Household tools and appliances that make life with hemophilia easier

Recently, our microwave broke beyond repair, and it made me realize how much we rely on certain appliances to make life easier. In a household where hemophilia is a part of daily life, convenience isn’t just about comfort. It’s about minimizing physical strain and reducing risks.

Many household chores can be physically demanding, which can be tough for someone with joint issues, fatigue, or chronic pain. Here in the Philippines, unfortunately, some of the most useful labor-saving appliances — including dishwashers — aren’t as popular because of cost, space constraints, or cultural habits. But for families managing a bleeding disorder, investing in the right tools can make a big difference in quality of life.

Here are a few appliances we’ve found to be surprisingly helpful, along with their potential hazards and ways to use them safely.

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A microwave is a must-have for easy meal prep

A microwave is more than just a tool for reheating leftovers; it reduces the need to stand by the stove, which can be exhausting for someone with joint pain. It also lowers the risk of burns, spills, and accidents from handling heavy pots and pans. That’s especially helpful for my husband, Jared, who has a seizure disorder coupled with severe hemophilia B. If possible, he should avoid standing too close to a stove for long periods of time, as it could be dangerous for him.

Potential hazards:

• Overheated food and beverages can cause burns.
• Improper containers (such as those made of plastic) can release harmful chemicals.
• Faulty microwaves may spark or cause electrical hazards.

Safety tips:

• Use microwave-safe dishes and avoid overheating liquids.
• Regularly check for signs of wear or damage.
• Keep an eye on young children when they use the microwave.

A dishwasher reduces the effort of manual washing

Dishwashers aren’t common in the Philippines, but they should be. Washing dishes manually means standing for long periods, scrubbing stubborn grease, and handling slippery utensils — all of which can be tiring or risky for someone with hemophilia. A dishwasher not only saves time and effort, but also ensures better sanitation. We haven’t bought one yet, but it’s definitely on our list!

Potential hazards:

• Sharp knives or broken glass can pose a cutting risk.
• High heat and steam can cause burns.
• Incorrect detergent use may lead to chemical exposure.

Safety tips:

• Load sharp objects carefully and place them facing down.
• Open the dishwasher carefully after a cycle to avoid steam burns.
• Use the correct detergent and rinse cycles to prevent residue buildup.

A pressure washer allows for easy outdoor cleaning

We recently invested in a pressure washer, and it has been a game changer for cleaning our outdoor space and pet enclosure. Instead of manually scrubbing grime off tiles and walls, we can simply spray high-pressure water to do the work for us. That reduces the strain on joints and prevents unnecessary physical exertion.

Potential hazards:

• High-pressure water can cause cuts or bruises if aimed directly at a person.
• Slippery surfaces increase the risk of falls.
• Electrical components can be dangerous if exposed to water.

Safety tips:

• Always use the correct pressure setting for the surface.
• Wear nonslip shoes when using the washer.
• Keep electrical cords and outlets away from water.

Robot vacuum cleaner: The effortless way to keep floors clean

Sweeping and mopping might seem like simple tasks, but they require bending, repetitive motion, and prolonged standing — all of which can be painful for someone with hemophilia when they have an active bleed. A robot vacuum takes care of daily cleaning with minimal effort, reducing dust buildup and keeping floors safe from slips and falls. Most robot vacuums on the market today aren’t intended for heavy cleaning, but they do help reduce the weekly workload.

Potential hazards:

• Small objects can get stuck in the vacuum, leading to malfunctions.
• Long hair or cords may get tangled in the rollers.
• If left unattended, it might knock over fragile items.

Safety tips:

• Keep floors free of small objects before running the vacuum.
• Regularly clean the rollers and sensors.
• Use boundary settings to keep it away from delicate areas.

These appliances aren’t just about convenience; they also make life safer and more manageable. In a hemophilia household, avoiding unnecessary strain and injury is a priority.

Of course, every tool comes with its own risks, so it’s important to use them properly. But with the right precautions, these appliances can make daily tasks easier, freeing up energy for the things that truly matter — such as spending time with loved ones.

If you live with someone who has hemophilia, what tools or appliances have made a difference for you? Please share in the comments below.

Note: Hemophilia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Hemophilia News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hemophilia.