7 Best Machine Risers for Easier Access to Appliances

Bending over to load a heavy load of towels into a bottom-loading dryer often leads to unnecessary back strain. Elevating laundry appliances is one of the most effective ways to transform a laundry room from a place of physical discomfort into a functional, ergonomic workspace. Selecting the right riser or pedestal makes the difference between a daily chore that hurts and one that flows smoothly.

LG SideKick Pedestal: A Second Washer Down Below

For households managing large volumes of laundry, such as families with active children or frequent sports gear, space is often at a premium. The LG SideKick is not just a riser; it functions as a fully operational mini-washer tucked beneath the main unit. This allows for simultaneous washing of delicates or small, urgent loads while the main machine handles the heavy bedding.

It acts as a smart investment for those who prioritize efficiency and time management. While the price point sits higher than a standard storage drawer, the dual-wash capability often justifies the expense in busy homes. Ensure the main washer is compatible with the specific SideKick model to guarantee proper water connection and electrical fit.

The bottom line: Choose this if the laundry routine involves constant small, specialty loads and floor space is too limited for a second standalone machine.

Samsung Pedestal: Best for Stashing Detergents

Laundry rooms in smaller homes or apartments often lack built-in shelving, leaving bottles of detergent and dryer sheets scattered across the floor. Samsung pedestals provide a deep, slide-out drawer specifically engineered to clear this clutter. It keeps necessary supplies within reach, hiding them from view to maintain a clean, organized aesthetic.

The drawers feature sturdy glides that hold substantial weight, meaning large liquid detergent jugs won’t cause the mechanism to bind or sag. This is a practical solution for homeowners who want their laundry room to serve as both a utility space and a tidy storage area. Check the height clearance to ensure the drawer opens fully without hitting baseboards or floor trim.

The bottom line: This is the ideal choice for those who need hidden, accessible storage to compensate for a lack of laundry room cabinetry.

Whirlpool Pedestal: A Sturdy Lift for Your Laundry

Whirlpool pedestals prioritize simple, heavy-duty construction for households that value longevity over extra features. They raise appliances to a comfortable height, effectively reducing the need to stoop or kneel. This is particularly beneficial for those experiencing chronic joint pain or anyone looking to future-proof their home for aging in place.

These pedestals are built to absorb the kinetic energy of a spin cycle, helping to maintain a stable, level machine. While they lack the bells and whistles of mini-washers, the build quality is exceptionally robust. They stand as a reliable, no-nonsense choice that does exactly what it is designed to do.

The bottom line: Opt for this if the goal is purely ergonomic improvement and a durable, long-term foundation for the washer and dryer.

GE Pedestal: Simple Storage, Dependable Height

GE pedestals offer a balanced approach, providing a modest height boost and a straightforward storage drawer. They are designed for the standard homeowner who wants a functional upgrade without excessive cost or complex installation. The drawer space is generous enough for laundry pods, stain removers, and small cleaning tools.

The design emphasizes ease of use, with handles that are intuitive and glide smoothly even when fully loaded. Because these units are typically color-matched to the appliances, they provide a cohesive, built-in look. Always verify the specific model number to ensure the mounting brackets align perfectly with your current unit.

The bottom line: Use a GE pedestal if you want a clean, professional finish and a moderate amount of extra storage for routine supplies.

Electrolux Pedestal: Roomy Drawer, Quality Build

Electrolux is known for designing storage drawers that are deeper than many industry competitors. This extra depth is a major advantage for families who buy laundry supplies in bulk, such as giant containers of fabric softener or multiple boxes of dryer sheets. The internal organization features are often superior, allowing for better segregation of items.

The unit’s construction is rigid, providing excellent support for heavy high-speed washers. It maintains a clean, minimalist aesthetic that works well in modern laundry rooms where visual clutter needs to be minimized. The trade-off is a slightly larger footprint, so ensure you have sufficient depth in the room before committing.

The bottom line: This is a top-tier pick for anyone who shops at warehouse stores and requires significant vertical space for bulk cleaning inventory.

Maytag Pedestal: Built Tough for Heavy Use

Maytag has long cultivated a reputation for durability, and their pedestals are no exception. Designed to withstand the vibration of heavy-duty cycles, these pedestals are ideal for households that frequently wash heavy loads like denim, work uniforms, or bulky blankets. They remain rock-steady under stress, preventing the appliance from “walking” across the floor.

The steel construction is thicker than average, providing a sense of security and reliability. While they may not offer the aesthetic flair of other brands, they deliver consistent performance year after year. They are a practical, utilitarian choice for busy households that put their appliances through rigorous daily use.

The bottom line: Choose Maytag if the primary concern is structural integrity and long-term reliability under heavy load conditions.

WEN Universal Dolly: Mobility for Your Appliances

Not every homeowner wants a fixed, heavy pedestal that anchors the machine in place. A universal dolly with locking wheels offers a different kind of convenience by allowing the appliance to be moved for deep cleaning or floor maintenance. This is an excellent solution for renters or those living in older homes where dust and debris easily collect behind units.

While a dolly does not offer the drawer storage of a brand-specific pedestal, it provides the necessary lift to make cleaning underneath easy. It is a lower-cost, flexible alternative that fits a wide range of washer and dryer dimensions. Ensure the weight capacity of the dolly is rated higher than the total weight of the loaded machine.

The bottom line: Select a dolly if flexibility and the ability to clean behind your appliances are more important to you than extra drawer storage.

How to Match a Riser to Your Washer and Dryer

The most critical step in the purchasing process is verifying compatibility through specific model numbers. Most manufacturers design pedestals with proprietary mounting holes that align only with their own machines. Attempting to bypass these requirements with DIY modifications can lead to unsafe vibrations and void appliance warranties.

Consider the following factors before you buy: * Width and Depth: Ensure the footprint of the pedestal matches the appliance cabinet size, not just the front panel. * Appliance Weight: Check the manufacturer’s documentation to confirm the pedestal is rated for your machine’s fully loaded weight, including water. * Vertical Clearance: Measure the distance from the floor to the bottom of your cabinets or shelves to ensure the added 12–15 inches of height won’t cause the unit to hit overhead obstacles.

The bottom line: Avoid generic “one-size-fits-all” promises; stick to the manufacturer’s suggested compatibility chart for every purchase.

Pedestal Installation: What to Know Before You Start

Installing a pedestal is physically demanding work that usually requires two people to complete safely. The washer must be disconnected from water and power before being tilted or lifted onto the riser. Never attempt to lift a heavy appliance alone, as this risks both personal injury and damage to the machine’s internal components.

Ensure the final position is perfectly level using a standard bubble level across both the pedestal and the appliance. A slightly unlevel machine will cause significant noise and potential structural damage over time. Always double-check that the locking screws are tightened to the manufacturer’s specified torque to prevent shifting.

The bottom line: If you are not confident in your ability to lift a heavy machine or handle basic utility connections, professional installation is a safer, smarter investment.

Keeping It Steady: Tips for Reducing Vibration

Even on a sturdy pedestal, improper leveling will cause an appliance to rattle against the walls or floor. Start by checking the leveling feet on the base of the pedestal itself, then check the machine on top of the pedestal. All feet must make firm, even contact with the floor to distribute the weight correctly.

If vibration persists, consider placing anti-vibration pads under each corner of the pedestal. These rubberized discs help dampen the high-frequency sounds that often travel through floor joists. Keeping the laundry load balanced—not overloading the drum—is the most effective way to prevent the machine from shaking, regardless of the riser you choose.

The bottom line: Leveling is the most important maintenance task you can perform; prioritize a solid, flat foundation to keep your appliances quiet and stable.

Selecting the right machine riser is a straightforward way to improve the ergonomics and organization of your home. By matching the riser to your specific needs—whether that is extra storage, a secondary wash cycle, or simple mobility—you ensure that your laundry room works as hard as you do. Focus on solid installation and proper leveling to enjoy years of trouble-free, comfortable use.