10 old appliances that outlasted anything new

Modern appliances are convenient, but they don’t always last the way older ones did. Many families can recall appliances from decades ago that kept going without major issues, often outlasting today’s pricier, tech-heavy models.

Cast Iron Stoves

Cast iron stoves were built to last generations.

Whether wood-burning or early gas models, they were solid, heavy, and easy to repair. Many are still in working order today, while modern ranges often need replacement parts within a decade.

Stand Mixers

The old KitchenAid stand mixers were practically indestructible.

Models from the ‘70s and ‘80s are still running today, often passed down through families. While new ones are still well-built, the older versions had metal gears and fewer electronic parts to fail.

Refrigerators From the ‘70s

Avocado green or harvest gold refrigerators may look dated, but they were reliable.

Many lasted 20–30 years, far longer than the average modern fridge. They were bulky and less energy-efficient, but in terms of longevity, they win.

Rotary Phones With Intercom Features

Not technically an appliance, but phones were household fixtures.

The old wired models, often mounted in kitchens, lasted decades without breaking. Compared to how often we replace smartphones today, they were unmatched in durability.

Coffee Percolators

Electric percolators kept going year after year.

Unlike today’s pod machines that often break within a few years, percolators had simple mechanics that made them last. Some families still use them for the taste and reliability.

Manual Typewriters

Again, not your standard “appliance,” but they were functional home tools.

Typewriters could last decades with occasional ribbon changes. Compared to today’s fragile laptops, they seem almost unbreakable.

Toasters With Metal Bodies

Old two-slice toasters were built from steel, not plastic.

They rarely broke, and even if the wiring wore out, they could be repaired. Modern toasters often get tossed after a few years, but older ones stayed in service for decades.

Sewing Machines

Singer sewing machines, especially treadle models, are still running today.

They were designed to be repaired, not replaced. Many families still use machines from the early 1900s. Modern ones often don’t come close in terms of durability.

Freezers

Chest freezers from decades ago are still working in basements and garages.

They were overbuilt and insulated to last, unlike newer models that often fail after 10–15 years. These appliances are proof that older really can mean better.

Washers and Dryers

Old Maytag and Whirlpool models were famously reliable.

It wasn’t uncommon for washers and dryers to last 25 years or more with only minor repairs. Compared to modern ones with digital panels and sensors, the older versions were simple, sturdy, and dependable.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.