How to Choose Kitchen Appliances for Universal Design
Accessibility and safety features for kitchen appliances let everyone in on the cooking fun
Anne-Marie Brunet, CMKBD, CAPS
December 13, 2012
There are many things to consider when setting up your kitchen to accommodate individuals with different heights and mobility needs. The placement of appliances should be planned so they're easy to operate and safe for everyone. Almost every appliance today comes in a variety of styles and with myriad features that have real benefits for those looking for a safer cooking environment for all without compromising features and aesthetics.
Cooktops and Ranges
Induction cooktops and ranges are the safest cooking appliances to use, as no open flame or hot burner coils are present. Curious littles ones and compromised individuals can't burn themselves by accidentally touching the stovetop.
Induction cooking is based on an electrical process that produces a high-frequency electromagnetic field. This process induces the cooking vessel itself to generate heat — not the cooktop. Once the vessel is removed from the cooktop, the heat stays with the cooking vessel, leaving the cooktop cool to the touch. Most induction cooktops have controls either at the front or on the side. For optimal access, choose front controls.
Induction cooktops and ranges are the safest cooking appliances to use, as no open flame or hot burner coils are present. Curious littles ones and compromised individuals can't burn themselves by accidentally touching the stovetop.
Induction cooking is based on an electrical process that produces a high-frequency electromagnetic field. This process induces the cooking vessel itself to generate heat — not the cooktop. Once the vessel is removed from the cooktop, the heat stays with the cooking vessel, leaving the cooktop cool to the touch. Most induction cooktops have controls either at the front or on the side. For optimal access, choose front controls.
This type of smooth-touch control is also great for people with arthritic hands, as they don't have to grasp large round knobs. The absence of knobs also prevents clothing or mobility devices from getting caught.
Either way, if you have a separate cooktop or a range and want to up your safety quotient, consider the CookStop wireless system. This system attaches to an electric stove or cooktop and includes a built-in motion detector that monitors movement in the vicinity.
If the user does not return within a specified time frame, the stove shuts off automatically, preventing fires before they begin. CookStop is easily programmed to meet the needs of several users. It can be used as a stand-alone product or connected to the company's Tunstall’s Caresse+ monitoring system to alert remote caregivers and family members about a potential emergency.
If the user does not return within a specified time frame, the stove shuts off automatically, preventing fires before they begin. CookStop is easily programmed to meet the needs of several users. It can be used as a stand-alone product or connected to the company's Tunstall’s Caresse+ monitoring system to alert remote caregivers and family members about a potential emergency.
Range hoods, decorative or hidden, are as important as the cooking appliance below. Whether the hood is on an island or a wall, make sure the controls are within easy reach for everyone using the appliance. One option is to mount a control switch at a user-friendly height, either on the backsplash or at the front of a cabinet.
This range with built-in downdraft ventilation has the controls at the front, ensuring that anyone cooking can get the fan going.
Ovens
Ovens that have a side-swing door are more accessible and safer than regular ovens, as users don't have to bend over a hot door or extend their reach to access the interior. Look for models that have doors that stay put when open to prevent any accidental burns to the arms. Ensure that a minimum of 15 inches of counter space is available on the latch side of the oven. An added option would be to include a pullout shelf underneath the oven to ease the transfer of hot items from the oven to the countertop.
Ovens that have a side-swing door are more accessible and safer than regular ovens, as users don't have to bend over a hot door or extend their reach to access the interior. Look for models that have doors that stay put when open to prevent any accidental burns to the arms. Ensure that a minimum of 15 inches of counter space is available on the latch side of the oven. An added option would be to include a pullout shelf underneath the oven to ease the transfer of hot items from the oven to the countertop.
Wall-mounted ovens are easily the most convenient for everyone to use when placed at the proper height to fit the user.
Double wall ovens, placed one above the other, will usually fit most users — either short or tall. For regular ovens, include at least 15 inches of landing space next to the door or above the oven.
Steam ovens are gaining in popularity in today's kitchens for many reasons — one being the obvious healthier cooking method. They need water to create the steam, and the water line can be hardwired for ease of use, or you can just use the included refillable container. These ovens, smaller than regular ovens, are another option for those cooking simpler meals or cooking for one or two. Steam oven placement is the same as for a microwave oven.
Microwaves
A microwave drawer placed just beneath the countertop is one solution for shorter individuals and for those managing a wheelchair or crutches. It eliminates the sometimes dangerously high reach, and locating it underneath the counter means there is always a landing surface available for hot items as they come out. Younger children have easy access to the unit at this height, too. Controls are also easier to see and read, although taller individuals might have to bend down to read the display.
If you're placing the microwave above the countertop, consider the user’s height and abilities. Ideally a microwave should be placed 3 inches below the user’s shoulder. For those in chairs, locate the microwave controls less than 48 inches above the floor.
A microwave drawer placed just beneath the countertop is one solution for shorter individuals and for those managing a wheelchair or crutches. It eliminates the sometimes dangerously high reach, and locating it underneath the counter means there is always a landing surface available for hot items as they come out. Younger children have easy access to the unit at this height, too. Controls are also easier to see and read, although taller individuals might have to bend down to read the display.
If you're placing the microwave above the countertop, consider the user’s height and abilities. Ideally a microwave should be placed 3 inches below the user’s shoulder. For those in chairs, locate the microwave controls less than 48 inches above the floor.
Refrigerators
Now, on to food preservation. Refrigerators have come a long way since the days of the old wooden icebox. Unit configurations vary; some come as a huge refrigerator with single or double drawers at the bottom. Others, like this model, are the traditional fridge and freezer combination. A freezer drawer is much easier to operate than a bottom-mounted freezer door. And with the freezer drawer at the bottom of the unit, younger children and those in chairs can access frozen snacks without help. Double doors on top offer full unencumbered access to the refrigerator section.
Now, on to food preservation. Refrigerators have come a long way since the days of the old wooden icebox. Unit configurations vary; some come as a huge refrigerator with single or double drawers at the bottom. Others, like this model, are the traditional fridge and freezer combination. A freezer drawer is much easier to operate than a bottom-mounted freezer door. And with the freezer drawer at the bottom of the unit, younger children and those in chairs can access frozen snacks without help. Double doors on top offer full unencumbered access to the refrigerator section.
Refrigerator drawers are a great solution for active families with kids who always seem to be in the refrigerator looking for a drink or a snack, letting the cold air out spill out. Smaller individual units placed where you need them can keep food and drinks organized for quick and easy access. The drawers — also available as freezer drawers — are much easier to operate than a large refrigerator door and are perfect for those in wheelchairs or using walkers. They can have a cabinet panel front to blend in with the cabinetry or stand out in a stainless steel finish.
Dishwashers
After cooking comes the cleanup. Whether you live alone or have a large family, there is a dishwasher style that’s right for you.
Consider raising the dishwasher off the floor at least 12 inches to give those in chairs easier access and for less bending overall, especially for taller individuals. Raising the dishwasher also complies with the recommended 9-inch toe kick for those in wheelchairs.
After cooking comes the cleanup. Whether you live alone or have a large family, there is a dishwasher style that’s right for you.
Consider raising the dishwasher off the floor at least 12 inches to give those in chairs easier access and for less bending overall, especially for taller individuals. Raising the dishwasher also complies with the recommended 9-inch toe kick for those in wheelchairs.
Dishwasher drawers are available in single- or double-drawer models. If you use your dishwasher only occasionally or are tight on space, the single drawer might work for you. Single-drawer models have the advantage of an extra storage drawer underneath.
The double-drawer model offers another convenience for busy individuals and families. One drawer can be used for dirty dishes and the other as storage for clean dishes, as long as you remember which drawer is which.
You can also include two single dish drawers for better organizational flow. One could be located where you keep the drinking glasses, and the other could be located where you keep the plates and cutlery. Single or double drawers are also a great addition in a butler’s pantry.
If you’re tight on space and can’t live without your dishwasher, try one in an 18-inch apartment size.
And for those really tight on space, KitchenAid has developed small, stackable built-ins. Pictured here is a steam oven, microwave and dish drawer unit. Now that is convenient!
More: How to Find the Right Oven Arrangement for Your Kitchen
More: How to Find the Right Oven Arrangement for Your Kitchen
Related Stories
Kitchen Backsplashes
30 Bold and Beautiful Range Backsplashes
Get ideas for eye-catching tile and stone backsplashes inside stove alcoves and behind cooktops
Full Story
Kitchen Design
7 Essential Features of a Well-Designed Kitchen
Make sure your new kitchen not only looks good but also functions beautifully
Full Story
Kitchen Workbook
How to Map Out Your Kitchen Remodel’s Scope of Work
Help prevent budget overruns by determining the extent of your project, and find pros to help you get the job done
Full Story
Kitchen Storage
Foolproof Storage Solutions for Corner Kitchen Cabinets
By tidgboutique
Consider Lazy Susans, pullouts and more to maximize storage
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Kitchens So Far in 2024
Get inspired by the warm neutral palettes, ample storage and inviting islands in these most-saved new photos on Houzz
Full Story
Houzz TV
5 Trends for Kitchen and Bath Products in 2024
See fascinating new features for showers, tubs, faucets and more launched at the 2024 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show
Full Story
Kitchen Backsplashes
Where to Start and Stop Your Backsplash
By tidgboutique
Consider these designer tricks to work around cabinets, windows and other features for a finished look in your kitchen
Full Story
Kitchen Workbook
How to Find Your Kitchen Style
If you’re planning to remodel your kitchen, here’s how to find inspiration and start narrowing down your choices
Full Story
Kitchen Design
15 Stylish Kitchen Range Hood Ideas
Get ideas for hood shapes, sizes and looks that can elevate a kitchen’s design while ridding it of bad air and odors
Full Story
Kitchen Workbook
How to Remodel Your Kitchen
Follow these start-to-finish steps to achieve a successful kitchen remodel
Full Story
@shidimma yes that entirely feasible. If you Google 'Pullman' kitchens these are types that have sink, fridge, and stove all on one wall. Recommendation is that you have a minimum 30" counter space between fridge and stove, but if your space is tight you could fudge it with a minimum 24" counter space. We have to work with what we have right?
I have seen the Pullman's kitchen. I realise now nothing is impossible when it comes to kitchen layout , thank you very much.
@shidimma - you're welcome. Good luck with your project!