How to Fix a Wobbly Washing Machine

Step 1
Check whether the machine is level

Unplug the washer and place a level on top, checking both left to right and front to back, so you can ID which leg is uneven.

Step 2
Adjust the front legs

If a front leg is the culprit, reach under the machine with an adjustable wrench and turn the leg to raise or lower it. (You may also need to adjust the nut.) Repeat until the bubble in the level is centered.

Tip From a Pro
“Hard to get to the washer’s front legs? Rest a pry bar on a piece of wood to prop the washer up. FYI, all these steps are the same for a top loader.” —Chip Wade, host of Elbow Room

Step 3
Adjust the back legs

If one of the back legs is uneven, use both hands to tilt the washer toward you so the back legs lift about four inches off the floor. Then gently drop the machine back on the ground—most have self-leveling legs that should automatically adjust when you do this.

Step 4
Loosen up the back legs

If the back legs didn’t self-adjust and seem stuck, have someone lift the machine again so you can gently tap the legs with your wrench. Then set the washer back on the floor and check the level again. The bubble should fall right in the center. Plug the machine back into the wall, and load ’er up!