Washing machine won’t spin: The best tips for clogged washing machines

It is not uncommon for washing machines to stop spinning or spinning. This can happen due to a number of problems with your device, most of which you can easily fix yourself and get your machine back up and running in no time. It is also important to constantly maintain your washing machine so that it does not break down in the future.

In this article we would like to give you a few tips and tricks to repair your washing machine effectively and quickly and to help you prevent your washing machine from breaking down in the future with some maintenance tips. Have fun while reading!

The essentials in brief

•  Washing machine overfilling, unbalanced load, faulty ceiling switch, inadequate (or no) drainage, motor malfunction and stuck clothes are the most common reasons.
• In most cases the repair is very easy to carry out. You need the tools that can be found in a normal household and sometimes spare parts that you can buy at the nearest hardware store or online.
• Washing machine maintenance can help you avoid breakdowns that could render the appliance inoperable – or worse, lead to leaks and costly water damage.

How does spinning work?

A spin function in a washing machine is used to remove excess water from laundry. Clothes usually remain a little wet after a spin cycle, even on machines with an integrated drying function.

The spinning process occurs at the end of the washing cycle, but is also useful in the middle as it helps separate the detergent particles from the clothing.

Clothes are placed into a tall cylinder barrel through the opening in a washing machine and the drum inside rotates at high frequency, measured in revolutions per minute (rpm).

In this article we will distinguish between two types of washing machines:

The rotational forces created by spinning push clothing against the wall of a drum, removing water in the process. The higher the speed, the higher the quality of the spin.

What are the reasons why your washing machine won’t spin and how can you repair it yourself?

Regardless of whether you have a top-loading or front-loading washing machine, if it breaks down it can wreak havoc throughout the day. If the machine stops spinning and draining in the middle of a cycle, you’ll have to deal with all that wet clothing.

If it stops working at the end of your wash load, the countdown begins on how long it will take to get the machine fixed and you worry about how much it will cost.

Below are the most common reasons why your washing machine won’t spin.

Overfilled washing machine

A washer that won’t spin—or a washer that spins but shakes and makes a series of loud popping noises—can be a sign that the washer is overloaded or is about to overload.

In most cases, a washing machine overload was caused by putting too many heavy items in the washer before turning it on. This can unbalance the washer’s operation and cause a loud cracking noise during the spin cycle.

If you reduce the load on the washer and rule out problems with the legs and the problem doesn’t go away, the next step would be to reset the washer. Sometimes you can simply unplug the washing machine, wait five minutes, and then plug it back in.

If this doesn’t work, you may need to perform a master reset: machines with digital menus often have a dedicated reset button to accomplish this.

For other washers, you may need to go through a specific reset sequence, which you can find in your owner’s manual.

Unbalanced load

Your spin cycle won’t work as well, or at all, if the wash load isn’t balanced. Generally, this happens when you’re trying to clean one or two heavy items like a comforter, bath towel, or washable pet bed and something clumps into one big, grumpy lump.

Interestingly, an unbalanced load can also cause the opposite problem, an ineffective spin cycle that won’t stop.

For a front loader, open the machine and wait until it automatically unlocks at the end of its cycle. Manually move the content to distribute it more evenly.

Unbalanced washer

It could be the positioning of the appliance itself that is causing the hiccups in the spin cycle. Usually, this problem cannot be ignored because your washing machine makes it loud and clear – with lots of noise and vibration.

A front loader can even “walk” through your laundry room.  Adjust the small legs of the washing machine so that the whole thing is completely level.

Faulty lid switch

This only applies to top loaders. Top loaders have a device called a lid switch that signals the washing machine when the lid is not closed properly. If your lid switch stops working, do not spin your washing machine for safety reasons.

There is a small protrusion on the bottom of the lid that activates the switch when you close the lid. If it’s out of shape so it doesn’t make contact, just bend it back.

If that doesn’t help, replace the lid switch (most models cost $50 or less).

Insufficient (or no) drainage or clogged pump

One of the most common reasons why your washing machine stops spinning or even spinning is that it cannot drain properly due to a clogged drain pump.

This can happen if something gets stuck in the outlet pipe and is preventing the steady flow of water in and out of the machine. This could be a collection of lint or a small object like a coin or bobby pin.

You may find that draining your machine takes longer or is not complete if your drain pump is blocked.

If you need to inspect the drain pump yourself, you will need to remove the cover from the machine. Unscrew the lid and remove it. Then remove the gasket from the door and unscrew the detergent container housing.

The drain pump is located near the bottom of the machine and in a translucent casing. So you should be able to see whether there is a sock or another object inside.

In this case, after disconnecting the drain hose with needle-nose pliers, you can remove it by loosening the clamp with a screwdriver.

If there is nothing inside the case, put your finger in and feel the wheels. If any are defective, you have to replace the pump. It is also possible that the belt that drives the pump has broken. If so, it is obvious and you can replace the belt.

Motor malfunction or worn motor brushes

Motor brushes in your washing machine are used to connect the drum to the motor. The brushes may become worn over time. This means the machine will fill with water and drain as normal.

However, the drum itself cannot rotate and your clothes will not be cleaned effectively. New carbon brushes are inexpensive and are attached to the motor via a connecting wire. Here you should seek advice from specialists and not repair it yourself.

Stuck clothing

Small objects like bra wires and other items can get stuck under or around the inner drum – but how do you know if something might be stuck in your drum? An indication of this is if your machine makes a strange noise when rotating the drum during or after washing.

It’s important to remove unwanted items as this can result in a perforated drum, which can cause flooding in your home (and irreparable damage to your machine). Here are simple instructions on how you can do it yourself.

You need:

• screwdriver
• Cable ties (optional)
• flashlight

Safety first! Make sure you have unplugged the device before starting the repair. You can remove the object if it is visible. Spin the drum slowly and try to determine where the noise is coming from. Use your hands very carefully (or pliers).

If you spin your drum and see and feel a lot of resistance, it may mean that something is trapped between the inner drum and the outer drum – such as a small piece of clothing. Put a small gap in the gasket between the gasket and the inner drum.

When you spin the drum again, you may be lucky enough to see the object that is stopping it from spinning.

You should pay careful attention to unusual noises.

If you still can’t see the object, it might be a good idea to use a thin, flexible probe like a zip tie. If you work this around the outside of the inner drum, see if you can feel where the object is.

If you can free it with your hands, that’s great. But what can happen is that the item can break in half. You don’t want the other half trapped in the machine.

To remove this object, you can use a flathead screwdriver and wedge it between the inner drum and the door seal so that you can gently pry it back to make more room for the object.

Finally, rotate your drum to make sure the gap between the drum and the seal is even.

Washing machine care and cleaning: The best tips & tricks for a clean and functioning washing machine

Your washing machine offers a lot of support to the household. Below we answer the most frequently asked questions and give you tips and tricks.

How can you clean a washing machine?

If your washing machine smells bad, it’s time to give it a thorough cleaning. Below we will show you the solutions.

Front loading washing machine cleaning

What you need:

• White cleaning vinegar
• spray bottle
• Microfiber fabric
• Baking soda

Before cleaning the washer drum, clean the seal by spraying it with white vinegar and wiping it with a damp microfiber cloth. The rubber seal on the front of the washing machine, especially in a heavy-duty washer, collects water, hair, scum and mildew.

If it stops working at the end of your wash load, the countdown begins on how long it will take to get the machine fixed and you worry about how much it will cost.

Below are the most common reasons why your washing machine won’t spin.

Overfilled washing machine

A washer that won’t spin—or a washer that spins but shakes and makes a series of loud popping noises—can be a sign that the washer is overloaded or is about to overload.

In most cases, a washing machine overload was caused by putting too many heavy items in the washer before turning it on. This can unbalance the washer’s operation and cause a loud cracking noise during the spin cycle.

If you reduce the load on the washer and rule out problems with the legs and the problem doesn’t go away, the next step would be to reset the washer. Sometimes you can simply unplug the washing machine, wait five minutes, and then plug it back in.

If this doesn’t work, you may need to perform a master reset: machines with digital menus often have a dedicated reset button to accomplish this.

For other washers, you may need to go through a specific reset sequence, which you can find in your owner’s manual.

Unbalanced load

Your spin cycle won’t work as well, or at all, if the wash load isn’t balanced. Generally, this happens when you’re trying to clean one or two heavy items like a comforter, bath towel, or washable pet bed and something clumps into one big, grumpy lump.

Interestingly, an unbalanced load can also cause the opposite problem, an ineffective spin cycle that won’t stop.

For a front loader, open the machine and wait until it automatically unlocks at the end of its cycle. Manually move the content to distribute it more evenly.

Unbalanced washer

It could be the positioning of the appliance itself that is causing the hiccups in the spin cycle. Usually, this problem cannot be ignored because your washing machine makes it loud and clear – with lots of noise and vibration.

A front loader can even “walk” through your laundry room.  Adjust the small legs of the washing machine so that the whole thing is completely level.

Faulty lid switch

This only applies to top loaders. Top loaders have a device called a lid switch that signals the washing machine when the lid is not closed properly. If your lid switch stops working, do not spin your washing machine for safety reasons.

There is a small protrusion on the bottom of the lid that activates the switch when you close the lid. If it’s out of shape so it doesn’t make contact, just bend it back.

If that doesn’t help, replace the lid switch (most models cost $50 or less).

Insufficient (or no) drainage or clogged pump

One of the most common reasons why your washing machine stops spinning or even spinning is that it cannot drain properly due to a clogged drain pump.

This can happen if something gets stuck in the outlet pipe and is preventing the steady flow of water in and out of the machine. This could be a collection of lint or a small object like a coin or bobby pin.

You may find that draining your machine takes longer or is not complete if your drain pump is blocked.

If you need to inspect the drain pump yourself, you will need to remove the cover from the machine. Unscrew the lid and remove it. Then remove the gasket from the door and unscrew the detergent container housing.

The drain pump is located near the bottom of the machine and in a translucent casing. So you should be able to see whether there is a sock or another object inside.

In this case, after disconnecting the drain hose with needle-nose pliers, you can remove it by loosening the clamp with a screwdriver.

If there is nothing inside the case, put your finger in and feel the wheels. If any are defective, you have to replace the pump. It is also possible that the belt that drives the pump has broken. If so, it is obvious and you can replace the belt.

Motor malfunction or worn motor brushes

Motor brushes in your washing machine are used to connect the drum to the motor. The brushes may become worn over time. This means the machine will fill with water and drain as normal.

However, the drum itself cannot rotate and your clothes will not be cleaned effectively. New carbon brushes are inexpensive and are attached to the motor via a connecting wire. Here you should seek advice from specialists and not repair it yourself.

Stuck clothing

Small objects like bra wires and other items can get stuck under or around the inner drum – but how do you know if something might be stuck in your drum? An indication of this is if your machine makes a strange noise when rotating the drum during or after washing.

It’s important to remove unwanted items as this can result in a perforated drum, which can cause flooding in your home (and irreparable damage to your machine). Here are simple instructions on how you can do it yourself.

You need:

• screwdriver
• Cable ties (optional)
• flashlight

Safety first! Make sure you have unplugged the device before starting the repair. You can remove the object if it is visible. Spin the drum slowly and try to determine where the noise is coming from. Use your hands very carefully (or pliers).

If you spin your drum and see and feel a lot of resistance, it may mean that something is trapped between the inner drum and the outer drum – such as a small piece of clothing. Put a small gap in the gasket between the gasket and the inner drum.

When you spin the drum again, you may be lucky enough to see the object that is stopping it from spinning.

You should pay careful attention to unusual noises.

If you still can’t see the object, it might be a good idea to use a thin, flexible probe like a zip tie. If you work this around the outside of the inner drum, see if you can feel where the object is.

If you can free it with your hands, that’s great. But what can happen is that the item can break in half. You don’t want the other half trapped in the machine.

To remove this object, you can use a flathead screwdriver and wedge it between the inner drum and the door seal so that you can gently pry it back to make more room for the object.

Finally, rotate your drum to make sure the gap between the drum and the seal is even.

Washing machine care and cleaning: The best tips & tricks for a clean and functioning washing machine

Your washing machine offers a lot of support to the household. Below we answer the most frequently asked questions and give you tips and tricks.

How can you clean a washing machine?

If your washing machine smells bad, it’s time to give it a thorough cleaning. Below we will show you the solutions.

Front loading washing machine cleaning

What you need:

• White cleaning vinegar
• spray bottle
• Microfiber fabric
• Baking soda

Before cleaning the washer drum, clean the seal by spraying it with white vinegar and wiping it with a damp microfiber cloth. The rubber seal on the front of the washing machine, especially in a heavy-duty washer, collects water, hair, scum and mildew.

Replace the water hoses

Check the hoses regularly for bulges, cracks, gouges, and leaks at the ends. Replace the hose when a problem is discovered or every three to five years as part of a proactive maintenance program.

Keep the machine level

A washer that is out of balance may vibrate, rock, or roll across the floor during the spin cycle, which can damage the floor or machine. Balance the washer by rotating the legs clockwise to lower it and counterclockwise to raise it.

Move the washing machine

Make sure there is at least 10 centimeters of space between your washing machine and the wall to avoid kinking in the hoses.

Clean the lint filter

Depending on the type of washing machine you have, the lint collector may be located in the agitator tube, which is the center column of most machines, or near the top of the wash tub. Keep it clean so your washing machine runs efficiently.

Wash the washing machine

Rinse away soap scum and buildup by running store-bought washer cleaner or a solution of hot water, vinegar, and baking soda through an empty load.

Avoid musty smells and mildew

Leave the washer lid or door open between loads to dry out the appliance and keep it smelling fresh. For front-loading washing machines, wipe the rubber seal around the door after washing your laundry.

Measure your detergent

Read the machine’s instruction manual to make sure you’re using the right type and amount of detergent for your machine. Too much soap can leave residue on your clothes and cause excessive wear and tear on your washing machine.

Don’t overload the washing machine

Use the appropriate amount of water for the size of the load. Wash heavy or bulky items in small loads as these place greater strain on the appliance.

Add a drain pan under your washing machine

This is an important addition to an upstairs laundry room as water leaks can damage the floors below.

We advise you to check all the tips mentioned here. If your problem is still not resolved, we advise you to seek advice from specialists.

Conclusion

So there are many ways to keep your washing machine in good condition and operational. Regular washing machine maintenance goes a long way in ensuring that machines last for years. The truth is, you can do most of these things right at home.