The door seal (hatch gasket) is the rubber cuff around the washing machine door opening. Its main job is to create a watertight barrier between the drum and the front panel, preventing leaks during washing and spinning. It also helps reduce vibration and noise.

Over time, the seal can wear out, crack, deform, or get punctured by small items (coins, bra wires, sharp objects). Typical signs of damage are water leaks from the front, a musty smell from trapped moisture, visible tears, or mold buildup in the folds. Regular cleaning and checking pockets before washing help extend its service life.