Washing machine leaking
Finding a washing machine leak requires careful observation of where the water appears and exactly when in the cycle it occurs. Water tracks along surfaces before dripping, so the visible drip point is often not the source. Use newspaper, watch for soap residue marks, and always test with a normal load inside – some leaks only appear with laundry in the drum.
Never run a washing machine with the top or back panel removed while trying to observe a leak. Water on the floor near a running washing machine is an electrocution risk. If you need to look inside to source a leak, unplug the machine first. See our DIY repair safety guide before starting.
Most washing machine leaks come from a small number of common sources – but finding which one requires systematic observation rather than guesswork. The tips below help narrow down the source quickly and avoid misdiagnosis.
5 Tips for Finding a Washing Machine Leak
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Use newspaper to pinpoint where water is entering from
Slide newspaper sheets under the front of the machine before running it. Check the newspaper regularly during the cycle – before it becomes fully saturated – to see where the water first appears. The damp area indicates the side or area the leak is originating from. This works even before pulling the machine out and gives useful information for an engineer visit or for deciding where to focus the investigation.
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Note exactly when in the cycle the water appears
The timing of a leak is one of the most useful clues to its source. A leak only during filling suggests a fill hose, tap connection, or dispenser housing issue. A leak only during washing or rinses points to drum seals, internal hoses, or the dispenser. A leak only on spin almost always indicates a drain fault or something leaking under pressure. Record when it happens to give the most accurate picture.
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Look for evidence of past leaks – but interpret it carefully
Water leaves evidence: rust staining on metal surfaces, white soap residue trails where suds dried, and scale deposits on hose connections. These marks can help identify the leak source even when the leak is intermittent and not currently active. However, if a previous leak was repaired, old evidence may still be visible. Do not blame a component based solely on old staining if the actual leak has moved or been fixed.
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Always test with a normal load inside
Some leaks only occur with laundry in the drum. Running a diagnostic cycle empty and finding no leak does not mean the machine is fault-free. The weight, movement, and water absorption of laundry can affect water distribution, drum movement, and the forces on seals and hoses in ways that an empty cycle does not replicate. Always run a test wash with a typical load inside before concluding the fault has gone.
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Remember that water runs and tracks before dripping
The point where water is visibly dripping is often not where it is originating. Water runs along the bottom of hoses, along cable runs, and around the base of the outer drum before dripping. An apparent leak at the bottom of the door may actually be coming from the soap dispenser drawer. An apparent leak from a hose near the pump may be dripping off it from a leak higher up. Trace back from the drip point to find the true source. See our guide on washing machine leaking from the door for an example of this.
Preventing Leaks When the Machine Is Not in Use
Fill hoses and their connections remain under mains water pressure when the machine is not running. A slow drip from a hose connection that is imperceptible during a cycle can accumulate into a significant pool of water overnight or during a weekend away. Where the plumbing allows, turn off the isolation tap on the inlet hose when the machine will not be used for an extended period. See our guide on whether to turn the taps off when not in use.
Need a Repair?
If the leak source is identified but beyond straightforward DIY repair, a qualified engineer can diagnose and fix it quickly.
Guides for Specific Leak Locations
Leaking From the DoorDoor seal holes, worn flanges, and dirty door glass – causes and how to check each one.
Leaking From the Soap DrawerWater escaping from the dispenser drawer area – by timing and cause.
Leaking From Underneath or When Not in UseFill hose pressure drips, pump seepage, and intermittent leaks explained.
Leaking Only on SpinWhy some leaks only appear during the spin cycle and what causes them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find where my washing machine is leaking from?
Slide newspaper under the machine and run a cycle with a normal load inside. Check the newspaper before it becomes fully saturated – the position of the first dampness indicates which side or area the water is entering from. Also note exactly when in the cycle the water appears: during filling, during the wash, or on spin. Each timing pattern points to a different set of likely causes.
Why does my washing machine only leak sometimes?
Intermittent leaks are usually triggered by specific conditions: certain load types, specific wash temperatures, or particular stages of the cycle. Heavy loads bounce more on spin and stress seals differently. Hot washes cause rubber components to expand. A full drum holds more water that can reach higher in the machine. Always test with the conditions that reproduce the leak rather than with an empty cold cycle.
Water appears at the bottom of the door – is that a door seal leak?
Not necessarily. Water from the soap dispenser drawer can track along the underside of the control panel and drip off the bottom of the door, appearing to be a door leak. Check the soap drawer area first. If water is confirmed to be coming from the door itself, inspect the door seal flange and the door glass contact area. See our guide on washing machine leaking from the door.
Should I turn the water tap off when the washing machine is not in use?
Where the plumbing allows, yes – particularly if going away for a weekend or longer. Fill hose connections remain under mains pressure when the machine is off. A very slow drip that causes no visible problem during normal use can accumulate into significant water damage overnight. Turning off the isolation tap when the machine will not be used for an extended period is a sensible precaution.