How to Lay Washing Machines Down When Moving

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Man Taking Laundry out of the Washing Machine
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Laying washing machines down during a move can be a bit tricky, but it's definitely doable. The key is to follow some simple steps to ensure the machine is properly secured and protected.

First, you'll want to make sure the washing machine is empty and clean, as outlined in our previous section on "Preparation for Moving". This will help prevent any damage or mess during transit.

Next, consider using a washing machine dolly or a furniture slider to make the move easier and safer. These tools can be purchased or rented, and they'll help reduce the risk of damage to the machine and your floors.

It's also a good idea to wrap the washing machine in a protective blanket or padding, as described in our section on "Protecting Your Belongings During a Move". This will help absorb any shocks or bumps during transit.

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Preparation

Before you start moving your washing machine, it's essential to prepare it properly to avoid any damage. Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply to prevent any accidents or messes.

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You'll also want to remove any remaining water from the washer using a wet/dry shop vac. This will help prevent damage to the internal components of the washer.

It's best to shim the wash tub or install washing machine transit bolts before laying it on its side for transport. This will help prevent damage to the washer's internal components.

Use a moving blanket or similar to protect against damaging the washer during transport. This will give you peace of mind knowing your washer is safe.

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Transportation

Transportation is a crucial aspect of moving a washing machine. It's essential to keep the machine upright during transport to prevent damage to the drum and components.

Laying a washer on its side can cause major damage to the drum and components. This is especially true if the shipping bolts or shims are not installed in the washer. If you must transport a washing machine on its side, use extreme caution and install the shipping bolts or add wooden shims to prevent the tub from breaking the springs or damaging any support pads.

Credit: youtube.com, Pro Tips for Moving Your Washing Machine Safely (2025)

You can transport a washing machine on its side if you have lost the original bolts, but hauling the washer on its back is the only option in this case. If you're transporting a washing machine in a car, it's next to impossible to keep it upright, so laying it on its side may be necessary. However, this should be done with extreme caution and proper precautions taken to prevent damage.

My Car

You can't move a washing machine in your car without some careful planning. Always keep a washing machine upright when transporting it, as laying it on its side can cause major damage to the drum and components.

If you have a small SUV and the washer won't fit upright in the back, you can lay a used washing machine on its side, but with extreme caution. Install washing machine transit bolts or add wooden shims in between the tub and the outer cabinet to prevent the tub from breaking the springs or damaging any support pads.

Man and Woman Standing Beside the Washing Machine
Credit: pexels.com, Man and Woman Standing Beside the Washing Machine

There may be some residue water left in the drain hose, drain pump, and possibly in the wash tub, so try to empty the water from the washing machine before moving it. Use a shop vac to suck any water out so it doesn't leak during transport.

You'll want to add a dry rag in the drain hose to avoid any extra water from coming out. Use a blanket or similar to wrap the washer to avoid any damage to the control panel or outside cabinet.

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Transporting a Washing Machine Lying Down

Transporting a washing machine lying down requires some caution. You should always keep a washing machine upright when transporting it, as laying it on its side can cause major damage to the drum and components.

Laying the washer on its side can cause the inner and outer tubs to bump against each other, which can loosen support pads or damage the suspension.

Credit: youtube.com, don't lay down a front load washer while transporting

However, if you must lay the washer on its side, install washing machine transit bolts or add wooden shims in between the tub and the outer cabinet to prevent the tub from breaking the springs or damaging any support pads.

You'll also want to remove any remaining water from the drain hose, drain pump, and possibly in the wash tub before moving it. A shop vac can be used to suck out the water, and a dry rag can be added to the drain hose to prevent any extra water from coming out.

It's also a good idea to wrap the washer in a blanket or similar material to avoid any damage to the control panel or outside cabinet.

Moving a Washer

It's recommended you always keep a washing machine in an upright position.

Laying a washer on its side can cause the inner and outer tubs to bump against each other, which can loosen support pads or damage the suspension.

Credit: youtube.com, Easy Trick to Move Your Washer or Dryer without Hurting Your Back!

You should secure the drum before moving with shipping bolts or washer locks inserted in the back of the machine for front-loaders.

Wedge foam or cardboard between the drum and the case for top-loaders.

The suspension system can break down if the washing machine is transported lying down.

Transport bolts stabilize the tubs of front-loading laundry machines during transport, but you need to remove them before the first start of the appliance.

Reinstall them when transporting the machine to your new home, or haul the washer on its back if you've lost the original bolts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you lay a washing machine down in a car?

No, it's not recommended to lay a washing machine down in a car, as this can cause damage to the inner and outer tubs and affect the unit's performance

Ella Paolini

Writer

Ella Paolini is a seasoned writer and blogger with a passion for sharing her expertise on various topics, from lifestyle to travel. With over five years of experience in the industry, she has honed her writing skills and developed a unique voice that resonates with readers. As an avid traveler, Ella has explored many parts of the world, immersing herself in new cultures and experiences.

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