Banging? Squealing? Grinding? A noisy washing machine doesn’t always indicate a serious problem, but it shouldn’t be ignored.
You might be surprised how many issues can be resolved through simple DIY solutions and regular maintenance. In this article, we tackle the reasons behind a noisy washing machine, before looking at quick fixes.
We will also call out when you should leave the machine alone and seek professional help.
Skip to:
- Causes of washing machine noises
- DIY solutions for noisy washing machine
- When to seek professional help
- How to avoid a noisy washing machine
- Noisy washing machine FAQs
Causes of washing machine noises
The unsettling noises you are hearing from your washing machine have been heard by millions of others.
Just so you know what you are hearing – here is a breakdown of common noisy washing machine causes:
1. Banging or thumping sounds
One of the most common complaints about washing machines is a loud banging noise during operation. This sound often occurs during the spin cycle and can be caused by several factors:
Uneven load distribution: When clothes bunch up on one side of the drum, it creates an imbalance that causes the machine to shake and bang. This is particularly common with heavy items like towels or bedding. The washing machine attempts to redistribute the load automatically, but sometimes it fails to achieve perfect balance.
Solution – if it’s an uneven load, it’s up to you to resort the items. Skip to: Check and redistribute the load
Damaged or worn shock absorbers: Shock absorbers help stabilize the drum during spin cycles. When they wear out, the drum movement becomes less controlled, resulting in loud thumping noises. This issue is more common in front-loading machines but can affect top-loaders as well.
Solution – if shock absorbers have had their time, they’ll need replacing. Skip to: When to call a professional
Loose drum: Over time, the drum’s support structure can become loose, causing it to knock against the machine’s frame.
This creates a distinctive banging sound that worsens with higher spin speeds.
Solution – this is a tell-tale sign that the bearings need replacing. Skip to: When to call a professional
2. Squealing or screeching noises
High-pitched squealing sounds usually indicate problems with moving parts:
Worn drive belt: The drive belt connects the motor to the drum. As it ages, it can become stretched, cracked, or worn, producing a squealing noise, especially during spin cycles. This is one of the most common causes of high-pitched noises in washing machines.
Solution – replacing the drive belt is best left to train technicians. Skip to: When to call a professional
Faulty motor bearings: When motor bearings begin to fail, they often produce a loud squealing or screeching noise. This sound typically gets worse as the machine operates and can indicate a serious problem that requires prompt attention.
Solution – replacing the bearings is another job for the pros. Skip to: When to call a professional
3. Grinding or buzzing sounds
These types of noises often suggest mechanical issues:
Damaged drum bearings: Drum bearings allow the drum to rotate smoothly. When they start to fail, they produce a grinding noise that typically gets louder during the spin cycle. This is a serious issue that needs professional attention.
Solution – unfortunately, to stop the noise you need to address the damaged bearings. Skip to: When to call a professional
Foreign objects: Small items like coins, buttons, or bobby pins can get caught between the drum and the outer tub, creating a grinding or scratching sound. These objects can cause significant damage if not removed promptly.
Solution – there are many hiding places for small objects in a washing machine; from coins to hair grips and bra wires. This is something you can fix yourself most of the time. Skip to: Inspect for foreign objects
DIY solutions for a noisy washing machine
The good news is that there are several things you can do to solve the problems.
You should always make these checks before you get a professional repair person involved:
1. Check and redistribute the load
- Stop the machine and redistribute clothes evenly – do you have towels or other heavy items bunched up in one part of the machine
- Avoid overloading the machine
- Mix large and small items to ensure better balance
- Consider washing very heavy items separately
2. Level the machine
- Use a spirit level to check if the machine is properly balanced
- Adjust the feet until the machine is completely level
- Ensure all feet are firmly in contact with the floor
- Consider using anti-vibration pads under the feet
3. Inspect for foreign objects
- Check pockets before washing clothes
- Examine the space between the drum and door seal
- Listen for any rattling sounds that might indicate a trapped object
- Use a washing bag for small items that could come loose
We found the following video on how to remove stuck objects useful:
When to call a professional
While many washing machine issues can be resolved through DIY methods, certain problems require professional attention. Signs you need professional help include:
đź žPersistent noises – If noises continue after trying basic solutions, it’s time to call a technician. This is especially true for:
- Grinding noises that get progressively worse
- Loud banging that doesn’t resolve with load redistribution
- Consistent squealing during operation
đź žMultiple issues – When your machine exhibits several problems simultaneously, such as:
- Noise combined with poor cleaning performance
- Unusual sounds plus water leakage
- Vibration along with error codes
đź žAge-related concerns – Consider professional assessment if:
- Your machine is over 8 years old
- Problems are becoming more frequent
- Repair costs are approaching replacement costs
Why not take a look at our articles on Quiet Devices? There you’ll find some of the quietest kitchen appliances on the market; from blenders to range hoods.
How to avoid a noisy washing machine
Keep on top of things. If you’ve encountered a problem, you don’t want it to happen again.
Use these regular maintenance tips to avoid issues with a loud washing machine in the future:
Weekly maintenance
Clean the door seak and drum on periodically, before checking and cleaning the detergent drawer. Wipe down the external surfaces and listen out for any odd sounds which could suggest a problem.
Monthly maintenance
Clean the filter, check hoses for damage or leaks, and ensure proper ventilation around the machine. Here’s a neat video from Samsung on how to clean your washing machine filter:
Also, run an empty hot wash with machine cleaner – this removes mold and mildew, as well as unwanted odors.
Annual maintenance
If your budget permits, and especially if you are a landlord, schedule a professional inspection every year to be absolutely sure your washing machine is running as it should.
A trained technician can check and tighten any loose connections, inspect belt condition, and clean water inlet filters.
Is it time for a new washing machine? Avoid one which sounds like a jumbo jet taking off! Check out our round-up of the quietest washing machines available to buy on Amazon
Noisy washing machine FAQs
When should I consider replacing my washing machine?Â
Consider replacement when repair costs exceed 50% of a new machine’s price, particularly if your model is over 8-10 years old. Key indicators include frequent breakdowns, consistently poor cleaning performance, and rising energy bills despite repairs. If you’re experiencing multiple issues simultaneously (like bearing failure, motor problems, and drum damage), replacement is often more cost-effective than repairs. Modern machines offer significant improvements in energy efficiency and cleaning technology, potentially offsetting the investment through lower utility bills and better performance.
How much does it cost to repair a noisy washing machine?Â
Repair costs vary significantly depending on the underlying issue. Minor problems like replacing a drive belt typically cost $100-200, while major repairs like bearing replacement can range from $200-500. Motor repairs or replacement usually fall between $250-450. Labor charges average $80-150 per hour, depending on your location and the technician’s experience. Some issues, like loose components or unbalanced loads, might only require simple adjustments with no cost. Always get multiple quotes and compare them against the cost of a new machine.
Is it safe to use a noisy washing machine?Â
While a noisy washing machine isn’t immediately dangerous, continuing to use it without addressing the underlying issue can lead to more serious problems. Minor noises from unbalanced loads are generally safe to run, but grinding, screeching, or violent shaking could indicate mechanical failures that might damage your clothes or the machine itself. If the machine moves excessively or makes unusual grinding noises, stop using it until it’s inspected by a professional to prevent potential safety hazards or water damage.
What does a washing machine sound like when the bearings are gone?Â
Failed bearings typically produce a distinct loud grinding or rumbling noise that gets noticeably worse during the spin cycle. You might hear a low-pitched growling sound that increases in volume as the drum speeds up. Another telltale sign is a scraping metal-on-metal sound, especially when the drum is rotating slowly. The noise often starts subtly but becomes progressively louder over time. You might also notice the drum wobbling or feeling loose when you turn it by hand.
What’s the most common reason for a noisy washing machine?Â
The most frequent cause of washing machine noise is an unbalanced load distribution in the drum. This typically creates a loud banging or thumping noise during the spin cycle when clothes cluster together on one side. It’s usually easily fixed by redistributing the laundry more evenly and avoiding overloading. Other common causes include items caught in the drain pump, loose items in pockets hitting the drum, and uneven leveling of the machine on the floor.
