In most cases, leveling a washing machine takes only a few minutes.

If safe, initiate the spin cycle to drain the drum.

Otherwise, bail out water by hand with a kitchen measuring cup.

Bubble level placed on top of washing machine with houseplant on top

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Level a washing machine immediately.

Ask for “bubble level” on Google Assistant.

Apple phones also have a pre-installed level app.

Materials and tools to level a washing machine

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Open Measure, then tap Level.

Safety Considerations

Fully disconnect the washing machine before working on it.

Disconnect the drain hose, drain the water, and place the end in the drum.

Washing machine pulled out into open area

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Disconnect the hot and cold water supply hoses and drape them in the drum, too.

Unplug the power cord to avoid shock.

Slide the washer forward until the entire area below the washer is visible.

Small rubber anti-vibration pad held up in front of washing machine

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If the machine is set in a plastic tray, slide the entire tray and washer forward.

The machine will need all four pads in placeor no padsin order to remain level.

Washing machines should not be on top of carpeting.

Bubble level placed on wood floor to check level conditions

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With the level, check that the flooring is level.

The floor must be solid and in good condition.

The floor should not be rotted, cracked, waterlogged, or moldy.

Tools organized on wood floor for repair

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The maximum recommended slope for most washing machines is 1/2 vertical inch per horizontal foot.

Consider this a maximum slope and instead aim for perfect level.

Repair Flooring

If needed, repair the flooring.

Bubble level placed on side of washing machine

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In some cases, the floor joists might be in poor condition.

Alternatively, some washing machine manufacturers recommend installing 3/4-inch exterior- or marine-grade plywood on top of the finish flooring.

Screw the plywood to the floor joists with 2-inch screws.

Washing machine legs hovering above wood floor

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If the front feet are uneven, adjust them in the following steps.

Insert the two-by-four block under the front at the center of the washer.

The feet may need to be at different levels to adapt to the floor.

Two-by-four gray block slid in front of washing machine

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see to it that each foot remains securely attached to the base of the washer.

Pliers adjusting washing machine feet to different levels

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic