7 Tips to Prevent Washer Grinding Noises Before They Start

Why is my washer making grinding noises — and how can I stop it before it starts? Grinding noises in a washing machine often point to worn-out bearings, a loose drive belt, or items trapped in the drum. These sounds don’t just signal a minor annoyance — they’re early warnings of costly breakdowns. The good news? Most washer grinding issues are preventable with regular maintenance and smart usage habits. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what steps to take to keep your washer running quietly, efficiently, and for longer.

Prevent Washer Grinding Noises With These Quick Fixes:

• Keep your washer leveled to prevent mechanical stress

• Don’t overload the drum — stick to manufacturer limits

• Clean the drum, filter, and hose monthly

• Use the correct detergent type and amount

• Check for worn parts early (like bearings and belts)

• Perform routine maintenance

• Address strange noises immediately

Understanding Washer Grinding Noises

What Causes Washer Grinding Sounds?

If your washer is making a grinding noise, there are a few likely culprits — and each one signals a different kind of wear or failure.

• Worn drum bearings: This is one of the most common causes. Over time, the bearings supporting the drum wear out, especially with frequent overloading or poor alignment.

• Damaged drive motor or coupling: When the motor or its connection to the drum wears down, it may cause a loud grinding or rattling during the spin cycle.

• Objects stuck in the drum or pump: Coins, keys, or other small items often get trapped between the drum and tub or inside the drain pump.

• Unbalanced loads: A washer that vibrates violently or rocks during use can place stress on internal parts, leading to early breakdowns and noise.

Expert Insight:
According to repair professionals at ApplianceRepair.net, over 35% of washer noise complaints stem from foreign objects left in pockets — making regular drum checks essential.

Is It Safe to Keep Using a Washer That’s Making Noise?

No, it’s not safe.
A grinding noise may seem harmless at first, but it often leads to more serious damage if ignored. Continued use can overheat the motor, wear out critical parts, or even result in electrical hazards.

For example, Consumer Reports warns that ignoring persistent mechanical noises in washers can void your warranty and lead to full appliance failure within a year.

If your washer:

• Smells burnt

• Leaks water while making noise

• Grinds even with a light load

…then it’s time to stop using it and call a professional before further damage occurs.

Case Study: Sarah’s Whirlpool Front Loader
Sarah noticed a soft grinding sound during her rinse cycle. Assuming it was minor, she continued using it for weeks — until the drum locked up mid-cycle. After inspection, her technician found that a penny had shredded part of the drum seal and cracked a bearing. A $2 mistake cost her nearly $250 in repairs.

Moral of the story: Act fast at the first sound of trouble.

Proactive Tips to Prevent Grinding Noises in Washers

1. Level Your Washer Properly

An unbalanced washer isn’t just noisy — it can damage internal components over time. When the machine rocks or tilts, it places excess strain on the drum and bearings, which leads to grinding noises.

Quick Fix: Use a spirit level to check all four corners. Adjust the feet until the washer is stable and flat on the floor.

Pro Tip: Most modern washers have adjustable legs. If yours doesn’t, use rubber pads to stabilize.

2. Avoid Overloading the Drum

Overloading is one of the most common — and easily avoidable — causes of grinding noises. Too much weight forces the drum and motor to work harder, wearing out parts like the drive belt and bearings.

Follow this rule: Fill the drum only ¾ full for clothes to move freely.

Expert Insight: According to Whirlpool technicians, repeated overloading is the #1 cause of premature washer motor failure.

3. Inspect and Clean the Drum and Filter Regularly

Loose change, small toys, or even bra wires can slip into tight spaces inside the drum or pump, causing grinding or scraping noises. Dirt buildup in the filter can also affect water flow and strain the motor.

Monthly habit: Check the drum after every wash and clean the lint filter and drain trap every 3–4 weeks.

Use gloves when checking the filter — sharp objects can hide inside.

4. Use the Right Detergent

Using too much detergent — or the wrong kind — creates excess suds, which puts strain on your washer’s motor. Suds can also carry debris into sensitive areas, increasing the chance of noise and part damage.

Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent if your washer requires it, and follow dosing instructions.

Source: Energy.gov recommends HE detergent to reduce wear on energy-efficient appliances.

5. Check and Replace Worn Washer Parts Early

Grinding sounds often come from failing components like drum bearings, motor couplings, or drive belts. These parts wear over time — especially in older models — but replacing them early can prevent full system failure.

Listen and look: If you hear repeated grinding during spin cycles, schedule a technician inspection.

Parts like couplers and belts cost as little as $20–$40 — much cheaper than replacing the whole machine.

6. Perform Regular Maintenance

Simple monthly checkups can save you hundreds in repair costs. Cleaning, inspecting hoses, and running maintenance cycles keep your washer quiet and efficient.

Create a checklist:

• Clean drum and filter

• Check hose for clogs

• Run empty hot water + vinegar cycle

• Tighten any loose bolts

Optional: Offer a downloadable PDF or infographic with maintenance tips.

7. Act Quickly When You Hear Unusual Sounds

Don’t ignore that strange thump or grind — it’s a warning. Small noises often signal the start of bigger mechanical problems, especially in high-efficiency washers.

Customer Review Insight: 8 in 10 washer owners who address noise early avoid costly repairs later (source: RepairClinic customer surveys).

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