How to Move a Heavy Washing Machine Up the Stairs

Disconnect the washer if it is still hooked up. Turn the cold and hot water knobs off; these knobs are located behind the washer. Then, unplug the appliance. Unscrew the water hoses using a pair of pliers, and drain the hoses into a bucket. Use a screwdriver to loosen the clamp on the drain hose, then twist off the drain hose. Lay the electrical cord and hoses over the top of the washer, and tape them in place. Place the drain hose in a safe location so you can reinstall it once you move the washer.

Check the path to the stairs, the stairway itself and the path beyond the stairs to remove any items that could get in the way. Clear your pathway, if necessary.

Wiggle the washer away from the wall by pulling one side toward you, and then the other. Continue to do this until you have enough distance between the washer and the wall to use the dolly easily.

Slip the tip of an appliance dolly under the front edge of the washer as your assistant gently tips the washer backward.

Wrap the dolly's strap around the washer and latch, or tie it to secure the washer to the dolly.

Place your foot on the bottom, back portion of the dolly as you gently tilt the dolly backwards to settle the washer against the frame of the dolly. Have your assistant gently push the front of the washer back toward you, if necessary, as you tip the appliance backward.

Roll the dolly backwards toward the stairs.

Lift and tilt the dolly backwards as you approach the first stair. Have your assistant push the bottom, front portion of the washer up and toward you to assist with the momentum. Continue this process for each stair.

Roll the washer into place. Slide it off of the dolly, and hook it back up when you have the appliance in its proper location.