floor is needed, hire a plumber.
- What is the difference between a standard and a low-profile tray?
Standard trays are deeper (around 2”), offering more water containment, while low-profile trays (about 1.5”) are shallower and better for use with washing machines on pedestals or with drawer units, as they allow clearance.
- What materials are washing machine trays made from, and which is best?
Trays are typically made from high-impact plastic (polypropylene or thermoplastic) or stainless steel. Plastic is affordable and rust-proof; stainless steel is extremely durable and best for commercial or high-use settings.
- How does the drain fitting on a washing machine tray work?
Many trays have a pre-formed hole or a punch-out section where you attach a drain fitting (usually a 1” PVC adapter). This fitting allows you to connect a pipe or hose to carry water to a floor drain, providing automatic drainage in the event of leaks.
- Can washing machine trays prevent all types of water damage?
While trays help prevent water damage from small leaks, hose failures, or accidental overflows, they do have capacity limits. Large flooding or a burst hose may exceed the tray’s ability to contain water unless connected to a reliable floor drain.
- How often should I inspect or replace my washing machine tray?
Inspect the tray at least every few months for cracks, warping, or blockage. If you notice damage or excessive standing water, replace the tray immediately. With normal use, high-quality trays can last many years.
- Are washing machine trays required by building code?
In some areas, especially in multi-level homes or condos, plumbing or building codes may require washing machine trays with a functioning drain. Always check your local regulations before installing or omitting a washer tray.