How do you prevent a washing machine from vibrating?

You prevent vibration by levelling your washing machine, removing the transport bolts and making sure the floor is stable. A washing machine cabinet from Washtower® gives extra stability thanks to the solid construction with a continuous base plate, which directs vibrations down through the cabinet. That means more comfort and less disturbance while you wash.

What to check on a vibrating washing machine

Vibration mainly occurs during the spin cycle, when the drum goes out of balance. That can have several causes, from incorrect installation to technical faults. Working through the checks in order helps you find the cause quickly and solve the problem.

• Level installation: this is the most common cause of vibration. Put a spirit level on your washing machine and adjust the feet with a spanner until the appliance is completely straight. Check this monthly, because vibration can gradually shift the feet.

• Transport bolts: check whether the transport bolts at the back have been removed. They lock the drum during transport and cause extreme vibration if they are left in place.

• A stable floor: a concrete or stone floor is ideal. Do you have a wooden floor or laminate? Then put the machine on a heavy concrete slab of at least 60 by 60 cm for extra mass and stability.

• The right load: avoid overfilling the drum, but do not wash just one heavy item such as a large duvet either. That throws the drum out of balance during the spin cycle.

Which solutions are there against vibration?

Besides the basic checks, there are several solutions that reduce vibration effectively. Which one suits you depends on your situation and the room your washing machine stands in.

Washing machine cabinet

• Benefit: solid construction with a continuous base plate directs vibrations downwards, adding stability and comfort

• Note: suitable for every standard washing machine within the recess of 62.5 x 86.3 x 58.3 cm (W x H x D)

Washing machine stand

• Benefit: raised installation means less bending, and the stable base absorbs vibration thanks to thicker board material

• Note: ideal for working ergonomically and for extra storage

Anti-vibration mat

• Benefit: a rubber mat absorbs vibration and stops the machine from sliding

• Note: effective on hard floors, less suitable in combination with a washing machine cabinet

Vibration dampers

• Benefit: rubber caps under the feet absorb vibration

• Note: on modern machines with imbalance detection they can sometimes have the opposite effect

How does a washing machine cabinet help against vibration?

The washing machine cabinets from Washtower® are designed specifically to dampen vibration. The washing machine stands in the cabinet on the continuous base plate, with additional supporting side panels above it and a 16 mm back panel that the machine rests against. This construction makes sure vibrations are directed down through the cabinet, which results in more stability and comfort.

• Solid construction: thicker board material and a cabinet-in-cabinet construction enclose the washing machine firmly, which dampens vibration.

• Continuous base plate: this distinctive feature adds stability and comes as standard in every setup, from single cabinets to complete laundry rooms.

• Room for connections: the cabinet has 5 cm of space for connections. With the wall brackets the cabinets can be placed about 5 cm further from the wall, giving you roughly 10 cm for water and power connections without affecting stability.

• Anti-tip device: every washing machine cabinet has an anti-tip device as standard for extra safety, including setups with a dryer on the washing machine.

What suits your situation?

The best solution depends on your laundry room, the floor and whether you want extra functionality such as storage or a raised installation for more comfort.

• Limited space: choose a washing machine stand that dampens vibration while also meaning less bending and extra storage under the washing machine.

• Washing machine and dryer: a stacked setup in a solid cabinet gives maximum stability and saves space.

• A complete laundry room: combine a washing machine cabinet with storage cabinets for a modular setup that dampens vibration and keeps your laundry room tidy.

• Flexible layout: use the configurator to put together your ideal setup, matched to your room and your wishes.

Maintenance and technical checks

Regular maintenance prevents vibration and extends the life of your washing machine. Keep an eye on these points:

• Clean the pump filter: clean the pump filter regularly to prevent faults that can lead to imbalance and vibration.

• Check that it is level: check monthly whether the machine is still level, especially after heavy use.

• Recognise the noises: do you hear a whining or banging sound? Then the shock absorbers or bearings may be worn. Have an engineer check it.

• Ventilation: make sure there is enough ventilation around the machine. Washtower® washing machine cabinets have ventilation grilles as standard for optimal airflow.

Have a question, or would you like personal advice on the best solution for your situation? Contact our customer service or simply put your ideal setup together using our online configurator.