If you’ve ever wondered what kitchen items Boomers tend to skip keeping around, this article will give you a clear look. While older generations often hang onto antiques and gadgets, there are still some things they just don’t hold onto in their kitchens.
Knowing which kitchen items Boomers typically don’t keep can help you understand their habits and maybe even inspire you to rethink what’s worth saving in your own home. It’s interesting to see where their practical approach draws the line when it comes to clutter and keepsakes.
Avocado-green appliances

You probably won’t find avocado-green appliances in many Boomer kitchens today. These bold-colored fridges and stoves were super popular in the ’70s but quickly became outdated.
If your kitchen still has them, it might feel a bit stuck in time. Most Boomers have moved on to more modern, energy-efficient options that match today’s trends.
While some people see avocado-green as vintage cool, Boomers usually prefer to upgrade instead of holding on to these retro pieces.
Rotary dial phones
You probably won’t find a rotary dial phone in a Boomer’s kitchen anymore. These phones needed you to spin the dial for each number, which was slow compared to today’s quick taps and swipes.
They used to be common, but push-button phones and smartphones made them obsolete. Now, if you see one, it’s usually for decoration or nostalgia, not everyday use.
Chunky landline phones
You probably don’t have one of those big, chunky landline phones taking up space in your kitchen anymore. They used to be a family staple, but now most calls happen on your mobile.
Those corded phones limited where you could talk, and missing a call meant you might never know. It’s easier to carry your phone with you than stay stuck next to a wall.
Glass blender jars
You probably won’t find many glass blender jars hanging around a Boomer’s kitchen anymore. These jars were heavy and prone to breaking, so over time, most switched to lighter plastic versions.
Plastic jars are easier to handle and less likely to shatter. Glass jars, while sturdy, just didn’t keep up with convenience.
If you come across an old blender, the glass jar might be missing or swapped out for plastic, reflecting the shift in what Boomers keep today.
Manual can openers
You probably don’t keep a manual can opener around anymore. These tools can be hard on your hands, especially if you have arthritis or joint pain.
Many boomers prefer electric can openers because they reduce hand strain and make opening cans easier and faster.
If you do use a manual one, it needs to be comfortable with a good grip and smooth cutting action. But honestly, most boomers find electric options simpler and less frustrating in everyday use.
Metal ice cube trays
If you grew up with metal ice cube trays, you know they weren’t exactly the easiest to use. You had to flex a lever hard to break the ice free, and sometimes the cubes would fly out unexpectedly.
These trays were usually aluminum and pretty durable, but getting the ice out often meant running the tray under water. Compared to modern plastic trays, they required more effort and patience.
Today, most people have switched to flexible plastic or silicone options. So, you probably don’t keep an old metal ice cube tray around anymore.
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