Is there a way to make my washing machine quieter?

[mc6]

I need to pull out my washer and dryer to paint behind them anyway, so I was wondering, while I had them out from their usual space, if there is something I can do to make the area quieter?  My washing machine is on the opposite wall of my TV and telephone, in the kitchen.  The kitchen floor is tile, and the livingroom and kitchen share a wall.  I'll attach a pic.  I appreciate any help. 

[strider3700]

it depends on the source of the noise. If it's rattling against the floor then a thick rubber mat or pads under it's feet will reduce that a lot.   If it's regular motor or water noise you'll have to close it in somehow.  An easy start would be a chunk of rigid foam between it and wall.  Make sure there is still space between it and the foam though or the foam will transfer vibrations through it.

[Tyler]

Hmm -- a few ideas come to mind.

- I'd start with making sure the appliances are level/balanced.  Adjust the feet if necessary. 

- I second the rubber mat idea.  Your primary goal is to reduce the transfer of vibration, and that's a solid way to do it.

- Addressing the wall is the third step.  In my experience, the trick with noise reduction is layering dense, rigid material to reflect noise and soft foam to dissipate the energy.  So personally, my first attempt would be placing a heavy MDF board against the wall and egg shell mattress foam between that and the washer/dryer (just make sure the foam can't get wet and mold).  For reference, that's exactly how I built a serviceable sound-proof box for some lab experiments at work.  Or if you're up for a bigger project, doubling the drywall in the wall and filling it with insulation would probably help a lot.