Why are you removing the pedestals? I am taller and not a spring chicken - I prefer them raised.

An ottoman in front of them seems like an obstacle/opportunity to trip

I'm just over 60 (I presume that put's me in the "not a spring chicken" category) and obese, and I don't have trouble bending over to get things from the back of the drum. In fact, I think putting a something to sit on that would be short enough to not get in the way of the door would actually be harder for me to use (bad knees) than simply bending at the waist.

Maybe think of doing laundry as part of an exercise program, and it won't seem so bad.

(By the way, this is why I like to have my dryer stacked on top of the washer - there's only 1 low appliance and so only 1 time I need to bend and stretch.)

Consider buying a "reacher" to pull out items that you can't reach. My shorter friend uses a new garden rake to reach the back of her dryer.

I have back issues. I use a grabber to transfer laundry. I was hesitant at first thinking I didnt want to appear old and feeble, but it beats a back spasm anyday!

There are universal pedestals available to buy or since you're renovating, it's relatively easy to have a platform built to elevate the machines. You can keep the platform very simple or build cabinets around it with storage underneath.

Find out exactly how high and deep the appliance openings are, set up some empty boxes and imitate loading and unloading them. Consider also that wet laundry can be heavy and get tangled, and wrestling with it while bent in half or perched on a ottoman presents extra challenges.

Thanks everyone salesguy told us that the new washers have such a strong spin cycle that they have been having a lot of trouble with the pedestals i love the build a platform idea. may have to do that. ill try it out first and see how I do. where do you buy a Grabber? is that what it's called? probably Amazon?

" how I do. where do you buy a Grabber? "

Look for a "reach extender", but "grabber" will probably work too. Amazon will have lots. Walmart might even have them too.

Thx Bought one on Amazon

Those who built a platform how do you have the machines serviced if necessary? Do they have to move the w/d to the floor ?