There’s a special kind of thrill in discovering that something you grew up with—something you thought was long forgotten—is now worth real money. From kitchenware to cleaning tools, many mid-century household brands that once filled every American home are suddenly finding new life with collectors. What was once “junk in the attic” is now “retro gold” online.
Whether it’s the sturdy craftsmanship, nostalgic design, or simple practicality that’s driving the craze, one thing’s clear: the past is profitable. Here are six old household brands making a surprising comeback in the resale world.
Tupperware
Once a symbol of every well-organized pantry, Tupperware has officially crossed from practical to collectible. Vintage pastel sets, mid-century party bowls, and rare color variations are selling for hundreds online. The charm lies in the cheerful hues and clever engineering—those airtight “burp” seals still hold up decades later.
Collectors hunt for complete sets and discontinued patterns like Pink Peony or Sunburst Yellow. If yours still has its original lids and logo intact, it’s worth listing. Who knew those leftovers from the ‘60s could help you fund a weekend getaway?
Pyrex
Pyrex was never really gone, but its vintage patterns have exploded in popularity. The glassware that once held every family casserole is now at the heart of one of the internet’s biggest collector communities. Patterns like Gooseberry,Butterprint, and Snowflake Blue are especially valuable.
Full nesting bowl sets in bright colors routinely sell for hundreds, and rarer limited editions can bring in thousands. The appeal is equal parts nostalgia and practicality—people love that Pyrex is both beautiful and nearly indestructible. Grandma’s favorite baking dish might just be your next big flip.
Hoover
Before Dyson and Shark took over the cleaning aisle, Hoover was the name in vacuums—and its vintage machines are making a strong comeback. Collectors and retro appliance enthusiasts are snapping up 1950s and 1960s models for their space-age shapes and bold colors.
Chrome and turquoise Hoovers, especially the classic Constellation model (the one that floats on air), are highly desirable. Restored versions can sell for several hundred dollars, and even unrestored models are fetching attention from designers and nostalgia buffs. Who knew vacuuming could ever be stylish?
CorningWare
That white glass casserole dish with the little blue flowers? It’s worth far more than the green bean casserole it once held. CorningWare’s Blue Cornflower and Spice o’ Life patterns have become collector favorites. The key is originality—look for stampings that say “Made in USA” and older-style handles or lids.
While common patterns go for modest sums, rare color variations and limited runs can bring in hundreds. Some discontinued pieces have even sold for thousands. It turns out Grandma’s “everyday” bakeware is now prized for its design—and its durability.
Revere Ware
For decades, Revere Ware was the go-to cookware for home chefs. Those copper-bottomed pots and pans were built like tanks—and now they’re collector favorites for both style and function. Early pieces with pre-1968 stampings are the most valuable, as they were made with thicker copper and heavier steel.
You can spot originals by their rounded handles and engraved “Paul Revere silhouette” logo. Sets in good condition can sell for several hundred dollars, especially complete collections. These pots might not just simmer soup—they could help you simmer up some extra cash.
Ekco
Once a household staple for everything from utensils to bakeware, Ekco’s mid-century kitchen tools are quietly trending again. Their minimalist, durable designs—especially those with wooden or colorful plastic handles—fit perfectly with today’s retro aesthetic. Collectors love complete utensil sets or pieces in bold 1950s shades.
Look for the “EKCO USA” imprint or original packaging. Many items that once cost pocket change now sell for $50–$150 apiece. Not bad for something that used to stir cookie dough and pancake batter every Saturday morning.
The beauty of these forgotten brands is that they were built to last—and now they’re paying for it. As collectors rediscover the craftsmanship and charm of mid-century home life, even the most ordinary kitchen items are becoming hot commodities. So before you toss out that old casserole dish or copper pan, check the name on the bottom—it might be your next payday.
