Don't hit that purchase button just yet - you couls save youself hundreds of pounds07:48, 04 Jul 2026If your washing machine is making a loud noise during a cycle, don't panic too much. Fortunately, you are not alone in this issue, and there are several possible reasons for this.‌Thankfully, it doesn’t necessarily mean your appliance is nearing the end of its life, so before you rush to replace it, Which? suggests checking a few key things first. Urging people "don't ignore the signs that something's wrong with your machine", the experts say that while fixing the issue may resolve the noise, "if your washing machine spends more of its life being repaired than it does washing clothes, it might be time to buy a new one."‌My washing machine is making a loud noiseAccording to Which?, if your washing machine is shaking excessively or even walks across the floor during a cycle, it probably isn’t properly levelled. Washing machines are designed to sit evenly on a flat surface, and if they’re not balanced correctly, they can vibrate heavily, particularly during the spin cycle.‌It says: "Check if the machine is aligned using a spirit level. And if need be, adjust the feet underneath accordingly. If the feet are level, then it might be the surface causing the issue. Uneven flooring can create a shaky machine, so try sitting it on a sturdy piece of wood or old desktop and manoeuvre the corners to even it out."Another possible cause is an unbalanced load. It notes that washing a single heavy item, like a cotton towel, or mixing it with only lightweight clothing, can create an imbalance and cause issues during the cycle.‌As the towel soaks up water and becomes heavier, it can be flung against the drum during the spin cycle, which may cause the machine to shake and become noisy. To help prevent this, wash heavy items together and avoid overfilling the drum, as overloading can cause similar imbalance issues.If you’ve recently moved house or installed a new washing machine, it’s important to check that the transit bolts have been removed. These bolts are typically found on the back of the appliance and are used to secure the drum during transport.Most machines have three or four parts that need to be taken out before use. If they’re left in place, they can cause severe vibration and may eventually result in serious, potentially permanent damage.‌How to level a washing machineAccording to appliance expert at Bosch, there are a few simple steps to follow. It adds: "Washing machines that are not balanced can result in loud thumping or knocking sounds, especially when operating at high speeds."To remove these loud noises, check the feet to ensure that the washing machine is evenly balanced and resting on a flat surface. Also, check that the washing machine is parallel to the ground by using a spirit level. If it is not level, adjust the feet accordingly and tighten them in place."Article continues belowTo level your appliance:Place a spirit level on the appliance.Turn the feet on the appliance until the spirit level is aligned.Secure the feet with the lock nuts by following the instructions in the installation guide.If the appliance is standing on a base, secure the feet with the clip holders. The clip holders are available as an accessory.