Moving to an Adult Family Home (AFH) raises many questions for seniors and their families. One of the top concerns is practical and emotional: What can I bring? The answer matters—familiar belongings make a new place feel like home, while unsuitable items can create safety or storage problems.
This guide explains, in practical detail, what most adult family homes allow, how Washington state rules and AFH house rules Washington State affect personal items, and how to prepare for a comfortable move into an adult home. It’s written for families across Bellevue and the Eastside—Downtown Bellevue, Factoria, Somerset, Lake Hills, Crossroads, Newport, Wilburton, Eastgate, and Bridle Trails—and for anyone asking, what is an adult family home?
If you want help reviewing an AFH’s policies or comparing homes, A1 Senior Care Advisors provides free, personalized support in Bellevue and surrounding King County communities. Call us at 425-324-5592.
Quick overview: what an AFH allows (and why it matters)
Most AFHs are family-scale homes licensed to care for up to six residents. Because each home is independently run, policies vary—but commonly permitted items include:
- Clothing and footwear
- Personal care and toiletry items
- Linens and familiar bedding
- Small furniture and personal décor (space permitting)
- Hobby supplies and small craft materials
- Photos, keepsakes and meaningful mementos
Restricted items typically include large appliances, flammable materials, certain pets (unless pre-approved), and items that interfere with care or safety. Understanding an AFH’s policy before moving helps avoid surprises and preserves the resident’s dignity and routine.
Why knowing “what to bring” matters
Moving is more than logistics; it’s emotional. Familiar items—clothes that smell like home, a favorite blanket, or a framed family photo—help seniors maintain identity and reduce anxiety. For families in Bellevue, this emotional continuity is especially important when the move means leaving a long-time home in neighborhoods such as Downtown Bellevue or Bridle Trails.
Practical reasons matter too: limited closet space, infection control, and caregiver workflows influence what is allowed. Reviewing the AFH Resident Information Sheet and asking the provider’s manager about storage, laundry, and labeling will save time and stress.
Pre-move checklist: 12 steps to prepare belongings (and the conversation)
- Request the AFH policy in writing. Ask for the resident information sheet or house rules so you can plan what’s allowed.
- Measure the room. Get exact bed, closet, and floor space dimensions. This prevents overpacking and ensures furniture fits safely.
- Prioritize comfort items. Choose one to two pillows, one favorite blanket, and a small number of framed photos.
- Sort clothing for ease. Bring comfortable, easy-on garments and consider two wardrobes—daily and seasonal. Label clothes to prevent loss.
- Compile a toiletry kit. Include preferred skin care, shampoo, and grooming items; note any items staff must manage for safety (e.g., electric razors).
- Check medical and adaptive equipment. Confirm whether walkers, wheelchairs, or grab bars are permitted and if staff can store them.
- Limit kitchenware. Bring small, special items (a favorite mug) but confirm whether the AFH allows personal appliances.
- Gather hobby supplies. Choose compact, low-risk activities like knitting, puzzles, art supplies, or paperback books.
- Decide on furniture carefully. Small, lightweight items are preferable; oversized recliners may block hallways or create risks.
- Consider pets early. If a pet is essential, ask about pet policies, vaccination records, and behavioral assessments.
- Prepare documents. Label financial, medical, and identification documents and provide copies to the AFH manager if requested.
- Plan a staged move. Bring essential items first, then add non-essentials once the resident has settled.
Detailed list: allowed items and practical notes
Clothing & footwear
Residents may bring most or all of their personal clothing. Practical tips: bring elastic-waist pants and slip-on shoes; include duplicates of frequently worn items; label everything with the resident’s name for laundry.
Personal care & toiletries
Most AFHs let residents use their preferred toothpaste, body wash, lotion, and grooming products. If an item requires staff assistance (e.g., cream that requires application), note that in the care plan.
Linens & bedding
Bringing a familiar quilt or pillowcase helps the transition. Ask whether the AFH launders linens or whether you should provide extra sets. Some homes supply white linens while allowing personal bedding for comfort.
Mementos & photos
Photos, a couple of framed items, and small keepsakes are encouraged. Large collections should be pared down—display a rotating selection if space is limited.
Hobby materials
Compact hobbies are ideal: knitting, coloring books, puzzles, reading materials, model kits, and music players are low-risk and highly beneficial. Confirm shared craft supplies’ storage and cleanup expectations.
Electronics & TVs
Many homes allow small TVs or radios, but check the electrical policy. Unattended cooking appliances, space heaters, or larger appliances are usually prohibited for safety.
Small furniture
A small side table, comfortable chair, or lamp is often permitted if it fits safely. Avoid items with sharp edges or that block walking paths. Always confirm dimensions with the AFH manager.
Medical & mobility equipment
Walkers, canes, wheelchairs, shower chairs, and hospital beds are typically allowed and sometimes provided. Coordinate with staff so equipment is set up safely.
Food & kitchen items
Some AFHs permit a special spice jar, family recipes, or a favorite mug. Bringing your own cookware is possible but needs prior approval for safe storage and use.
Plants & greenery
Small potted plants can brighten a room but confirm rules about watering, allergens, and pests. Outdoor gardens may have separate policies.
Pets (conditional)
Not all AFHs accept pets. If pets are allowed, the home will require vet records, proof of vaccinations, and often a behavioral assessment. Even small pets need pre-approval due to allergies, space, and safety.
Safety & regulatory considerations (Washington State + AFH house rules)
Washington State regulates AFHs to protect residents’ health and safety. Many homes will include safety guidance in their Resident Information Sheet and AFH house rules. Common safety rules you’ll see include:
- No open-flame items (candles, incense)
- Restrictions on hot plates and space heaters
- Fire safety and evacuation procedures
- Controls on chemicals and flammable liquids
- Staff protocols for medication and medical equipment
Ask the AFH manager to explain how personal items are checked for safety and whether any items must be removed or altered to meet AFH house rules Washington State.
How A1 Senior Care Advisors can help (local, no-cost guidance)
Selecting the right AFH and preparing the household items is easier with expert help. A1 Senior Care Advisors provides complimentary assistance to families in Bellevue, Newcastle, Kirkland, Issaquah, Redmond, Mercer Island, Renton, and surrounding King County communities. We can:
- Review the AFH Resident Information Sheet with you line-by-line.
- Identify what items are likely permitted and which must be left behind.
- Coordinate with the AFH manager about storage, labeling, and safety.
- Recommend local moving or downsizing services experienced with senior transitions.
If you’d like help comparing AFH policies across Bellevue neighborhoods—Factoria, Lake Hills, Crossroads, Somerset, Wilburton, Eastgate—we’ll walk you through the details and support the move.
Common mistakes families make (and how to avoid them)
- Assuming “everything is fine.” Don’t assume all AFHs accept pets, large furniture, or certain appliances. Verify in writing.
- Bringing too many nonessentials. Overcrowded rooms create falls risks and stress. Start with essentials; add items after settling in.
- Skipping labels. Unlabeled clothing and items get lost in shared laundry or storage; use washable name tags.
- Ignoring safety rules. Candles, space heaters, and certain chargers can be hazards—check the AFH’s policy first.
- Not involving the resident. Include your loved one in choices about what to bring to preserve dignity and control.
Room setup tips: make the space feel like home (without crowding)
- Place a favorite photo on a bedside table and one small framed photo on a dresser.
- Choose a comfortable chair for reading and visiting—confirm dimensions first.
- Use non-slip rug tape or skip rugs to reduce trip hazards.
- Keep frequently used items within easy reach (toiletries, water, remote).
- Coordinate lighting with staff if night-time assistance is needed.
Pets: the details you must check before bringing a companion
If a pet is important to your loved one’s well-being, start conversations early. Key questions to ask the AFH:
- Do you allow pets? If so, what types and sizes?
- What vaccinations and vet records are required?
- Are there additional fees or care expectations for owners?
- Is the resident expected to provide daily pet care, or can staff assist?
- Are there restrictions in common areas or during visits?
If an AFH does not accept pets, A1 Senior Care Advisors can help find pet-friendly options in Bellevue and nearby cities.
Moving day checklist (concise)
- Confirm move-in date and time with the AFH manager.
- Bring labeled essentials: two days’ clothes, toiletry kit, medications, and important documents.
- Deliver one comfort item (favorite blanket or pillow).
- Introduce the resident to staff and a few neighbors during the visit.
- Schedule a follow-up visit within the first week to add nonessentials.
FAQs — Five important questions
Q1: How many personal items am I allowed to bring into an AFH?
Most AFHs welcome core personal items—clothing, photos, bedside essentials—and a small selection of furniture if space permits. Each home’s policy varies, so request the AFH Resident Information Sheet to confirm limits and storage rules. Staff can advise on what fits safely and suggest alternatives for excess items.
Q2: Will my loved one’s personal furniture be accepted?
Small, lightweight furniture is often permitted if it doesn’t block exits or caregiving access; oversized pieces may be declined for safety. Measure doorways and the room beforehand and get written approval from the AFH manager. If furniture is declined, consider donating it or storing items until a suitable home is found.
Q3: Can I bring my parent’s pet to the AFH?
Not all adult family homes allow pets, and those that do typically require vaccinations, behavioral screening, and owner responsibilities. Ask about pet rules early in the search process so you don’t assume availability. If the AFH is not pet-friendly, we can help locate pet-allowing homes nearby.
Q4: Are there restrictions on personal electronics or appliances?
Homes commonly prohibit high-heat or open-flame appliances (space heaters, hot plates) for safety reasons, but small electronics like radios or TVs are usually okay. Check the AFH house rules and electrical policy to confirm allowed devices and power usage. Staff can often help set up safe placement for electronics.
Q5: What should I do if the AFH refuses an item my loved one needs?
Ask the AFH manager for a written explanation and request alternatives—many homes can suggest storage solutions or approved substitutes. If an item is denied for regulatory reasons, A1 Senior Care Advisors can help find a different AFH that supports those needs. We always work to balance safety, comfort, and dignity.
Final thoughts – making the new place feel like home
Moving to an adult family home is an emotional step, but with careful planning and the right items, the change can support comfort, routine, and well-being. Start small, prioritize meaningful possessions, and coordinate with the AFH manager so your loved one’s room becomes a safe and familiar space.
If you’d like a checklist, room layout suggestions, or help comparing AFH policies across Bellevue neighborhoods, A1 Senior Care Advisors is ready to help—at no cost to families.
A1 Senior Care Advisors provides free, personalized support for families exploring Adult Family Homes in Bellevue, Newcastle, Kirkland, Redmond, Renton, Issaquah, Mercer Island, and surrounding King County communities.
Call 425-324-5592 or email A1CareAdvisors@gmail.com to get started.
