How much does a washing machine weigh? [A Complete Guide]

Washing machines and dryers are big, clunky, and extremely heavy

Contents hide

1 You already know that washing machines and dryers are heavy, but how much do they actually weigh?

2 I got the weight of each washer and dryer in this chart from the following sources:

3 How Much Water Does a Washing Machine Use?

4 Do Dryer Balls Work?

4.1 Dryer Sheets: What Are the Differences?

5 Is A Washer Or Dryer Heavier?

5.1 Can You Put A Washer And Dryer Upstairs?

6 Here are some moving tips:

On average, washing machines weigh 170 pounds, and dryers weigh 124 pounds

However, the weight of these appliances varies significantly based on type, capacity, features, and brand

Small-load washers can weigh as little as 99 pounds while extra-large washers can weigh up to 300 pounds

The range is narrower for dryers

Small dryers can weigh as little as 100 pounds while larger ones can weigh up to 170 pounds

Here’s the average weight based on the type of washer and dryer

To give you an idea of how much each type of washer and dryer weighs relative to its size, here’s a quick breakdown of average pounds per cubic foot of capacity

Note: Capacity, in this instance, refers to the size of the washer or dryer’s drum, not the size of the entire unit

TypeAverage Weight Per Cubic Foot (pounds)

Front-Loading washing machines56

Stacked washer-dryer laundry centers85

In the following sections of this article, I provide 40 real examples of popular washers, dryers, washer-dryer combos, and stacked laundry centers and reveal to you exactly how much they weigh

Also, I explain why washing machines are so heavy and provide tips for moving these clunky appliances

You already know that washing machines and dryers are heavy, but how much do they actually weigh?

In the chart below, you’ll find 40 of the most popular washing machines and dryers compared by weight, type, and capacity

ApplianceTypeWeight (pounds)Capacity (cubic feet)See Product Listing

Bosch 300 SeriesFront-Loading Washer15822HomeDepotcom

Whirlpool High-Efficiency Commercial Front-Loading Washer23531HomeDepotcom

Samsung High-EfficiencyFront-Loading Washer19442HomeDepotcom

GE High-EfficiencyFront-Loading Washer24545HomeDepotcom

LG Ultra Large CapacityFront-Loading Washer20345HomeDepotcom

Samsung High-Efficiency FlexWashFront-Loading Washer29355HomeDepotcom

LG Signature High-EfficiencyFront-Loading Washer23958HomeDepotcom

GE Capacity StationaryTop-Loading Washer9928HomeDepotcom

Whirlpool White CommercialTop-Loading Washer12033HomeDepotcom

Whirlpool High-Efficiency WhiteTop-Loading Washer13543HomeDepotcom

Maytag High-EfficiencyTop-Loading Washer15242HomeDepotcom

GE WhiteTop-Loading Washer14742HomeDepotcom

GE High-Efficiency WhiteTop-Loading Washer13846HomeDepotcom

Maytag High-Efficiency WhiteTop-Loading Washer13453HomeDepotcom

Samsung High-EfficiencyTop-Loading Washer14352HomeDepotcom

LG White Electric VentlessDryer10542HomeDepotcom

Whirlpool White Commercial Electric VentedDryer14767HomeDepotcom

LG Electronics Ultra Large Capacity Electric DryerDryer12274HomeDepotcom

Samsung Electric Dryer WhiteDryer12675HomeDepotcom

Samsung Electric FlexDryDryer16775HomeDepotcom

Whirlpool White Electric VentedDryer1097HomeDepotcom

Maytag White Gas Vented Dryer1137HomeDepotcom

GE White Electric VentedDryer10772HomeDepotcom

Samsung Electric DryerDryer12674HomeDepotcom

GE White Gas VentedDryer11874HomeDepotcom

Haier Ventless ElectricWasher-Dryer Combo14820HomeDepotcom

LG Graphite SteelWasher-Dryer Combo25623HomeDepotcom

Whirlpool Cashmere Ventless Smart All-In-OneWasher-Dryer Combo20028HomeDepotcom

Deco Electric All-in-OneWasher-Dryer Combo161157HomeDepotcom

Magic ChefWasher-Dryer Combo16027HomeDepotcom

Whirlpool Electric StackedLaundry Center19016HomeDepotcom

FrigidaireLaundry Center28039HomeDepotcom

GELaundry Center24938HomeDepotcom

WhirlpoolLaundry Center25035HomeDepotcom

The capacity of every washer and dryer is measured in cubic feet

This number tells you how much laundry the unit can handle in a single load

According to BestBuycom, “regular-sized” washers fall between 3 and 4 cubic feet and can hold up to 16 pounds of laundry

Extra-large washers often have over 5 cubic feet of capacity and can hold 20 pounds of laundry, or more

Dryers need even more capacity than washers because they need to fit an entire load of laundry AND have enough space for hot air to circulate

As a general rule of thumb, a dryer’s capacity should be about twice as much as its accompanying washer

Most of the time, washer and dryers are sold in sets, so you won’t have to worry about matching up the sizes of the two appliances–unless you are buying only one at a time

As you see in the chart above, I list out a wide range of washers and dryers so you can compare the weight of appliances with only 22 cubic feet of capacity, all the way up to 75 cubic feet

Washer-Dryer Combos

Washer-dryer combos, as their name suggests, are appliances that wash and dry your clothes within a single unit

But, despite their smaller size, they are 50 pounds heavier than top-loading washing machines (185 vs

A laundry center is a vertically stacked unit that typically has the washer on the bottom and dryer on top

Similar to washer-dryer combos, these units are designed for smaller apartments, condos, and homes without enough space to fit two separate washer and dryer units

Laundry centers tend to offer less capacity in terms of cubic feet, but they’re very heavy (238 pounds on average) since it’s two appliances attached

I got the weight of each washer and dryer in this chart from the following sources:

HomeDepotcom

LGcom

Bosch-Homecom

Samsungcom

Whirlpoolcom

Maytagcom

If you’re considering buying a specific washing machine or dryer and need to know the exact weigh to ensure you can transport it safely, you should check directly with the manufacturer

Almost all washing machines are constructed with a solid block of concrete at the base to add balance and stability so that the machine doesn’t move or tip, especially during spin cycles

According to Vibrobeton DLC, a manufacturer of washing machine counterweights, these concrete blocks alone can weigh a whopping 55 pounds!

Also, washing machines have several other heavy components

As outlined in this HowStuffWorks article, most washers have two steel tubs (inner and outer), a gearbox, a motor, and a solid metal frame

All of these components add up to significant weight, 170 pounds on average, according to our research

Tips for Moving Washing Machines and Dryers

Like most large home appliances, washing machines and dryers are heavy, clunky, and awkward to move

I’m not going to lie, moving them can be difficult—especially if you don’t know what you’re doing

If you’re bringing a new washer and dryer into your house or moving your current washer and dryer out, the following are tips that will make the process more manageable

As you prepare to move your washer and dryer, the first step is to clean

If your washer doesn’t have a self-cleaning cycle, fill the drum with hot water and bleach and let it soak for an hour

Helpful Resource: This guide on wikiHowcom has a bunch of great tips and tricks for cleaning the inside of your washer

Scrub the rubber door seal, dispensers, and exterior of the washer and dryer with a microfiber cloth and a mixture of water and vinegar

The next step is to gather the necessary supplies and equipment

You’ll need furniture blankets, moving tape, an appliance dolly (I highly recommend this one on Amazon), and moving straps (like these)

Disconnect the Washer and Dryer

Before you move your washer and dryer, you need to disconnect all of the cords, tubes, vents, and pipes

Disconnecting a Washing Machine

If you don’t know what you’re doing, stop right here and talk to a professional

Now, if you’re confident in your ability to safely disconnect your appliances, go for it

Just remember, before disconnecting anything, shut off the electricity via your circuit breaker panel and turn off the water and gas supply

Connect Transit Bolts to the Washer

Washing Machine Drum

If you don’t secure the drum before moving the washer, the drum will move freely, and you risk damaging this suspension mechanism

It’s easy, use transit bolts

Most washing machines come with transit bolts, but if you can’t find yours, just Google “[your washer model] + transit/shipping bolts,” and you should be able to find them

Installing transit bolts is relatively simple, but I won’t get into the details because every manufacturer is slightly different

Protect Your Appliances and Home

Washers and dryers are expensive—and so is your house—so take the proper steps to protect both during the move

Tape the loose cords and tubes to the back of your washer and dryer, so you don’t trip over them during the move

Wrap each appliance with furniture pads and secure them with moving tape, shrink-wrap, or moving bands

If you’re not sure how, check out this quick video

Drape handrails with furniture pads in case you bump into them and cover the floor with cardboard in any areas you think you might need to put down the appliance to rest (the bottom or top of the stairs are great spots for this)

Never move your washer or dryer by yourself!

Helpful Resource: How to Get Friends to Help You Move (Movingcom)

Even with the proper preparation and equipment, it’s not safe to maneuver such heavy and awkward appliances alone

At the very least, you’ll need someone to spot you on the other side of the dolly and make sure you don’t slam into any walls or clip any furniture

Move Your Washer and Dryer With a Dolly

When it comes to moving your washer and dryer, I highly recommend using an appliance dolly, like this one on Amazon

Position the dolly in the back or the side of the washer or dryer

Most professionals recommend the side to avoid the cords and tubes that are located in the back, but more importantly, position the dolly so that the weight is balanced and you have complete control

Once the dolly is in position, wrap the strap around the appliance and secure it according to your dolly’s instructions

It shouldn’t be tipped so far back that it feels like your carrying the appliance, but it also shouldn’t be so upright that it feels like it’s going to tip forward

Your helper should always be standing on the other side of the appliance helping to balance, steer, and avoid bumping into walls or any other object

If any of these steps are unclear, check out this quick video that demonstrates how to position, secure, and move a washer with an appliance dolly

Helpful Resource: Check out this article from Dollycom to find more helpful tips on moving heavy washers and dryers

It includes special tips for moving these appliances up and down staircases, loading them onto a truck, and storing them safely

If you’re dreading the day that you have to move your washer and dryer, consider this

Almost every appliance retailer, including home improvement stores like Home Depot, will deliver and install your washer and dryer for you

So, if you’re buying new, you don’t have to worry about breaking your back operating an appliance dolly for the first time

If you’re moving to a new home and taking your appliances with you, you have a few options

Generally, moving companies charge by the total weight of the job or by the hour

Adding two appliances to the packing list won’t make much of a difference cost-wise

Get free quotes from local moving companies in minutes on HomeAdvisorcom

The second option is to leave your washer and dryer behind

Most sellers include the washer and dryer as part of the sale since they are such a hassle to move, and the dimensions may not match up perfectly in the new house

If you don’t have to lug them up or down a long flight of stairs, it’s not that bad

Just remember to clean, prepare, gather the equipment, and enlist your strongest friend

The Most Reliable Washer and Dryer Brands (and Brands to Avoid)

Ventless Dryers: Key Differences & How to Choose

How Much Water Does a Washing Machine Use?

How to Fix a Dryer That’s Not Drying (10 DIY Solutions)

Do Dryer Balls Work?

Dryer Balls vs

Dryer Sheets: What Are the Differences?

Average Refrigerator Weight (With 14 Examples)

Average Cast Iron Bathtub Weight (With 15 Examples)

Tankless Water Heaters: 7 Pros and 6 Cons You Need to Know

Washers provide a smooth bearing surface and are used under the head of a bolt and/or a nut

Flat washers are covered under the ASTM specification F844

These washers are unhardened and intended for general use

Origin: Import

Finish: Plain and hot-dip galvanized

Portland Bolt has the ability to manufacture or provide nonstandard square, rectangular, or round washers meeting the requirements of ASTM A36, A572 Grade 50, or F436

Import

If you’re thinking of buying a new washing machine or you’re moving the one you have to another room in your house, you’ll want to know how much it weighs

We’ve researched the topic for you, and we’ll discuss what weights you can expect for different types of washers

Your washer’s weight depends on its size, capacity, type, and what it’s made of

Front-loading washers generally weigh between 140-250 pounds while top-loading washers often weigh between 65-150 pounds

Particularly large washers can weigh up to 300 pounds

We’ll go into more detail on typical weights for washers of various sizes and capacities, discuss having an upstairs laundry room, and walk you through the process for moving a washer

Washer Size, Capacity, And Weight

You probably noticed that both front-loading and top-loading washers can possess a wide range of weights

Much of this variation is the result of differences in washer sizes and capacities

Obviously, there’s a lot of weight variation in these ranges, as they’re merely generalizations

It’s possible that you could find a washer labeled as medium or large capacity with a weight that’s outside of the ranges we’ve listed

Luckily, if you want to know the weight of any particular washer, the manufacturer should have that model’s specifications readily available

Is A Washer Or Dryer Heavier?

Washers are usually (though not always) heavier than dryers

Dryers often weigh about 100-170 pounds, but you can find some that weigh less than this range fairly easily

Washers are deliberately built to be heavier so that they don’t move even when they’re washing lots of clothes

Among other heavy components, washers have a 55-pound concrete block inside them that serves as a counterweight

Can You Put A Washer And Dryer Upstairs?

Most people probably imagine washers and dryers as appliances that belong on a house’s main floor, or even in the basement

However, these days you’ll find that some homeowners prefer to have an upstairs laundry room instead

Keeping your washer and dryer upstairs is a perfectly valid option, but you should consider the advantages and disadvantages of doing so before you make the commitment

Advantages Of Upstairs Laundry Rooms

The biggest argument in favor of upstairs laundry rooms is the sheer convenience they offer

Assuming your home’s bedrooms are on the second floor as well, you won’t have to carry laundry baskets up and down the stairs since you normally store clothes and bedsheets in the bedrooms anyway

In addition, placing your laundry room so close to the bedrooms means everyone can quickly stop by to drop their clothes in the laundry bin when necessary

Speaking of laundry baskets, you can check out our posts on where to keep them and how to keep them smelling fresh

Disadvantages Of Upstairs Laundry Rooms

However, upstairs laundry rooms do come with some potential negatives as well

Washers and dryers make noise when they’re in use, which can frustrate anyone nearby who’s trying to sleep

You can also consider buying washers and dryers designed to work quietly or installing pipe insulation

You should also take measures to prevent your washer from vibrating and moving across the floor while it’s in operation

You might also notice that your upper floor gets noticeably warmer every time you run the dryer during the summer

One way to reduce this risk is to keep the laundry room door closed, though you may still feel some extra heat

Lastly, you should take precautions against flooding or water damage in your laundry room

Reducing The Risk Of Floods In An Upstairs Laundry Room

The possibility of flooding and water damage is the biggest downside of an upstairs laundry room

If you install a water shutoff valve, you can cut off the washer’s water supply when it’s not in operation

You can also install a water sensor that turns off the water supply if it detects a leak or flooding

Finally, you can set the washer in a drain pan which will collect any water that overflows from the machine and direct it to an attached pipe that serves as a drain

Attempting to move your washer entirely by yourself is a bad idea

Almost every method you can find for transporting a washing machine will require you to have help for at least one step in the process

How To Move A Washer

You’ll need an appliance dolly, some padded moving or furniture blankets, some moving straps, packing tape, a bucket, transit bolts, your washer owner’s manual, and a wrench or pair of pliers

You should start this process a day or so before you plan on moving the washer to accommodate the 24 hours of drying out mentioned in step 1

Make sure your washer doesn’t have any clothes in it

Next, clean out the washer using a short wash or rinse cycle (you can use your machine’s clean cycle instead if it has one)

For this step, you can either run the washer only with water or add a washing machine cleaner pack

Leave the lid open and let the machine sit for 24 hours once the cleaning is done so it can dry out

Using your house’s breaker panel, turn off electricity to your washer

Unplug the washer and tape the cord to the side of the machine

This will stop the cord from getting in your way when you move the washer

Turn off the washer’s water supply

The water supply valves are usually found behind the washer, and you turn them clockwise to cut off the water flow

You might have to move the washer slightly away from the wall to reach the valves if there’s not enough room for you to fit, but make sure you don’t yank any of the lines loose

Install the transit bolts

Cover and wrap the washer with the moving blankets

Use some more packing tape to keep the blankets secure

Have your friends help you carefully raise one side of the washer and get the dolly underneath it

Use the moving straps to hold the washer against the dolly

Proceed slowly and exercise caution as you move the washer out of your house

As we’ve discussed, washers are incredibly heavy, and you don’t want anyone to get injured during the moving process

Here are some moving tips:

Move carefully through doorways and around corners so you don’t damage any walls or the machine

Always have a spotter underneath the dolly when you move the washer up or down sets of stairs

They should help you to gently raise or lower the washer to each step

Use a ramp to get the washer on your moving truck

If you don’t have a ramp, have your friends help you lift it

Now that the washer is on your moving truck, secure it with some moving straps to make sure it stays in place while you’re driving and doesn’t tip over or slide

Washers are heavy appliances, and moving them can be a pain

However, if you buy the right size washer for your needs, carefully consider where you want to install it in your house, and get help from friends or professional movers when needed during the moving process, you’ll be on your way to enjoying fresh laundry in no time!