If it seems like some of your small appliances do not last as long as the ones that you remember your parents having, or even the ones that you had for years before you bought those shiny new replacements, you are probably right. It is true that at least for some items, they really do not build them like they used to. If you are lucky enough to have some of these items in your attic (or basement), you may want to give them a second chance before getting rid of them and buying a newer model.
Furniture is one of those things that people tend to like to replace every so often, so that they can have a modern style. Unfortunately, a lot of newer furniture is not made with the same attention to detail and the same quality materials as pieces that were made a few decades ago. Sure, you may curse that heavy vintage leather sofa as you move it down a flight of stairs but it is sturdy and still looks great after all those years. The same goes for that dining room table that you got from your parents’ house. Older furniture is often well made and can be repaired relatively inexpensively. If you crave a modern look, you could slipcover an upholstered piece or add a tablecloth or even a new top to an older table.
Sewing machines were also made out of high quality parts in years past. Sure, the newer computer driven models can do more things, but like any appliance with a computer in it, the computer can fail or become obsolete. Older sewing machines can be dependable workhorses if you keep them clean and maintain them regularly. If you have an older sewing machine which you have no use for, consider selling it – they are still very much in demand.
Cast iron cookware is another item where old can be good. Even if the cookware looks like it has seen better days, you can sand the surface of it and season it. It is heavy, but it works wonders in the kitchen and the quality of those hefty pots and pans will last for years.
Photo by mconnors on morguefile.com.