We always associate the 1970s with bell bottoms and disco. Little do we know that it was also the golden age of kitchen innovation. Designers were obsessed with convenience, which gave us some of the quirkiest (and surprisingly useful) appliances ever made. These electronic conveniences fizzled out over time, but they might just deserve a second chance. Here are the top kitchen gadgets from the ‘70s that we wouldn’t mind seeing again.
Presto Burger Cooker
Credit: Facebook
Before the George Foreman Grill, there was this burger-making machine that cooked both sides at once—no flipping required. It drained grease for a “healthier” meal (by ‘70s standards) and delivered a juicy burger in minutes. Considering today’s obsession with homemade meals, an upgraded cooker could be a hit.
Hot Dog Cooker
Credit: Reddit
This hot dog cooker was a mini diner for your countertop. Metal rollers spun the franks while the buns got a perfectly toasty upgrade. The most interesting part was that it felt like you had a tiny gas station snack counter at home. Given the renewed love for retro diners, why hasn’t this made a comeback?
Crock-Pot Slow Cooker
Credit: Reddit
The slow cooker boom started in the ‘70s, and while these appliances never fully disappeared, the vintage models had a charm that today’s digital versions lack. A true retro-inspired Crock-Pot had funky floral patterns that could bring back the nostalgia.
Electric Egg Cooker
Credit: Reddit
This gadget took away all the guesswork involved in boiling, poaching, and scrambling back in the day. Reintroducing the electric egg cooker could save busy mornings—no more staring at the stove waiting for water to boil.
Can Opener with Knife Sharpener9+-9
Credit: Reddit
Multifunctionality was big in the ‘70s, and this device was ahead of its time. It opened cans while sharpening knives—because who doesn’t love a two-for-one deal? Bringing back this all-in-one tool could be a game-changer for cluttered kitchens.
Warming Tray
Credit: Reddit
Entertaining in the ‘70s wasn’t complete without a buffet-style spread, and this gadget kept everything warm without overcooking it. It was a must-have for dinner parties, potlucks, and holiday feasts. For those who love hosting, a warming tray could be a lifesaver.
Electric Percolator
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Drip coffee makers may have taken over, but percolators brewed a strong and rich cup that modern machines just can’t match. Coffee purists still swear by them and remain obsessed with retro brewing methods like this one.
Veg-O-Matic
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
This kitchen tool sliced, diced, and julienned veggies with a single push and without any fancy cutting skills. It was marketed as a way to save time, and honestly, it delivered. This old-school gadget deserves a comeback as people search for faster meal prep solutions.
Sandwich Toaster
Credit: Reddit
This sandwich toaster locked in all the gooey goodness and sealed the edges. You don’t have to worry about cheese dripping out or fillings escaping! While panini presses are everywhere, an upgraded version of this ‘70s favorite could bring back the joy of perfectly sealed, melty sandwiches.
Electric Yogurt Maker
Credit: Reddit
Before every grocery store was stocked with endless yogurt options, people made their own using this little machine. It kept milk at the perfect fermentation temperature, which resulted in creamy, homemade yogurt.
Ice Crusher
Credit: Reddit
This smart gadget gave perfectly crushed ice for slushies, cocktails, and sodas—without melting too fast. Unlike modern blenders, this machine was designed specifically for ice and produced a texture that bartenders still dream about.
Rotisserie Oven
Credit: Reddit
Thanks to compact rotisserie ovens, roasting a whole chicken at home used to be a breeze. These ovens rotated the meat and ensured even cooking and that perfect crispy skin. New-and-improved rotisserie ovens could give air fryers a run for their money.
Baconer
Credit: Yankee Magazine
The baconer did exactly what it sounds like—cooked bacon. But this one cooked bacon vertically and let the grease drip away for a crispier, less greasy bite. There was no flipping, no splatter, just perfectly cooked strips every time. Bacon lovers today rely on stovetops or ovens.
Electric Whipped Cream Makers
Credit: Reddit
This electric gadget once effortlessly made fresh whipped cream at home. However, most never took off in kitchens and were mostly used in bakeries. With today’s love for preservative-free treats, a rechargeable whipped cream maker could bring back the joy of instant, homemade whipped cream with zero hassle.
