EXHIBIT 23 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS ----------------------------------------- As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in this registration statement of our report dated January 27, 1997 included in Newell Co. s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996 and to all references to our Firm included in this registration statement. /s/ Arthur Andersen LLC ----------------------------- ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLC Milwaukee, WI October 17, 1997