Accessibility and email: 10 UX best practices

Mar 28, 2025

Ensuring the accessibility of your emails is essential for providing an optimal user experience and reaching a wider audience. An inclusive design and good UX practices not only improve readability and compatibility in your email campaigns but also ensure compliance with digital accessibility standards. Discover 10 best practices to optimize your emails for effective distribution.

Table of Contents

Use Proper Contrast

Ensure that the contrast between text and background is sufficient to guarantee readability, especially for visually impaired users.

Add Alt Text to Images

The alt tag allows screen reader users to understand image content, making it an essential element in digital accessibility.

Prioritize Readable Fonts

Use sans-serif fonts like Arial or Verdana and avoid excessively small text to ensure a comfortable reading experience.

Use a Well-Structured HTML Email

Clean and structured code improves compatibility with different email clients and enhances accessibility.

Optimize for Responsive Design

A well-designed email should be adaptable to all screen sizes. Use media queries and flexible layouts.

🔗 Explore Mindbaz's Email Glossary to understand deliverability better.

Links should be large enough and have good contrast for easy clicking, especially on mobile devices.

Simplify Layout for Readability

Use white space, bullet points, and avoid large blocks of text to make emails easier to read.

Test Compatibility with Screen Readers

Check your emails with tools like NVDA or VoiceOver to ensure a smooth experience for visually impaired users.

Avoid Image-Only Content

Emails should not rely solely on images. Add text to maintain a good user experience, even when images are blocked.

Optimize the Subject Line and Sender Name

A clear subject line and a recognizable sender name improve email open rates and ensure better communication.

Use these 5 fine-tuned AI prompts to craft better email subject lines.

Table Summary of Best Practices

Best PracticeWhy It’s Important
High ContrastImproves readability for visually impaired users
Alt TextAllows screen readers to describe images
Readable FontsMakes text easier to read for everyone
Structured HTMLEnsures optimal compatibility
Responsive DesignEnsures a great experience on mobile devices
Accessible LinksMakes interactions easier, especially on mobile
Clear LayoutImproves comprehension and engagement
Screen Reader TestingEnsures accessibility for visually impaired users
Text + Image ContentPrevents loss of information if images don’t load
Optimized SubjectIncreases open rates and email impact
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