A kitchen is more than just a place for cooking—it’s a space where design and function meet in the most delicious way. And while we love the sleek, modern appliances of today, there’s something about retro kitchen gadgets that bring a sense of nostalgia and charm to any kitchen décor.
These items, that once used to be the pride of our grandparents’ kitchens, are making a comeback, not just for their quaint looks, but also because of their enduring utility.
1. Stand Mixer
The classic stand mixer, with its iconic shape and glossy finish, is an emblem of retro kitchen design. First introduced in the early 20th century, this appliance has stood the test of time due to its unmatched versatility. From kneading dough to whipping cream, a stand mixer can do it all.
Companies like KitchenAid have capitalized on the retro trend by offering their stand mixers in a variety of vintage-inspired colors, from pastels to bold hues. But it’s not just about the aesthetics. These mixers are known for their durability, power and high performance, making them a favorite among professional chefs and home cooks alike.
2. Rotary Dial Telephone
Yes, you read that right—a telephone in the kitchen. In the mid 20th century, it was common for homes to have a wall-mounted, rotary dial telephone in the kitchen. It served as the family’s communication hub, connecting them to the outside world.
While we now have smartphones that can do a lot more than just making calls, the rotary dial telephone is making a comeback as a quirky kitchen décor. It adds a dash of retro charm to the kitchen and serves as a conversation starter when you have guests over. Companies like Crosley are recreating these vintage phones with modern technology, so you can actually use them to make calls!
3. Stovetop Espresso Maker
Coffee lovers will appreciate the resurgence of the stovetop espresso maker, also known as the Moka pot. Invented in Italy in the 1930s, this gadget brews a strong and flavorful cup of coffee by passing boiling water pressurized by steam through ground coffee.
The Moka pot’s charmingly old-school design and the ritual of brewing coffee with it add to its appeal. Plus, it’s a sustainable and economical alternative to pod-based coffee machines. Brands like Bialetti, the original creator of the Moka pot, offer these espresso makers in various sizes to suit different needs.
4. Enamel Cookware
Enamel cookware, with its bright colors and shiny finish, is a retro kitchen staple that’s back in style. These pots and pans, made from cast iron or steel coated with porcelain enamel, were popular in the mid-20th century for their durability and heat-retention properties.
Modern enamel cookware has retained these qualities, and added a few more. They’re now available in a wide range of vibrant colors and stylish designs, making them a beautiful addition to your kitchen. Companies like Le Creuset and Staub have a wide range of high-quality enamel cookware that can go from the stovetop to the table.
5. Bread Box
Nothing says retro like a bread box sitting on your kitchen counter. These metal or wooden boxes were once a kitchen staple, used to keep bread fresh by controlling the humidity inside the box.
The bread box is making a comeback not just for its vintage appeal, but also for its functionality. It’s an eco-friendly way to store bread, reducing the need for plastic bags. Plus, it helps keep your kitchen counter tidy. You can find bread boxes in various styles and sizes, from sleek stainless steel to rustic wooden designs, to match your kitchen décor.
6. Egg Beater
Before the advent of electric mixers, the manual egg beater was a kitchen essential. This gadget, with its rotating beaters and hand crank, was used to whip eggs, cream, and other ingredients.
Today, the egg beater is making a comeback for its simplicity and ease of use. It’s a handy tool for quick tasks like beating a few eggs or whipping a small amount of cream, without having to bring out your heavy stand mixer. Plus, it’s a fun way to introduce kids to cooking. Brands like OXO and Mrs. Anderson’s Baking offer modern versions of the classic egg beater.
7. Glass Milk Bottles
Remember the days when milk was delivered to your doorstep in glass bottles? Those bottles are making a comeback, and not just for nostalgia’s sake. Glass milk bottles are an eco-friendly alternative to plastic, as they can be reused and recycled.
You can use these bottles for more than just milk. They’re great for storing homemade juices, sauces, and even as a vase for fresh flowers. Plus, they add a charmingly rustic touch to your kitchen.
8. Butter Dish
A butter dish is a classic kitchen item that never really went out of style. This simple gadget, designed to hold a stick of butter, is a more elegant and hygienic way to store butter than the paper wrapper it comes in.
You can find butter dishes in a variety of designs, from vintage-inspired glass dishes to modern ceramic ones. Some even come with measurements marked on the dish, making it easy for you to cut the exact amount of butter you need.
9. Jello Mold
Jello molds, with their intricate designs, were a staple of mid-century kitchens. They were used to make not just jello, but also a variety of other dishes, from molded salads to elaborate desserts.
While we may not be making as many molded dishes these days, jello molds are still popular for their vintage appeal. They make a fun and quirky addition to your kitchen, and you can even use them as serving bowls or cake pans.
10. Salt and Pepper Shakers
Salt and pepper shakers are a kitchen essential, and their designs have evolved over the years. But the classic glass shakers, with their metal tops and simple shapes, are making a comeback.
These retro shakers are not just functional, but also add a touch of vintage charm to your kitchen or dining table. You can find them in various designs, from classic diner-style shakers to more elaborate designs.
11. Manual Can Opener
Electric can openers may be convenient, but there’s something satisfying about using a manual can opener. This gadget, with its simple design and sturdy construction, has been a kitchen staple for decades.
Manual can openers are making a comeback for their reliability and ease of use. They don’t require electricity or batteries, making them a handy tool for camping trips or power outages. Plus, they’re easy to clean and store.
12. Flour Sifter
And last but not least, the humble flour sifter. This gadget, with its wire mesh and crank handle, was used to aerate flour and remove any lumps before baking.
While modern recipes often call for unsifted flour, a flour sifter is still a handy tool to have in your kitchen. It’s perfect for making light and fluffy cakes, and can also be used to dust powdered sugar on desserts. Plus, it adds a fun retro touch to your baking sessions.