Ever stared at your washing machine and wondered, “How on earth am I supposed to move this beast by myself?” Maybe you’re moving house, rearranging your laundry room, or just need to clean behind it.
Moving a washing machine alone can seem intimidating—it’s bulky and heavy, and the last thing you want is an injury or a broken appliance.
In this article, you’ll find practical, step-by-step guidance, helpful tips, and smart shortcuts to move your washing machine safely and efficiently, even if you’re on your own.
Related Video
Can You Move a Washing Machine Alone? Here’s How
Moving a washing machine by yourself can seem like a daunting task. Washing machines are bulky, heavy, and filled with delicate components. But with the right approach, some careful planning, and a healthy dose of patience, you can get the job done safely—even if you’re working solo. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know: step-by-step instructions, practical tips, common pitfalls, and answers to your most pressing questions.
Step-by-Step Guide: Moving a Washing Machine Alone
Moving a washing machine isn’t just a matter of lifting and shifting. You need to prepare your appliance, protect your floors, and minimize risks—both for yourself and your machine.
1. Gather the Right Tools and Supplies
Having the proper equipment will make the process much smoother and safer. Here are essentials you’ll need before you get started:
- Appliance dolly (with straps)
- Furniture sliders or gliders (for hardwood or delicate floors)
- Moving blankets or thick towels
- Rope or bungee cords
- Wrench or pliers
- Tape (painter’s or masking)
- Zip ties
- Screwdriver (if needed for removal)
- Work gloves and close-toed shoes
2. Prepare Your Washing Machine
Preparation is crucial. Don’t rush this step—an unprepared washing machine can leak, get damaged, or cause injury.
a. Empty and Clean the Washer
Remove all clothes and let the drum dry. Run a quick rinse or clean cycle if necessary. Wipe out any remaining moisture.
b. Disconnect Power and Hoses
- Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet.
- Turn off water supply valves, typically located behind the machine.
- Using a wrench or pliers, loosen and detach the water inlet hoses (have a bucket or old towel ready to catch residual water).
- Unscrew and remove the drain hose from the wall or standpipe.
c. Secure the Washer Drum
The drum inside your washer floats free during cycles, allowing it to spin. You must stop it from moving during transport.
- If your washing machine came with shipping or transit bolts, reinstall them now. Can’t find them? Use foam wedges, rolled towels, or blankets to prevent movement, but know that bolts are always safest.
- Secure the lid or door with tape.
d. Protect Exterior and Cords
- Bundle electrical cords and secure them to the body with tape or zip ties.
- Wrap the entire washer with moving blankets or thick towels to prevent scratches.
3. Prep the Surrounding Area
Don’t overlook your floor and immediate surroundings. Moving heavy appliances can cause dents, dings, and scratches.
- Place furniture sliders under the feet of the washer if you need to slide it out before lifting.
- Clear your pathway—remove rugs, mats, or any obstacles between the washer and the exit.
- Prop open doors along the route so you have a clear, unimpeded path.
4. Moving the Washing Machine
The real challenge begins now. Here’s how to move your washer safely—without help.
a. Use an Appliance Dolly
- Tilt the washer gently and ease the dolly’s bottom plate under one side.
- Secure the machine to the dolly using built-in straps or rope, ensuring it’s held tightly in place.
- Keep your back straight, bend at the knees, and push (don’t pull) the dolly slowly along the route.
- Move carefully down steps—take one at a time, and use your weight to control the descent.
b. Maneuver Tight Spaces
- Go slowly through doorways. If it’s a tight fit, remove doors from hinges temporarily.
- Have towels handy to add extra padding to corners and reduce scuffs on walls.
c. Loading and Transport
If you’re moving the washer into or out of a vehicle:
- Use ramps if possible. Never attempt to lift a washing machine entirely by yourself; instead, use leverage.
- Once in the vehicle, secure the washer in an upright position using ropes or bungee cords to prevent tipping during transit.
Benefits of Moving a Washing Machine by Yourself
There are definite advantages to taking on the job solo, especially when you’re prepared:
- Cost savings: Hiring professional movers can be expensive. Doing it yourself saves that money.
- Flexibility: Move at your own pace, on your own schedule.
- Learning experience: Handling heavy items builds confidence for other DIY projects.
Challenges and Risks to Consider
Moving a washing machine alone isn’t without drawbacks or hazards:
- Physical strain: Washing machines can weigh over 150 pounds. Without proper lifting techniques, you risk back or muscle injuries.
- Damage to the appliance or property: Dropping, tilting, or improperly supporting the washer can damage both the machine and your home.
- Risk of leaks: Not disconnecting hoses properly may lead to water damage.
- Appliance malfunction: Failing to secure the drum can result in internal damage during the move.
If you have any doubt about your ability to move the appliance safely, consider asking a friend for help or contacting a professional moving service.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Success comes down to preparation and safety:
- Give yourself plenty of time. Rushing increases the chance of mistakes and accidents.
- Lift with your legs, not your back. Always bend at the knees and keep your back upright when lifting.
- Never drag the washing machine without sliders. This can gouge floors and damage washer feet.
- Keep the washer upright at all times. Laying it on its side can cause internal fluids to leak and mechanisms to misalign.
- Take breaks as needed. Listen to your body—moving heavy appliances is physically demanding.
- Secure transport bolts (if you have them). If you can’t find your original bolts, contact the manufacturer for replacements.
- Measure doorways and hallways in advance. Make sure your washer fits and note any tight turns.
- Ask for help if it feels unsafe. Sometimes, the best DIY job is knowing when to accept a helping hand.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the drum securing process.
- Dragging the washer across the floor unprotected.
- Not draining hoses first.
- Rushing and losing control while using stairs or ramps.
- Using subpar tools or skipping the moving dolly.
Concluding Thoughts
Moving a washing machine by yourself is absolutely possible with the right tools, careful planning, and safe lifting practices. While the effort is significant, the satisfaction (and potential cost savings) make it worthwhile for many homeowners and renters. Don’t underestimate the complexity: prioritize preparation and safety, and never hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I move a washing machine without a dolly?
It’s possible, but not recommended. A washing machine is very heavy and awkward to move by hand. Dollies provide stability, protect your back, and help avoid tipping or dropping the appliance.
What happens if I don’t secure the washer drum before moving?
Unsecured drums can swing violently during transit, potentially damaging the washer’s internal components. Always use shipping bolts or padding to fix the drum in place before moving.
How do I protect my floors while moving the washer?
Use furniture sliders under the washer’s feet, especially on hardwood or tile floors. Always move slowly and avoid dragging the washer without protection.
Is it okay to lay the washing machine on its side during transport?
No. Keeping the washer upright is crucial. Laying it on its side can cause oil leakage, misalign moving parts, and increase the risk of drum damage.
What should I do if my washing machine didn’t come with shipping bolts?
If you don’t have shipping bolts, use towels or foam wedges to minimize drum movement. Ideally, order new shipping bolts from your washer’s manufacturer before moving.