Aurelia Butler

Maybe you’re nowhere near retirement, but Mom is moving in. Maybe you frequently host guests with mobility issues. Or maybe you’re simply looking to ensure a safe living space for yourself as you age that doesn’t put you at risk of dangerous falls. “More than one in four adults aged 65 or older fall every year,” says Dr. Alexander Billioux, chief medical officer at UnitedHealthcare. “This is the leading cause of injuries for older Americans. The good news is there are ways to reduce risk by making simple changes in your home.”Whatever your reason for adding aging-in-place modifications to your home, you’re not alone: More seniors live alone or with only their spouse in the U.S. than in most other countries worldwide. At the same time, more and more families are welcoming the idea of multigenerational residences. In short: Universal design is a universal concern. And while creating an accessible home can require professional renovations, this isn’t always the case — there are plenty of low-lift home improvements that anybody can make. Here, Jamie Gold, a wellness design consultant and author of Wellness by Design: A Room-by-Room Guide to Optimizing Your Home for Health, Fitness and Happiness, shares her top design tips to enhance your home’s accessibility — with no contractor required. BedroomBeing well-rested is a prerequisite for staying healthy, but aging brings a host of mental, physical and lifestyle changes that can disrupt sleep patterns and quality. Happily, there are ways to minimize them. “Start by controlling your bedroom environment,” says Gold. “Look for window coverings that block out light and noise — especially automated treatments that can be raised and lowered with the touch of a button, so you don’t even have to get out of bed.” Installing circadian light bulbs in your bedroom is another way to instill a sense of routine into your sleep pattern. To prevent falls, make sure to move any cords, clothes or bedding that may cause you to trip.Bathroom“You should prioritize a shower seat and a handheld showerhead,” says Gold. “The great thing about the handheld is it makes it easier to clean yourself and the entire shower area.” She also recommends adding bidet functionality to your toilet, as this decreases the need for those with mobility limitations to use the tub and shower for cleaning—thus lessening the risk of tub and shower falls. Place nonskid mats in the shower and bath to further protect against falls. An en suite bathroom is ideal for seniors (not to mention everyone else), but if that’s not an option, establish the senior’s bedroom as the one closest to the hallway bathroom. Then line the hallway with night-lights to ensure a safe path there and back. KitchenThis space can be a hotbed of hazards for older members of the household. “Invest in tiered, pull-out shelving for cookware and pantry items,” says Gold, so no one has to get down on their knees to rummage through lower-level cabinets. Additionally, she recommends an induction cooktop, which heats using magnetic fields, to reduce fire and burn risks (portable versions of these are also available for a less expensive upgrade). Make a constant effort to keep the kitchen floor dry, as water from the sink can lead to slips and falls if not cleaned up. If your home is multi-level, you can even indulge your inner college student and create a DIY kitchen in or near the bedroom by stocking it with a mini-fridge, microwave, water cooler and coffee maker.Additional Tips“Do a physical walk-through of the entire space, focusing on potential trip hazards,” says Gold. Look for loose rug corners, super-slippery floors, wired chargers underfoot—anything that could cause a fall. Additional tips to guard against falls include removing furniture from common walkways, avoiding throw rugs, and covering wood stairs with carpet or non-slip covering.Don’t just consider your home during the daytime—think about how it will look and feel at night as well. Adding plug-in lights along the stairwell and low-level lights in hallways can make navigating these transitory spaces safer for those with decreased mobility or vision. And to help keep everyone on schedule, consider installing smart technology that reminds seniors to complete their daily tasks—as minor as taking the trash out or as major as feeding themselves or taking their medications. With a home that’s there for you, you’ll have more of the security you need to age healthily, safely and happily in place. More

Once you experience the convenience of a dishwasher, it’s nearly impossible to look back. The best dishwashers not only save you time and effort, but are also more water- and energy-efficient. Not to mention, they keep with features like auto dispense detergent and Microban-treated parts, they get your dishes squeaky clean and can even help keep itself germ-free.And, as it turns out, a dishwasher’s prowess doesn’t end with the usual suspects: dinnerware, flatware and cookware. Carolyn Forté, Home Care and Cleaning Lab Executive Director and a consumer products expert with over 40 years of experience evaluating cleaning products and appliances for Good Housekeeping, knows a thing or two about dishwashers, and says the appliance is a quick and easy cleaning solution for all kinds of items in your home, from kids’ toys to gardening tools. Forté doesn’t recommend washing fabrics or soft items, like hats, plus cautions against washing shoes and flip-flops for sanitary reasons. Instead, look to the humble appliance to help clean hard plastics, metal and glass items like scrub brushes with plastic handles, pet toys and bowls and even manicure tools in a flash. All About Your DishwasherJust don’t forget: In general, you should always check the manufacturer guidance on whether a product is dishwasher-safe, and choose a quick, express or delicate cycle. And if anything is particularly filthy, you should wash it by hand.Ready to speed through your cleaning checklist? Read on to learn more about the surprising items you can deep clean in your dishwasher. Plastic toysSmall kids’ toys like plastic boats for the bath and plastic building blocks should go on the top rack of the dishwasher. Put anything particularly small in a mesh bag to prevent them from dropping through the racks. Never put any toys with internal or electronic parts in the dishwasher. You also want to make sure toys are thoroughlydry inside to prevent mold growth.Suzi Media Production//Getty ImagesScrub brushes with plastic handles Put these cleaning tools in the top rack of your dishwasher to freshen and clean them.Toothbrush holderRemove all of that gunk and grime from the bottom of your toothbrush holder by placing it in the upper rack of your dishwasher, where you put glasses. Plastic and acrylic organizersClear any large crumbs or debris from plastic organizers — can holders, utensil caddies or even shoe bins — then pop them onto the upper rack of your dishwasher to thoroughly clean them. Glass microwave turntableFirst, check the manufacture’s instructions. If it says it’s dishwasher safe, remove the turntable from the microwave, then load it into the lower rack of the dishwasher like a plate. Just make sure it not too tall that it hits or block the middle spray arm. Shower poufThis bathroom accessory can safely be put in the upper rack of the dishwasher. Related StoryPacifiersRubber and silicone pacifiers do well in the utensil rack or caddy of your dishwasher. Many are even sturdy enough for a sanitize cycle, but we recommend checking manufacturer instructions first. Sold plastic dustpan/vacuum attachmentsClean your cleaning supplies — plastic or metal dust pans, vacuum attachments and washable filters, for example — in the dishwasher. Place smaller items, like vacuum attachments (but not brushes or tools with fabric attached), upright on the top rack. Larger items, like a dustpan, can go face down on the top rack; some, depending on the material, will do just fine on the lower rack if extra space is needed. Nail clippers/tweezersManicure and grooming tools, including nail clippers, cuticle clippers and tweezers, can go on the upper rack of your dishwasher like utensils. Alternatively, you can place these tools in the utensil caddy. CombsCombs and other plastic hair brushes (avoid putting boar bristle brushes in the dishwasher) should be placed on the upper rack of the dishwasher, bristle-side down. Pets toys/bowlsMetal, ceramic or plastic pet toys and bowls tend to be dishwasher-safe. Place plastic items, like chew toys, on the upper rack; metal and ceramic items, including bowls, go on the bottom rack. You can also send protective rubber floor mats through the dishwasher by placing them in the main compartment of the dishwasher like a plate, avoiding the spray arms. LenaMay//Getty ImagesCeramic potsPlanters, berry baskets and other ceramic pots can safely go in the upper drawer of the dishwasher. However, if the item is particularly special, handpainted or delicate, it’s recommended to handwash it to avoid possible fading or other damage. Phone casesPlastic and silicone phone cases are generally dishwasher-safe face down on the top rack, but avoid washing any cases with accessories like rhinestones or other attachments that could be damaged or even fall off during a cycle.   Small garden tools with plastic handlesShovels, pails and other small metal or plastic gardening tools can get a quick refresh in the dishwasher. After you remove excess dirt, place these tools in the upper or lower rack, depending on size and material. Ideally, plastic should go on the top rack, while metal can withstand a spin on the lower. CupholdersIf your car — or your child’s car seat — has removable cupholders, tap any debris or larger food crumbs out into the garbage, then send them for a spin in the upper rack of the machine like glassware. SpongesYou should, ideally, replace your kitchen sponge every two to three weeks, but in a pinch, the dishwasher may help extend the life of your trusty kitchen tool. Simply tuck your sponge securely into the top rack in a regular load, using the “heated dry” setting.Refrigerator bins and glass shelvesAlways follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. If it’s dishwasher safe, after you’ve cleared any food crumbs and debris from drawers and glass shelves, these items can take a spin in the dishwasher — space permitting. We do, however, recommend allowing these items to come to room temperature before washing to prevent cracking, and do not put shelves with LED lighting in the dishwasher.More Trending Home StoriesBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more. More

ModernMARC MAULDINContemporaryPhil CrozierAs seen in this attractive living room designed by Reena Sotropa of In House Design Group, the sleek nature of modern style balances the daring accents of color and texture. “While often neutral in palette, contemporary spaces can also be elevated with bold color-blocking. The focus is on straight lines and sharp angles, creating an inviting space through texture and mixed metallics — proving that minimalism can be anything but boring,” says Rebecca Ward of Rebecca Ward Design.Photo by: Phil CrozierEclecticSara Ligorria-TrampIf you never get tired of thrifting or find yourself leaning into unique colors, consider an eclectic design style. “Eclectic is often described as contemporary shapes, layered patterns and textures mixed together with vintage finds. This juxtaposition works in favor to elevate the uniqueness of the pieces and often the uniqueness of the color palette,” says Storms.See more at Style by Emily Henderson »Photo by: Sara Liggoria-Tramp Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowFarmhouseKaitlin GreenCoastalMichelle Boudreau DesignMidcentury Kat AlvesIf neutrals bore you, consider this setup from Rebecca Ward of Rebecca Ward Design and go for a midcentury style when designing your home. “Imagine stepping into a 1950s dinner party — the vibrant sofa on tapered walnut legs, a hairpin-leg coffee table and a brass sunburst mirror above it. Mid-century modern design is rooted in the German Bauhaus movement, offering a minimalistic yet retro feel with rich wood tones and brilliant colors,” says Ward.Photo by: Kat AlvesAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowIndustrialalvarez//Getty ImagesInspired by elements like metal, concrete and exposed pipes, industrial interior design works well in lofts and other spaces with high ceilings. Although these layouts often involve gray tones, they can be cozied up with colorful furniture, statement lighting and vintage artwork. TraditionalCaroline SharpnackAlthough traditional interiors can often be described as old-fashioned, there are many ways to incorporate your personality into the style for a polished design with rich colors. Just take note of the playful feel of this traditional living room designed by Debbie Mathews of Debbie Mathews Antiques & Designs. “Traditional design often incorporates symmetry with decorative moldings, columns and wainscoting. It also incorporates neutral colors but can take that one step further with a number of rooms being painted in rich jewel tones,” says Mathews. Photo by: Caroline SharpnackTransitionalPhil CrozierStuck between wanting elegance and simplicity at the same time? Transitional design blends styles for a chic yet subtle look that’s exemplified in this striking living room designed by Reena Sotropa of In House Design Group. “Transitional is a mix between traditional and contemporary, so it is not too fussy or overdone but it is also not cold or austere,” says Sarah Hargrove of The Collective.Photo by: Phil CrozierAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowMinimalismMichelle Boudreau DesignIf living in a space where clutter doesn’t excite you, keep it simple with a minimalist interior. Minimalism is often characterized by carefully curated decor, neutral colors and clean lines, as seen in this sophisticated white kitchen with gold accents designed by Michelle Boudreau of Michelle Boudreau Design.RELATED: 6 Minimalist Design Tips That Prove Less Is MoreMaximalismErin KestenbaumLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com where she covered everything from entertainment news to product reviews to pop culture updates.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

Regardless of the project’s scale, home renovating can spark a mix of emotions. While you’re probably thrilled about taking the next steps towards designing your dream home, you’re also most likely a bit overwhelmed by the thought of transforming your house into a construction site for the next few weeks or months. And to top it all off, you’re forced to put all your trust in someone you may not know very well: Your contractor.While contractors don’t usually intend to mislead their clients in any way, there are a few unspoken truths that are helpful to understand before you finalize any home projects. Dan DiClerico, director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab, has rounded up the most common truths contractors may not explicitly tell you before renovating. This way, you can better prepare for the project to come. Remodeling almost always takes longer and costs more than expected. Any changes in the price or timeline of your remodel can be frustrating, especially when you’ve budgeted a certain amount of money and have carefully planned for the project to be done before a specific deadline. However, there are certain things beyond you and your contractor’s control that can change the original plan.”Your contractor might truly believe they can finish the job in three months or six months. But then they’ll run into hidden surprises, like structural damage behind walls or outdated electricals,” says DiClerico. “Fixing those issues takes time and money. That’s why it’s important to build at least a 20% cushion into your budget and timeframe.”Rather than having it come as a surprise weeks after signing your contract, plan ahead by building in that extra time and money into your budget. Understanding the process beforehand and coming prepared can help you avoid future frustration. It’s your right to change the design plan — but it will cost you.Ed Bock//Getty ImagesIt can be exciting to actually see the progress of your renovation unfolding in front of you. As you begin to experience the transformation, other ideas might come to mind. While you have every right to express your opinions throughout the project, there are always costs that come along with those changes. “There’s a saying in the business that the four most expensive words in remodeling are ‘while we’re at it.’ It’s tempting to make changes to the design plan after the work gets underway — adding in another window, maybe, once a wall is knocked down during demo, or squeezing extra pantry space into the kitchen floor plan,” says DiClerico. “It’s your right to do this, but you need to know that it will add significantly to the bottom line, and in the heat of the project, your contractor might not do the best job of explaining the numbers.”If you’ve asked to tack on an extra project, regardless of how minor, be patient with your contractor when it comes to pricing and scheduling. Given the choice, contractors will usually go for the ‘builder’s special.’ Peter Dazeley//Getty ImagesYour home project should be all yours — paint, tiling, flooring and all. If you don’t specify the materials you’d like your contractor to use, they’ll likely choose for you. “If you let your general contractor choose all the products and materials on the project, they’re usually going to go for the cheapest, fastest option. Take interior paint, for example. They’ll choose an economy brand that goes on quick and dries fast. Things like long-term durability and fade-resistance are less of a concern. As our testing at the Good Housekeeping Institute finds, you can find affordable paints that also deliver a smooth finish and perform well over time. The same rule applies to most product categories, from flooring to decking,” says DiClerico. So before signing a written contract, it’s important to make sure all products and materials down to the model number and choice of finish are clearly stated.”Any blank spaces in the contract will probably be filled in by your contractor, and that’s where you could end up with a lot of ‘builder’s specials’,” says DiClerico. RELATED STORYIt will be messy.When it comes to renovating, messiness is a side effect of hard work. However, that doesn’t mean it should infiltrate the whole house. Make sure to communicate with your contractor before the project starts so you have a plan for containing dust and other particles. “Dust from a kitchen project can quickly find its way into the rest of the house. Be sure to ask the contractor how they plan to contain dust and other airborne contaminants. Plastic sheeting should be part of the strategy. Some contractors also bring in heavy duty air purifiers to help capture chemicals from paint, adhesives and other building materials,” says DiClerico.Communication is key.seksan Mongkhonkhamsao//Getty ImagesIt may sound pretty simple, but having a strong relationship with someone you’ve hired or are working with is the key to success. While it may be tempting to simply go with the cheapest quote or the contractor with the fastest timeline, your comfort level with the professional you’re hiring should be a top priority. “Contractors aren’t always the chattiest. But it’s important that you have a strong rapport with them from the beginning,” says DiClerico. “You want to know that you can ask them questions at any time. Listen to your gut. If you’re not comfortable with them during the initial meeting, keep looking for a contractor you can talk to.”This applies throughout the project as well. While contractors might not specifically tell you when or how many times to visit during the renovation, take the initiative to build this into your schedule. Showing up in person helps to maintain a strong line of communication, especially during the beginning stages when important decisions are being made. Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com where she covered everything from entertainment news to product reviews to pop culture updates.Expert consulted:Dan DiClericoHome Improvement & Outdoor DirectorHaving written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids. More

The winner of a Good Housekeeping Best Cleaning Product Award and a Good Housekeeping Seal-holder, Dawn Powerwash spray impressed us in the Lab with its fast, no-fuss formula and grease-fighting power. In our tests, it tackled grease deposits on contact and the precise spray nozzle was ideal for targeting trouble spots. Just spray it on, wait a few minutes and wipe up the residue.It is particularly convenient and effective on oven door glass, but we love the overall versatility of this budget-friendly pick — even if it wasn’t the best for tackling an oven that needed all-over TLC. Whether you’re using it in the interior of your oven, your cooktop or a pot caked with burnt-on grease, simply spray, wipe and rinse. For tougher messes, let sit 3 to 4 minutes, scrub and rinse. It comes in a line of scents, including Lavender, Apple and even Free & Clear. Refills are available for the spray bottle.Form: Dish soap spray | Standing time: 3–4 minutes | Scent: Fresh, apple, citrus, lemon, lavender, free & clearRELATED: Best Dish Soaps for Sparkling Clean Dishes More

Whether you’re traveling across the country or down the block, moving can be quite nerve-wracking for everyone involved. Gathering boxes, packing those boxes to the brim and then transporting them to a new location without damaging or losing anything in the process is never an enjoyable experience, not to mention the arguing between family members that usually starts a couple of hours in. But the thing about moving is that the benefits (hopefully) come along later. Related StoriesAs someone who just moved, I know that packing is never exactly fun, but it can be a bit less dreadful with the correct preparation (yes, it’s possible). I’ve gathered all of my favorite tips I found to be most useful while packing up my last apartment. Regardless of whether you’re moving yourself or you’ve hired a moving company, these tips are easy to implement and will save you time, space and frustration. So gather those boxes and get moving! 💡 Create Throw Away and Giveaway Boxes First things first, do not pack unnecessary items. That unsightly 50-year-old kitchen spatula that was passed down to you? Consider donating it or giving it to a loved one, then treat yourself to a new one after the move. Laura MillarCreating a throwaway and giveaway box before you start packing helps eliminate clutter and will pay off once you get to your new home. This is also your chance for a fresh start, so don’t be afraid to replace a few items that were on their way out anyway, especially if you’ll use the new ones every day. Buying a few new pots and pans, instead of taking my partially broken hand-me-downs along with me, was one of the best things I did during my last move.Related Story💡 Keep Clothes on Hangers Laura MillarLaura MillarThis is one of my of favorite tips, and it happens to be one of the easiest to implement. Simply keep clothes on their hangers throughout your move. Wrap a garbage bag around as many hangers as will fit and tie it around the top, leaving the hook free. This method allows you to keep your clothes protected and clean from any surfaces they may touch in transit, while eliminating the stress that comes with rehanging every item of clothing. Just rip off the garbage bags once your clothes are in their new home, and you’re all set. 💡 Take Photos The last thing you may want to do during the middle of packing is whip out your camera, but I promise it’ll be worth it. Whether on your television console, mantel or nightstand, we all have a few knick-knicks that bring us comfort. If you’ve spent time organizing them in a specific way and like the way they look, take a picture of their placement so you can reference it when redecorating after the move. Then, pack them all together in the same box so they’re easy to find.💡 Use Bulky Clothing for Added ProtectionDon’t waste time trying to fit winter coats, fluffy robes and oversized sweatshirts into a suitcase. While packing your clothes, make a pile of those larger, bulkier items. When you’re ready to pack picture frames, artwork and other fragile decor, come back to this pile for added support. You can even use the sleeves of sweatshirts or ties on your robe to secure larger pieces of art. However, if you have any oversized or extra delicate decorations, you may want some more added protection. 💡 Label Tools and WiresLaura MillarYou will thank yourself later when you’re replugging in your desktop, televisions and other electronics or rebuilding anything you may have had to take apart. When you’re ready to pack any wires or tools, grab some large Ziploc bags and a Sharpie. Unplug all your wires that belong to one space or electronic device and secure them in the bag. Then, label the bag with whatever device they belong to. When it comes to any chairs or dressers that may have had to come apart during the moving process, follow the same steps. Keep the instruction manuals, screws and other tools all in one bag with the name of the furniture written on the outside so you have easy access when you’re ready to rebuild. Then, gather these different “tool-kits” and put them in one box or bag so they’re all in one place. 💡 Pack Inside ALL of Your BagsThis includes suitcases, duffels, totes and hampers! Keep clothes neatly folded and pack all of your bags so you don’t have to refold them once you’re ready to unpack. You can also pack any other belongings that fit. Think towels, smaller decorative items and anything else you can safely squeeze in. This way, you’re saving space by not having to pack those bags elsewhere, while also gaining more space for clothes and other belongings. It’s a win-win.💡 Assemble an Essentials BoxSave yourself the frustration and fill a box or bag with anything you may need during or immediately after the move. Having an “essentials” box will provide easy access to your laptop, chargers, favorite clothes and more. The last thing you’ll want to do after a long day of moving is sort through a ton of boxes to find your AirPods. Try doing this for essential toiletries as well. In a separate box, gather toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper, paper towels and any other essentials you’ll need soon after the move. 💡 Schedule a Grocery Delivery Laura MillarA day or two before moving, make a list of all the groceries you’ll need. Scheduling a grocery delivery to your new home or apartment will eliminate the stress of having to go to the store on the big day. Plus, nobody wants to be hangry on move-in day. Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com where she covered everything from entertainment news to product reviews to pop culture updates. More

When it’s done right, accent walls can add a ton of positive features to a room – a pop of color, some added dimension, a unique visual design. However, if it goes wrong, they can take away from a design scheme.“Too often, people make the mistake of adding an accent wall without thinking through the placement and reason behind it. Accent walls can either draw attention to an area or make the wall fade into the background – so considering which wall to accent depends on the end goal,” says Gideon Mendelson, founder and creative director of Mendelson Group. Unfortunately, it’s actually quite easy to make a mistake while designing an accent wall because of all the moving parts involved (texture, color, wall placement, surface and artwork, to name a few). Whether you’re unsure of what material to use or you’re nervous about going too bold, interior designers are here to offer advice on how to perfect the art of the accent wall, including the most common mistakes to avoid. ❌ Failing to Read the RoomThe first step in executing an accent wall is to become properly acquainted with your space to be confident in all of your design choices to come. Take the time to get to know every aspect of the room – the last thing you want is to accent the wrong wall. “I find that the house tells you where the focus goes. You have to look at the architecture and how the use of an accent wall will inform the overall design of the space,” says James Yarosh, interior designer and gallerist at James Yarosh Associates. “Failing to read the room might leave you with wallpaper that looks uncomfortable – like when you wear the wrong clothes, they look like they’re wearing you and not the other way around.”Abigail JacksonDesigned by Elizabeth O’Neal Interiors, this accent wall brings a sense of cohesiveness to the bedroom. “Wallpaper is a great choice because it plays a supportive role without becoming the main focus of a space,” says Yarosh. Photo by: Abigail Jackson❌ Botching the Execution Regardless of how sure you are of the accent wall design, there’s nothing that could ruin that vision more than a poor paint job. “When it comes to painting, execution is as important as intent. If you’re not a great painter, hire one! No matter how creative or beautiful your accent wall is, there is nothing worse than sloppy corners,” says Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative director of BHDM. Haute’XposureIt may sound simple, but the importance of a clean design cannot be understated. Any sort of small mistake in execution can draw attention away from the accent wall. ❌ Neglecting TextureWhen we think about accent walls, the first thing that comes to mind may be color. Although that’s also an important feature, the texture and material used on the surface of the accent wall could change the entire feel of the design, literally. Plus, texture adds new dimension to a room. Lara Kimmerer“I’m wide open to embracing color, textures and anything unique that can add interest to the overall wall portfolio of a space. Metallics/foils, wood veneers and hand painted panoramas all have their place in creating an identity that is unique and fitting to the goals of a space,” says Yarosh. ❌ Having an Unclear End Goal Before you can execute your design, decide what you want the accent wall to do for your space. Do you want the accent wall to be the focal point of the room? Or do you want it to act as a supporting character in conversation with other design elements in the room? Patricia BurkeThis accent wall, designed by James Yarosh Associates, acts as the focal point of the room while speaking to other aspects of the space, like the matching whites and pinks throughout. Photo by: Patricia Burke”Good design requires understanding how to marry and create visual relationships in order to tell a bigger story. It’s helpful to know what you are looking to create,” says Yarosh.While it can be thrilling to revamp a space and accent it with fun patterns and colors, it’s important to have an objective in mind to guide the design. The completed project will be much more satisfying. ❌ Overlooking DecorWhile creating an accent wall is an art in itself, weaving in different forms of decor like sculptures, framed paintings or other decorative pieces will add much-needed character to the space. “A bold accent wall with a patterned wallpaper or bright color can be balanced by other artwork or decor that blend the color into the entire design. Vice versa, a muted accent wall can allow for more bold and colorful decoration,” says Mendelson. Madeline HarperPatricia Burke The interaction between various forms of art, color and texture can do magical things for an accent wall. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different wallpapers, color schemes and artwork to create a layered masterpiece.”As a gallerist and designer, the pairing of art and wallpaper is one of my favorite engagements to explore for clients – the results can become transcendent,” says Yarosh. Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com where she covered everything from entertainment news to product reviews to pop culture updates. More

As more households become multigenerational, it makes sense to envision a home that’s designed to be comfortable for everyone, from older folks to kids. And while no one wants to think about accidents or health diagnoses your family may encounter, the reality is that you can’t predict when an accessible home will prove to be beneficial, whether it’s now or down the road. “Whatever you do for a person who is disabled or neurodiverse is also helping everybody else in the family,” says Shelly Rosenberg, founder of Acorn & Oak, a design company focused on families raising kids with disabilities. The experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute teamed up with design experts to create a beginner’s guide to designing an accessible space — including the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and garage — that helps you prepare for the future and is welcoming to all visitors. Meet the ExpertsIn conjunction with our pro’s expertise on innovative brands that develop accessible products, we interviewed design experts who have experience creating an inclusive home for all ages and abilities.Danise LevineDanise LevineShelly RosenbergFounder of Acorn & OakShelly RosenbergLouie DelawareLouie DelawareKOTRYNA ZUKAUSKAITEMaster Kitchen Basics Embarking on a remodel? Smart, simple design choices can create a functional kitchen that works with a variety of mobility needs. Reassess your appliances Installing an under-counter microwave or fridge or raising your dishwasher makes kitchen tasks easier for folks in wheelchairs or with other mobility challenges. Rosenberg recommends an induction cooktop, which doesn’t heat with an exposed flame like a gas range and cools down faster than an electric range (features such as this improve safety for neurodivergent family members). Another pro tip is to look for appliances with safety shut-offs so kids won’t get hurt if they accidentally touch something — and you won’t have to worry about accidentally leaving an appliance on after you head out the door.Pro tip: “Kitchens often have fluorescent lighting, which may emit a hum or subtle flash that can be aggravating to someone who is neurodiverse. Instead, look for battery-operated lamps. They have no cords and typically use LED bulbs that stay cool to the touch and don’t hum or flash.” —Shelly Rosenberg, founder of Acorn & OakAdd slide-out storageNo one wants to deal with stacks of heavy pots: To avoid that, place cookware near the cooking area in storage organizers in under-counter drawers with full extension and heavy-duty slides, says Delaware. “This way it’s easier for somebody to just pull out the drawer and be able to get to the things they need,” he explains. Reaching deep inside or high above for a stack of plates will no longer be a cumbersome task. Include roll-out shelves in cabinets to prevent unnecessary reaching and bending, adds Levine. Rethink the sinkA sink with at least 27 inches of clearance underneath allows access for those in wheelchairs. Our home experts recommend a shallow sink that makes everyday food prep easy. A motion-sensing faucet — or a smart faucet that responds to voice commands — lets anyone dispense water easily, which is great whether someone has limb differences or is just filling a large pot. Accessible Kitchen AccessoriesKohler Artifacts Touchless FaucetNow 25% OffTesters found that the precise built-in motion sensor responded quickly — great when they had dirty hands. The pull-down spray head has three settings: a gentle spray for rinsing food, a sweeping spray for cleaning up after dinner and an aerated stream for filling pots. The sink’s innovative features earned it a spot in our 2023 Home Renovation Awards. Lab evaluations found it to be an efficient and user-friendly smart faucet that lacks the frustrations of previous models.Miele 24-Inch Full Console Built-In Smart DishwasherHome Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forté highlights Miele’s line of smart dishwashers that feature auto detergent dispensing. This means you can add up to a month’s worth of detergent (or 20 cycles) at one time.This feature may make dish cleaning easier for individuals with arthritis or dexterity issues because you can set and forget it without having to add detergent for each load.GE 30-Inch Induction Smart CooktopNow 18% OffWith four heating elements (two of which can become a bridge burner), this GE Profile model lets you cook a full weeknight dinner quickly and easily. GH Kitchen Pros named it best overall in our latest categorical test of induction cooktops because of its easy-to-use design that will cost you half as much as other models. There is a control lock for added safety as well as a kitchen timer and built-in Wi-Fi so you can connect your cooktop to your smartphone.YouCopia StoreMore Adjustable Cookware RackStore pans in a rack that keeps everything visible. This one has nonslip grips, and its dividers are adjustable so they can corral deep skillets and slim griddles alike. Experts in the Home Care & Cleaning Lab featured this rack in Good Housekeeping’s 2021 Storage Awards. In Lab testing, analysts found the cookware rack to be sturdy and appreciated that it made it simple to organize pots, pans and bakeware.Levoit Core 400S Smart True HEPA Air PurifierWe recommend placing this innovative air purifier in your kitchen to help capture particles and odors that may be emitted while you cook. It’s super quiet and features an auto mode that monitors air quality via built-in sensors and adjusts fan speeds as needed. You can also use Levoit’s VeSync app to monitor real-time air quality, view filter life and set schedules.Not only does this air purifier make it easy for family members with less mobility to adjust settings, but it can also help reduce kitchen smells, which can be irritating for neurodivergent individuals, explains Rosenberg. KOTRYNA ZUKAUSKAITEBolster the BathroomChoosehigh-stylefeaturesthatcansupportunexpectedinjury or other mobility limitations and impairments.Install seamless showersConsider a curbless shower that is level with the bathroom floor. The lack of a raised edge makes these sleek showers easier to access for those using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. A sliding door will also facilitate access and save space. “A detachable shower wand is key for anyone who might be seated on a bench or in a roll-in chair — it’s easier for them to be able to bathe their entire body,” says Delaware.Pro tip: “When thinking about an accessible home that can grow with you and your family, imagine it as a home that’s ready for anybody, regardless of age, height, physical capabilities and any other challenges they may have.” —Louie Delaware, founder of the Living In Place InstituteTry smart toilets Some smart toilets make independent restroom use easier by offering auto-flushing, automatic seat lifting and a built-in cleansing wand. But anyone will love a model with a seat warmer for those chilly mornings.Lower the sink A low-height vanity sink makes it easy to wash face and hands from a seated position. Also, think about leaving enough knee clearance for a wheelchair or a stool. ADA guidelines recommend that a sink be no higher than 34 inches. Easy Adds for a Welcoming WashroomKohler Purist Showering KitThis two-in-one showering kit combines a showerhead with a hand shower so you can direct water whether you’re standing or sitting.Select showerheads from Kohler’s Purist collection deliver multifunctional sprays, from full coverage to invigorating massage. We love that the hand shower slides along its mounting bar for pinpoint control.Pottery Barn Linden Grab BarElegant yet functional, this handrail from PotteryBarn’s Accessible Home Collection can be installed in any bathroom to help you get into and out of the shower or around the bathroom.Our experts love that this ADA-compliant design is available in three modern finishes: chrome, brass and matte black.Tushy Classic 3.0 Transform your toilet for nearly hands-free hygiene. This bidet seat attachment is compatible with most toilets — just connect it to your toilet’s water tank (no outlet required).The versatile design makes it suitable for round, oval and elongated toilets. Home experts rave about its simple installation and variety of spray settings.Kohler Innate Smart ToiletSmart toilets make it easier to use the restroom independently by eliminating several steps of the process (like the need for toilet paper). It has several perks like precision water pressure and temperature control as well as a comfort height design ideal for “aging in place.” Our pros love this top-performing brand’s electric smart toilet. We found it feature-rich and appreciated the auto-flushing feature that lifts and lowers the toilet seat automatically for total hands-free control.Vigo Frameless Sliding Shower DoorSleek, seamless showers are easier to access by aging parents, wheelchairs or other mobility aid devices because there is no raised edge to navigate. This frameless shower door facilitates getting in and out of a tight shower space, according to our experts. We appreciate that it’s available in a variety of sizes to suit all bathroom configurations, can open to the left or the right and offers great value.KOTRYNA ZUKAUSKAITEBuild a Better BedroomFunctional and flexible furniture, storage and lighting will help whether you’re waking up or winding down. Adjust your bed and furniture Whether you experience chronic pain or share the bed with someone with different sleep habits, a split-adjustable base can personalize your position to help keep you aligned and create equity. You can raise the head and foot remotely, and some beds feature charging ports or dual controls. Our pros also recommend bedrails that serve as grab bars for those with balance issues or people transferring to mobility devices. Optimize your closet A closet with both a top and bottom rod not only stores more but also puts clothing within reach. Optimize that design even more with a pull-down top rod that allows a person who is shorter or in a wheelchair to reach sweaters, blouses and trousers. Levine recommends adding interior lighting in bedroom closets for safe navigation around extra rods. Consider looped handles on closet doors for easier grasping and simpler opening and closing.Pro tip: “If a person’s eyesight is deteriorating, add additional lighting to help them see better and to provide an additional level of safety. For example, if you are widening and replacing the front door, add side lights so that you can see who is at the door without having to open it.” — Danise Levine, assistant director of the University at Buffalo Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental AccessControl the lighting A dimmer switch creates ambiance and visually indicates bedtime, explains Rosenberg. Nightlights can improve the environment for little ones with cognitive disorders, she adds. Motion-activated lights can help prevent falls in hallways and stairwells, and less mobile individuals can use remote-controlled shades to adjust the lighting from bed.Accessible Bedroom AccessoriesSerena Smart ShadesOpen and close the shades from bed with a remote, a voice assistant or Serena’s easy-to-use app. When evaluating these smart shades, home experts at the GH Institute appreciated that you can customize your shades to match your current interior as well as choose the right light-filtering level and power option, whether you want the shades to be battery-operated, hardwired or cordless manual.Sleep Number Lifestyle Collection Side TableNow 30% OffOffering a side table with a shelf that provides leverage for those who need help getting into and out of bed, Sleep Number earned praise from our pros for integrating accessibility into its everyday furniture. One important note: This side table is only compatible with furniture from the Lifestyle collection. However, you can find universal bed assist rails that provide the same key support.Rev-A-Shelf Adjustable Pull Down Closet RodA gentle pull on the sturdy center pole lowers the top rod of this wall-mounted closet savior. Whether you’re in a wheelchair and can’t reach the top rod or you want to make the most of a small closet, Rev-a-Shelf upgrades your organizational reach. The durable metal frame is available in three sizes and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Note that you will have to install the storage system, but hardware is included in your purchase.Stander Pull Up Assist Bed LadderNow 48% OffIf your bedroom is on the smaller side or you don’t want to install a handrail or side table, consider this pull-up strap that our textiles experts recommend. The strap can adjust to almost all bed sizes and is affordable, so you can purchase a strap for your own bedroom as well as one for a guest bedroom if older family members or less mobile visitors may benefit from the assistance. We appreciate the cushioned, non-slip handles to ensure a firm grip and the no-tool installation for an easy setup. Gravity Weighted BlanketA weighted blanket not only makes for more comfortable bedding but there is evidence that the extra pressure can make you feel calm. The Gravity Weighted blanket made this category popular — and our textiles pros can understand why. Its machine-washable cover makes for easy cleaning and testers found the fill stayed in place. Rosenberg sells Organic Weighted Blankets on Acorn & Oak’s website, too, and this option is also machine washable as well as hypo-allergenic. Neurodivergent children can benefit from the soothing effect of a weighted blanket, explains Rosenberg, whether at home, a sleepover or at school during naptime. KOTRYNA ZUKAUSKAITEManage Your Mudroom and GarageAccessibility needs to start outside your home and continue inside. Remove obstacles from your driveway, walkway and entrances. Add easy entryway accessA wide entry with seamless flooring is simple for folks with wheelchairs, crutches or strollers to navigate. Add sturdy benches so people can remove their shoes while seated.Pro tip: “Decluttering the house, including the garage, may take time and effort, but it is an inexpensive way to provide more space to maneuver and has been proven to reduce stress and improve mental health.”— Danise Levine, assistant director of the University at Buffalo Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental AccessTry streamlined shelvingOpening cabinets and bins can be difficult for people with mobility issues. Opt for open shelving, which provides space for essentials and a way to display decor.Investigate auto essentialsMake it easier to get into and out of your car: Look for features like keyless entry, assist bars and a wheelchair ramp. For hands-free navigation, opt for voice-controlled route assistance.KOTRYNA ZUKAUSKAITESimple Swaps for a Smarter HouseThe latest smart home technology reduces physical demands so you can operate gadgets and appliances with automation, your voice or your smartphone.Simple Swaps for a Smarter HomeGet your own personal assistantAmazon Echo Show 8 Operate your smart home from this Alexa-enabled digital hub with accessibility features like a screen magnifier that makes navigating the device easier.LAB RESULTS: The voice-controlled Echo Show 8 smart speaker is a Tech Lab favorite; it can tell you the weather or your schedule and provide emergency assistance that can connect you with first responders.Go keylessULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock Avoid the need for keys — great for people who have issues with fine motor skills — by installing a smart lock. Thanks to fingerprint-scan technology, all you have to do is press your thumb to the biometric-enabled keypad to unlock the door.LAB RESULTS: We found the UltraLoq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock scanner responsive, and the lock stores the fingerprints of up to 50 users.Use your voice to control appliancesTp-link Kasa Mni Smart Plug Super-affordable smart plugs let you operate appliances through your phone or via voice with Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility.LAB RESULTS: These easy-to-install Kasa mini smart plugs allow you to build schedules, set timers and set up Away Mode, which offers you the ability to have lamps turn on and off even when you’re not home.Turn on the lights with an appPhilips Hue Smart Light Starter Kit Now 38% OffUse this kit to set up your home’s smart lighting. Featuring a Hue bridge and dimmer, it lets you control and adjust up to 50 smart bulbs and choose from more than 16 million colors for soothing lighting.LAB RESULTS: Our experts say this kit is easy to install. It can turn on lights via Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands or through its robust app.Trigger lights automaticallyPhilips Hue Motion Sensor Now 11% OffSmart bulbs that work alongside motion sensors like the Philips Hue Motion Sensor trigger lights to turn on and off automatically when they detect movement. You can also adjust lighting with voice controls via Alexa and Google Assistant to avoid physically getting up to reach switches.LAB RESULTS: According to our pros, these sensors are convenient when you enter a dark entryway or navigate a stairway in the middle of the night so you don’t have to fumble around for light switches. Plus, they’re easy to install but do require a Hue bridge.Why trust Good Housekeeping?Writer and Reviews Analyst Olivia Lipski and Updates Editor Elizabeth Berry teamed up to research and write our guide to an accessible home. Since joining GH in 2021, Olivia has reported on everything from electronics to travel, health, home, fitness and more. Elizabeth updates content across our verticals but has developed beats in the home, style and kitchen appliance spaces. In addition to the accessible design exports Olivia and Elizabeth interviewed, they also collaborated with GH Institute Lab directors and product analysts in the Kitchen Appliance & Innovation Lab, Home Care & Cleaning Lab, and the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab to gather top-tested appliances and home accessories. House illustration: Kotryna Zukauskaite.Take me back to the issue!Check out all the stories from our first-ever Accessibility Issue, including an interview with Broadway star Ali Stroker and more!Olivia (she/her) is a senior reviews writer and analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, overseeing product testing and covering tech, travel, home, fitness, parenting, health and more. Since joining GH in 2021, she has continued to leverage her extensive product reviews experience by staying on top of the industry’s latest innovations and helping readers make better buying decisions. Olivia is a graduate of the George Washington University, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College. More