The rubber gasket on a front-loading washer catches lint, hair, coins, and small items. A quick inspection helps prevent odors and lets you find a torn seal before water begins to escape during a wash.
Open the folds carefully
With the machine empty and off, pull back the gasket folds around the opening. Look along the bottom edge first, where water and debris commonly collect. Remove loose objects by hand and wipe the groove with a soft cloth.
Look for damage
Check for pinholes, cuts, flattened areas, or a section that has pulled away from its retaining channel. A small dark mark may be residue, while a crack that opens when gently stretched is a sealing problem.
Clean and dry the seal
Use warm water and mild detergent for routine cleaning. Avoid harsh solvents and abrasive pads that can harden the rubber. Dry the folds after cleaning and leave the washer door ajar between loads.
Know when to replace it
If the gasket is torn, repeatedly leaks, or will not stay seated, use the washer model number to order the correct seal. Replacement can involve a retaining band and should be done with power and water disconnected.