If your washing machine sounds like something is stuck in the drum, it's most commonly due to small items such as bra wires, coins, keys, or zips that have escaped from clothing and become trapped. These items can cause a distinctive rattling, scraping, or clunking noise as the drum rotates.
Common Culprits Behind the Noise
The primary reason for these unsettling noises is often a foreign object lodged in a place it shouldn't be. Items can slip through gaps, especially during vigorous cycles, and end up between the inner drum and the outer tub, or even in the drain pump or filter. When this happens, as the drum turns, these trapped items will scrape or bang against the moving parts, creating loud and concerning sounds.
Here are the most frequent offenders:
- Bra wires: These are notorious for escaping bras and wedging themselves into tight spaces.
- Zips and buttons: Loose or broken zips and buttons can detach and cause a racket.
- Coins: Forgotten in pockets, coins easily fall out and find their way into the machine's mechanisms.
- Keys and small metal objects: Similar to coins, these can be dislodged from clothes.
- Small toy parts or hairpins: Any small, hard object can become a nuisance.
What Kind of Sounds Will You Hear?
The specific sound can often give a clue as to what might be stuck and where.
| Sound Type | Description | Potential Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Rattling | Loose, consistent shaking sound | Small metal objects (coins, keys) in the drum or pump. |
| Scraping | A harsh, grating noise | Metal items (bra wires, zips) rubbing against the drum. |
| Clunking | A heavier, intermittent thudding or banging sound | Larger objects or something hitting against the outer tub. |
| Clicking | A repetitive, lighter tick or click | Small objects caught in the impeller of the drain pump. |
How to Investigate and Resolve the Issue
Addressing a foreign object in your washing machine often requires a systematic approach. While some issues can be resolved easily, others might require professional help.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
- Check the Drum and Door Seal:
- Visually inspect the inside of the drum for any visible objects.
- Carefully run your hand along the inner edges and under the rubber door seal (gasket) of a front-loader, as small items often get trapped there. Use a flashlight for better visibility.
- Inspect the Drain Filter:
- Most washing machines have an easily accessible drain filter at the bottom front. Consult your machine's manual for its exact location and how to open it.
- Place a towel down and have a shallow dish ready, as water will likely come out.
- Unscrew and pull out the filter. Check for any trapped items and clean out any lint or debris.
- Credible Source Example: How to clean your washing machine's drain filter
- Examine the Pump Area:
- If the filter is clear but the noise persists, an item might be in the pump's impeller. This usually requires removing the machine's back or front panel to access the pump. This step is more complex and might be best left to a professional if you're not comfortable with appliance repair.
- Access Behind the Drum:
- Items can sometimes fall between the inner and outer tubs. This is the most challenging location to access and almost always requires disassembling parts of the washing machine, such as the heater or the drum baffles. If you suspect an object here, it's highly recommended to call a qualified appliance technician.
When to Call a Professional
It's wise to contact a professional appliance repair service if:
- You cannot locate the source of the noise.
- The noise persists after checking accessible areas.
- You're uncomfortable disassembling parts of your washing machine.
- You suspect the issue might be more complex, such as worn-out drum bearings, which can also cause grinding or rumbling noises.
Preventing Future Incidents
A few simple habits can significantly reduce the chances of items getting stuck in your washing machine:
- Use Mesh Laundry Bags: For delicate items like bras, socks, or small children's clothing, place them in a mesh laundry bag before washing.
- Check Pockets: Always empty all pockets before loading clothes into the machine.
- Secure Fasteners: Close all zips, fasten buttons, and secure any hooks on clothing items to prevent them from snagging or detaching.
Other Potential Causes for Similar Noises
While trapped objects are common, it's also important to be aware that other mechanical issues can produce similar sounds. For instance, faulty drum bearings are a major factor in a drum's performance and can cause grinding or rumbling noises, especially during the spin cycle. These are internal components that support the drum, and when they wear out, they can lead to significant noise and eventually drum failure. Other less common causes could include:
- Loose Counterweights: Washing machines have heavy concrete counterweights to stabilize them during operation. If these become loose, they can bang against the machine's casing.
- Motor Issues: Problems with the motor or its components can sometimes manifest as unusual noises, though these often sound more like grinding or whining.
