Don't Let Storage Ruin Your Washer: How to Store a Washing Machine So It Works Like New

A washing machine is one of the heaviest and most expensive appliances in your home, so storing it properly is worth the extra effort. While it may seem as simple as unplugging it and placing it in a storage unit, skipping a few important preparation steps can lead to unpleasant odors, mold, rust, damaged hoses, or mechanical issues that prevent it from working properly when you're ready to use it again. Whether you're remodeling your home, replacing flooring, downsizing, or storing appliances between moves, taking the time to prepare your washer correctly helps protect your investment. A clean, dry, and properly positioned washing machine can remain in excellent condition for months or even years.

If you're looking for secure storage throughout the western United States, Stor-N-Lock offers convenient self-storage locations, including:

• Storage options in California
• Storage options in Colorado
• Storage options in Idaho
• Storage options in Utah

No matter which location you choose, using the right storage techniques will help ensure your washing machine is ready to go when you bring it home again.

Key Points for Readers Short on Time

• Disconnect, drain, and thoroughly dry your washing machine before storing it.
• Secure the drum with shipping bolts whenever possible to protect internal components during transport.
• Store the washer upright on a pallet or moisture barrier rather than directly on concrete.
• Leave the washer door slightly open to prevent mildew and lingering odors.
• Pack your storage unit carefully so your washing machine remains accessible and protected throughout storage.

Why Proper Washing Machine Storage Matters

Unlike many household appliances, washing machines often contain water inside their pumps, hoses, valves, and internal components. Even after running the final load of laundry, small amounts of moisture remain hidden throughout the machine. If that moisture stays trapped inside a closed appliance for weeks or months, it creates an ideal environment for mold, mildew, unpleasant smells, and corrosion. Modern washing machines also contain electronic control boards, suspension systems, bearings, and sensors that perform best when protected from unnecessary impacts and moisture. Spending an hour preparing the appliance before storage can save hundreds of dollars in repairs or replacement later. If you're storing multiple appliances, you'll also benefit from learning the proper techniques in this guide on the right way to store appliances in a storage unit, which covers best practices for refrigerators, dryers, ovens, and other large household equipment.

Step One: Disconnect the Washer Safely

Begin by unplugging the washing machine from the electrical outlet. Turn off both the hot and cold water supply valves before disconnecting the hoses. Even after shutting off the water, expect some remaining water inside the hoses, so keep towels and a shallow bucket nearby to catch any spills. After disconnecting everything, inspect the hoses carefully. If they show cracks, bulges, corrosion, or worn fittings, replacing them before reinstalling the washer is often a better option than storing damaged components. Take a few photos of the hose connections before removing them. These pictures make reconnecting everything much easier after months in storage.

Drain Every Drop of Water

One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming the washing machine is already empty. In reality, water remains inside several parts of the appliance. Check your owner's manual to locate the drain pump filter or emergency drain hose if your model has one. Remove any remaining water and clean out lint, coins, buttons, or debris that may have collected inside. Next, allow gravity to help remove leftover water by lowering the drain hose into a bucket. Tilting the machine very slightly can also help drain trapped water, although it should never be laid completely on its side for extended periods. Removing every bit of moisture greatly reduces the chances of mold developing while the appliance sits in storage.

Clean the Interior Thoroughly

A washing machine may look clean after doing laundry, but detergent residue, fabric softener, minerals, and bacteria gradually build up inside the drum and detergent dispenser. Run a cleaning cycle before storage if possible. Many newer machines include a self-clean setting specifically for this purpose. If yours does not, running an empty hot water cycle with a washing machine cleaner or white vinegar helps remove residue.

Once finished, wipe down:

• The drum
• Rubber door gasket
• Door glass
• Detensent drawer
• Fabric softener compartment
• Exterior surfaces
• Control panel

Front-loading washers deserve extra attention around the rubber door seal, where moisture commonly collects. After cleaning, leave the door open for at least 24 hours so the interior can dry completely.

Secure the Drum Before Moving

Inside every washing machine is a heavy stainless steel drum suspended by springs and shock absorbers. During transportation, this drum can shift significantly if it isn't secured. If you still have the original shipping bolts that came with your washer, reinstall them before moving the appliance. These bolts lock the drum in place and prevent unnecessary movement that can damage the suspension system. If the original bolts are unavailable, check with the manufacturer to see if replacements can be purchased. This small investment provides valuable protection during transportation and storage.

Wrap and Protect the Exterior

Once the washer is completely dry, protect the exterior finish before moving it into storage. Moving blankets provide excellent cushioning against scratches and dents. Stretch wrap can help keep blankets in place, although it should not completely seal the appliance because small amounts of trapped moisture need an opportunity to escape.

Tape loose cords and hoses securely against the back of the machine to prevent tripping hazards and avoid damage while transporting the appliance. Moving the washing machine with an appliance dolly and assistance from another person also reduces the risk of injury, as most residential washers weigh between 150 and 250 pounds.

Choose the Right Spot Inside Your Storage Unit

Where you place your washing machine inside the storage unit is almost as important as how you prepare it. Setting the appliance directly on a concrete floor may expose it to condensation that can develop over time. While storage facilities are designed to keep your belongings secure, raising heavy appliances a few inches off the floor provides an extra layer of protection. Place the washing machine on a wooden pallet, sturdy boards, or another moisture barrier before positioning it in the unit. This allows air to circulate underneath and helps reduce the chance of moisture transferring to the base of the appliance. Once it is in place, store it upright. Washing machines are engineered to remain vertical, and laying one on its side or back for long periods can allow residual fluids to reach areas they were never meant to enter. As you organize your belongings, avoid stacking heavy furniture, boxes, or equipment against the washer. Even if the appliance appears sturdy, unnecessary pressure on the control panel, lid, or door can cause cosmetic damage or affect the machine's alignment over time.

Leave the Door Slightly Open

Many people assume they should tightly close every appliance before putting it into storage. Surprisingly, washing machines are an exception. Keeping the washer door or lid slightly open allows air to circulate inside the drum. This simple step helps prevent mildew, stale odors, and moisture buildup that can develop when an appliance remains sealed for months. If you're concerned about the door swinging open, place a soft towel between the frame and the door or use painter's tape to hold it gently ajar without damaging the finish. When you return to retrieve your washing machine, you'll likely be greeted with a fresh, clean interior instead of unpleasant odors that require additional cleaning.

Organize Your Storage Unit for Easy Access

A well-organized storage unit protects every item inside, including large appliances. It can also save you significant time if you need to retrieve something before you're ready to move everything out. Instead of placing the washing machine in the very back and stacking dozens of boxes in front of it, think about future accessibility. Leave a narrow walkway through the unit whenever possible so you can reach major appliances without unloading half of your belongings.

Heavy items should always be stored on the bottom, with lighter boxes above them. Furniture can be arranged around the washing machine without placing weight directly against it, and fragile items should remain well away from areas where the appliance could accidentally shift during loading or unloading. If you're storing an entire household, careful planning makes a noticeable difference. This guide on how to pack your storage unit right the first time shares additional strategies for maximizing space while keeping your belongings protected and easy to locate.

How Long Can a Washing Machine Stay in Storage?

A properly prepared washing machine can remain in storage for many months or even several years without experiencing problems. The key is eliminating moisture before storage, protecting the appliance from unnecessary impacts, and checking on it periodically if you have regular access to your unit. If your storage period extends beyond a year, consider inspecting the washer every few months. Confirm that no moisture has developed inside, verify that pests have not entered the unit, and ensure nothing has shifted against the appliance. These occasional inspections only take a few minutes but can help identify small issues before they become expensive repairs.

Mistakes That Can Damage a Washing Machine During Storage

Although storing a washer is relatively straightforward, a handful of common mistakes account for most storage-related damage. Avoiding these issues can greatly increase the likelihood that your appliance works perfectly when it's time to reinstall it.

Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Storing the washer with water still inside the pump or hoses.
• Forgetting to clean detergent residue from the drum and dispenser.
• Lying the machine on its side during long-term storage.
• Closing the washer door tightly while moisture remains inside.
• Allowing heavy furniture or boxes to press against the appliance.
• Skipping the drum shipping bolts during transport.
• Placing the washer directly on bare concrete for extended periods.

Fortunately, every one of these problems is easy to prevent with a little preparation before moving day.

Making Storage Part of Your Next Adventure

Across California, Colorado, Idaho, and Utah, many homeowners store household appliances while spending more time enjoying everything the region has to offer. Some families are renovating before exploring the national parks of Utah, while others are preparing for camping trips in Idaho, visiting Colorado's scenic mountain communities, or planning coastal getaways throughout California. Keeping large appliances safely stored during these transitions helps free up valuable space at home while protecting equipment that will be needed again in the future. Organizations such as the National Park Service offer inspiration for outdoor adventures throughout the western United States, making it easier to enjoy your time away while knowing your belongings are properly stored. The American Cleaning Institute also provides practical guidance on appliance care and household cleaning, helping homeowners maintain washers and other laundry equipment for years of reliable performance. 

Taking the time to prepare your washing machine for storage is a small investment that can prevent costly repairs and unnecessary frustration later. Thorough cleaning, complete drying, proper positioning, and thoughtful organization all work together to protect one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. When you're ready to reconnect your washer, you'll appreciate knowing it has been stored with care and is ready for many more loads of laundry.

Stor-N-Lock provides convenient self-storage solutions throughout the West, including:

• Storage options in California
• Storage options in Colorado
• Storage options in Idaho
• Storage options in Utah

Using these storage best practices alongside a secure storage unit helps keep your washing machine protected until it's ready to return to service.