How to move a washing machine safely
Whether you're moving to a new place, having work done, or just temporarily short on space, here's everything you need to know to move a washing machine safely.
A washing machine is one of the heaviest and most delicate household appliances to move. From draining the leftover water and locking the drum to reducing the risk of damage in transit, a few precautions are essential.
Whether you're moving to a new place, having work done, or just temporarily short on space, here's everything you need to know to move a washing machine safely.
Preparing your washing machine before the move
Good preparation avoids most of the problems that come up during a move.
Draining the washing machine before transport
The first step is draining the washing machine before the move. Even after a finished cycle, water is often still left in the hoses, the pump or the filter.
To avoid leaks:
- Run a drain cycle if your machine has one
- Turn off the water supply
- Disconnect the hoses
- Catch any leftover water in a basin
- Clean the drain filter
This step is essential whether you're moving a washing machine or storing it for several weeks.
Locking the washing machine drum
Locking the drum is probably the single most important precaution.
During transport, the drum can move around and damage the internal suspension or shock absorbers.
Ideally, refit the transit bolts supplied by the manufacturer when you bought the machine. They fit onto the back of the appliance and hold the drum in place.
If you kept them, now's the time to use them.
Should you secure the door and detergent drawer?
Yes. The door and the detergent drawer can spring open while you're carrying it.
A simple strip of protective tape is usually enough to keep them closed safely during the move.
How to move a washing machine
A washing machine typically weighs between 60 and 90 kg, so moving it requires some equipment and planning.
Can you move a washing machine on your own?
In most cases, it's not recommended.
The weight and size of the appliance make it hard to handle alone, especially in narrow hallways or on stairs.
If you are on your own, using an appliance trolley becomes almost essential.
How do you protect the floor while moving it?
Washing machines can easily scratch wooden floors or damage tiles.
To reduce the risk:
- Use a trolley or sack truck
- Protect delicate floors with blankets
- Avoid dragging the appliance directly across the floor
Moving a washing machine on stairs
This comes up often. For this kind of job:
- Work with at least two people
- Use carrying straps
- Keep the appliance upright as much as possible
- Move it one step at a time
Can you transport a washing machine on its side?
As with a fridge, moving it on its side isn't ideal. When it's unavoidable:
- Check the manufacturer's guidance
- Protect the sides carefully
- Avoid long journeys
- Stand the machine back upright as soon as you arrive
Key precautions at a glance
What to do with your washing machine during renovations or a house move
Sometimes a washing machine can't be installed straight away in your new home. This is often the case during:
- Renovation work
- A gradual move-in
- A temporary stay away from home
- A lack of space at home
In these situations, a storage solution can help keep the appliance in good condition until you're ready to use it again.
How to store a washing machine safely
Before storing it, make sure the appliance is completely dry to avoid bad smells and mould. A few simple precautions help keep it in good condition:
- Let the inside dry out after draining
- Clean the door seal
- Leave the door slightly ajar
- Protect the appliance from damp and frost
Watch out for cold and damp
A washing machine stored in a damp or freezing environment can be damaged. The hoses, seals and some internal components don't cope well with big swings in temperature. A dry, protected space is by far the best option.
Making your move easier
Handling heavy appliances usually takes some preparation. Moving services can help you plan ahead and simplify the logistics of moving day. You'll also find other useful additional services to help protect and move your belongings safely.
A practical solution when space is tight
When a garage, cellar or home becomes too cluttered, storage solutions can offer a useful alternative. Zebrabox lets you keep household appliances in a secure environment during a move, renovation work, or a transition period. There are suitable spaces for both private customers and businesses.
Finding the right storage space
When space is temporarily tight, it's worth choosing a location that's easy to get to. Zebrabox's different locations make it easy to find a solution near you.
How to get rid of an old washing machine
If your machine has reached the end of its life, a few options exist:
- Trade-in when you buy a new appliance
- Drop it off at a recycling centre
- Bulky-waste collection (varies by local council)
- Donate it to a charity if it still works
Organisations such as Emmaüs, and other local reuse charities, regularly accept household appliances that are still working.
Moving a washing machine
Drain the leftover water, lock the drum, secure the door, and keep the appliance upright during transport.
Using the transit bolts supplied by the manufacturer, fitted to the back of the appliance.
Yes, but only when necessary and by following the manufacturer's guidance.
The machine needs to be completely dry, with the door left slightly ajar.
In a dry, ventilated space protected from frost, or in a suitable storage unit.
Conclusion
Moving a washing machine takes some preparation, but a few simple steps help you avoid most problems. By taking the time to drain the appliance, lock the drum, and transport it carefully, you significantly reduce the risk of damage during the move.
If you can't install your washing machine straight away — because of renovation work, a gradual move-in, or a lack of space — it's also worth arranging suitable storage conditions. A dry, clean space protected from damp will keep your appliance in good condition until it's back in use.
With good planning and the right storage solution, moving a washing machine becomes a much simpler, safer job.