Your Grandma's Toaster Is Still Kicking. So Why Has Your Shiny New One Already Died?

There are many old-school appliances that are worth restoring. One of them is the simple toaster, but there's more to vintage toasters than their striking looks and designs. One reason people appreciate older models, even those made in the 1940s and 1950s, is that they were designed to last. If you're in the market for a new toaster, while there are numerous budget-friendly toaster models to choose from, you may wonder about their quality. So, what's the real difference between retro toaster models compared to modern versions?

Modern toasters are designed with more features and use more complex electronics, which increases their fragility. Old-school toasters, on the other hand, relied on simple mechanical processes to do their job. Although many of the new models can do so much more than simply toast bread, their intricate workings can break more easily and are not easy to repair. In fact, it's less expensive to throw away a broken modern toaster and buy a new one than to repair it, but old-school toasters were made with repairability in mind.

In addition, modern toaster models are usually engineered with more cost-effective and less durable materials. For example, the heating elements in modern toasters use a less-expensive alloy than vintage toasters. The elements in new models are more prone to becoming brittle, while old models are less prone to breaking, even though they have a greater tendency to become corroded. 

Another factor influencing the longevity of modern appliances, including toasters, is the concept of planned obsolescence. Some modern appliances are designed to last for a certain time and then be replaced. In fact, according to many repair technicians, the rate of appliance replacement in households has been increasing steadily. The idea of planned obsolescence is complicated, as this concept works alongside the consumer demand for ever more advanced features and the development of more efficient technology. When newer, more refined features are available, people often want to upgrade their appliances. 

Some new appliances can be cared for to increase their lifespan. If you're in the market for an appliance like a dishwasher, for example, it's good to know how long a new dishwasher will last to help you plan your purchase. The idea works across a variety of appliances, including toasters. Consider researching the lifespan of your next toaster before you buy it, then choose one that suits your needs, including the possibility of purchasing an old-school toaster.

If you like thrift stores or even shops that sell restored toasters, you may be inclined to seek out well-constructed retro toaster models. Some vintage toasters that are considered worthy include Sunbeam Radiant Control Toasters, which were manufactured between 1947 and 1997. Another model that's considered desirable is the Toastmaster, which can be found at online auction and resale sites. These mechanical toasters rely on durable technology and come in sleek designs.