Dishwasher Leaking From the Bottom of the Door
Water dripping from the bottom of the dishwasher door during a cycle has a few common, mostly cheap causes. Run a cycle and watch where the water escapes to narrow it down.
1. Inspect the Door Gasket
The rubber gasket around the door (and along the bottom) hardens, tears, or collects gunk over time, breaking the seal. Wipe it clean and run your finger along it feeling for cracks or stiff spots. A worn door gasket is the most common door-leak cause and is an inexpensive, snap-in replacement on most models.
2. Too Much Detergent / Wrong Soap
Excess suds push water out the door. Use only dishwasher detergent (never dish soap — that foams massively and floods the floor), and the right amount. If someone used hand dish soap by mistake, that is your leak.
3. Overfilling From a Clogged Filter
A clogged filter or drain can make water level rise too high and spill the door seal. Clean the bottom filter and sump (see our dishwasher-not-draining guide) and confirm it drains fully.
4. Door Alignment and Latch
If the door does not close squarely — bent from leaning on it, or a worn latch not pulling it tight — the seal gaps at the bottom. Check that the door shuts evenly and the latch pulls it snug.
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FAQ
Usually a worn or dirty door gasket, too much/wrong detergent causing suds, or overfilling from a clogged filter. Clean and inspect the gasket first.
Yes — regular hand dish soap creates huge amounts of suds that flood out the door. Only ever use dishwasher detergent.
Always unplug an appliance and shut off its water supply before servicing. This guide is informational and not a substitute for a qualified technician.