Why Is My Washing Machine Leaking?

Leaking from the front (front-load washers)

The door seal (gasket) is the most common cause — check for trapped debris, coins, or small items caught in the folds of the rubber seal that prevent it from sealing fully. Also check that the door itself latches completely.

Leaking from underneath

This often points to a worn drain pump, a loose or cracked hose connection, or a cracked tub itself on older machines. Check the hose connections at the back of the machine first, since those are the easiest and cheapest to fix.

Leaking during the fill cycle only

This usually means the water inlet hoses or their connections are the problem — check where they connect to both the wall valves and the back of the machine for looseness or worn washers.

Too much detergent

Excess suds can force their way out of seals that would otherwise hold fine. If you've switched detergents recently or tend to use more than the recommended amount, try cutting back before assuming it's mechanical.

An unlevel machine

A washer that rocks or isn't level can throw water outside the tub during the spin cycle. Check that all four feet are adjusted evenly and the machine doesn't rock when pushed at each corner.