Putting a washer or dryer on the wrong floor can cause leaks, noise, and costly repairs. The right flooring protects your home and makes laundry day smoother. Below are the key things to think about when you pick a floor for your washer and dryer.
Both machines shed water. Choose a floor that won’t soak up moisture. Vinyl planks, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), and rubber sheets are top picks because they seal out water and are easy to clean. Ceramic tile works too, but you’ll need a waterproof membrane underneath to stop any seepage.
If you love the look of hardwood, go for engineered wood with a waterproof finish, or install a waterproof underlayment before the wood. Real hardwood will swell if water gets in, so avoid it in the direct splash zone.
Washers can weigh over 200 lb when filled, and dryers add another 150 lb. Your floor must be strong enough to hold that load without cracking. Concrete slabs are the best, but if you have a wooden subfloor, reinforce it with plywood or add a layer of pressure‑treated boards.
Spread the weight with a sturdy platform or a rubber mat. A mat not only cushions vibration but also protects the floor from scratches and minor leaks.
Too much vibration can damage floor panels and make your whole house shake. Anti‑vibration pads made of rubber or cork are cheap and work well. Place one under each leg of the washer and dryer. For extra quiet, add a thin layer of acoustic underlayment under vinyl or tile.
Make sure the machines are level. Use a bubble level and adjust the feet until there’s no rocking. A level machine runs smoother and puts less strain on the floor.
Spills happen, so choose a floor you can wipe clean quickly. Vinyl, tile, and rubber all take a damp mop without damage. Avoid carpet or soft rugs directly under the machines—they trap moisture and can grow mold.
If you do use a rug, keep it small and place it only in front of the machines to catch drips, not under them.
Lay the floor according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For tile, use a latex‑based thin‑set mortar and a waterproof membrane. For vinyl, let the planks acclimate in the room for 24 hours before clicking them together.
Leave a tiny gap (about ¼ inch) around the edges for expansion. Cover the gap with baseboards or trim that can be removed later if you need to replace floor sections.
Finally, test the floor before you finish. Run a short wash cycle and watch for any water that might seep through seams. If everything stays dry, you’re good to go.
Choosing the right flooring under your washer and dryer doesn’t have to be hard. Focus on water resistance, strength, vibration control, and easy cleaning, and you’ll have a laundry room that lasts for years without fuss.
Confused about flooring under washers and dryers? Here’s a detailed guide on pros, cons, common mistakes, and expert tips for the best laundry room setup.