Your washing machine moves during the spin cycle
Start by checking the floor, the feet and the load. If the machine has recently been installed or moved, also check that the transit bolts have been removed, as recommended by Electrolux France.
Who is this option for?
You’re bothered by noise travelling through the floor
Distinguish between the machine shaking and the noise you can hear. An accessory placed underneath won’t necessarily fix unusual noise coming from the machine itself.
You want to protect the floor
A mat covers an area beneath the washing machine, while anti-vibration feet sit under its four support points. In either case, check that the machine remains stable once the accessory is in place.
What should you check before choosing?
First rule out possible causes of movement, then decide whether you need protection beneath the feet or a mat covering the area under the machine.
| Priority | What to check | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | If the machine has just been installed, check that the transit bolts have been removed, then make sure it’s level and all four feet are firmly on the floor. Check that the floor is hard and stable: Electrolux France and Samsung France highlight these installation requirements. | My washing machine rocks or moves: I want to correct the installation before putting anything underneath it. |
| Laundry load | Distribute the laundry evenly and avoid overloading, following the instructions in your manual. Electrolux France lists unevenly distributed laundry and overloading among the possible causes of shaking during the spin cycle. | The vibration mainly happens with certain loads: I’ll check the load before assuming the floor is the problem. |
| Anti-vibration feet or a mat | For anti-vibration feet, check that each foot is centred. For a mat, measure the footprint of your washing machine and check the stated weight capacity. The surface underneath must remain level and stable. | I’d prefer discreet supports under the feet, or a continuous surface beneath the machine to cover more of the floor. |
| Persistent vibration | If excessive shaking continues after checking the installation and load, arrange a diagnosis. Electrolux France says worn or damaged suspension components can cause excessive noise and vibration. | The adjustments haven’t made a difference: I want to understand the cause before buying more accessories or replacing the machine. |
Which mistakes should you avoid?
-
Using an accessory to hide a levelling problem
A foot that isn’t firmly on the floor or an unbalanced load can still make the machine move. Electrolux France recommends checking that the machine is level and the laundry is evenly distributed.
Adjust the feet according to the manual and test the machine with an evenly distributed load before considering anti-vibration feet or a mat.
-
Treating every noise as vibration travelling through the floor
Persistent unusual noise may have another cause. Electrolux France notes, for example, that worn suspension components can cause excessive noise and vibration.
Check whether the machine moves or whether the noise continues despite the installation and load being checked. If it’s the latter, arrange a diagnosis.
-
Choosing a mat without checking compatibility
Whirlpool France lists the Wpro ANT100 mat as measuring 60 × 60 cm, with a load capacity of up to 150 kg. These specifications don’t guarantee that it’s suitable for every washing machine.
Compare your machine’s dimensions and weight with the mat’s specifications, and check that the floor beneath it is level and stable.
-
Replacing the machine before identifying the fault
Persistent shaking doesn’t automatically mean your washing machine needs replacing: Electrolux France notes that suspension components may be worn or damaged.
After checking the installation and load, have the machine inspected to find out whether a repair is the right option.
A guide to accessory brands
Wpro
Wpro describes the ANT100 as a 60 × 60 cm mat made from recycled rubber, designed to go underneath a washing machine.
- Whirlpool France lists a thickness of 0.6 cm and a maximum load of 150 kg for this model.
- Reducing noise and slipping is a claim made by the brand, not a guarantee for every installation. Check your machine’s weight and make sure the floor is stable.
Mottez
Mottez describes its M031Q pack as four dual-density anti-vibration feet to place under an appliance’s support points.
- The Mottez product details describe a round shape for easy centring and an angled shape to suit a square support.
- Each foot must remain correctly positioned; anti-vibration feet are no substitute for levelling the machine.
Scanpart
Conrad France lists the Scanpart 0140120002 mat as an accessory for washing machines and tumble dryers.
- The product details give dimensions of 60 × 60 cm and a thickness of 10 mm.
- Check that this size is suitable for your appliance and that fitting the mat won’t affect its stability.
A mat available on Joybuy
This mat is an option for a washing machine that’s already stable, if you want to cover the area underneath it. Compare its dimensions with those of your machine before choosing.
Image unavailable
60 × 60 cm anti-vibration mat
This 60 × 60 cm mat may be suitable for a washing machine that’s already level, if it covers the area you want it to. Check its weight capacity against the weight of your machine, and make sure all four feet remain firmly supported once the mat is in place. Don’t assume it will reduce noise and vibration in your particular installation.
Frequently asked questions
Should I buy anti-vibration feet or a mat if my washing machine moves a lot?
Check the installation and load first. Electrolux France lists several possible causes of shaking during the spin cycle, including transit bolts that haven’t been removed, a machine that isn’t level, unevenly distributed laundry and overloading. An accessory won’t fix these problems.
Will an anti-vibration mat also eliminate noise?
No, you shouldn’t expect a mat to eliminate all noise. Whirlpool France describes its Wpro ANT100 mat as a way to reduce noise, but persistent unusual noise may need a diagnosis, particularly if an internal component is worn.
How can I fit a mat without making my washing machine unstable?
First, level the machine on a hard, stable floor, following the instructions in its manual. Then check the mat’s dimensions and weight capacity, centre the machine and make sure all four feet are firmly supported. Samsung France warns that soft surfaces can allow a washing machine to move during the spin cycle.
When should I arrange a diagnosis rather than replace my washing machine?
Arrange a diagnosis if excessive vibration continues after checking the floor, feet and load. Electrolux France says worn or damaged suspension components may be to blame. Their condition should be checked before deciding whether to repair or replace the machine.