Washing machine leaking? Here’s what it usually means

Likely causes

Door seal (front leaks)

The rubber gasket perishes, or trapped debris (a stray hair grip is a classic) cuts it. Visible splits or black mould embedded in the fold usually mean replacement — a routine repair.

Blocked filter or sump (drain-cycle leaks)

The pump filter behind the little front hatch catches coins and lint; when clogged, water finds other ways out. Cleaning it is a 10-minute DIY job — with towels ready.

Supply hoses and valves (fill leaks)

Hose washers harden with age; connections work loose with vibration. If the hose itself bulges, replace it before it bursts — a burst supply hose can flood a kitchen in minutes.

Detergent drawer overflow

Blocked drawer jets or too much powder make water back out of the drawer front. Clean the drawer and housing; use less detergent than you think you need.

What not to do

• Don't run another cycle 'to check' — water under a machine finds floorboards and the ceiling below
• Don't reach for the plug or the wall switch once water has got near the socket — wet hands on a live switch is how a leak becomes a shock. Kill that circuit at the consumer unit first, then deal with the water
• Don't drag the machine out over a wet floor on your own — they're heavier than they look

When to request help

After you've cleaned the filter and checked the hose connections: if it still leaks, or the leak involves the door seal or underneath during wash, book an appliance engineer. Same-day if you can't isolate the water supply.

Related questions