1. The Avocado Green Refrigerator
The 1980s were full of bold kitchen colors, and none were more iconic than avocado green. It seemed like every kitchen had one of these retro refrigerators, designed to stand out with their deep, earthy tone. While it might not have been the most practical color for blending in with everything, it was certainly a conversation starter. These fridges were made to last, with thick doors and a heavy, sturdy feel that made them feel almost like pieces of furniture says Jezebel.
But let’s be honest, the avocado green fridge didn’t just dominate the color scene—it also marked an era of giant, cavernous fridges that had more space than most modern kitchens can even accommodate. They often came with extra features like ice makers and water dispensers that were considered high-tech at the time. The thick, heavy construction meant they were tough and durable, but they were also a little on the loud side. In a world full of sleek stainless steel options now, it’s hard not to miss the charm of these quirky, nostalgic appliances.
2. The Countertop Microwave
Microwaves were a game-changer in the ’80s. These countertop units started appearing in kitchens everywhere, making it easier to reheat leftovers or cook a quick meal. The microwave in the ’80s wasn’t the small, compact version you see today. It had a larger, boxy design with a dial or buttons that had a very satisfying “click” when you pressed them shares Taste of Home.
Most microwaves of the era came with big, chunky handles and a built-in turntable for even cooking. They might have looked a little clunky next to all the sleek appliances, but they were the height of convenience back then. You could throw in your TV dinner and be ready to eat in minutes. It wasn’t quite as fast or efficient as today’s models, but it was revolutionary for its time.
3. The Bread Maker
The ’80s introduced one of the most beloved appliances of the decade: the bread maker. For anyone who didn’t have the time (or desire) to knead dough by hand, this machine was a life-saver. You could pour in the ingredients, press a few buttons, and within hours, your home would be filled with the scent of freshly baked bread adds the Telegraph.
Though the bread maker might seem like an unnecessary gadget now, back then, it was a symbol of convenience and homey charm. The bread it produced wasn’t just for eating, either. It often became a social event—neighbors dropping by for a loaf, or a family member proudly presenting their latest baking masterpiece. While it might not have survived as a mainstream trend, the bread maker still has a nostalgic place in the hearts of those who lived through the era.
4. The Canister Set
Every 1980s kitchen had a set of canisters sitting on the counter, usually in a matching set of ceramic or metal. These canisters weren’t just functional for storing flour, sugar, or coffee—they were an essential part of the kitchen decor. They often featured classic, kitschy designs with labels in big, bold fonts that matched the overall theme of the kitchen.
Canisters were designed to blend practicality with style. They helped keep your dry goods fresh, often with tightly sealed lids, but they were also decorative. Whether they came in country-style florals or bold geometric prints, they were a sign that you had everything in order and were ready to entertain. Looking back, those canisters were more than just storage—they were part of the heart of the kitchen.
5. The Electric Knife
While we might now turn to a sharp chef’s knife for cutting through tough meats or bread, the 1980s swore by the electric knife. This device made slicing through turkey, bread, or even tough vegetables as easy as pressing a button. It featured two serrated blades that worked together to slice effortlessly, which was especially great for holiday dinners.
Electric knives had a certain “futuristic” quality, thanks to their whirring sound and fast, precise movements. People often thought they were more efficient than their manual counterparts, and for many, they were a must-have item in the kitchen arsenal. Despite their effectiveness, they eventually faded out of style, with more compact and efficient tools taking their place. Yet, there’s still something oddly satisfying about hearing that buzzing sound while carving the perfect roast.
6. The Ice Cream Maker
In the ’80s, making homemade ice cream was as easy as turning a crank—or, later on, using a machine to do it for you. The ice cream maker was a kitchen gadget that promised a fun family activity, all while delivering the sweet results of homemade ice cream. You would pour your mixture in, churn away, and within an hour, you had a fresh, creamy batch.
These ice cream makers came with a big, heavy canister that needed to be pre-frozen and was often filled with rock salt to help freeze the cream. While it was an entertaining process, making ice cream from scratch wasn’t exactly fast, so it required some patience. However, when the sweet treat was finally ready, it felt all the more satisfying. While you can still find these gadgets today, they aren’t nearly as popular as they once were, replaced by quicker options for store-bought versions.
7. The Food Processor
The food processor became a kitchen staple during the ’80s, simplifying tasks like chopping, slicing, and dicing. It was the all-in-one solution for food prep and often came with a variety of attachments to handle anything from grating cheese to kneading dough. If you were trying to prepare a big dinner or meal prep for the week, the food processor was your best friend.
It wasn’t just a workhorse—it was also a sign of sophistication. Using a food processor felt like you were a top-tier chef, effortlessly handling any culinary task. With its large, round base and tall, clear plastic container, it was a heavy-duty tool, but it had a certain elegance to it as well. While we might now use smaller, more versatile gadgets, the food processor was the king of multitasking in its day.
8. The Punch Bowl
The punch bowl was an essential part of every 1980s party, no matter how small or large. This was the go-to vessel for any gathering, whether it was a holiday party or a casual get-together. Punch itself was often a mix of fruit juice, soda, and some sort of alcohol—sometimes more, sometimes less, depending on the crowd.
These bowls often came in a massive size, sometimes with matching cups and ladles, giving the whole setup a festive vibe. It wasn’t just the punch that made these gatherings memorable—it was the act of serving it. Having a punch bowl on display became a symbol of good times and socializing. Even though punches have evolved, the nostalgic memory of that giant glass bowl still stands as a symbol of hospitality.
9. The Tupperware Set
Tupperware parties were all the rage in the ’80s, and if you didn’t own at least one Tupperware set, were you even a part of the kitchen revolution? These airtight containers were perfect for storing leftovers or organizing your kitchen. They came in a variety of sizes, and their colorful, snap-tight lids made them a practical (and somewhat fashionable) item for the kitchen.
Tupperware wasn’t just about storage, either—it was about the promise of organization and convenience. The iconic plastic containers were sturdy, dependable, and could be stacked neatly in a drawer or cabinet. Though the brand continues to thrive today, it doesn’t have quite the same hold on kitchen culture as it did back then. Tupperware parties may be a thing of the past, but their legacy of keeping food fresh and organized lives on.
10. The Popcorn Popper
Before microwave popcorn became the easy solution, popcorn poppers were the go-to kitchen appliance for movie night. The ’80s had its share of electric popcorn poppers, which could make perfect batches of hot, fluffy popcorn every time. These machines worked by heating oil in a metal kettle and stirring the kernels for even popping.
The popcorn popper was a fun gadget that involved a bit of manual effort. You could watch the kernels start popping, filling the room with that delightful buttery smell, while you waited for the batch to be ready. Though it’s not as commonly used anymore, it still offers a nostalgic throwback to simpler movie nights and the fun of creating the perfect popcorn. There’s something comforting about the rhythmic whir of the machine, making it feel like an event, not just a snack.
11. The Electric Can Opener
Opening cans with a manual opener was never fun, so the electric can opener took the hassle out of the task. It would sit on your counter, ready to do the heavy lifting when you needed it most. With just the press of a button, you could effortlessly open any can in a matter of seconds.
The electric can opener was especially helpful for people with arthritis or limited strength, making it a truly helpful kitchen tool for many. It was often a bulky, utilitarian-looking appliance, but it was cherished for its convenience. Though many now prefer manual versions or multi-tasking gadgets that combine multiple functions, the electric can opener was an essential item in many households during the ’80s.
12. The Instant Coffee Machine
Coffee culture exploded in the 1980s, and while we’ve now embraced artisanal coffee, instant coffee machines were all the rage back then. These small countertop gadgets allowed you to brew a quick cup of coffee, no filters required. They often featured a single button, making them the epitome of simplicity and efficiency.
Unlike today’s high-tech espresso machines, these instant brewers were affordable and got the job done. The coffee wasn’t necessarily the best quality, but the speed and ease of making a hot cup of coffee were unmatched. Whether it was to kick-start the day or fuel a late-night work session, the instant coffee machine had you covered. As technology improved, these machines faded into the background, but they were once a go-to for busy mornings.