15 New Home Appliance Trends and Innovations Defining 2026
See how new appliances from the KBIS 2026 trade show tackle daily life with practical, high-performance designs
Homeowners on Houzz often say they want appliances that make everyday routines easier without turning the home into a high-tech lab. At the 2026 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), manufacturers showed they’re moving in that direction.
Rather than adding technology for novelty’s sake, many of this year’s debuts focus on reducing daily frustrations. Refrigerators improve visibility deep inside shelves, dishwashers accommodate reusable bottles and straws, and laundry systems are designed to better tackle pet hair and bacteria. Built-in cameras and AI-assisted features are also evolving in meaningful ways, letting homeowners check inside refrigerators remotely or monitor food as it cooks without opening the oven door. Much of the new technology is designed to work out of sight, automatically handling tasks with little to no effort from the user. The latest launches also point to a broader shift toward practical performance, including professional-style induction expanding into compact homes and outdoor spaces.
Here’s a look at the appliance innovations and trends shaping kitchens, laundry areas and other hardworking zones of the home in the year ahead.
Rather than adding technology for novelty’s sake, many of this year’s debuts focus on reducing daily frustrations. Refrigerators improve visibility deep inside shelves, dishwashers accommodate reusable bottles and straws, and laundry systems are designed to better tackle pet hair and bacteria. Built-in cameras and AI-assisted features are also evolving in meaningful ways, letting homeowners check inside refrigerators remotely or monitor food as it cooks without opening the oven door. Much of the new technology is designed to work out of sight, automatically handling tasks with little to no effort from the user. The latest launches also point to a broader shift toward practical performance, including professional-style induction expanding into compact homes and outdoor spaces.
Here’s a look at the appliance innovations and trends shaping kitchens, laundry areas and other hardworking zones of the home in the year ahead.
2. Lighting That Moves With the Shelves
Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS) is also addressing the common dark corners problem in its new 36-inch integrated columns with a reimagined LED ceiling and shelving. Unlike static top-down lighting, this system is integrated directly into the adjustable shelving. As the shelves move to accommodate different heights, the light source moves with them to eliminate shadows and maintain consistent visibility at every level.
Storage is handled with glass-and-metal Lift and Go bins and soft-close doors, while the freezer column adds a high-end entertaining touch by producing large-form Grand Craft Ice. The columns feature a 7-inch LCD touchscreen that acts as a central command center, offering intuitive control and real-time visibility into the system’s performance. Integrated Wi-Fi and ThinQ controls allow for remote management, while AI-driven features like AI Fresh and Smart Ice Plus study household usage patterns to automatically optimize food preservation and ice production. Additionally, the inclusion of ThinQ UP allows for over-the-air software updates that evolve the unit’s features throughout its lifespan.
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Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS) is also addressing the common dark corners problem in its new 36-inch integrated columns with a reimagined LED ceiling and shelving. Unlike static top-down lighting, this system is integrated directly into the adjustable shelving. As the shelves move to accommodate different heights, the light source moves with them to eliminate shadows and maintain consistent visibility at every level.
Storage is handled with glass-and-metal Lift and Go bins and soft-close doors, while the freezer column adds a high-end entertaining touch by producing large-form Grand Craft Ice. The columns feature a 7-inch LCD touchscreen that acts as a central command center, offering intuitive control and real-time visibility into the system’s performance. Integrated Wi-Fi and ThinQ controls allow for remote management, while AI-driven features like AI Fresh and Smart Ice Plus study household usage patterns to automatically optimize food preservation and ice production. Additionally, the inclusion of ThinQ UP allows for over-the-air software updates that evolve the unit’s features throughout its lifespan.
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3. Maximizing Shelf Space by Relocating Ice
Midea’s new French door lineup, available in 30-, 33- and 36-inch widths, focuses on creating more usable interior room by rethinking where the internal components sit. On the 31-cubic-foot flagship model, the bulky ice-making equipment is moved from the main refrigerator section down to the bottom freezer. This change opens up significant shelf space for oversize platters and family-sized dishes without losing the convenience of the through-the-door water dispenser. The units also include a sensor-based filling system that automatically tops off pitchers or bottles to a precise level.
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Midea’s new French door lineup, available in 30-, 33- and 36-inch widths, focuses on creating more usable interior room by rethinking where the internal components sit. On the 31-cubic-foot flagship model, the bulky ice-making equipment is moved from the main refrigerator section down to the bottom freezer. This change opens up significant shelf space for oversize platters and family-sized dishes without losing the convenience of the through-the-door water dispenser. The units also include a sensor-based filling system that automatically tops off pitchers or bottles to a precise level.
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4. Zero Clearance for Tight Cabinetry
Samsung is targeting a built-in look with a specialized hinge and slim-door system that requires as little as 0.16 inches of side clearance. This Zero Clearance Fit in its new Bespoke AI 3-Door French Door Refrigerator allows the doors to open to 108 degrees, ensuring full interior access even in tight cabinetry layouts. The design is rounded out with a full-metal interior and a stainless steel exterior featuring elevated handles and a fingerprint-resistant finish.
Functional additions include an external tall water dispenser for oversize containers and a Sphere Ice maker that produces slow-melting, rounded ice. On the technology side, the unit is Wi-Fi-enabled through the SmartThings platform, allowing for remote temperature control and an AI-driven energy mode designed to reduce power consumption.
Samsung is targeting a built-in look with a specialized hinge and slim-door system that requires as little as 0.16 inches of side clearance. This Zero Clearance Fit in its new Bespoke AI 3-Door French Door Refrigerator allows the doors to open to 108 degrees, ensuring full interior access even in tight cabinetry layouts. The design is rounded out with a full-metal interior and a stainless steel exterior featuring elevated handles and a fingerprint-resistant finish.
Functional additions include an external tall water dispenser for oversize containers and a Sphere Ice maker that produces slow-melting, rounded ice. On the technology side, the unit is Wi-Fi-enabled through the SmartThings platform, allowing for remote temperature control and an AI-driven energy mode designed to reduce power consumption.
5. The Fridge as a Digital Meal Assistant
GE Profile’s 4-Door Refrigerator, featuring the new Kitchen Assistant platform, aims to position the appliance as a centralized digital hub for meal management. The core innovation lies in its integrated inventory tools: a ceiling-mounted camera allows users to check produce levels in real time through a smartphone, while a built-in bar code scanner and voice-controlled system sync with Instacart for automated grocery ordering.
On the hardware side, the unit focuses on high-utility water and ice features. A sonar-based Hands-Free Autofill system handles bottle filling automatically, and the CustomSize Ice feature allows users to toggle between eight different ice dimensions through the SmartHQ app.
For those who prefer a more traditional experience, the fridge includes dual ice makers and two AutoFill pitchers that replenish themselves inside the door. The interface is rounded out by a 7-inch command center that provides weather updates, recipe integration from Taste of Home and granular control over the interior LED lighting and cooling zones.
GE Profile’s 4-Door Refrigerator, featuring the new Kitchen Assistant platform, aims to position the appliance as a centralized digital hub for meal management. The core innovation lies in its integrated inventory tools: a ceiling-mounted camera allows users to check produce levels in real time through a smartphone, while a built-in bar code scanner and voice-controlled system sync with Instacart for automated grocery ordering.
On the hardware side, the unit focuses on high-utility water and ice features. A sonar-based Hands-Free Autofill system handles bottle filling automatically, and the CustomSize Ice feature allows users to toggle between eight different ice dimensions through the SmartHQ app.
For those who prefer a more traditional experience, the fridge includes dual ice makers and two AutoFill pitchers that replenish themselves inside the door. The interface is rounded out by a 7-inch command center that provides weather updates, recipe integration from Taste of Home and granular control over the interior LED lighting and cooling zones.
6. Pro Features for Compact Living
Bigger isn’t always better, as evidenced by Sharp’s upcoming 2026 refrigerator designed for compact layouts. The 24-inch counter-depth French door model offers 11.3 cubic feet of total capacity, including a 4.6-cubic-foot dual-drawer freezer. Despite the smaller footprint, the unit prioritizes a built-in look and includes fingerprint-resistant stainless steel and flexible interior shelving.
The rest of the expanded compact collection follows a similar focus on high-end features for tight spaces. A new 24-inch wall oven introduces true convection and air frying to the small-kitchen category. The suite is rounded out by a 24-inch range hood, a 24-inch over-the-range microwave, an 18-inch dishwasher and 24-inch cooktops, including an induction model, offering a full-service kitchen solution for ADUs or urban apartments where standard appliance size isn’t an option.
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Bigger isn’t always better, as evidenced by Sharp’s upcoming 2026 refrigerator designed for compact layouts. The 24-inch counter-depth French door model offers 11.3 cubic feet of total capacity, including a 4.6-cubic-foot dual-drawer freezer. Despite the smaller footprint, the unit prioritizes a built-in look and includes fingerprint-resistant stainless steel and flexible interior shelving.
The rest of the expanded compact collection follows a similar focus on high-end features for tight spaces. A new 24-inch wall oven introduces true convection and air frying to the small-kitchen category. The suite is rounded out by a 24-inch range hood, a 24-inch over-the-range microwave, an 18-inch dishwasher and 24-inch cooktops, including an induction model, offering a full-service kitchen solution for ADUs or urban apartments where standard appliance size isn’t an option.
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7. Commercial-Grade Hydration at Home
Elkay is bringing its commercial-grade hydration technology into the home with the Liv, a built-in filtered water dispenser designed to fit between standard wall studs. Unlike traditional countertop or fridge-based dispensers, this unit installs flush into the wall anywhere a water line and electrical access are available, making it a popular choice for mudrooms, home gyms and butler’s pantries. The alcove features brushed stainless steel and a sensor-activated system for hands-free filling and an automatic shutoff to prevent overflows.
Elkay is bringing its commercial-grade hydration technology into the home with the Liv, a built-in filtered water dispenser designed to fit between standard wall studs. Unlike traditional countertop or fridge-based dispensers, this unit installs flush into the wall anywhere a water line and electrical access are available, making it a popular choice for mudrooms, home gyms and butler’s pantries. The alcove features brushed stainless steel and a sensor-activated system for hands-free filling and an automatic shutoff to prevent overflows.
Kohler’s new Aquifer 4-in-1 Beverage System aims to clear countertop clutter by consolidating four distinct water functions into a single, minimalist faucet. The under-counter system delivers filtered ambient, chilled (41°F to 59°F), sparkling and near-boiling (176°F to 208°F) water on demand. By using a compact filtration and carbonation unit — compatible with standard CO2 cartridges — the system eliminates the need for standalone kettles, sparkling water makers and plastic bottles.
The interface is entirely digital and motion-activated. Users wake the control panel with a hover and tap an icon to dispense. For safety, the near-boiling water requires a two-step tap-and-hold sequence. Available in 12- and 16-inch spout heights, the faucet comes in four finishes — polished chrome, stainless steel, brushed moderne brass and matte black — and can be paired with a matching grated drain for an integrated look.
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The interface is entirely digital and motion-activated. Users wake the control panel with a hover and tap an icon to dispense. For safety, the near-boiling water requires a two-step tap-and-hold sequence. Available in 12- and 16-inch spout heights, the faucet comes in four finishes — polished chrome, stainless steel, brushed moderne brass and matte black — and can be paired with a matching grated drain for an integrated look.
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RANGES, COOKTOPS AND OVENS
8. High-Output Precision for Gas and Induction
BlueStar relaunches its premium Platinum Series gas ranges with X-8 burners featuring an eight-point star-shaped sealed design, a 20-inch circumference and 152 precision-control heat ports for even heat distribution. The burners deliver a wide performance range, from 25,000 BTUs for high-heat searing down to 500 BTUs for gentle warming. The updated ranges also introduce a newly engineered gas oven with faster preheat, an improved convection fan system and brighter halogen lighting.
8. High-Output Precision for Gas and Induction
BlueStar relaunches its premium Platinum Series gas ranges with X-8 burners featuring an eight-point star-shaped sealed design, a 20-inch circumference and 152 precision-control heat ports for even heat distribution. The burners deliver a wide performance range, from 25,000 BTUs for high-heat searing down to 500 BTUs for gentle warming. The updated ranges also introduce a newly engineered gas oven with faster preheat, an improved convection fan system and brighter halogen lighting.
Here’s a close-up look at BlueStar’s X-8 burners, now available in the relaunched Platinum Series gas ranges.
For those who prefer a separate cooking surface, the X-8 technology is also available in recently launched 30- and 36-inch drop-in cooktops, which can deliver a combined output of up to 95,000 BTUs across six burners.
Newcomer Induction Hardware made a notable debut at KBIS 2026, earning a Best of KBIS Silver Sustainable Standout award for its 48-inch Professional Induction Range. The brand’s flagship model aims to bridge the gap between high-output professional cooking and all-electric efficiency, featuring a six-zone cooktop and a dual convection oven. The interior is particularly specialized, with a Pro Pizza mode that uses an included stone and sustained temperatures of 660°F to mimic a traditional wood-fired oven.
Designed with a focus on tactile interaction, the range includes cast-metal knobs with haptic feedback and integrated LED accents. Beyond the hardware, the unit is Wi-Fi-enabled for over-the-air updates, allowing the software — and its various cooking modes like Air Fryer and Dehydrator — to evolve over time. Available in both stainless and black stainless finishes, the series offers a high-performance alternative for homeowners looking to move away from gas without sacrificing the pro-style aesthetic.
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Designed with a focus on tactile interaction, the range includes cast-metal knobs with haptic feedback and integrated LED accents. Beyond the hardware, the unit is Wi-Fi-enabled for over-the-air updates, allowing the software — and its various cooking modes like Air Fryer and Dehydrator — to evolve over time. Available in both stainless and black stainless finishes, the series offers a high-performance alternative for homeowners looking to move away from gas without sacrificing the pro-style aesthetic.
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9. AI-Assisted Baking and Real-Time Monitoring
GE Profile’s new smart built-in convection wall ovens with a cooking assistant blend reliable performance with connected convenience. Select models have an AI-powered CookCam, precision cooking modes and remote monitoring via the SmartHQ app, while built-in microphones and Bluetooth speakers offer hands-free control and entertainment. The GE Profile model will be available at retailers nationwide in July.
GE Profile’s new smart built-in convection wall ovens with a cooking assistant blend reliable performance with connected convenience. Select models have an AI-powered CookCam, precision cooking modes and remote monitoring via the SmartHQ app, while built-in microphones and Bluetooth speakers offer hands-free control and entertainment. The GE Profile model will be available at retailers nationwide in July.
KitchenAid’s new 30-inch double wall oven moves toward a more visual, AI-supported cooking experience with the introduction of an integrated Intelligent Cooking Camera. This system allows for real-time monitoring through a smartphone, but its primary function is “Doneness Detection” — using AI to recognize specific foods and automatically adjust cook times and temperatures to prevent overcooking.
On the culinary side, the oven includes dedicated Steam Bake and Fresh Pizza modes, the latter of which reaches 550°F to better replicate professional deck ovens. Each oven offers 5 cubic feet of capacity and features true convection. For homeowners focused on aesthetics, the unit includes backlit control knobs and is designed to be personalized with mixed-metal hardware kits, including finishes in brass, bronze and copper.
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On the culinary side, the oven includes dedicated Steam Bake and Fresh Pizza modes, the latter of which reaches 550°F to better replicate professional deck ovens. Each oven offers 5 cubic feet of capacity and features true convection. For homeowners focused on aesthetics, the unit includes backlit control knobs and is designed to be personalized with mixed-metal hardware kits, including finishes in brass, bronze and copper.
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DISHWASHERS
10. Hidden Aesthetic with Antimicrobial Protection
GE Appliances is expanding its panel-ready dishwasher offerings across its Profile and Café brands, focusing on a fully integrated hidden aesthetic for high-end kitchen designs. The GE Profile model, shown here, has several of the brand’s signature cleaning features, including dedicated silverware and bottle wash jets, alongside a Dry Boost system. To address long-term maintenance, the unit incorporates Microban antimicrobial technology to inhibit bacterial growth on interior surfaces, while a machine-learning Smart Assist feature monitors and adjusts wash cycles over time to optimize performance.
10. Hidden Aesthetic with Antimicrobial Protection
GE Appliances is expanding its panel-ready dishwasher offerings across its Profile and Café brands, focusing on a fully integrated hidden aesthetic for high-end kitchen designs. The GE Profile model, shown here, has several of the brand’s signature cleaning features, including dedicated silverware and bottle wash jets, alongside a Dry Boost system. To address long-term maintenance, the unit incorporates Microban antimicrobial technology to inhibit bacterial growth on interior surfaces, while a machine-learning Smart Assist feature monitors and adjusts wash cycles over time to optimize performance.
11. Specialized Cleaning for Glassware and Bottles
Midea’s new 24-inch top-control dishwasher focuses on the specific cleaning challenges of modern hydration gear, such as reusable straws and oversize tumblers and bottles. The unit features a specialized STRAWash zone and high-pressure bottle jets designed to reach deep into narrow items, eliminating the need for manual scrubbing or bottle brushes. A dedicated lid zone also helps anchor small parts that often flip over or trap water during a standard cycle.
To ensure everything comes out dry, the dishwasher uses a sensor-based drying system that actively monitors and removes moisture. This can be paired with an Auto-Open door feature that uses fresh air to prevent condensation. The unit offers a one-hour wash-and-dry cycle intended to handle a full load of dishes and accessories in a single hour without sacrificing hygiene.
Midea’s new 24-inch top-control dishwasher focuses on the specific cleaning challenges of modern hydration gear, such as reusable straws and oversize tumblers and bottles. The unit features a specialized STRAWash zone and high-pressure bottle jets designed to reach deep into narrow items, eliminating the need for manual scrubbing or bottle brushes. A dedicated lid zone also helps anchor small parts that often flip over or trap water during a standard cycle.
To ensure everything comes out dry, the dishwasher uses a sensor-based drying system that actively monitors and removes moisture. This can be paired with an Auto-Open door feature that uses fresh air to prevent condensation. The unit offers a one-hour wash-and-dry cycle intended to handle a full load of dishes and accessories in a single hour without sacrificing hygiene.
Smeg’s reimagined dishwasher collection, crafted in Italy and launched in late 2025, emphasizes high-capacity flexibility and specialized care for glassware. A standout feature in the series is the MultiLoad system, which uses unique supports to accommodate awkward items like pots and pans and oven trays, as well as delicate items like espresso cups, within the same cycle.
For wine enthusiasts, the DW8630 model includes a WinePro accessory kit with flexible tines to secure delicate stemware and a dedicated support for wine decanters. This model, shown here, also features Smeg’s Planetarium Wash System, which uses a double-motion spray arm to create a spiralizing 360-degree sweep for more consistent coverage at near-silent noise levels. To improve efficiency, most models in the collection use DryAssist+, a feature that automatically pops the door open at the end of the cycle to let fresh air finish the drying process naturally.
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For wine enthusiasts, the DW8630 model includes a WinePro accessory kit with flexible tines to secure delicate stemware and a dedicated support for wine decanters. This model, shown here, also features Smeg’s Planetarium Wash System, which uses a double-motion spray arm to create a spiralizing 360-degree sweep for more consistent coverage at near-silent noise levels. To improve efficiency, most models in the collection use DryAssist+, a feature that automatically pops the door open at the end of the cycle to let fresh air finish the drying process naturally.
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12. Ergonomic Loading and Quiet Cleaning
Whirlpool’s new 24-inch stainless steel dishwasher introduces a mechanical twist to traditional loading with its Spin&Load lower rack. The 360-degree rotating rack is designed to make accessing hard-to-reach corners easier during both loading and unloading. To manage the cleaning itself, the unit uses AI Intelligent Wash sensors that monitor soil levels, load size and water temperature in real time to adjust the cycle’s intensity.
The model also focuses on efficiency and convenience, featuring a quick wash that completes in about an hour and a Soak & Clean cycle designed to dissolve stuck-on food without pre-rinsing. The dishwasher includes a heated dry option and belongs to Whirlpool’s Eco Series, which emphasizes water-saving and energy-efficient performance.
Whirlpool’s new 24-inch stainless steel dishwasher introduces a mechanical twist to traditional loading with its Spin&Load lower rack. The 360-degree rotating rack is designed to make accessing hard-to-reach corners easier during both loading and unloading. To manage the cleaning itself, the unit uses AI Intelligent Wash sensors that monitor soil levels, load size and water temperature in real time to adjust the cycle’s intensity.
The model also focuses on efficiency and convenience, featuring a quick wash that completes in about an hour and a Soak & Clean cycle designed to dissolve stuck-on food without pre-rinsing. The dishwasher includes a heated dry option and belongs to Whirlpool’s Eco Series, which emphasizes water-saving and energy-efficient performance.
Monogram is repositioning the dishwasher as an invisible entertaining partner with its new 800 and 900 Series that debuted at KBIS 2026. The 900 Series focuses on near-silent operation, featuring a Quiet Cycle that the brand says is the quietest in the industry. Beyond the low decibel count (37 dBA), the units are equipped with over 90 wash jets and five pressurized zones to provide 360-degree coverage, including dedicated jets for hard-to-reach items like carafes and decanters.
The interior architecture emphasizes hosting-specific needs, such as a Crystal Cycle for delicate glassware and a PrepRinse feature that refreshes stored dishes in minutes. A versatile third rack includes a removable section to make room for tall platters below, while an integrated hard food disposer with stainless steel blades eliminates the need for manual pre-rinsing.
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The interior architecture emphasizes hosting-specific needs, such as a Crystal Cycle for delicate glassware and a PrepRinse feature that refreshes stored dishes in minutes. A versatile third rack includes a removable section to make room for tall platters below, while an integrated hard food disposer with stainless steel blades eliminates the need for manual pre-rinsing.
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LAUNDRY
13. Reducing the Vibration and Guesswork of Wash Day
Midea is expanding its laundry category with a new high-capacity smart washer-and-dryer set designed to reduce the mechanical noise and manual guesswork of wash day. The 5.4-cubic-foot Top Load Washer features Super Suspension Technology to dampen vibration, along with a PowerMix spray that blends water and detergent before it hits the drum for a more consistent clean. To streamline the process further, an onboard Flexi AutoDose system holds enough detergent for up to 16 loads, while a full-color digital display provides real-time cycle tracking.
The matching 7.4-cubic-foot Smart Dryer, in electric and gas options, uses a four-sensor moisture and temperature system to prevent overdrying and fabric damage. A Double Layer Easy Clean filter includes a built-in scraper to trap lint more effectively, keeping it off the floor and out of the machine’s internal components. Both dryer units are Wi-Fi-enabled and feature the same intuitive digital interface found on the washer, offering a cohesive, modern look for high-traffic laundry rooms.
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13. Reducing the Vibration and Guesswork of Wash Day
Midea is expanding its laundry category with a new high-capacity smart washer-and-dryer set designed to reduce the mechanical noise and manual guesswork of wash day. The 5.4-cubic-foot Top Load Washer features Super Suspension Technology to dampen vibration, along with a PowerMix spray that blends water and detergent before it hits the drum for a more consistent clean. To streamline the process further, an onboard Flexi AutoDose system holds enough detergent for up to 16 loads, while a full-color digital display provides real-time cycle tracking.
The matching 7.4-cubic-foot Smart Dryer, in electric and gas options, uses a four-sensor moisture and temperature system to prevent overdrying and fabric damage. A Double Layer Easy Clean filter includes a built-in scraper to trap lint more effectively, keeping it off the floor and out of the machine’s internal components. Both dryer units are Wi-Fi-enabled and feature the same intuitive digital interface found on the washer, offering a cohesive, modern look for high-traffic laundry rooms.
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14. Wellness-Focused Laundry and Pet Care
Whirlpool’s new front-load laundry tower introduces a wellness-focused approach to fabric care with an industry-first UV light system. The FreshFlow vent system and UV Clean technology are designed to reduce bacteria in the wash without relying on high-heat cycles, which helps maintain garment freshness and machine hygiene without the risk of fading delicate fabrics.
The single-unit tower design centralizes the controls in the middle of the stack, making the settings for both machines easier to reach. On the performance side, the unit features an Intelligent Dry system that uses sensors to automatically adjust drying times, alongside a specialized Handwash cycle that mimics the gentle motion of manual washing for delicate items.
Whirlpool’s new front-load laundry tower introduces a wellness-focused approach to fabric care with an industry-first UV light system. The FreshFlow vent system and UV Clean technology are designed to reduce bacteria in the wash without relying on high-heat cycles, which helps maintain garment freshness and machine hygiene without the risk of fading delicate fabrics.
The single-unit tower design centralizes the controls in the middle of the stack, making the settings for both machines easier to reach. On the performance side, the unit features an Intelligent Dry system that uses sensors to automatically adjust drying times, alongside a specialized Handwash cycle that mimics the gentle motion of manual washing for delicate items.
The Maytag Pet Pro Top Load Washer is specifically engineered for households with shedding pets, featuring a dedicated Pet Pro filter that visibly traps and removes hair during the wash cycle. To handle the additional mess that often comes with pet ownership, the 5.3-cubic-foot machine includes an Extra Power button to boost stain-fighting performance across any cycle and a Deep Fill option for those who prefer higher water levels for bulkier loads.
The design also prioritizes pre-treatment with a built-in water faucet, allowing users to spot-treat or soak fabrics directly in the tub before the cycle begins. As a smart appliance, it connects to the Maytag app for remote starts and end-of-cycle notifications, making it easier to manage heavy laundry days from another room.
The design also prioritizes pre-treatment with a built-in water faucet, allowing users to spot-treat or soak fabrics directly in the tub before the cycle begins. As a smart appliance, it connects to the Maytag app for remote starts and end-of-cycle notifications, making it easier to manage heavy laundry days from another room.
OUTDOORS
15. Outdoor Induction, the Social Grill and Built-In Griddles
In addition to its award-winning range (see No. 8), Induction Hardware launched what it says is the world’s first 36-inch Outdoor Induction Griddle, a specialized solution for balconies and high-density environments where gas or open flames are restricted. The unit features four oversize induction coils that can be used as single, dual or bridged zones, ensuring even heat distribution across the entire cooking surface.
The griddle uses a removable 8 mm carbon steel plate that is naturally PFAS-free and develops nonstick properties once seasoned, similar to a cast-iron skillet. Because it relies on electric induction rather than combustion, the unit provides high heat retention and precise temperature control while remaining safer for tight outdoor living spaces like apartment terraces or coastal condos.
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15. Outdoor Induction, the Social Grill and Built-In Griddles
In addition to its award-winning range (see No. 8), Induction Hardware launched what it says is the world’s first 36-inch Outdoor Induction Griddle, a specialized solution for balconies and high-density environments where gas or open flames are restricted. The unit features four oversize induction coils that can be used as single, dual or bridged zones, ensuring even heat distribution across the entire cooking surface.
The griddle uses a removable 8 mm carbon steel plate that is naturally PFAS-free and develops nonstick properties once seasoned, similar to a cast-iron skillet. Because it relies on electric induction rather than combustion, the unit provides high heat retention and precise temperature control while remaining safer for tight outdoor living spaces like apartment terraces or coastal condos.
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The Signature Rockwell from True Caliber transforms the grill into a communal centerpiece. Designed by award-winning architect David Rockwell, the 360° Social Grill earned a Gold Style Statement award at Best of KBIS 2026 for its unique walk-around configuration. A standout architectural feature is the retractable hood, which disappears completely beneath the cooktop when opened to provide unobstructed views and effortless access (see below). Inspired by the campfire and the shared experience of sitting around a picnic table, the design encourages guests to gather and interact from all sides.
Here’s a look at the Signature Rockwell with the hood retracted, creating a 360-degree social hub for guests to gather around the cooking action.
True Caliber is also expanding its outdoor lineup with a new series of high-performance built-in griddles, designed to bring indoor versatility to the backyard. Available in 42- and 48-inch widths, these units are engineered to handle common breakfast items, stir-fries and even high-heat searing.
The design focuses on even heat distribution across multiple cooking zones, allowing for different temperatures on a single surface. To streamline the post-meal process, the griddles feature an integrated grease management system for easier cleanup. Intended as a stylish yet functional addition to professional-grade outdoor kitchens, the series aims to offer a durable, high-capacity alternative to traditional grill grates.
A clear takeaway from this year’s launches is a growing focus on everyday use. Whether supporting outdoor entertaining, simplifying cleanup or adding more helpful cooking assistance, many new products prioritize flexibility and ease over novelty.
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The design focuses on even heat distribution across multiple cooking zones, allowing for different temperatures on a single surface. To streamline the post-meal process, the griddles feature an integrated grease management system for easier cleanup. Intended as a stylish yet functional addition to professional-grade outdoor kitchens, the series aims to offer a durable, high-capacity alternative to traditional grill grates.
A clear takeaway from this year’s launches is a growing focus on everyday use. Whether supporting outdoor entertaining, simplifying cleanup or adding more helpful cooking assistance, many new products prioritize flexibility and ease over novelty.
More on Houzz
Read more stories
Browse photos for ideas
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Specializing in Kitchen & Bath
1. Eliminating Dark Corners in the Fridge
GE’s latest 28-cubic-foot side-by-side refrigerator aims to solve the common pain points of the narrow configuration: poor visibility and rigid shelving. The standout feature is a full-panel LED light wall that illuminates the entire back of the unit, effectively ending the problem of losing ingredients in dark corners.
The interior includes integrated tracks designed to hold a standard half sheet baking pan, along with three additional adjustable storage levels. The freezer also gets a functional boost with a dedicated drawer sized specifically for bulk items and large pizza boxes, a frequent sticking point in traditional vertical freezer designs.
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