With much of the industry focused on Millennial and Gen Z consumers, ergonomics can sometimes take a back seat in product development. However, a number of housewares companies continue to emphasize ease of use and handling as a key design consideration.
Demographics underscore the importance. Baby Boomers are now in their 60s, 70s and beyond, while Gen X is entering its 60s. As consumers live longer, products that are easier to handle and more comfortable to use become increasingly relevant.
At the same time, older consumers represent significant spending power. A Numerator study found Gen X households accounted for 34.1% of U.S. CPG, general merchandise and quick-service restaurant spending in the 12 months ending June 2025. Boomers followed closely, with a 33.7% share of household spending compared to 26.1% for Millennials. Boomers also hold the highest median wealth among older consumers, with households headed by adults aged 58 to 76 reporting a median wealth of $432,000.
Although younger consumers are a key focus for retailers, expectations around ease of use are extending across generations. Products designed with ergonomic considerations for older users also appeal to younger consumers who increasingly expect comfort and simplicity in everyday use.
The emphasis on ergonomics was evident among products introduced at The Inspired Home Show.
Kuhn Rikon Culinary Forged Collection
Gleener Swift Plus Fabric Care Tool
Zyliss Susi 4 Garlic Press
Cangshan, now operating under Austin Cutlery & Tool, continues to emphasize ergonomic design as a core part of its brand identity. The company introduced the Elko Series, a knife lineup developed with handle designs focused on control and comfort.
Kuhn Rikon, in its Culinary Forged Collection, uses full-tang construction from a single piece of steel to improve balance and handling, paired with an ergonomic contoured Pom handle for a secure grip.
Zyliss designed its Susi 4 Garlic Press with longer ergonomic handles to provide added leverage for smoother operation.
Sensarte’s 24-piece ceramic nonstick cookware set features heat-resistant, easy-to-grip handles for safer, more comfortable use.
Ergonomic design is also appearing in more specialized applications. The ErgoCup features an underhand grip and open-handle design intended to reduce strain, while maintaining wrist alignment consistent with joint-protection principles.
In cleaning, Gleener developed its Swift Plus as a compact, battery-free fabric-care tool with an ergonomic handle for ease of use. Tricol’s EcoGourmet ActiveWeave Kitchen Set includes a multi-surface cloth, scrub pad and ergonomic cleaning mitt designed to assist users with limited hand strength.
Minelli, drawing on its background in precision wood manufacturing, has introduced its I’m Playful cutting board system (pictured above), designed with a focus on usability and aesthetics. Edoardo Cavagnetto, director of sales and business development for the Minelli Group Homeware & Kitchenware unit, said the company is focused on creating products that are “aesthetically pleasing, durable and ergonomic.”
