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Why is my washing machine leaking?

There are several reasons for your washing machine leaking water, and the specific area the water is leaking from is usually a good indication of what is causing the leak. Have a look at our self-help information below to resolve a variety of washing machine leaking problems.

Water is leaking at the front of the washing machine

If water is pooling at the front of the appliance, the leak could be coming from either the door, the detergent drawer or the washing machine filter area (the bottom of the appliance).

Always make sure the door is firmly shut before starting a cycle. You should hear an audible click to indicate this. Check that there are no clothes stuck between the door and the housing that could be preventing the door from shutting properly, and be sure not to overfill the washing machine drum. Also ensure the appliance is sitting level to the ground.

Leak from the washing machine.

Clean and inspect the rubber seal

Maintaining a clean rubber seal is important in order to prevent any damage to it, which could lead to leaks.

Simply clean the rubber seal and the door, ensuring that all fluff and detergent residue is removed from the contact area between the rubber seal and the appliance door.

For more information on cleaning the seal, click the link below.

Cleaning a washing machine door seal
Close-up of a washing machine drum with perforated metal surface.

Correct the dose of detergent used

Excessive foam may be produced if you wash laundry or curtains that are lightly soiled. If you use water with a low hardness level, or are washing only lightly soiled laundry, using a low dose of detergent is recommended.

Please refer to the recommended dose instructions provided on the detergent packaging to avoid any leaks.

Washing machine with digital display, control panel, and open door revealing the drum interior.

Water is leaking at the back of the washing machine

If water is leaking at the back of the appliance, it is likely that either the cold water fill hose or the waste water hose is responsible. Check to make sure that these hoses are properly connected to the washing machine and the cold water tap and waste water outlet respectively.

Washing machine in a modern laundry room with a red curtain and a gray towel.

Water is leaking underneath the appliance

Water that is leaking directly underneath the appliance could potentially be the result of any of the causes outlined above, so it is important to carry out all of the checks mentioned above.

However, if you have carried out all of these checks and the leak persists, this could indicate a more serious internal leak which requires an inspection by a trained and qualified Bosch engineer.

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