As we continue to celebrate the retro vibes of the ’80s, from scrunchies to off-the-shoulder sweatshirts, it’s time we also appreciate some of the less glamorous yet undeniably delightful aspects of that decade. Sure, we know that fresh veggies are superior to processed snacks and that low-calorie foods often come with their own set of issues. But let’s take a nostalgic look at some of the quirky inventions that emerged during the era of neon colors, Reaganomics, and unforgettable pop music that deserve a revival.
1. Coffee-Mate
When your friends raise an eyebrow at you adding Coffee-Mate to your perfectly brewed black coffee, just smile and sip. This creamy concoction isn’t just for the lactose intolerant; it’s an instant flavor boost packed into a convenient pour. With flavors like Vanilla and Crème Brûlée, you can easily whip up a delightful cup of coffee in no time—perfect for those busy mornings. Plus, who needs to worry about spoilage when it’s practically shelf-stable?
2. Electric Blankets
Why did we ever stop using electric blankets? On those frigid winter nights, there’s nothing cozier than snuggling under a warm electric blanket cranked to high. The rumors of them being fire hazards? Probably just a ploy by duvet manufacturers! Nowadays, you can find electric blankets with dual controls, allowing both sides of the bed to have their own personalized climate. Sweet dreams await!
3. Lean Cuisine
Who doesn’t reminisce about the days of quick dinners like Lean Cuisine? Sure, it may not be the healthiest option, but when you’re in a crunch, a single-serving mac and cheese can bring back comforting memories. At just 280 calories, it’s a far cry from mindless snacking and can be paired perfectly with a diet soda for an easy meal that takes only minutes to prepare.
4. Tab
Ah, the nostalgia of diet sodas in the ’80s! Tab was the drink of choice for anyone trying to watch their waistline, and while it’s harder to find today, you can still enjoy classics like Fresca or Diet Coke with your favorite frozen meals. It was a simpler time when soda didn’t come with a side of guilt.
5. DustBusters
Forget lugging out the bulky vacuum cleaner for small messes; the DustBuster was a game-changer! Perfect for quick clean-ups of crumbs or pet hair, these handheld vacuums made tidying up feel effortless. They might not be as trendy as modern vacuums, but their convenience is unmatched. I recently used mine to clear up a spilled shaker of salt before I even realized it had happened!
6. OXY 10
When it comes to battling adult acne, OXY 10 remains a classic choice. Forget about pricey dermatologist prescriptions; this tried-and-true solution can dry up those pesky zits overnight. Even if I leave the house with a little extra “treatment” on my face, I wear it as a badge of honor.
7. Cottage Cheese
Some might say it’s bland, but cottage cheese is pure comfort food! Whether it’s paired with buttered noodles or served with fruit, it brings a sense of nostalgia to the table. For those who appreciate quality, Organic Valley and Light n’ Lively are still winners in the cottage cheese game.
8. Crystal Light
This sugar-free beverage mix brought a little class to hydration. Sure, it might stain your countertops, but isn’t it better than drinking plain water? With flavors like iced tea, it adds a splash of fun to your hydration routine.
9. Perms
Who can resist the allure of big hair? If you didn’t experiment with a perm in the ’80s, did you really live? While my own perm journey didn’t exactly turn out like Julia Roberts in Mystic Pizza, the quest for luscious curls has led to countless hours with a curling iron and hairspray. Old habits die hard!
In summary, the ’80s were filled with a variety of quirky inventions and trends that, while they may have seemed silly or outdated, can still bring a smile to our faces today. From the convenience of electric blankets to the nostalgia of leaning back with a Lean Cuisine, there’s a lot to appreciate. If you’re curious about more ways to embrace the past or explore parenthood, check out this insightful post on Modern Family Blog. And for those considering at-home insemination, Make A Mom offers a range of reliable kits to help you on your journey. Additionally, if you’re seeking support for fertility issues, Drugs.com provides excellent resources that can help.
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