How to Store a Washer and Dryer

Storing a washer and dryer starts with cleaning, drying, disconnecting, and moving each appliance according to the manufacturer’s guidance. Before placing appliances in a storage unit, remove remaining water from the washer, clean lint from the dryer, and confirm that the unit has enough space for both appliances to remain upright. 

A washer and dryer can be heavy and may require a dolly, moving straps, and experienced help. Review the owner’s manuals for model-specific directions, including transport bolts, water hoses, vent connections, and any moving instructions.

Key Takeaways

• Clean and dry a washer and dryer before storage to reduce leftover moisture, lint, and residue. 

• Disconnect water, power, and vent connections according to the manufacturer’s guidance. 

• Keep washers and dryers upright during moving and storage. 

• Use moving blankets or breathable covers instead of wrapping appliances tightly in plastic. 

• More than 45% of Public Storage properties offer drive-up access units, which may be useful for loading and unloading large appliances. Availability varies by location.

What Is the Best Way to Store a Washer and Dryer?

The best way to store a washer and dryer is to clean and dry both appliances, disconnect them correctly, keep them upright, and place them in a storage space with room for access. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific models before moving or storing either appliance. 

Washer and Dryer Storage Steps at a Glance

Clean and Dry Your Washer Before Storage

Start by cleaning the washer according to the owner’s manual. Some models include a cleaning-cycle setting, while others may have specific recommendations for cleaning the drum, detergent dispenser, filter, and gasket. 

After cleaning, wipe down visible moisture from the inside of the washer. Leave the door or lid open long enough for the drum and gasket area to air out fully before moving the appliance. 

Washer Storage Preparation Checklist

1. Run a cleaning cycle or clean the washer as directed in the owner’s manual.  
2. Wipe the drum, door seal, detergent dispenser, and exterior surfaces.  
3. Disconnect water hoses according to manufacturer guidance.  
4. Drain remaining water from hoses and the appliance as directed.  
5. Let the interior dry fully.  
6. Reinstall transport bolts if they came with your washer and are recommended for moving.  
7. Keep hoses, transport bolts, and instructions together in a labeled bag. 

A qualified appliance technician can help with disconnection or moving questions for a specific washer model. 

Prepare Your Dryer for Storage

Before storing a dryer, remove lint from the lint filter and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for disconnecting the vent hose and power source. Wipe the interior and exterior surfaces, then allow the appliance to dry before covering it. 

Keep dryer accessories and removable parts together so they are easier to locate when you set the appliance up again. 

Dryer Storage Checklist

• Remove lint from the lint filter.  

• Clean the lint-filter area as directed in the owner’s manual.  

• Disconnect the vent hose and power source according to manufacturer guidance.  

• Wipe down the drum, door, and exterior surfaces.  

• Let the dryer air out before covering it.  

• Label and keep detachable parts with the appliance.

How to Move a Washer and Dryer Into Storage

Washers and dryers can be heavy and awkward to move. Before moving day, measure the appliances and compare their dimensions with the doorways, hallways, stairwells, elevators, and storage-unit entrance they will pass through. 

The goal is to confirm that each access point is wide and tall enough for the appliances and moving equipment. 

Moving Washer and Dryer Equipment Guide

More than 45% of Public Storage properties offer drive-up access units. A drive-up unit may be useful for loading and unloading large appliances near the storage space. Unit features and availability vary by location.

Use Breathable Covers and Leave Space Around Appliances

Use moving blankets, fabric sheets, or another breathable cover to help keep visible dust off a washer and dryer. Avoid tightly sealing appliances in plastic because remaining moisture may become trapped inside. 

When arranging appliances in a storage unit: 

• Keep washers and dryers upright.  

• Leave room to access the doors and connections when needed.  

• Avoid placing boxes or household items on top of the appliances.  

• Place padding between appliances if they are stored side by side.  

• Keep hoses, cords, and accessories in a labeled container nearby.  

• Leave an aisle if you expect to visit the unit during storage.

Consider Climate-Controlled Storage for Appliances

Climate-controlled storage units provide a more consistent indoor temperature than standard storage units. More than 90% of Public Storage properties offer climate-controlled units, although features, unit sizes, and availability vary by location. 

A climate-controlled unit may be a useful option for eligible appliances and household items when you prefer an indoor storage setting. Review local facility guidelines and your rental agreement before storing appliances.

Choose a Storage Unit Size for a Washer and Dryer

The right storage unit size depends on the dimensions of your washer and dryer, whether you plan to store additional eligible household items, and how much access space you want inside the unit. 

Measure each appliance before reserving a unit. Include the space needed to move around the appliances and open the unit door. Use the Public Storage storage unit size guide to compare options for washers, dryers, and other eligible household items.

FAQs About Storing a Washer and Dryer

Can I store a washer and dryer in a storage unit? 

A storage unit may be an option for eligible washers and dryers that are clean, dry, disconnected, and prepared according to the manufacturer’s guidance. Review your rental agreement and local facility guidelines before storing appliances. 

Should I drain a washing machine before storage? 

Yes. Follow the owner’s manual for instructions on disconnecting hoses and draining remaining water before storage. 

Can I store a washer on its side? 

Follow the manufacturer’s guidance for your specific washer. In general, keeping a washer upright is commonly recommended for moving and storage. 

How do I prepare a dryer for storage? 

Remove lint from the filter, clean the appliance according to the manufacturer’s instructions, disconnect the vent and power source, and allow the dryer to dry before covering it. 

Is climate-controlled storage useful for a washer and dryer? 

Climate-controlled storage provides a more consistent indoor temperature than standard storage units. It may be a useful option for eligible appliances when you prefer an indoor storage setting. Features and availability vary by location. 

What storage unit feature is useful for moving appliances? 

Drive-up access may be useful for loading and unloading larger appliances near the unit. More than 45% of Public Storage properties offer drive-up access units, with availability varying by location. 

Storing a washer and dryer can be easier when you clean, dry, disconnect, and move each appliance with a clear plan. By following manufacturer guidance and choosing a storage space that fits your appliances, you can create more room at home during a move, renovation, or room refresh. 

Features and amenities vary by location, facility, and unit. “Climate-controlled” and related terms, such as air-conditioned, heated, or humidistat-equipped, describe storage spaces designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels compared with non-climate-controlled units. Public Storage does not guarantee temperature or humidity ranges. Availability, features, and unit types may differ by location, facility, and unit. Confirm with your facility whether specific climate-controlled features are available on units at that location.