The DC97-18094B is a genuine OEM door boot seal (also called a door gasket or bellow seal) for Samsung front-load washers. This boot is a critical component that creates a watertight seal between the washer door and the front of the tub, preventing water from leaking out during wash cycles. The boot is made of flexible rubber or silicone material designed to withstand repeated flexing, high temperatures, detergent exposure, and constant water contact. The boot attaches to the front of the washer cabinet with an outer retaining band and to the front of the tub with an inner retaining band, creating a flexible accordion-like connection that allows the door to open and close while maintaining a seal during operation. Over time, door boots can fail due to mold and mildew growth in the folds (which weakens the rubber), tears or rips from sharp objects (zippers, buttons, coins), cracking from age and repeated flexing, detergent and fabric softener buildup that degrades the rubber, or physical damage from improper loading or door slamming. When the door boot fails, symptoms include water leaking from the front of the washer during cycles, visible tears or holes in the boot material, mold or mildew odor coming from the washer, water pooling in the bottom folds of the boot, the door not sealing properly (allowing water to escape), or visible cracks and deterioration in the rubber. The washer may display error codes related to door seal or water leakage. The DC97-18094B replaces older boot part numbers (DC97-18094C, DC97-18094D) and is a direct replacement that restores proper door sealing. Replacing a damaged door boot prevents water damage, eliminates odors, and ensures safe washer operation.