Clothes Washing Machine Filter Cap Spanner Tool

You know those chores you keep putting off because they’re just awkward to do? For me, it was trying to unscrew the washing‑machine drain cap. The cap sits recessed inside the machine, so you’re forced to work with your fingertips against a cap that’s usually tightened far more than is comfortable. Let's fix that …

This Filter Spanner tool solves that problem. It was designed around an AEG filter cap, but many machines (Electrolux, Simpson, Westinghouse, Zanussi)  use a very similar geometry, so it will likely fit a wide range of brands as long as the dimensions match your model (check the dimensions below).

Looking for more helpers?

Here's my collection of other independent living aids.

Design Considerations

The extended handles on the end of the spanner give you more leverage when loosening a stuck / tight filter cap. The cross‑shaped (+) slots let you choose the most comfortable starting orientation - vertical or horizontal - depending on the space you’re working in.
 

The 96 mm length provides clearance from the washing‑machine body, as many filter caps sit recessed quite deeply. Also a reason they can be difficult to open. The extra length also gives you more room to grip the tool securely with both hands if needed.

The wavy‑rib profile improves grip and adds more structural stiffness, making the tool more resistant to flex under load

Cap Spanner Dimensions

• Slots - 12 mm wide and 20 mm deep

• Diameter - 50 mm.

• Length - 96 mm, to give clearance from the body of the washer and to help with grip.

Print Considerations

This one is perfect in PLA. Cheap and stiff. I used PLA BAsic Silver (10102) for the model shown here. 

Bonus 

There's a 204x154x24 mm low profile drain tray on a second plate, check if 24 mm will clear your Filter Drain apparatus.

If you would like a different design, let me know.

Enjoy!