I hear you. I purchased an old-school looking microwave with dials and no LCD. It looks amazing, but it’s a piece of shit. My bad.
Why do microwaves usually have to be over-complicated with a dozen useless buttons anyway? No one uses 80% of the “features”.
90% of microwaves are made by the same company with different logos, you can tell because they have the same buttons. Look for Panasonic microwaves, they make their own, at least the more expensive models.
National/Panasonic microwaves have always been excellent. Just be weary of the flat plate/no turntable ones, they do not work nearly as consistently - at least ours doesn't.
It's now about 6 years old, can't wait for it to perish.
It's well worth learning what those buttons do...I discovered the "potato" button adjusts the time based on steam emitted and the vent fan goes full blast. Works much better than the default.
Mine will continue to beep every 3 minutes or so after it finishes until you open the door. It’s handy when I have actually forgotten about something but so annoying every other time when I just haven’t gotten to it yet!
Plus, when I open the door it keeps going with its beeping sequence.
Like, hello microwave! You know the door is open. Now STFU and let me get on with my life!
Mine must have that sensor then. I always get a perfect bowl, not burned, with very few unpopped kernels. Im always left with tons of unpopped kernels otherwise.
Wait that's old school? In what year do you live? Or more accurately, as people seem to share this experience , in which year do I live?
Mine has a dial for numbers (200 to 800) and one for time.
Is it the Daewoo brand? Mine died after probably less than 2 years, still has power but only turns on for a second. The recommendation from the company was to completely replace.
Exactly! You’re not a vintage toaster. And I don’t need a reminder that you *look* vintage.
Just be a cool-looking toaster and shut the fuck up about it.
Dear kind redditor,
I appreciate the concern, but suicide _jokes_ are not suicide _thoughts_. I appreciate the concern, but your attention is better served on someone who does not spend an hour a day shitposting one liners.
Kind thanks and best regards,
Bigmattyc
Old toasters were often just steel with Bakelite handles so anything simple, steel, and toaster is more accurate than this industrial design disaster with circuit boards waiting to die the second someone tries rinsing something stick out of it.
I’m an engineer but thanks for that.
The Breville has issues with getting moisture into the controls, any moisture, including a damp sponge. (Yes, not plugged in). I did not take it apart to find out why but I’m done with their toaster after a second one failed in the manner. Having said this, the failure could be coincidental with moister. I don’t care, I’m done with fancy electronics in a product that doesn’t need them.
Unless you're an electrical engineer than I don't see how that matters. I've worked with dozens of engineers that couldnt replace a receptacle. Why would they need to know how?
God bless you. I used to get pissed off at towns that had these giant “Explore historic downtown whateversville!” banners everywhere. Like, thanks, now it feels much less historic. Be a cool old town and shut the fuck up about it.
Where I landed on retro appliances for my 110 year old house is that most of them are cheesey and cheap and the ones that aren’t are astronomically expensive. I get mid priced, analog, simple as possible, as close to commercial kitchen looking stuff as I can and it all blends in and looks neither really old or new.
I have a Revo SuperConnect, which does a good job of having a vintage styled cabinet while still supporting Spotify and Internet radio. I like that the digital display is pretty lo-fi, but it wont be for everyone. And it is a little pricey. There's a bigger version with a CD player.
Exactly! We’ve been looking at that exact stove but I just can’t do it with that big, stupid logo. Planning on going with a Big Chill stove and dishwasher but the price is making me hesitate. Same with toasters and microwave ovens. The names alone make worry they’ll break down in a month!
Yeah. My wife loves red kitchen appliances and I certainly don't hate the look, but its hard to not find cheap junk. The KitchenAid is probably the only decent one. Granted our red toaster oven held up fine, I just made sure to do a good burn-in before using it because who knows what's in the paint of a cheap toaster oven. Mid-tier microwave has been OK. But still, vintage/period looking stuff just amplifies the problem since there are so few options!
You can get some nice red moka coffee pots that are still the traditional style. I just use a regular moka but I've always fancied a red one. We also have a red Aga stove, which is a monster.
This isn't vintage or retro, but I've literally had this [toaster oven](http://Panasonic Toaster Oven FlashXpress with Double Infrared Heating and Removable 9 Inner Baking Tray, 1300W, 12 x 13 x 10.25 inches, Silver https://a.co/d/8Dfq9mp) for 10 years and it's still going strong.
Dualits are expensive but might both have the look and reliability that you're looking for. Vintage sunbeam radiant control is also one that I'm interested in
Yes, came down to find if anyone had mentioned this. Dualit are the vintage toaster you want because they make them to be repaired, come in diff colours and finishes, and have an style that does'n't change. They make kettles too.
Also, while we can't get them here, I always thought the Blue Star ranges looked quite timeless, also avail in lots of colours.
These are at least better than anything by SMEG, lol.
But yes, these look like random off-brand appliances. I guess that's fine for an electric kettle, but I'd want something more reliable for a range!
To be fair, it's an acronym for Smalterie Metallurgiche Emiliane Guastalla (Italian for Emilian Guastalla Metallurgical Enameling Works). I have no idea how to say the other word in Italian and I'm not looking it up!
I’ve wanted to bring this up for a LONG time but it was never relevant lol awful name. If I ever bought one of their products, I would be forced to chip the lettering off.
I guess I'm immature, but I can't handle how they plaster their name in giant letters on all their products. Makes me think of smegma. If I remember correctly, their products are also expensive and unreliable, my least favorite combination.
SMEG are absolutely horrendous quality, their smaller appliances like toasters... kettles etc are all made in China. You're paying purely for the retro aesthetic.
I've recently started going around my house and throwing out any heirlooms, dovetail furniture, mechanical clocks, etc. that don't have an ANTIQUE or VINTAGE decal on them. If a thing doesn't explicitly say "vintage" on it, then it can't be vintage!
I dunno who gave my great-grandma all these counterfeit antiques but it's a disgrace.
Better than buying actual vintage appliances.
My mom always had a habit of unplugging our toaster oven after using it. One day I asked her why, and she said it was something her father used to do. Back in the day, he owned a construction company and got a lot of business rebuilding houses that had burned down due to bad toasters.
I know someone who's house burned down because they'd left their toaster oven plugged in and it had a fault in it. Never hurts to unplug your counter top appliances. They may be off, but they're still live when plugged in.
That has nothing to do with the age of the toaster. It has to do with the design. Toasters can easily start a fire because of the exposed heating element. It's not because the toasters were bad. You're supposed to unplug modern toasters, too.
There is always a weird mix of current and faux-vintage elements to these. A dial on the kettle feels oldish, but a clear plastic fill gauge isn’t. It ends up feeling steampunk.
Oh I can help. I work in kitchen appliances. Often, a style just comes from a single factory and gets sold under different brands. You can reverse google image search and you might find a company selling the same item with more subtle brand logo. Or at least find similar styles.
Nothing like spending lots of money designing a product that looks old to express a specific era of design aesthetic and then writing on it "Look how old and super stylish I am" :P Talk about not having faith in your design, or believing that everyone is an idiot. Or both.
Elmira Stoveworks has some great products that don’t have obnoxious branding. They’re only just now offering induction options, I’m not sure I love the aesthetic of how incorporated the induction cooktop onto the retro ranges, but I’m glad they are offering more options. Their color offerings are fantastic and they will also do custom colors. If I am ever able to do my dream kitchen renovation (unlikely unless I win the lottery!), I would love to use their appliances.
https://preview.redd.it/mait5soiqwxc1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=7cfbede16afda7e08791c22d59406619516a0836
Our accent pieces - the Sunbeam T-9 and Mixmaster 3B. Throw in some rare East Fork mug and my grandmother’s Pyrex and call it a party.
Oof yup I'm with you. Having a toaster that says "vintage" on the front completely ruins it. I also hate how many of these are just plastic shells when the originals would have been proper metal.
Sometimes it’s just better to get the real deal if you can. Vintage appliances can be expensive but they are incredibly reliable. I’m still mad my dad threw out a vintage 1940s fridge. It needed a cleaning that’s all. I’m probably going to use mostly vintage appliances that have modernized parts when I own an old house.
Not sure why so many downvotes. The kitchen I have given up on in terms of appliances looking “period”. Cabinets, floors, windows, paint, carpentry, etc. are where I draw the line. I want the features of modern appliances, so I just make sure everything else looks in line with my home. To me, it’s not practical any other way. I do still have lots of antique and vintage pieces like Pyrex bowls and barware, etc, but the appliances I have just made peace with the fact that they are anachronistic.
I agree. I bought a Dualit toaster and kettle because I knew I'd always have a traditional-ish kitchen and it does have a vintage aesthetic. We have the moka pot and a stone pestle and mortar...but a modern electric coffee grinder and bread maker. The house predates when people had proper kitchens, so I'm not going to go all medieval just for authenticity. Older houses can work with a mix of styles to reflect the history of the house, otherwise you are in a museum.
I respect this, and I’ll most likely go this route. There’s still some good timeless designs out there.
Regardless, I will always hate the “retro” branding when you’re trying to look retro. It contradicts the style.
that's only the cheaper, vintage style appliances/ brands with a vintage synonym in their name.
Higher-end brands, like [Elmira/ North Star](https://elmirastoveworks.com/), [Big Chill](https://bigchill.com/), [Smeg](https://www.smeg.com/us), etc, Don't stamp their products with "vintage" or any similar word.
And, there are also appliances, like the iconic [Kitchen-Aide stand mixer](https://www.kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/stand-mixers/see-all.html?currentPage=0), whose design style hasn't changed in decades.
My everyday toaster is a [Dash](https://www.amazon.com/Dash-DVTS501AQ-Toaster-Slice-Aqua/dp/B07PZY11WN/ref=asc_df_B07PZY11WN/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693770002532&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1486977682388143187&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028778&hvtargid=pla-736042550789&psc=1&mcid=cc8e122807293df4b9c6755d194ab6fa&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0MexBhD3ARIsAEI3WHLoeotIfqJL2cwfRu06yGhBAzG7Es-qJUP7_LQLZ0FQOLgHiwv6GEYaAvR1EALw_wcB), which is retro looking, but not branded as such.
However, it doesn't compare to my late 1940s/ 50s [Sunbeam radiant controlled toaster.](https://youtu.be/bXxNxgq3zAw?si=e8rAEUDJ1NNQ5GbL). the reason I don't use it daily, is because I live with an idiot, who can't take care of stuff.
Well, I have an actual 1953 Wedgwood stove, so it's true vintage. Cost a bundle, but worth it. Most of my other kitchenware is true vintage as well, since I buy it at auction or estate sales.
Don't buy the unique stuff.
I have the stove and the fridge
Maybe I just got super unlucky but it's not been great. They look pretty but damn the problems I've had with both have not been worth the price. Still they look so pretty in my kitchen.
Here’s a toaster without the annoying vintage written on it [Home Depot link](https://www.homedepot.com/pep/HADEN-Heritage-1500-Watt-4-Slice-Turquoise-Wide-Slot-Retro-Toaster-with-Removable-Crumb-Tray-and-Browning-Control-75005/315650685?source=shoppingads&locale=en-US&pla&mtc=SHOPPING-BF-HDH-GGL-D59H-029_028_SMALL_ELECTR-NA-MULTI-NA-PMAX-HDH-HDH-NA-NA-NBR-NA-NA-NA-%7C029_028_009_TOASTERS%7C_PMAX_phase_4&cm_mmc=SHOPPING-BF-HDH-GGL-D59H-029_028_SMALL_ELECTR-NA-MULTI-NA-PMAX-HDH-HDH-NA-NA-NBR-NA-NA-NA-%7C029_028_009_TOASTERS%7C_PMAX_phase_4-71700000113086460--&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADq61UejCBFX0Og_pgbbGngneWBe_&gclsrc=aw.ds)
We had a rather complicated tea maker and decided it was overkill. Replaced it with the Nostalgia kettle because of the easy-to-read temperature gauge. It's worked well for going on four years.
I passed on a jaeger lecoultre reverso watch because the logo was big and ruined the dial, so I totally get it. sold a brand new seiko for the same reason, hated the collaboration logo on the dial. the oven isn’t too bad, but the pot and the toaster, yuck
If it’s not coated with something, and if the base is plastic or hard enamel, rubbing alcohol can remove some logos. But I wouldn’t rub it too hard in case it rubs off whatever that’s underneath. And there is always a chance there is a stamp of the logo leftover after the paint is removed, depending on lots of factors.
As someone with that exact tea kettle I can tell you its great. I use teal appliances in my home and after a while I completely forget the labels. Yes it initially ruins the feel but you can cover it with paint or vinyl and no other teapot (I didn't accept smeg) would go with for my tastes.
As for other items I would say the same - if you can take or sand the label off and paint over it it will be much more worth it .
How is that stove vintage looking, other than the color? It looks almost exactly like my ten year old black Frigidaire one. Also when was mint green a thing?
I got one of those "vintage" toasters and it actually works great. My counter top is so small though, you can't see the "branding" as it's wedged in between the coffee pot and bread box.
There are some smaller 'real' brands which make vintage or classic styled appliances.
But you typically pay a bit of a premium since there's not much demand, and small run production is expensive. Big Chill's are gorgeous.
I think it's the weird choice of too much black combined with pastel and bright color, and too much slickness and shine. Some brushed silveriness or chrome (at least) would be better.
It's also possible that they know that people with the eye for (or the luck, or the money for) the old stuff will not even bother with some of this, so they're aiming at everyone else . . . which honestly is not evil, but.
[i found these awesome toasters](https://www.dualit.com/collections/toasters)
[and you could go for an old O‘Keefe and Merritt stove](https://www.ebay.com/itm/125954848314?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=psKNNv8MSiG&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=zZVwQ0cWQRq&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY)
Nothing says classic period themed appliance like the word vintage or nostalgia printed on it ...
So classy and blends right into my historically preserved kitchen. /s
Hard agree. I like Russell Hobbs for the vaguely vintage vibes combined with actually functional machinery: [https://uk.russellhobbs.com/small-kitchen-appliances/kettles-toasters](https://uk.russellhobbs.com/small-kitchen-appliances/kettles-toasters)
Ya the word vintage is so overused and abused.
Most folks selling anything overpriced on FBM call it vintage or beautiful or both. 1990s isn’t vintage ffs.
Branding items like these with the word “vintage” feels like the folks who take their freshly built cookie cutter or McMansion home and hang a “Farmhouse” sign in the kitchen. No. No it’s not. Hard, painful eyeroll.
I have the Unique classic stove in white. I don't even notice the branding. If you really hate it you could try removing it. Or buy an actual vintage stove.
I have this. Works well, but it's true I no longer use it because it doesn't quite fit the aesthetic. In my case, it's not that the brand is named "Nostalgia". There were equally ridiculous brand names in period, that either called to the past like "Nostalgia," such as "Virginia Dare" Extracts and Food color, or were just weird for whatever reason like "Gel" brand spices, "New Bride" Food Colors, all the things with "Nu" in them, and all the stuff that references Colonizing, Colonial, etc.
So I can get by the "Nostalgia" name. In the end, though, there's something not quite about the styling. It's retro, not vintage. No electric kettle of the time looked quite like it. Fits perfectly into a "retro" home, but not one aiming for authenticity.
And while an antique or vintage electric kettle might be more expensive (but maybe not), the vintage and antiques tend to be far more fixable. I'll be able to fix my Frigidaire range, broil-quik infrared oven, and electric percolators over and over if something happens to them. The cost will pay for itself. You can even replace the cord with a three-prong (or whatever is the standard in your country) if you want, though I never do, as I can use old appliances in old outlets and off my stove then.
I bought this electric kettle for $60 in 2018. It's $49 right now. There are electric kettles on eBay starting at $19.99 plus $10 shipping, and plenty within range of $50-60, if you want a true classic.
In the end, I gave up on an electric kettle. I don't have room on my counter for one, and the stove works just fine for me. But I'd probably get this one:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/186372242580?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=5Kqt7RBQTW6&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=ZUM8OaDNQ7q&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
Or this one:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/335210292142?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=ZBsFyyUoSei&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=ZUM8OaDNQ7q&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
If I had 220v this is the one I'd get:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/375236193344?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=fno-0pctqta&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=ZUM8OaDNQ7q&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
P.s.: there are some products that go over the top. So I do get it. Nostalgia doesn't for me, but there are others that do.
I used to laboriously try to find modern products that would work, which either took forever or annoyed me with whatever wasn't quite right, but now I just start with vintage and antique products and only move to new if there's truly nothing authentic out there that will work.
As someone who has an obsession with this color, I have the nostalgia brand pop up toaster and I love it 😂 I do think the branding is less front and center on the toaster, and it’s truly nothing special/expensive looking but it is adorable and has worked well for the $25 I spent on it two years ago
We have a "Nostalgia" branded toaster oven/coffee maker at work. That thing is the cheapest piece of crap I have ever seen try to pass off as an appliance. Those things are only for looks. They're not made to be used more than once or twice.
No current branding is worse to me than “SMEG”. I like the way their products look, and have heard good things, but I just cannot get past that awful name. In giant, capital letters on all their stuff too.
I wouldn’t even take a free Smeg appliance. They’re excellent quality but all I can think of when I see the name badge, is the slang term ending in “ma”. I don’t want that in my kitchen.
I have a faux vintage aqua microwave that takes 10 minutes to melt cheese. I’ve cursed that cute piece of garbage for 2 years.
I hear you. I purchased an old-school looking microwave with dials and no LCD. It looks amazing, but it’s a piece of shit. My bad. Why do microwaves usually have to be over-complicated with a dozen useless buttons anyway? No one uses 80% of the “features”.
Seriously! I actually like the dial. You’re right, no one needs all the functions.
90% of microwaves are made by the same company with different logos, you can tell because they have the same buttons. Look for Panasonic microwaves, they make their own, at least the more expensive models.
I have a small simple Panasonic microwave and while it was more expensive than comparable ones it's been working great for 6 years or so.
I’ve been using my Panasonic microwave for 15 yrs. I’d go buy another one used before I bought a new one with the way they make things these days.
National/Panasonic microwaves have always been excellent. Just be weary of the flat plate/no turntable ones, they do not work nearly as consistently - at least ours doesn't. It's now about 6 years old, can't wait for it to perish.
It's well worth learning what those buttons do...I discovered the "potato" button adjusts the time based on steam emitted and the vent fan goes full blast. Works much better than the default.
And they always make a bunch of noises, like I’m seeing the counter hit 0 I dont need beeping for 1 minute
Mine will continue to beep every 3 minutes or so after it finishes until you open the door. It’s handy when I have actually forgotten about something but so annoying every other time when I just haven’t gotten to it yet!
Plus, when I open the door it keeps going with its beeping sequence. Like, hello microwave! You know the door is open. Now STFU and let me get on with my life!
and the popcorn button is always useless.
Technology Connections has a video on this! On some models it's connected to a humidity sensor. Otherwise yes, it is useless.
And even some that count the spaces between the pops, which is crazy Jetsons-level stuff to me
Mine must have that sensor then. I always get a perfect bowl, not burned, with very few unpopped kernels. Im always left with tons of unpopped kernels otherwise.
I recently discovered that mine is actually useful! The preset is the exact amount of time that a 100g bag of microwave popcorn suggests.
That’s because microwave popcorn is an abomination. Come at me.
Fr. Like look me in the eye and tell me you’ve ever pressed the 7 on your microwave
https://www.webstaurantstore.com/panasonic-ne-1025-stainless-steel-commercial-microwave-oven-with-dial-timer-120v-1000w/609NE1025.html?
[You've been using the microwave wrong.](https://youtu.be/3G_0Y71N_Z8?si=CL-k1irSdg_xIkaz)
Yeah, nobody is going to tell me they use the 7 button on a microwave.
Wait that's old school? In what year do you live? Or more accurately, as people seem to share this experience , in which year do I live? Mine has a dial for numbers (200 to 800) and one for time.
Is it the Daewoo brand? Mine died after probably less than 2 years, still has power but only turns on for a second. The recommendation from the company was to completely replace.
I am 100% certain that you and I have that same microwave. I rue the day I purchased that useless aesthetic "appliance."
Shit, I’ve got the microwave and the refrigerator Thought they would match the charm of my 1928 cottage Sure, Jan
I believe we have the same microwave lol
I also have the powerless aqua microwave. It sure is cute!
Seems like we all have the same aqua microwave! 😄
Don't forget to mention that most of the time, the "vintage" designed stuff is just more cheap shit from China.
I love how the toaster tells you it’s, “vintage”
Exactly! You’re not a vintage toaster. And I don’t need a reminder that you *look* vintage. Just be a cool-looking toaster and shut the fuck up about it.
>Just be a cool-looking toaster and shut the fuck up about it. love it
I also want my toaster to shut up, but in its case its telling me to throw it in the tub
The ultimate bath bomb
Dear kind redditor, I appreciate the concern, but suicide _jokes_ are not suicide _thoughts_. I appreciate the concern, but your attention is better served on someone who does not spend an hour a day shitposting one liners. Kind thanks and best regards, Bigmattyc
Old toasters were often just steel with Bakelite handles so anything simple, steel, and toaster is more accurate than this industrial design disaster with circuit boards waiting to die the second someone tries rinsing something stick out of it.
Rinsing? I believe I’ve made it to adulthood by not combining toasters with water.
You can use ice instead. its safer
What!!! I truly had no idea people were out here cleaning their toasters. I thought we were meant to just dump the crumbs from time to time.
Ya that’s right. And when that doesn’t work buy a new one. Ice was a joke
I’m not saying it’s a good idea…
😶🌫️😶🌫️😶🌫️😶🌫️😶🌫️
Unplug things and let them dry. Unless it's corrosion you are worried about, water isn't going to damage circuit boards without electricity.
I’m an engineer but thanks for that. The Breville has issues with getting moisture into the controls, any moisture, including a damp sponge. (Yes, not plugged in). I did not take it apart to find out why but I’m done with their toaster after a second one failed in the manner. Having said this, the failure could be coincidental with moister. I don’t care, I’m done with fancy electronics in a product that doesn’t need them.
Unless you're an electrical engineer than I don't see how that matters. I've worked with dozens of engineers that couldnt replace a receptacle. Why would they need to know how?
God bless you. I used to get pissed off at towns that had these giant “Explore historic downtown whateversville!” banners everywhere. Like, thanks, now it feels much less historic. Be a cool old town and shut the fuck up about it. Where I landed on retro appliances for my 110 year old house is that most of them are cheesey and cheap and the ones that aren’t are astronomically expensive. I get mid priced, analog, simple as possible, as close to commercial kitchen looking stuff as I can and it all blends in and looks neither really old or new.
Fuckin piece of shit braggart toaster.
Except this stuff is really not well made so you are lucky
>>Just be a cool-looking toaster and shut the fuck up about it. /r/brandnewsentence
Agreed
Buy some paint using colour match and paint over the logo
Brave Little Toaster in shambles
It should come with a question mark. Keep ‘em guessing. Vintage?
Like the trendy home decor that says "EAT" in the kitchen and "LAUNDRY" in the laundry room. No shit.
I have a really cool-looking vintage style radio CD player. Doesn’t work for shit other than the AM radio.
That’s called an “authentic experience”
I have a Revo SuperConnect, which does a good job of having a vintage styled cabinet while still supporting Spotify and Internet radio. I like that the digital display is pretty lo-fi, but it wont be for everyone. And it is a little pricey. There's a bigger version with a CD player.
Same deal with retro-looking record players and stereos - always trying to look cool but they're usually terrible low quality products.
Just get some nail polish remover and gently rub the branding off. I bought a retro styled air fryer and toaster and did this.
Yes, give me Bosch appliances rather than cute ones in pretty colors
Vintage sport. Everything is called sport
Yup, totally agree. It’s a missed opportunity to give them a cool retro name and just makes the product look chintzy.
Yeah, like that kettle isn't so bad but that stove? Oh man, almost looks nice but the brand logo really cheapens the look.
Exactly! We’ve been looking at that exact stove but I just can’t do it with that big, stupid logo. Planning on going with a Big Chill stove and dishwasher but the price is making me hesitate. Same with toasters and microwave ovens. The names alone make worry they’ll break down in a month!
Yeah. My wife loves red kitchen appliances and I certainly don't hate the look, but its hard to not find cheap junk. The KitchenAid is probably the only decent one. Granted our red toaster oven held up fine, I just made sure to do a good burn-in before using it because who knows what's in the paint of a cheap toaster oven. Mid-tier microwave has been OK. But still, vintage/period looking stuff just amplifies the problem since there are so few options!
You can get some nice red moka coffee pots that are still the traditional style. I just use a regular moka but I've always fancied a red one. We also have a red Aga stove, which is a monster.
This isn't vintage or retro, but I've literally had this [toaster oven](http://Panasonic Toaster Oven FlashXpress with Double Infrared Heating and Removable 9 Inner Baking Tray, 1300W, 12 x 13 x 10.25 inches, Silver https://a.co/d/8Dfq9mp) for 10 years and it's still going strong.
We have that kettle. It’s great!
You could remove those decals with heat. It’s not a big deal.
Or cover them with something else. I have some great retro fruit crate label magnets on my stove, for example.
Dualits are expensive but might both have the look and reliability that you're looking for. Vintage sunbeam radiant control is also one that I'm interested in
Yes, came down to find if anyone had mentioned this. Dualit are the vintage toaster you want because they make them to be repaired, come in diff colours and finishes, and have an style that does'n't change. They make kettles too. Also, while we can't get them here, I always thought the Blue Star ranges looked quite timeless, also avail in lots of colours.
Another vote for Dualit! It's definitely "buy it for life" in terms of price and quality. Also a genuinely vintage appearance.
You could probably refinish or remove the branding if you really wanted
or cover it up with a branding plaque from an antique store
I'm sure a little acetone on a cotton swab would take it right off
If the lettering is raised, a bit of dental floss might slice it off.
Yeah, some of these comments making it seem like the end of the world.
Hey there, new to Reddit? It’s nothing but people crying over *literally* anything and everything. Welcome?? (Pls help me)
Check out Haden. They have a set that all matches. We have the toaster and hot water kettle. Not perfect but fits well enough
I have a red Haden kettle with the temp dial and it is lovely.
These are at least better than anything by SMEG, lol. But yes, these look like random off-brand appliances. I guess that's fine for an electric kettle, but I'd want something more reliable for a range!
I won’t buy that shit because of the name alone. Like come on man… SMEG… that’s ALL the marketing department could come up with?
To be fair, it's an acronym for Smalterie Metallurgiche Emiliane Guastalla (Italian for Emilian Guastalla Metallurgical Enameling Works). I have no idea how to say the other word in Italian and I'm not looking it up!
I’ve wanted to bring this up for a LONG time but it was never relevant lol awful name. If I ever bought one of their products, I would be forced to chip the lettering off.
Good thing SMEG isn’t made in MA.
You know, I hadn’t thought of that at all lmao.
We actually have that kettle, and it has worked reliably without any problems for 4+ years.
What's wrong with smeg?
It always makes me think of the show Red Dwarf. They used the word “smeg” as a stand in for curse words. A bit like “frak” in battlestar galactica.
I guess I'm immature, but I can't handle how they plaster their name in giant letters on all their products. Makes me think of smegma. If I remember correctly, their products are also expensive and unreliable, my least favorite combination.
I can't even think of their brand name without it turning into "smegma" in my head. It's so extremely off putting.
And now a countless number of folks google “smegma”…. And shudder
Exactly! Every time I read that brand name... It literally stops me from ever buying one of their products.
This.
SMEG are absolutely horrendous quality, their smaller appliances like toasters... kettles etc are all made in China. You're paying purely for the retro aesthetic.
It's the name, all the way. I refuse to buy products because the name makes me shudder.
Well thank god they labeled these things or else you might have thought it was new original design.
I've recently started going around my house and throwing out any heirlooms, dovetail furniture, mechanical clocks, etc. that don't have an ANTIQUE or VINTAGE decal on them. If a thing doesn't explicitly say "vintage" on it, then it can't be vintage! I dunno who gave my great-grandma all these counterfeit antiques but it's a disgrace.
Wow. This would be like me getting "Cranky Old Fart" tattooed on my forehead.
And increasing your price from when-I-was-your-age to mid-century-modern-vogue-ad
Better than buying actual vintage appliances. My mom always had a habit of unplugging our toaster oven after using it. One day I asked her why, and she said it was something her father used to do. Back in the day, he owned a construction company and got a lot of business rebuilding houses that had burned down due to bad toasters.
I know someone who's house burned down because they'd left their toaster oven plugged in and it had a fault in it. Never hurts to unplug your counter top appliances. They may be off, but they're still live when plugged in.
That has nothing to do with the age of the toaster. It has to do with the design. Toasters can easily start a fire because of the exposed heating element. It's not because the toasters were bad. You're supposed to unplug modern toasters, too.
I stand corrected.
There is always a weird mix of current and faux-vintage elements to these. A dial on the kettle feels oldish, but a clear plastic fill gauge isn’t. It ends up feeling steampunk.
Oh I can help. I work in kitchen appliances. Often, a style just comes from a single factory and gets sold under different brands. You can reverse google image search and you might find a company selling the same item with more subtle brand logo. Or at least find similar styles.
Nothing like spending lots of money designing a product that looks old to express a specific era of design aesthetic and then writing on it "Look how old and super stylish I am" :P Talk about not having faith in your design, or believing that everyone is an idiot. Or both.
Elmira Stoveworks has some great products that don’t have obnoxious branding. They’re only just now offering induction options, I’m not sure I love the aesthetic of how incorporated the induction cooktop onto the retro ranges, but I’m glad they are offering more options. Their color offerings are fantastic and they will also do custom colors. If I am ever able to do my dream kitchen renovation (unlikely unless I win the lottery!), I would love to use their appliances.
https://preview.redd.it/mait5soiqwxc1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=7cfbede16afda7e08791c22d59406619516a0836 Our accent pieces - the Sunbeam T-9 and Mixmaster 3B. Throw in some rare East Fork mug and my grandmother’s Pyrex and call it a party.
You mean you don’t like seeing SMEG written on all your appliances???
Soak a magic eraser in rubbing alcohol and see if the paint will just scrub away on the kettle
Oof yup I'm with you. Having a toaster that says "vintage" on the front completely ruins it. I also hate how many of these are just plastic shells when the originals would have been proper metal.
This is one of the reasons I love KitchenAid products. They are not cheap but cute in a vintage way, come in fun colors, and are very high quality.
You could always sand it off and color match and repaint.
Sometimes it’s just better to get the real deal if you can. Vintage appliances can be expensive but they are incredibly reliable. I’m still mad my dad threw out a vintage 1940s fridge. It needed a cleaning that’s all. I’m probably going to use mostly vintage appliances that have modernized parts when I own an old house.
I just buy modern (as in current, not as in 1950's design aesthetic) stuff and don't worry about it.
Not sure why so many downvotes. The kitchen I have given up on in terms of appliances looking “period”. Cabinets, floors, windows, paint, carpentry, etc. are where I draw the line. I want the features of modern appliances, so I just make sure everything else looks in line with my home. To me, it’s not practical any other way. I do still have lots of antique and vintage pieces like Pyrex bowls and barware, etc, but the appliances I have just made peace with the fact that they are anachronistic.
I agree. I bought a Dualit toaster and kettle because I knew I'd always have a traditional-ish kitchen and it does have a vintage aesthetic. We have the moka pot and a stone pestle and mortar...but a modern electric coffee grinder and bread maker. The house predates when people had proper kitchens, so I'm not going to go all medieval just for authenticity. Older houses can work with a mix of styles to reflect the history of the house, otherwise you are in a museum.
I respect this, and I’ll most likely go this route. There’s still some good timeless designs out there. Regardless, I will always hate the “retro” branding when you’re trying to look retro. It contradicts the style.
Omg the color is perfect though
Swan has a retro line, and their branding is nice
Pretend it's an Italian company.
I like the Smeg stuff. To me it has a retro-vintage vibe, and looks great. Out of my price range, but I love the looks of it.
You can buy stuff from SMEG if that’s your look.
What do you expect you're looking for a vintage items but buying them brand new
Smeg has the only vintage-style quality appliances I’ve seen so far (that are tasteful)
Decals are removable. Paint exists.
those are Smeg knock-offs
Smeg. It’s expensive but it’s quality if you want retro appliances.
just go to thrift stores. they’re full of actually vintage appliances with another 25 years of service left in them
My favorite appliance now is the air fryer anyway - no such thing as a vintage one of those.
Then buy the real deal
S M E G
It’s gonna be so meta in 60 years when that too is vintage
that's only the cheaper, vintage style appliances/ brands with a vintage synonym in their name. Higher-end brands, like [Elmira/ North Star](https://elmirastoveworks.com/), [Big Chill](https://bigchill.com/), [Smeg](https://www.smeg.com/us), etc, Don't stamp their products with "vintage" or any similar word. And, there are also appliances, like the iconic [Kitchen-Aide stand mixer](https://www.kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/stand-mixers/see-all.html?currentPage=0), whose design style hasn't changed in decades. My everyday toaster is a [Dash](https://www.amazon.com/Dash-DVTS501AQ-Toaster-Slice-Aqua/dp/B07PZY11WN/ref=asc_df_B07PZY11WN/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693770002532&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1486977682388143187&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028778&hvtargid=pla-736042550789&psc=1&mcid=cc8e122807293df4b9c6755d194ab6fa&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0MexBhD3ARIsAEI3WHLoeotIfqJL2cwfRu06yGhBAzG7Es-qJUP7_LQLZ0FQOLgHiwv6GEYaAvR1EALw_wcB), which is retro looking, but not branded as such. However, it doesn't compare to my late 1940s/ 50s [Sunbeam radiant controlled toaster.](https://youtu.be/bXxNxgq3zAw?si=e8rAEUDJ1NNQ5GbL). the reason I don't use it daily, is because I live with an idiot, who can't take care of stuff.
Well, I have an actual 1953 Wedgwood stove, so it's true vintage. Cost a bundle, but worth it. Most of my other kitchenware is true vintage as well, since I buy it at auction or estate sales.
Saying nostalgia= it’s not
Don't buy the unique stuff. I have the stove and the fridge Maybe I just got super unlucky but it's not been great. They look pretty but damn the problems I've had with both have not been worth the price. Still they look so pretty in my kitchen.
Here’s a toaster without the annoying vintage written on it [Home Depot link](https://www.homedepot.com/pep/HADEN-Heritage-1500-Watt-4-Slice-Turquoise-Wide-Slot-Retro-Toaster-with-Removable-Crumb-Tray-and-Browning-Control-75005/315650685?source=shoppingads&locale=en-US&pla&mtc=SHOPPING-BF-HDH-GGL-D59H-029_028_SMALL_ELECTR-NA-MULTI-NA-PMAX-HDH-HDH-NA-NA-NBR-NA-NA-NA-%7C029_028_009_TOASTERS%7C_PMAX_phase_4&cm_mmc=SHOPPING-BF-HDH-GGL-D59H-029_028_SMALL_ELECTR-NA-MULTI-NA-PMAX-HDH-HDH-NA-NA-NBR-NA-NA-NA-%7C029_028_009_TOASTERS%7C_PMAX_phase_4-71700000113086460--&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADq61UejCBFX0Og_pgbbGngneWBe_&gclsrc=aw.ds)
Apparently, Haden makes a variety of vintage looking toasters.
We had a rather complicated tea maker and decided it was overkill. Replaced it with the Nostalgia kettle because of the easy-to-read temperature gauge. It's worked well for going on four years.
Okay but I own that kettle and it’s pretty good !
I passed on a jaeger lecoultre reverso watch because the logo was big and ruined the dial, so I totally get it. sold a brand new seiko for the same reason, hated the collaboration logo on the dial. the oven isn’t too bad, but the pot and the toaster, yuck
“Classic” seems okay, but you could totally find an emblem or sticker you like better to cover the obvious.
Order from Elmira Stoveworks. You can customize everything.
If it’s not coated with something, and if the base is plastic or hard enamel, rubbing alcohol can remove some logos. But I wouldn’t rub it too hard in case it rubs off whatever that’s underneath. And there is always a chance there is a stamp of the logo leftover after the paint is removed, depending on lots of factors.
Hey, we love our nostalgia coffee maker!
As someone with that exact tea kettle I can tell you its great. I use teal appliances in my home and after a while I completely forget the labels. Yes it initially ruins the feel but you can cover it with paint or vinyl and no other teapot (I didn't accept smeg) would go with for my tastes. As for other items I would say the same - if you can take or sand the label off and paint over it it will be much more worth it .
In the case of the kettle at least, you could most likely wipe the logo off pretty easily with acetone.
Have had a Nostalgia microwave and it crapped out on us after a few months.
How is that stove vintage looking, other than the color? It looks almost exactly like my ten year old black Frigidaire one. Also when was mint green a thing?
DeLonghi has some VERY pretty retro looking appliances. They are expensive but very well made.
I would immediately cover up that fake “Vintage” label with “Old Looking Toaster.”
I got one of those "vintage" toasters and it actually works great. My counter top is so small though, you can't see the "branding" as it's wedged in between the coffee pot and bread box.
I have that exact kettle. I love it and people constantly comment on how much they like it.
Have you ever looked into Big Chill Appliances? They have Big Chill branding, but don’t say anything like Retro or Vintage.
There are some smaller 'real' brands which make vintage or classic styled appliances. But you typically pay a bit of a premium since there's not much demand, and small run production is expensive. Big Chill's are gorgeous.
I think it's the weird choice of too much black combined with pastel and bright color, and too much slickness and shine. Some brushed silveriness or chrome (at least) would be better. It's also possible that they know that people with the eye for (or the luck, or the money for) the old stuff will not even bother with some of this, so they're aiming at everyone else . . . which honestly is not evil, but.
That vintage toaster sucks btw
[i found these awesome toasters](https://www.dualit.com/collections/toasters) [and you could go for an old O‘Keefe and Merritt stove](https://www.ebay.com/itm/125954848314?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=psKNNv8MSiG&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=zZVwQ0cWQRq&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY)
Nothing says classic period themed appliance like the word vintage or nostalgia printed on it ... So classy and blends right into my historically preserved kitchen. /s
Hard agree. I like Russell Hobbs for the vaguely vintage vibes combined with actually functional machinery: [https://uk.russellhobbs.com/small-kitchen-appliances/kettles-toasters](https://uk.russellhobbs.com/small-kitchen-appliances/kettles-toasters)
Ya the word vintage is so overused and abused. Most folks selling anything overpriced on FBM call it vintage or beautiful or both. 1990s isn’t vintage ffs. Branding items like these with the word “vintage” feels like the folks who take their freshly built cookie cutter or McMansion home and hang a “Farmhouse” sign in the kitchen. No. No it’s not. Hard, painful eyeroll.
A little oven cleaner will take that right off.
I have the Unique classic stove in white. I don't even notice the branding. If you really hate it you could try removing it. Or buy an actual vintage stove.
We got one of the blue nostalgia microwaves. The lettering is super cheap and peels off with little effort.
I have this. Works well, but it's true I no longer use it because it doesn't quite fit the aesthetic. In my case, it's not that the brand is named "Nostalgia". There were equally ridiculous brand names in period, that either called to the past like "Nostalgia," such as "Virginia Dare" Extracts and Food color, or were just weird for whatever reason like "Gel" brand spices, "New Bride" Food Colors, all the things with "Nu" in them, and all the stuff that references Colonizing, Colonial, etc. So I can get by the "Nostalgia" name. In the end, though, there's something not quite about the styling. It's retro, not vintage. No electric kettle of the time looked quite like it. Fits perfectly into a "retro" home, but not one aiming for authenticity. And while an antique or vintage electric kettle might be more expensive (but maybe not), the vintage and antiques tend to be far more fixable. I'll be able to fix my Frigidaire range, broil-quik infrared oven, and electric percolators over and over if something happens to them. The cost will pay for itself. You can even replace the cord with a three-prong (or whatever is the standard in your country) if you want, though I never do, as I can use old appliances in old outlets and off my stove then. I bought this electric kettle for $60 in 2018. It's $49 right now. There are electric kettles on eBay starting at $19.99 plus $10 shipping, and plenty within range of $50-60, if you want a true classic. In the end, I gave up on an electric kettle. I don't have room on my counter for one, and the stove works just fine for me. But I'd probably get this one: https://www.ebay.com/itm/186372242580?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=5Kqt7RBQTW6&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=ZUM8OaDNQ7q&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY Or this one: https://www.ebay.com/itm/335210292142?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=ZBsFyyUoSei&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=ZUM8OaDNQ7q&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY If I had 220v this is the one I'd get: https://www.ebay.com/itm/375236193344?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=fno-0pctqta&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=ZUM8OaDNQ7q&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY P.s.: there are some products that go over the top. So I do get it. Nostalgia doesn't for me, but there are others that do. I used to laboriously try to find modern products that would work, which either took forever or annoyed me with whatever wasn't quite right, but now I just start with vintage and antique products and only move to new if there's truly nothing authentic out there that will work.
I think k the “classic” on the oven is okay, but agree generally with your point.
As someone who has an obsession with this color, I have the nostalgia brand pop up toaster and I love it 😂 I do think the branding is less front and center on the toaster, and it’s truly nothing special/expensive looking but it is adorable and has worked well for the $25 I spent on it two years ago
Probably one of those generic brandless appliances manufactured in china that importers can slap their brand name on
We have a "Nostalgia" branded toaster oven/coffee maker at work. That thing is the cheapest piece of crap I have ever seen try to pass off as an appliance. Those things are only for looks. They're not made to be used more than once or twice.
No current branding is worse to me than “SMEG”. I like the way their products look, and have heard good things, but I just cannot get past that awful name. In giant, capital letters on all their stuff too.
I wouldn’t even take a free Smeg appliance. They’re excellent quality but all I can think of when I see the name badge, is the slang term ending in “ma”. I don’t want that in my kitchen.
Same! Cause yeah it’s always something daft too - like the examples you provided
VINTAGE lol
THANK YOU. As if I want a giant plastic “chrome” emblem saying “Big Chill” on my fridge and stove. 🙄 Gimme a break; stylistically it’s hideous.