Fabric softener leaking from bottom of washing machine

SOURCE: fabric softener leaks out at beginning of wash

I have a 9200SQ Whirlpool duet.  It might be similar.  I think the bleach and fabric dispensers work on the siphon principal--once the level gets above a certain point they will then siphon out until almost nothing is left.  They should not start to siphon until extra water is directed into them during the correct cycle.   It is possible that they are starting to siphon early because 1. the washer is not level, 2. water is being added to the dispenser during the wrong cycle 3.  You put too much liquid into the dispenser and it started the siphon. 
Note:  You should not peek in the dispenser during the washer cycles because it might interrupt the "siphon"action and leave residual bleach or fabric softener in the dispensers.

SOURCE: Whirlpool Imperial

With the machine off and empty, fill the softner bin with water only. Does the water level go down or stay the same.

SOURCE: fabric softener dispencer

The inlet for the softener may be plugged. Try a toothbrush to clean the area.

SOURCE: Machine will not use fabric softener

the despenser has a servo motor on the top of the despenser, you have to remove the top of the washer to get to it, it is on the left side of the unit looking form the forunt, check the motor woth a vom meert on resistance, if you get a reading, meter needle moving twards the right the motor probally is good, if no eter movement the the motor is bad
if you have meter movement after checking the motor then the control board is bad

SOURCE: fabric softener dispensing before wash begins

I was having the same problem. Repair man replaced VALVE AW
He told me it is from the sedement in your water. If you have a water softner, it may not be the problem, unless it is not working properly. Sounds strange, but problem is fixed.