30 Once-Popular Kitchen Tools That We Don’t See Anymore

"I am myself a collector of vintage kitchen stuff for fun. It just started as a fun thing to do to showcase (if you could even call it that) some of the things I collected, it was slow to grow and really took off, I think, during the pandemic," the founder of the 'Vintage Kitchen Toys' subreddit told Bored Panda that they simply enjoyed doing this.

"I figured other people probably collected more of this type of thing, so it just grew out of a niche area that some may enjoy as a hobby. I do use practically all of the vintage kitchen equipment that I do collect, otherwise, I am not that fond of shelf-decor, you know the things that look cute or kitschy that don't work or serve a purpose?"

According to the founder of the group, they've found older technology to be easier to service. Vintage tech tends to be more resilient and has less moving parts. That way, they can withstand years of use.

Bored Panda was curious to get the founder's thoughts on why vintage gadgets and appliances appeal to people so much. "I think the main draw is sort of two-fold; one, they've stood the test of time and that really tells you something about the quality and craftsmanship, and two, many people saw these objects in everyday use by their families (older friends, older parents/grandparents/relatives) and it brings back happy memories."

They noted that nostalgia is definitely a factor here. "Then again I really just prefer some of the older, for example, Sunbeam brand products, appliances that really still do exactly what they are supposed to do." The founder recommends taking a peek at the 'Technology Connections' YouTube channel which covers Sunbeam toasters.

"'Radiant Heat' toasters by Sunbeam are probably one of the most collectible toasters out there at the moment, along with the iconic Mixmaster in various models and colors. The same can be said for people who collect Pyrex, Anchor Hocking (Jadeite, Glassbake, etc.), or Westinghouse appliances, certain pottery makes, etc. There is a lot out there that people just enjoy for the fun of it, the novelty, or the nostalgia. All combined... Vintage Kitchen Toys!"

Pie artist Jessica, @thepieous, confirmed a suspicion that we had that older tools may be better in some regards. She told Bored Panda that 'they don't make 'em like they used to' isn't just another folksy phrase. "When it comes to a lot of the workhorse appliances, many of the older models stand up better than their modern counterparts," she said.

"Things like stand mixers, egg beaters, older bakeware (once they banned the use of lead anyway!) were built to withstand the test of time, and phrases like 'planned obsolescence' were unheard of." However resilient they might be, it doesn't make them impervious to the passage of time.

"These older models are, well, old. And in most cases if you can get your hands on a vintage egg beater or stand mixer, it will need some TLC and possible refurbishing at an appliance repair shop before it is ready for prime time," pie artist Jessica explained.

"This is not to say that there aren’t plenty of quality new baking appliances and tools out there today! You just have to do a little more research. Not every once-trusted brand with the hefty price tag can live up to its erstwhile quality claims." The pie artist suggested that people look at what professional bakers, whom they trust, are using.