How to Move a Washing Machine (7 Steps You Shouldn’t Skip)

Preparation is key when moving something so awkward and heavy. It’s nearly impossible to move safely without the right assistance and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Ask for help

Moving a washer on your own is too dangerous due to the weight and dimensions of the appliance. This is where family and friends come in, to give you a helping hand. Ask at least 2-3 people. 

2. Read your manual

Some brands have specific transport instructions (especially for front-load washers). If you don’t have the manual, search the brand + model number.

3. Deep clean and dry it out

• Empty the drum.
• Run a short cycle (water only) or the washer’s clean cycle to clear detergent residue.
• Leave the door open for 24 hours so the inside fully dries. If you’re short on time, wipe it dry with a towel.

4. Drain the hoses

• Turn off both water valves.
• Use pliers to disconnect the hot hose from the valve and drain it into a bucket.
• Repeat for the cold hose.

4. Remove and pack the hoses

Disconnect hoses from the washer, put them in a plastic bag, then pack and label it: “WASHING MACHINE HOSES.”

5. Unplug and shut off water

Unplug the washer and double-check both water valves are off.

6. Tools you’ll want

• Gloves
• Appliance dolly (best option)
• Moving straps
• Moving blankets
• Pliers + wrench
• Packing tape
• Bucket + towels
• Sliders (or thick cloth/cardboard)

Transit bolts lock the drum in place during transport. Without them, road vibration can damage the suspension.

• Check your manual for the correct bolt placement
• Typically, they insert into the back of the washer and twist into position

Note: Many top-load washers don’t use transit bolts, but front-loaders often do.

This is where your packing tape comes in. Tape it snugly across the back of the washing machine. The last thing you want is a rogue cable flying at your feet while carrying this monster.

If you’re searching for how to slide a washing machine, do it like this:

• Place a slider under each front foot
• No sliders? Use a thick towel, soft cloth, or a piece of cardboard under each foot
• Slide slowly and evenly, and keep the washer upright

This makes it much easier to pull the washer out from a tight laundry space without damaging floors.

Wrap the washer fully with moving blankets so corners and edges are protected.

• Cover the front and sides completely
• Secure blankets with straps or tape
• Avoid taping directly to the washer surface if possible

An appliance dolly is the easiest and safest way to move a washer.

1. With helpers, tilt the washer slightly backward
2. Slide the dolly underneath
3. Strap the washer tightly to the dolly
4. Tilt back until the weight balances on the wheels
5. Move slowly, especially around corners

Tip: A basic furniture dolly can work on flat ground, but it’s harder to control and riskier on stairs

• Use a ramp to roll it up
• Keep the washer upright during loading and transit
• Strap it to the side wall of the truck so it can’t move
• Do a quick test: if it budges at all, tighten straps again

Once the washer is in place at the new home:

• Remove blankets and straps
• Reconnect hoses
• Turn on the water and check for leaks
• Plug in power
• If you used transit bolts, remove them before running the washer
• Run a short empty cycle to confirm everything works

If you have stairs, tight turns, or you’re doing a long-distance move, it can be worth hiring help. One drop can damage the washer, your floors, or your back.