If you’ve noticed some strange noises coming from your washing machine lately, you’re not alone. That high-pitched squeaking or screeching sound can be annoying and a little unsettling. But don’t worry – in most cases, washing machine squeaks are easy to diagnose and fix.
Common Causes of Washing Machine Squeaks
There are a few common culprits behind washing machine squeaks:
Buildup of Dirt, Soap, and Grime Over time, residue from dirt, soap, fabric softener and other cleaning agents can accumulate on parts of your washer. This sticky buildup often traps small items likes coins, bobby pins and buttons, which then rattle around during the wash cycle and cause squeaking noises.
Loose or Worn Out Belt Most washers have rubber drive belts that connect the motor to the drive shafts. If the belt becomes loose or starts wearing out, it can slip while the tub is spinning, creating a loud squealing noise.
Faulty Shocks/Struts The shocks or struts are designed to reduce vibration by steadying the washtub. When they become worn out, the tub wobbles more intensely during spin cycles, causing squeaks and squeals.
Damaged Tub Bearings Tub bearings allow the stainless steel wash tub to spin smoothly. Over time, water and detergents wear down the bearing seals, allowing them to become noisy during wash cycles.
How to Fix a Squeaky Washing Machine
Here are some step-by-step guides to inspect and replace some of the most common parts causing noisy washers:
Clean Out Buildup Unplug the washer first for safety. Remove the front panel to expose the components underneath. Carefully clean out any debris, sticky residue buildup or small items stuck around the drum, tub, seals and in crevices.
Replace Worn Belt Examine the rubber drive belt for signs of cracking, fraying or stretching. Refer to your model’s service guide for detailed steps to loosen the motor bracket, slip off the old belt and install a replacement. Use the diagrams to ensure it’s correctly routed.
Swap Out Faulty Shock Absorbers Check each shock for damage or leaks. To remove the old struts or shocks, you’ll need to tip the washer on its front. Follow the repair guide to disconnect them from the wash tub brackets. Install new manufacturer-approved shocks by sliding them into place and tightening the brackets.
Replace Tub Bearing and Seals Gain access to the underside of the steel wash tub. Refer to the instructions for your model to remove clips, screws and plates until the tub bearing is visible. Carefully detach the bearing assembly. Apply silicone grease to the outer and inner seals before sliding the new bearing into the tub and reattaching hardware.
With some basic mechanical skills and the right replacement part for your model, you can often stop washing machine squeaks in their tracks. Listen closely to isolate the sound and match it to the failing component. Always unplug before conducting repairs for maximum safety. But when in doubt, call for professional service. With proper maintenance and care, your washer will run smoothly for years to come.
References
Appliance Repair Guide for Replacing Washing Machine Bearings. 2023.
Home Depot Guide on How to Fix a Noisy Washing Machine. 2023.
Whirlpool Top Load Washer Disassembly Guide to AccessDrive Belt. 2023.
Laura has had an enthusiasm for laundry ever since she was a teenager experimenting with wash cycles. She went on study textile science in college before working in product testing.
Soon, Laura found friends and family constantly asking her laundry advice, realizing she had become an unofficial laundry guru. The questions kept coming in, so Laura decided to start sharing laundry tips online to help more people. The enthusiastic response led her start the blog “Laundry How”.
Now in her late thirties, Laura uses Laundry How to tackle all kinds of laundry topics – stains, fabric care, detergents, and more. She provides advice from both her studies and experience testing techniques out firsthand. Laura continues to grow an engaged community of laundry learners, feeling fulfilled empowering people to make laundry an easy, confidence-building ritual rather than a dreaded chore.