Good morning from snowy New York (yet again). This is more of a vent post but I genuinely want to know if this is your experience too.
This is hardly a glamorous post, but it feels like a moment worth sharing. We’re still in that in-between stage where half our things are packed away, and all I wanted — truly all I wanted — was to open a tiny can of tomato paste.
I found two automatic can openers, spent a solid 15 minutes trying every possible angle, and all I managed to do was shred the label and create jagged metal edges. Then I tried another manual opener I distinctly remember paying almost $20 for… not even a dent. One from Cuisinart and the other from Oster.
At that point, I had just sent my husband on a mission to the local market to grab a new one while I was furiously digging through drawers — and wouldn’t you know it, I found a still-unused, old-school can opener I had bought a year ago for a dollar and change. Two seconds flat… can opened.
Talk about irony. $90 worth of can openers couldn’t do the job, but the $1 one could.
And honestly, this isn’t the first time I’ve felt this way. I’m just so disappointed that name brands — that at least in name are supposed to stand for high quality and longevity — so often don’t live up to that promise.
Another example: Dyson vacuums. I was thrilled when I first got them. I bought three because they were so convenient compared to dragging out the long hose of the central vacuum. But all three have since stopped operating properly. I certainly never expected them to last only a couple of years. I assumed the price point meant they’d be with me for the long haul.
It just feels like every time I turn around, it’s one thing after the other. I’m someone who truly believes in buying quality items that will last and some brands do live up to the hype — but I’m finding that so many of the brands we’ve come to know and trust simply don’t deliver what they promise and what they have relied upon their name recognition to deliver. Very disappointing to say the least. I have no problem spending the money on things that will last. Sometimes like in the Dyson case, when they started acting up, it was right past the warranty date but far too early to have issues. Frustrating!
Curious… is anyone else experiencing this? Would love to know if this is just back luck or widespread? Your turn to chime in….
Absolutely! We went through 3 high end built-in microwave ovens in 8 years and two dishwashers including one Bosch. Meanwhile, a girlfriend refused to let go of her avocado 1970s range until it finally but the dust in 2006. Truly (and sadly)~ and I know it’s a cliche, but they really don’t make thinking’s like they used to.
I share your frustration with can openers! If there’s the slightest dent or defect in the edge you just can’t make it work. To make matters worse, since the companies have changed the shape to make it easier to stack cans, there’s only one side of the can an opener will work in the best case! It seems like a trivial problem until you start to make dinner and a key ingredient is held hostage inside a defective can! 😫
You are absolutely correct! It’s called “Designed Obsolescence”. They do it on purpose to make you buy more. Companies only succeed if they keep increasing their profits. They don’t make money if their products last and people don’t need to buy new ones. Unfortunately we, as the consumers are the ones who suffer while the businesses continue to profit…
I prefer a manual can opener; I have a KitchenAid one, and I love it.
As far as my Dyson, I love mine, I clean it everytime i use it and check the filter, going on 3 years and no problem.
Now watch I just jinxed myself!!!!!!
I have a Dyson stick & love it. Have had it for 2 years. Stopped working & all it needed was the filter cleaned.
I experienced the same disappointment with top name brand can openers. Got a “Kitchen Mama” & no issues.
We are doing a big addition to our home. I am trying to stay away from as much high tech things as possible! It seems the more things are put on our phones to control through an app the harder it is to keep them running and in working order. My Mom had an Electrolux vacuum sweeper (sold to her by a door to door salesman) and it worked just fine for my entire childhood. Oh those were the days!
OMG….my parents had an Electrolux vacuum cleaner also. Purchased in the 1950’s and they got rid of it in the 1980’s due to it being too heavy to move around room-to-room. It still worked beautifully!
Unfortunately what you describe is much too common these days. My biggest peeve is appliances. Admittedly I haven’t experienced Wolff or Sub Zero, usually purchasing Frigidaire or GE. I bought new everything when I moved 15 months ago. Already the door alerts on the fridge won’t reset, the dryer wont heat on normal setting and the oven temp is suspect. The 20 year old garage fridge, however, keeps right on going. I fear our desire for inexpensive products has driven us to inferior products and now it has reached the point of no return. Going forward, I recommend keeping the manual can opener. Fewer things to go wrong and less expensive to replace.
So agree about the can opener.. definitely old school is the best and easiest to use..
Also Dyson probably needs just a new battery.. you can buy it on Amazon.. just make sure of the model number
You are speaking my language, I gripe almost daily about this! I am so disappointed in Dyson. Bought one for nearly $700 and almost a year later its hardly working. I went to Target and bought a cheap version and so far its outperforming the Dyson, even if its short lived, its about 80% cheaper. And then there’s the customer service LACK OF end of things- you try to reach someone and you all but give up. It is so upsetting. I totally agree with you- my mom (in her 70’s) has things she has had for many many years and they all work better than things made today. Her toaster, even her iron! I may have to ask her to hand them down to me, haha.
Built in obsolescence is the term. Made to fail just past the warranty expiration date. Yes, everything is that way now. No repeat business for things that don’t have to be replaced. It’s a business model.
I remember that when I was growing up every town had a “Fix-It” shop. When something like the toaster broke, you brought it in to be fixed. This was because the quality was so good, things were expected to last a lifetime. Also things were comparatively expensive: it was less expensive to repair things than to replace them. Then came the Japanese knock offs (think of VCR’s) and now Chinese knock-offs (think of almost everything!). That’s when it all started to unwind. They started to make inexpensive copies and we all loved buying the less expensive things. Only thing was, they werw not built to last. It’s a trade off that has been created that we have accepted. I’m hoping that as we onshore more manufacturing, American companies will go back to high quality items! I have a large freezer that was very old when I moved into my house 35 years ago. It has never needed a single repair — not even one broken part — and it’s still going strong!
Hi Tina,
I use the old fashion can opener now too. It works and does not take up a lot of space. As for Dyson, well I will not be buying another because as you say for the price they definitely should last longer than three years for me. The quality it seems is not what it use to be.
Oh Tina! You have hit a nerve in me! I have bemoaned this situation for the last several years- new, brand name appliances conking out after a mere two years, things falling apart, just garbage products all the way around. My theory is this: things must be produced for American consumers to be sure, but they must be built and manufactured and then offered, knowing they will break, blow up, fall apart, fail, and be worthless sooner, rather than later. That way, manufacturers can keep the consumer cycle rolling, which guarantees them perpetual income. If they were smart enough to realize we would pay more at purchase time, just to have something that would LAST, they would still make the same profits overall, and have happier, more satisfied customers who would praise their name! My personal rebellion has been to revert to manual can openers quite a while ago. It’s disgusting. My grandmother had her refrigerator for over 40 years! What has happened to us as a nation? I am deeply troubled over it all. Sorry for the rant. Well, maybe not sorry.
So frustrating! Literally nothing is made like it used to be. I still have my grandmother’s stand up freezer that is 60 years old! Still running like a champ albeit very unattractive. I can’t even count how many washer and dryers I have been through. I bought the Dyson hair dryer which does dry my hair super fast but once I turn the button on I have to shake it to actually get it started. Ridiculous! I feel your pain!!!
Absolutely feel the same way…had a similar experience with Dyson. Repairman said it they pretty much die in 2-3 years; can’t be repaired because of the way it’s manufactured. I had to laugh….we still use our manual can opener but recently “upgraded” to an Oxo, lol.
I am totally on the same page as far as frustration with”name” brands.
I am over it as to buying items that are”name” brands when the lesser known work better.
How about washing machines and dryers. I remember when they lasted 10 years are more – they were simple to operate and did the job. I got rid of my electric can opener several years ago. I really don’t understand why appliances don’t last with all the technology that’s available.
Yes ! I am so disappointed in Dyson as well . Their filters clog easily and are expensive to replace. We used to have a Dyson service center in our city, but no longer . I won’t buy one again
Your can opener experience is exactly why I purchased three of the old school can openers and disposed of my electric ones. So ridiculous, not to mention the number of times I had the contents of the half-opened can splash on my clothing.
Vacuum cleaners and washing machines have really tested my patience. It seems there are a number of household appliances that no longer last more than 3 years. Our landfills will be full of them, we have to pay to dispose of them, all in the name of “improved technology.” My very first washing machine/dryer set from Sears lasted 17 years. Now I’m lucky if a set lasts three, often with a repair within the first year, it’s ridiculous.
For more years than i can remember i bought Sears Kenmore products Everything from canister vaccum cleaners to Washers and dryers. They were a really great product and lasted for years sadly now gone with Sears.. Thirteen years ago i bought a Hamilton Beach Electric Can operner . It was not expensive I think around $20 and i still have it today I find this company makes a good product and they last a long time plus now when i buy kitchen products i buy the inexpensive warrenty they are not expensive and they will replace the product, Just make sure you keep all your reciepts when you buy them. I am 87 I cook from scratch all the time and I will agree with you products bought as i was growing up lasted your lifetime but no longer today its”built in oblesence,” They can make them last forever but the evil profit margin gets in the way..
I still use an old fashioned hand held can opener for that very reason. I also have a Dyson which works for 5 minutes and needs to be recharged. I held onto my 1957 Electroluxe. It still works!!!! Not as convenient as the Dyson but it delivers every single time!!! Not ready to spend another $500 for another Dyson which I’ve had for only 5 years!!!!
It’s so frustrating that nothing is built to last. It’s all engineered obsolescence. Our Dysons were super disappointing, too, for as expensive and engineered as they are. Remember when you would buy a washing and dryer and have them for 30 years? I’m on my 4th set!!
Agree! Have bought Dyson vac, replaced, bought another, replaced battery, done. Trashed. However I have a Dyson hairdryer that is great. Bought drawer microwave 8 years ago, works so well and is sturdy, holding up to daily use. Bought exact same model for lake house 2 years ago, plastic and lightweight, sure it will not survive. Would like new washer/dryer, but old top loader is chugging along and is a Speed Queen so I will hang on even though it looks bad. Name brand does not always equate quality as in the past.
Hi Tina , I totally agree with you, and so annoying when you have paid top wack for a particular item
Case in point I would not ever buy Miele electrical goods again ! Going wrong after a couple of years
I completely agree and have changed some of my shopping habits as a result! For example, instead of Dyson, I now buy Shark vacuums, because they last about the same length of time and then I’m not heartbroken when I inevitably have to replace it sooner than expected.
On a related note, I feel like most things like vacuums, household appliances, etc. are being built with ‘forced obsolescence’ in mind. They are either impossible to repair, or so costly that it makes more sense to buy new. We’ve had two instances of this just in the last year, where the repair bill was so high that it was literally the cost of a new item (if not more).
I feel the same as you ! I am in the market for a new vacuum . Most of our floors are wood or tile . The uprights
don’t get close enough to the baseboards . I wish I knew which one to buy .
I’ve experienced buying name brand isn’t quality. The name sells the product but it does not do the job….. it’s all about money making for these companies. Remember mostly everything is made out of the US with company names showing US labels….
Yes, I do understand your frustration. The quality of appliances has gone downhill. I still have my old dishwasher and washer and dryer that are truly work horses. No repairs needed to be done. I did have to repair a newer refrigerator that has constantly breaking down a nightmare. When the repair man was at my home he noticed my dishwasher and washer and dryer and told me to hold on to them as long as I could. They don’t make appliances like they use too.
I, too jumped on the Dyson vacuum. The battery life of these things are ridiculous! You would think paying $700 -800 for one and you could at least get the battery to last long enough to do the stair runner. I clean & charge after each use but still struggling to find a brand that I can actually use! Rant over!!!
I was feeling your pain about can openers but not any longer! I had had it with automatic can openers that didn’t work with some cans, as well as hand operated ones. Finally, after reading numerous reviews on Amazon, I purchased a KitchenAid hand can opener & it is wonderful!! So easy to operate & it has worked on any type of can! I am thrilled with it!
Yes! Ditto with Dyson. After a battery replacement, the customer service representative informed me that the failure was “partly” my fault. Apparently, I shouldn’t have placed the vacuum back on the charger immediately after use. I should have waited I hour or so !?!. This is not what I expected from a $300 vacuum which is basically a glorified dustbuster.
I have since returned to a corded upright vacuum and am very happy.
It seems that products marketed for convenience end up being inconvenient in the long run.
I still use an old “swingway” manual can opener. It never fails.
I always wanted a Dyson vacuum but didn’t want to spend the money. Did research and find a Hoover stick upright one for under $100. Have has it for years and no problem. ( Hope I didn’t just jinx myself). Same with can openers. I have the old-fashion one you used to finally open your can. Sometimes, expensive doesn’t do the trick.
Absolutely yes! Ditto regarding the Dyson. I’d rather get my trusty Shark at Walmart and just replace it when it stops working – usually about a year+ later. Generally I run into the problem after I’ve taken down Christmas decorations and think I picked up a tiny white nail which caused the Shark to die. Regarding can openers….My $5.00 Kitchen Aid from Homegoods has worked forever and continues to do so.
So glad to hear someone else mention Kenmore. My washer and dryer are over 35 years old and are still going strong. Had to replace a small part recently and the repairman offered to buy both regardless of condition. Trying to find a can opener that will be easier on arthritic hands, but the ones that Amazon advertises as easier are impossible to operate. Finally gave up my grandma’s toaster, which was 70+ years old so that I could get one with wider slots. And does anyone remember when dads would take television tubes to the hardware store to test them so that they (the dads!) could repair the tv themselves?
Agree. Simple is best and not necessarily the most expensive.
Hint for your Dyson, take them apart and wash all the filters. Also, might need to replace the battery
Sadly, nothing is made to last for long these days. When my five-year-old washing machine needed repair a few months ago, the repairman said its lifespan would be about 10-12 years. I remember the machine my parents owned when I was a child — it was still running well when I left for college.
When I cannot open a can from the top, it will usually open from the bottom. Regarding appliances, a technician told me that large appliances (washers, refrigerators, etc…) are only built to last FIVE years now. For many years it was eight. It’s all about money. Gone are the days where the ad showed the Maytag repairman with his feet up on the desk… you can’t make any money that way. The sad thing is that all the appliances are piling up at the dump… If anyone you know still has an Avocado or Harvest gold refrigerator, tell them to keep it!
I have also had 3 Dyson vacuums—they all died within 2 years. I have an old Panasonic that I’ve had since 2004 that works great—fabulous suction—it’s just so heavy. I also threw out that Cuisinart can opener—it did not do the job. Got a hand cranked one.
You are right! The brands we have come to know and love just don’t hold up like in the past. We moved and the homeowner bought a kitchenaid refrigerator and dishwasher only a few years old. We have had to replace both within about 3 years after we moved in. We put in over $1000 in repairs to the refrigerator, only for the ice maker and water dispenser to stop working after those other repairs. With the price of appliances to replace those two, we have spent a lot of money! I just hope we get a decent amount of years use on the new appliances! Very frustrating!
I tossed my electric can opener even before battery-powered ones were available. Not helpful during extended power outages when I’ve stocked up on canned food! Plus, they are all clutter on the counter, so I don’t want them left out and I can grab the old-school hand-powered one out of a drawer quicker than dragging out an automatic one. I can get one for arthritic hands when that day comes. I find myself gravitating to simpler items and processes. I also agree that most appliances today are nothing like the old ones, and it seems this is on purpose to keep us buying new ones. Exasperating.
My in-laws gave us $500 to purchase a refrigerator in 1967 when we got married. After 30 years it needed a repair. I called our ‘fix it’ man to come look at it. He told us it was an easy fix, and at the most would cost $50. He went to a junk yard and found what he needed. And it only costs us $40! The refrigerator lasted another 15 years. When it finally bit the dust, we put it in the garage to keep wine and such cold. We were able to keep using it for another five years. We then bought a new refrigerator, and I didn’t like it. I got rid of my new can opener, and went back to the old hand held one. Worked much better! I feel your pain!
Speaking of tomato paste cans – have you seen this tip? Life-changing and I only recently learned this. Open both ends, leaving one in place and removing the other. Turn the can upside down and push the tomato paste out cleanly using the loosened bottom of the can! Like a push pop.
Agree, the inexpensive can opener the best. I must say my Dyson vacuums have performed very well. I clean them thoroughly after each use, filter and all. Most everything since Covid has down graded, especially in the food department. So sad, even Worcestershire sauce is not the same. And it is no secret that appliances are not made to last like they were in the 60’s 70’s 80’ or even 90’s. Now they are made to be replaced every 10 yrs. I always say use follow the $$$. Many people in the new generation don’t have the same values, like a hand shake to seal a deal like the “old days”. It makes me wonder what our country will be like in the future.
Best can opener I’ve ever owned is OXO Good Grips Soft-Handled Manual Can Opener. It’s $19.90 on Amazon. I’ve got two, one in both my homes. It’s very smooth and easy to operate and not hard on your hands if you’re opening several cans at once. I’ve had both of mine for over 20 years and they’re still like new! It’s been my experience with all of the OXO products. I agree about your vacuum frustration too! My housekeepers uses a Miele vacuum and has for many years. They love it and it works great and doesn’t harm my antique rugs. We have Miele dishwashers, coffee makers and microwaves also and same story, love them all! Definitely worth the price in my opinion! I hope this helps you. You’re definitely not alone!
As a senior, my longstanding items still in use are – Panasonic microwave 35 years, Admiral stove 30 years, Kenmore dishwasher 30 years and my Whirpool twin set washer and dryer, which I bought 12 years ago. I previously had a TV that lasted 20 years but forget the brand name. Back in the day appliances were made to last and although they might not have all the current bells and whistles, they are reliable. Hand-held can openers can be functional again if you clean them with WD-40 when they no longer work properly. 🙂
Totally agree!! I took my Dyson vacuum and hairdryer that both broke to what was to be one of their repair shops (45 minute drive) only to be told they could not be repaired but would give me a few dollars off if I wanted to purchase new ones. It so sooo annoying but this seems to be the norm with absolutely everything. Thanks for letting me vent.
Toasters, I haven’t had a toaster in years that doesnt either burn the bread or under cook the bread. I relied on name and quality, none of them have lived up to expectations
The “old fashioned” can opener is what I am back to. The quality of many newer items is very poor! The name brand does not guarantee quality .That is for sure.
Can totally relate to the frustration around things not lasting like they used too! I’ve had a similar experience with Dyson, bought 3, none lasted like I expected so looking for another brand. Was also told by an appliance repair man that I shouldn’t expect my appliances to last past 8 years.
I have an Oxo hand can opener, and it’s been working great for probably 10 years now. But my secret love was the old wall-mounted crank can opener my parents had. LOL
I totally agree with you, Tina! I grew up in a family business-an old school hardware store, and my Dad sold appliances, too. He constantly preached quality over price, but was always very fair and helpful. Often repaired things for his customers. Where are those treasures? 😉 I have a dryer that we bought from his store in 1980. It works great! Don’t plan to replace it! I, too bought a Dyson, which worked fine until it didn’t. I took it in to the vac store and they told me these machines were not engineered to vacuum on medium to deeper piles of carpeting. Burns out the motors. Bought a Sharp, affordable and fairly portable, and love it! As for the can opener
, I bought a manuel one from Pampered Chef years ago, and I love it too. Fits on top of the can and cuts a safety edge as it opens the can. No sharp cuts. You should check it out. Best of luck! Too bad we can’t turn back the clock! 🙂
Ditto your remarks
Also check country of origin when you purchase.
My Rowenta iron made in Germany’s outstanding, long lasting.
The second one o bought for a second residence made in China is a disaster.
Absolutely you hit the nail on the head as they say!!! Nothing lasts anymore no matter what you pay, I have decided…. We had the same washer and dryer for over 23 years, and they both worked wonderfully with no problems ever…. My husband felt that they might “go” anytime and wanted to get new ones, which we did. It’s been a year but I keep waiting for something awful to happen. We remodeled our kitchen and bought a new dishwasher. After one and half years it totally stopped. Repairing it costs more than buying a new one. We also bought a new refrigerator ( old one over 20 years old and worked perfect.) The light doesn’t work where you get water and ice and one of the drawer fronts fell off after 3 months. A repair man told us that appliances aren’t lasting but 5-6 years now…..Astounding and so sad! It’s all about less quality materials and wanting you to purchase more and often! My sister has been through two microwaves and an oven which were brand new and name brands. Can you tell I am as frustrated as you????
Never used a can opener that I could not clean in the dishwasher because the electric kind cannot be properly sanitized because of built up grime. So, I have always used the old fashion crank can opener and never missed anything else. My biggest fear is that they quit making them!! I have three light weight 6 lb. Shark vacuum cleaners (one being a cordless that I have to charge) for the upstairs part of the house. Kids have ultra-Dyson that has good suction NOW but can only run for 20 minutes. This frustrates me when I go over to their home and use it.
Just an old-fashioned gal here…. but I realize that price does NOT always dictate quality, same for the big-name brands. Tripping over a cord is not good either at my age. There seems to always be a trade-off somewhere.
Always enjoy your comments, Tina!!!
I feel exactly the same exclamation I have gone through numerous Dyson vacuums they break after about a year of light use. I’ve also purchased two Dyson air wraps my first one stopped working after about two years and the second one just stopped working after about a year, they come with a one year warranty and mine new. They are about $600. I will never purchase another Dyson product again.
You can buy fresh batteries on Amazon for the Dyson vacuums … usually under $50 … just find model numbers and search on Amazon ! ( Doesn’t have to be Dyson brand ! , I did it and mine has been running for a few more years ! )
I love my Dyson vac. Have you tried cleaning the air filter? My vac completely stopped one day and my husband googled “what can be wrong with this Dyson vac,” and it suggested taking the air filter apart and “cleaning it well”…. funny how a vacuum would need vacuuming too… but it worked! Hope it might help you too…
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Good morning from snowy New York (yet again). This is more of a vent post but I genuinely want to know if this is your experience too.
This is hardly a glamorous post, but it feels like a moment worth sharing. We’re still in that in-between stage where half our things are packed away, and all I wanted — truly all I wanted — was to open a tiny can of tomato paste.
I found two automatic can openers, spent a solid 15 minutes trying every possible angle, and all I managed to do was shred the label and create jagged metal edges. Then I tried another manual opener I distinctly remember paying almost $20 for… not even a dent. One from Cuisinart and the other from Oster.
At that point, I had just sent my husband on a mission to the local market to grab a new one while I was furiously digging through drawers — and wouldn’t you know it, I found a still-unused, old-school can opener I had bought a year ago for a dollar and change. Two seconds flat… can opened.
Talk about irony. $90 worth of can openers couldn’t do the job, but the $1 one could.
And honestly, this isn’t the first time I’ve felt this way. I’m just so disappointed that name brands — that at least in name are supposed to stand for high quality and longevity — so often don’t live up to that promise.
Another example: Dyson vacuums. I was thrilled when I first got them. I bought three because they were so convenient compared to dragging out the long hose of the central vacuum. But all three have since stopped operating properly. I certainly never expected them to last only a couple of years. I assumed the price point meant they’d be with me for the long haul.
It just feels like every time I turn around, it’s one thing after the other. I’m someone who truly believes in buying quality items that will last and some brands do live up to the hype — but I’m finding that so many of the brands we’ve come to know and trust simply don’t deliver what they promise and what they have relied upon their name recognition to deliver. Very disappointing to say the least. I have no problem spending the money on things that will last. Sometimes like in the Dyson case, when they started acting up, it was right past the warranty date but far too early to have issues. Frustrating!
Curious… is anyone else experiencing this? Would love to know if this is just back luck or widespread? Your turn to chime in….
Same with Dyson. I’m on my third and will never buy another Dyson product!
Absolutely! We went through 3 high end built-in microwave ovens in 8 years and two dishwashers including one Bosch. Meanwhile, a girlfriend refused to let go of her avocado 1970s range until it finally but the dust in 2006. Truly (and sadly)~ and I know it’s a cliche, but they really don’t make thinking’s like they used to.
I share your frustration with can openers! If there’s the slightest dent or defect in the edge you just can’t make it work. To make matters worse, since the companies have changed the shape to make it easier to stack cans, there’s only one side of the can an opener will work in the best case! It seems like a trivial problem until you start to make dinner and a key ingredient is held hostage inside a defective can! 😫
You are absolutely correct! It’s called “Designed Obsolescence”. They do it on purpose to make you buy more. Companies only succeed if they keep increasing their profits. They don’t make money if their products last and people don’t need to buy new ones. Unfortunately we, as the consumers are the ones who suffer while the businesses continue to profit…
Yes I completely understand.. I went back to the old type can opener after my two newer ones failed!
I prefer a manual can opener; I have a KitchenAid one, and I love it.
As far as my Dyson, I love mine, I clean it everytime i use it and check the filter, going on 3 years and no problem.
Now watch I just jinxed myself!!!!!!
I have a Dyson stick & love it. Have had it for 2 years. Stopped working & all it needed was the filter cleaned.
I experienced the same disappointment with top name brand can openers. Got a “Kitchen Mama” & no issues.
We are doing a big addition to our home. I am trying to stay away from as much high tech things as possible! It seems the more things are put on our phones to control through an app the harder it is to keep them running and in working order. My Mom had an Electrolux vacuum sweeper (sold to her by a door to door salesman) and it worked just fine for my entire childhood. Oh those were the days!
OMG….my parents had an Electrolux vacuum cleaner also. Purchased in the 1950’s and they got rid of it in the 1980’s due to it being too heavy to move around room-to-room. It still worked beautifully!
You are 100% right! I bought my crock pot in 1981 I still have it and it works great! They really do not make things the way they used too!
Unfortunately what you describe is much too common these days. My biggest peeve is appliances. Admittedly I haven’t experienced Wolff or Sub Zero, usually purchasing Frigidaire or GE. I bought new everything when I moved 15 months ago. Already the door alerts on the fridge won’t reset, the dryer wont heat on normal setting and the oven temp is suspect. The 20 year old garage fridge, however, keeps right on going. I fear our desire for inexpensive products has driven us to inferior products and now it has reached the point of no return. Going forward, I recommend keeping the manual can opener. Fewer things to go wrong and less expensive to replace.
So agree about the can opener.. definitely old school is the best and easiest to use..
Also Dyson probably needs just a new battery.. you can buy it on Amazon.. just make sure of the model number
A great example of corporations and Maddison Ave. that we’ve bought into. Sad.
You are speaking my language, I gripe almost daily about this! I am so disappointed in Dyson. Bought one for nearly $700 and almost a year later its hardly working. I went to Target and bought a cheap version and so far its outperforming the Dyson, even if its short lived, its about 80% cheaper. And then there’s the customer service LACK OF end of things- you try to reach someone and you all but give up. It is so upsetting. I totally agree with you- my mom (in her 70’s) has things she has had for many many years and they all work better than things made today. Her toaster, even her iron! I may have to ask her to hand them down to me, haha.
Built in obsolescence is the term. Made to fail just past the warranty expiration date. Yes, everything is that way now. No repeat business for things that don’t have to be replaced. It’s a business model.
I was going to post the same thing! I only have one vacuum that has lasted, a 1976 Kirby, that my husband maintains.
I remember that when I was growing up every town had a “Fix-It” shop. When something like the toaster broke, you brought it in to be fixed. This was because the quality was so good, things were expected to last a lifetime. Also things were comparatively expensive: it was less expensive to repair things than to replace them. Then came the Japanese knock offs (think of VCR’s) and now Chinese knock-offs (think of almost everything!). That’s when it all started to unwind. They started to make inexpensive copies and we all loved buying the less expensive things. Only thing was, they werw not built to last. It’s a trade off that has been created that we have accepted. I’m hoping that as we onshore more manufacturing, American companies will go back to high quality items! I have a large freezer that was very old when I moved into my house 35 years ago. It has never needed a single repair — not even one broken part — and it’s still going strong!
Hi Tina,
I use the old fashion can opener now too. It works and does not take up a lot of space. As for Dyson, well I will not be buying another because as you say for the price they definitely should last longer than three years for me. The quality it seems is not what it use to be.
Oh Tina! You have hit a nerve in me! I have bemoaned this situation for the last several years- new, brand name appliances conking out after a mere two years, things falling apart, just garbage products all the way around. My theory is this: things must be produced for American consumers to be sure, but they must be built and manufactured and then offered, knowing they will break, blow up, fall apart, fail, and be worthless sooner, rather than later. That way, manufacturers can keep the consumer cycle rolling, which guarantees them perpetual income. If they were smart enough to realize we would pay more at purchase time, just to have something that would LAST, they would still make the same profits overall, and have happier, more satisfied customers who would praise their name! My personal rebellion has been to revert to manual can openers quite a while ago. It’s disgusting. My grandmother had her refrigerator for over 40 years! What has happened to us as a nation? I am deeply troubled over it all. Sorry for the rant. Well, maybe not sorry.
Yes, I agree with you. I would never buy another Dyson and have gone to using a handheld can opener!
So frustrating! Literally nothing is made like it used to be. I still have my grandmother’s stand up freezer that is 60 years old! Still running like a champ albeit very unattractive. I can’t even count how many washer and dryers I have been through. I bought the Dyson hair dryer which does dry my hair super fast but once I turn the button on I have to shake it to actually get it started. Ridiculous! I feel your pain!!!
I have never been able to figure out electric can openers, so have always gone old school – faster and easier. Nothing is made like it used to be!
Absolutely feel the same way…had a similar experience with Dyson. Repairman said it they pretty much die in 2-3 years; can’t be repaired because of the way it’s manufactured. I had to laugh….we still use our manual can opener but recently “upgraded” to an Oxo, lol.
I agree! The brands we trusted no longer last past a year,or really work well. The same thing can be said for appliances, they are not the same.
I am totally on the same page as far as frustration with”name” brands.
I am over it as to buying items that are”name” brands when the lesser known work better.
How about washing machines and dryers. I remember when they lasted 10 years are more – they were simple to operate and did the job. I got rid of my electric can opener several years ago. I really don’t understand why appliances don’t last with all the technology that’s available.
Yes ! I am so disappointed in Dyson as well . Their filters clog easily and are expensive to replace. We used to have a Dyson service center in our city, but no longer . I won’t buy one again
Your can opener experience is exactly why I purchased three of the old school can openers and disposed of my electric ones. So ridiculous, not to mention the number of times I had the contents of the half-opened can splash on my clothing.
Vacuum cleaners and washing machines have really tested my patience. It seems there are a number of household appliances that no longer last more than 3 years. Our landfills will be full of them, we have to pay to dispose of them, all in the name of “improved technology.” My very first washing machine/dryer set from Sears lasted 17 years. Now I’m lucky if a set lasts three, often with a repair within the first year, it’s ridiculous.
For more years than i can remember i bought Sears Kenmore products Everything from canister vaccum cleaners to Washers and dryers. They were a really great product and lasted for years sadly now gone with Sears.. Thirteen years ago i bought a Hamilton Beach Electric Can operner . It was not expensive I think around $20 and i still have it today I find this company makes a good product and they last a long time plus now when i buy kitchen products i buy the inexpensive warrenty they are not expensive and they will replace the product, Just make sure you keep all your reciepts when you buy them. I am 87 I cook from scratch all the time and I will agree with you products bought as i was growing up lasted your lifetime but no longer today its”built in oblesence,” They can make them last forever but the evil profit margin gets in the way..
I still use an old fashioned hand held can opener for that very reason. I also have a Dyson which works for 5 minutes and needs to be recharged. I held onto my 1957 Electroluxe. It still works!!!! Not as convenient as the Dyson but it delivers every single time!!! Not ready to spend another $500 for another Dyson which I’ve had for only 5 years!!!!
Buy a Swing Away. It went to the Moon some years ago and I have been buying ever since! Never fails.
It’s so frustrating that nothing is built to last. It’s all engineered obsolescence. Our Dysons were super disappointing, too, for as expensive and engineered as they are. Remember when you would buy a washing and dryer and have them for 30 years? I’m on my 4th set!!
Agree! Have bought Dyson vac, replaced, bought another, replaced battery, done. Trashed. However I have a Dyson hairdryer that is great. Bought drawer microwave 8 years ago, works so well and is sturdy, holding up to daily use. Bought exact same model for lake house 2 years ago, plastic and lightweight, sure it will not survive. Would like new washer/dryer, but old top loader is chugging along and is a Speed Queen so I will hang on even though it looks bad. Name brand does not always equate quality as in the past.
Hi Tina , I totally agree with you, and so annoying when you have paid top wack for a particular item
Case in point I would not ever buy Miele electrical goods again ! Going wrong after a couple of years
I completely agree and have changed some of my shopping habits as a result! For example, instead of Dyson, I now buy Shark vacuums, because they last about the same length of time and then I’m not heartbroken when I inevitably have to replace it sooner than expected.
On a related note, I feel like most things like vacuums, household appliances, etc. are being built with ‘forced obsolescence’ in mind. They are either impossible to repair, or so costly that it makes more sense to buy new. We’ve had two instances of this just in the last year, where the repair bill was so high that it was literally the cost of a new item (if not more).
I feel the same as you ! I am in the market for a new vacuum . Most of our floors are wood or tile . The uprights
don’t get close enough to the baseboards . I wish I knew which one to buy .
I’ve experienced buying name brand isn’t quality. The name sells the product but it does not do the job….. it’s all about money making for these companies. Remember mostly everything is made out of the US with company names showing US labels….
Yes, I do understand your frustration. The quality of appliances has gone downhill. I still have my old dishwasher and washer and dryer that are truly work horses. No repairs needed to be done. I did have to repair a newer refrigerator that has constantly breaking down a nightmare. When the repair man was at my home he noticed my dishwasher and washer and dryer and told me to hold on to them as long as I could. They don’t make appliances like they use too.
I, too jumped on the Dyson vacuum. The battery life of these things are ridiculous! You would think paying $700 -800 for one and you could at least get the battery to last long enough to do the stair runner. I clean & charge after each use but still struggling to find a brand that I can actually use! Rant over!!!
I was feeling your pain about can openers but not any longer! I had had it with automatic can openers that didn’t work with some cans, as well as hand operated ones. Finally, after reading numerous reviews on Amazon, I purchased a KitchenAid hand can opener & it is wonderful!! So easy to operate & it has worked on any type of can! I am thrilled with it!
Yes – all the way around. Everything seems to be disposable – at very expensive prices. What is reliable anymore?
Yes! Ditto with Dyson. After a battery replacement, the customer service representative informed me that the failure was “partly” my fault. Apparently, I shouldn’t have placed the vacuum back on the charger immediately after use. I should have waited I hour or so !?!. This is not what I expected from a $300 vacuum which is basically a glorified dustbuster.
I have since returned to a corded upright vacuum and am very happy.
It seems that products marketed for convenience end up being inconvenient in the long run.
I still use an old “swingway” manual can opener. It never fails.
I always wanted a Dyson vacuum but didn’t want to spend the money. Did research and find a Hoover stick upright one for under $100. Have has it for years and no problem. ( Hope I didn’t just jinx myself). Same with can openers. I have the old-fashion one you used to finally open your can. Sometimes, expensive doesn’t do the trick.
Absolutely yes! Ditto regarding the Dyson. I’d rather get my trusty Shark at Walmart and just replace it when it stops working – usually about a year+ later. Generally I run into the problem after I’ve taken down Christmas decorations and think I picked up a tiny white nail which caused the Shark to die. Regarding can openers….My $5.00 Kitchen Aid from Homegoods has worked forever and continues to do so.
So glad to hear someone else mention Kenmore. My washer and dryer are over 35 years old and are still going strong. Had to replace a small part recently and the repairman offered to buy both regardless of condition. Trying to find a can opener that will be easier on arthritic hands, but the ones that Amazon advertises as easier are impossible to operate. Finally gave up my grandma’s toaster, which was 70+ years old so that I could get one with wider slots. And does anyone remember when dads would take television tubes to the hardware store to test them so that they (the dads!) could repair the tv themselves?
Agree. Simple is best and not necessarily the most expensive.
Hint for your Dyson, take them apart and wash all the filters. Also, might need to replace the battery
Sadly, nothing is made to last for long these days. When my five-year-old washing machine needed repair a few months ago, the repairman said its lifespan would be about 10-12 years. I remember the machine my parents owned when I was a child — it was still running well when I left for college.
When I cannot open a can from the top, it will usually open from the bottom. Regarding appliances, a technician told me that large appliances (washers, refrigerators, etc…) are only built to last FIVE years now. For many years it was eight. It’s all about money. Gone are the days where the ad showed the Maytag repairman with his feet up on the desk… you can’t make any money that way. The sad thing is that all the appliances are piling up at the dump… If anyone you know still has an Avocado or Harvest gold refrigerator, tell them to keep it!
I have also had 3 Dyson vacuums—they all died within 2 years. I have an old Panasonic that I’ve had since 2004 that works great—fabulous suction—it’s just so heavy. I also threw out that Cuisinart can opener—it did not do the job. Got a hand cranked one.
You are right! The brands we have come to know and love just don’t hold up like in the past. We moved and the homeowner bought a kitchenaid refrigerator and dishwasher only a few years old. We have had to replace both within about 3 years after we moved in. We put in over $1000 in repairs to the refrigerator, only for the ice maker and water dispenser to stop working after those other repairs. With the price of appliances to replace those two, we have spent a lot of money! I just hope we get a decent amount of years use on the new appliances! Very frustrating!
I tossed my electric can opener even before battery-powered ones were available. Not helpful during extended power outages when I’ve stocked up on canned food! Plus, they are all clutter on the counter, so I don’t want them left out and I can grab the old-school hand-powered one out of a drawer quicker than dragging out an automatic one. I can get one for arthritic hands when that day comes. I find myself gravitating to simpler items and processes. I also agree that most appliances today are nothing like the old ones, and it seems this is on purpose to keep us buying new ones. Exasperating.
My in-laws gave us $500 to purchase a refrigerator in 1967 when we got married. After 30 years it needed a repair. I called our ‘fix it’ man to come look at it. He told us it was an easy fix, and at the most would cost $50. He went to a junk yard and found what he needed. And it only costs us $40! The refrigerator lasted another 15 years. When it finally bit the dust, we put it in the garage to keep wine and such cold. We were able to keep using it for another five years. We then bought a new refrigerator, and I didn’t like it. I got rid of my new can opener, and went back to the old hand held one. Worked much better! I feel your pain!
Speaking of tomato paste cans – have you seen this tip? Life-changing and I only recently learned this. Open both ends, leaving one in place and removing the other. Turn the can upside down and push the tomato paste out cleanly using the loosened bottom of the can! Like a push pop.
Agree, the inexpensive can opener the best. I must say my Dyson vacuums have performed very well. I clean them thoroughly after each use, filter and all. Most everything since Covid has down graded, especially in the food department. So sad, even Worcestershire sauce is not the same. And it is no secret that appliances are not made to last like they were in the 60’s 70’s 80’ or even 90’s. Now they are made to be replaced every 10 yrs. I always say use follow the $$$. Many people in the new generation don’t have the same values, like a hand shake to seal a deal like the “old days”. It makes me wonder what our country will be like in the future.
Best can opener I’ve ever owned is OXO Good Grips Soft-Handled Manual Can Opener. It’s $19.90 on Amazon. I’ve got two, one in both my homes. It’s very smooth and easy to operate and not hard on your hands if you’re opening several cans at once. I’ve had both of mine for over 20 years and they’re still like new! It’s been my experience with all of the OXO products. I agree about your vacuum frustration too! My housekeepers uses a Miele vacuum and has for many years. They love it and it works great and doesn’t harm my antique rugs. We have Miele dishwashers, coffee makers and microwaves also and same story, love them all! Definitely worth the price in my opinion! I hope this helps you. You’re definitely not alone!
For 30 years I’ve not used an automatic can opener as none of them work. The manual ones do the job quickly without the frustration.
As a senior, my longstanding items still in use are – Panasonic microwave 35 years, Admiral stove 30 years, Kenmore dishwasher 30 years and my Whirpool twin set washer and dryer, which I bought 12 years ago. I previously had a TV that lasted 20 years but forget the brand name. Back in the day appliances were made to last and although they might not have all the current bells and whistles, they are reliable. Hand-held can openers can be functional again if you clean them with WD-40 when they no longer work properly. 🙂
Totally agree!! I took my Dyson vacuum and hairdryer that both broke to what was to be one of their repair shops (45 minute drive) only to be told they could not be repaired but would give me a few dollars off if I wanted to purchase new ones. It so sooo annoying but this seems to be the norm with absolutely everything. Thanks for letting me vent.
Toasters, I haven’t had a toaster in years that doesnt either burn the bread or under cook the bread. I relied on name and quality, none of them have lived up to expectations
The “old fashioned” can opener is what I am back to. The quality of many newer items is very poor! The name brand does not guarantee quality .That is for sure.
Can totally relate to the frustration around things not lasting like they used too! I’ve had a similar experience with Dyson, bought 3, none lasted like I expected so looking for another brand. Was also told by an appliance repair man that I shouldn’t expect my appliances to last past 8 years.
I have an Oxo hand can opener, and it’s been working great for probably 10 years now. But my secret love was the old wall-mounted crank can opener my parents had. LOL
I totally agree with you, Tina! I grew up in a family business-an old school hardware store, and my Dad sold appliances, too. He constantly preached quality over price, but was always very fair and helpful. Often repaired things for his customers. Where are those treasures? 😉 I have a dryer that we bought from his store in 1980. It works great! Don’t plan to replace it! I, too bought a Dyson, which worked fine until it didn’t. I took it in to the vac store and they told me these machines were not engineered to vacuum on medium to deeper piles of carpeting. Burns out the motors. Bought a Sharp, affordable and fairly portable, and love it! As for the can opener
, I bought a manuel one from Pampered Chef years ago, and I love it too. Fits on top of the can and cuts a safety edge as it opens the can. No sharp cuts. You should check it out. Best of luck! Too bad we can’t turn back the clock! 🙂
I’ve had the same experience with Dyson, and they aren’t inexpensive. I won’t buy another one!
These comments are golden. The word is out on poorly designed and made products. Yikes!
I buy all my Dyson vacuums at Costco. When they break I take them back, get a cash refund and buy another one from Costco. I’m on my third Dyson.
Ditto your remarks
Also check country of origin when you purchase.
My Rowenta iron made in Germany’s outstanding, long lasting.
The second one o bought for a second residence made in China is a disaster.
I agree! I have purchased a few new appliances lately. I wish I had my 25+ year dishwasher back.
Absolutely you hit the nail on the head as they say!!! Nothing lasts anymore no matter what you pay, I have decided…. We had the same washer and dryer for over 23 years, and they both worked wonderfully with no problems ever…. My husband felt that they might “go” anytime and wanted to get new ones, which we did. It’s been a year but I keep waiting for something awful to happen. We remodeled our kitchen and bought a new dishwasher. After one and half years it totally stopped. Repairing it costs more than buying a new one. We also bought a new refrigerator ( old one over 20 years old and worked perfect.) The light doesn’t work where you get water and ice and one of the drawer fronts fell off after 3 months. A repair man told us that appliances aren’t lasting but 5-6 years now…..Astounding and so sad! It’s all about less quality materials and wanting you to purchase more and often! My sister has been through two microwaves and an oven which were brand new and name brands. Can you tell I am as frustrated as you????
Never used a can opener that I could not clean in the dishwasher because the electric kind cannot be properly sanitized because of built up grime. So, I have always used the old fashion crank can opener and never missed anything else. My biggest fear is that they quit making them!! I have three light weight 6 lb. Shark vacuum cleaners (one being a cordless that I have to charge) for the upstairs part of the house. Kids have ultra-Dyson that has good suction NOW but can only run for 20 minutes. This frustrates me when I go over to their home and use it.
Just an old-fashioned gal here…. but I realize that price does NOT always dictate quality, same for the big-name brands. Tripping over a cord is not good either at my age. There seems to always be a trade-off somewhere.
Always enjoy your comments, Tina!!!
I feel exactly the same exclamation I have gone through numerous Dyson vacuums they break after about a year of light use. I’ve also purchased two Dyson air wraps my first one stopped working after about two years and the second one just stopped working after about a year, they come with a one year warranty and mine new. They are about $600. I will never purchase another Dyson product again.
You can buy fresh batteries on Amazon for the Dyson vacuums … usually under $50 … just find model numbers and search on Amazon ! ( Doesn’t have to be Dyson brand ! , I did it and mine has been running for a few more years ! )
I love my Dyson vac. Have you tried cleaning the air filter? My vac completely stopped one day and my husband googled “what can be wrong with this Dyson vac,” and it suggested taking the air filter apart and “cleaning it well”…. funny how a vacuum would need vacuuming too… but it worked! Hope it might help you too…