These Retro Home Products Are Making a Comeback

If you remember way back to when telephones weighed a ton and were tethered to the wall, then you may also remember the gossip bench. A furniture hybrid, combining a side table with seating, the sensible yet stylish gossip bench arose naturally from two simple needs. The EXOTICA 3-Tier Shoe Storage Bench is a modern version that complements any entryway while providing useful storage.

The pressure cooker dates all the way back to the 17th century but became a common household appliance in the US during the 1950s. The Instant Pot is an enhanced version of the classic pressure cooker. It combines seven appliances in one and and is easier to program than the pressure cookers of old. Perhaps best of all, it comes with new safety features that alleviate the common dangers from the past.

Gaming is a booming industry with a steady stream of new devices and games hitting the shelves. But that doesn’t mean we can’t appreciate the classics at the same time. The Atgames Atari Flashback Ultimate Portable Game Player has 60 built-in games, including Frogger and Centipede.

When everything needs to have its own place in the home, it’s no wonder that the original Caboodle has returned to store shelves. Designed for makeup needs, thanks to a flip mirror and lift-off tray, the iconic organizer is just as well suited to pack everything from paints to party supplies. Plus, its pastel hard case is easy to wipe clean. 

It’s hard not to want (or even expect) instant gratification in today’s age, and Polaroid was one of the first companies to deliver. Assuming you haven’t been living under a rock since the ’60s and ’70s, you’re probably familiar with their process: Load film, snap a picture, print on the spot, and watch your photo develop in minutes. Now, the new Polaroid Go Generation 2 improves on the original with a high-quality lens, a powerful flash, and a long-lasting rechargeable battery.

Although the name may sound like an old wives’ remedy, the likes of which was used on the Oregon Trail, witch hazel continues to enjoy popularity today. Used as a toner and cleanser, the natural formula appeals to those with sensitive skin or conscious shoppers who want to avoid harsh skin care products made with parabens, alcohol, or propylene glycol.

If you’re an audiophile, you can spend hundreds or even thousands on the best-made, highest-fidelity sounds around. But for everyone else, there are charming (and surprisingly affordable) options just like this one. From its built-in speaker to its Bluetooth receiver, the Cotsoco Vinyl Record Player Turntable positively drips with nostalgia, hitting the pitch-perfect note for vinyl fans, young and old.

Back during the days of sock hops and drive-in movies, everyone slurped down their milkshakes and cokes with paper straws. While those activities haven’t seen a resurgence (yet), the paper straw has. In an effort to cut back on using plastics, many households and restaurants are opting for paper versions once again. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, which also make them a popular choice for those who care about the aesthetics of their drinks.

Although Nikola Tesla wanted to make electricity free for all, it was Thomas Edison who first patented the light bulb that would illuminate so many homes around the country. This modern-day light bulb, available at Target, draws inspiration from both inventors. Fashioned in the Edison style, this solar light is powered by the sun, and is wired for outdoor use on porches, patios, or decks.

Nowadays everyone expects things fast: pop a pod in for a quick cup of coffee or mobile order so the cup of Joe is already waiting. It’s almost surprising that pour over coffee—a method of slowly pouring water over coffee grounds—is making a reappearance in coffee shops and homes. But almost as important as speed is quality, and pour over coffee guarantees a fresh and flavorful cup. The Chemex Glass Coffeemaker is simple to use, so you can get that grade-A experience at home.