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Microwaves were born from a sweet accident—engineer Percy Spencer discovered their cooking power in 1945 when a chocolate bar melted in his pocket while working with radar. The first microwave oven, the towering “Radarange,”
debuted in 1947 and cost around $5,000. These appliances heat food using electromagnetic waves that excite water molecules, cooking from the outside in despite popular myths. Modern microwaves are equipped with magnetrons,
the heart of their wave generation, and can even be used to dry herbs, foam milk, or disinfect sponges. Popcorn is the most popular microwave snack, and microwaves are even used in space to heat astronaut meals.
From radar labs to kitchen counters—and even orbit—microwaves are marvels of modern ingenuity.
Toasters have toasted their way into history since the early 1900s—Frank Shailor invented the first electric toaster in 1909, and Charles Strite’s 1921 pop-up design revolutionized breakfast forever. The average toasting
temperature hovers around 300°F (150°C), and the Maillard reaction is what gives toast its golden crunch. Modern toasters can handle everything from bagels to frozen waffles, and some even feature touchscreen controls or
smartphone connectivity. Fun twist: the world’s largest toaster stands 11 feet tall in Portland, Oregon, and the Smithsonian houses over 100 vintage models, proving that this humble appliance is a slice of culinary history.
Measuring cups and spoons are the unsung heroes of precision cooking—standardized sets didn’t become common until the late 19th century, when Fannie Farmer popularized exact measurements in recipes. Dry measuring cups are
designed to be leveled off, while liquid ones have spouts and extra space to prevent spills. Measuring spoons often come in quirky mini sizes like “smidgen,” “pinch,” and “dash,” which aren’t officially standardized but add
charm to baking lore. Stainless steel versions are prized for durability and odor resistance, and even a slight deviation in measurement can dramatically alter the texture of baked goods. From ancient rituals to
modern culinary science, these tools quietly shape every delicious bite.
Baking sheets are more than just flat pans—they’re culinary powerhouses with a fascinating backstory. Early versions were made of copper, prized for its heat conductivity but too costly for everyday use until aluminum and
steel revolutionized baking in the 19th century. Their design influences cooking: dark sheets brown food faster due to heat absorption, while insulated ones prevent over-baking by distributing heat gently. Cookie sheets differ
subtly—they lack rims, making it easier to slide off baked goods. Baking sheets retain heat long after leaving the oven, staying hot for up to 30 minutes. From chemistry to convenience, these humble trays are quietly essential.
Pots and pans have shaped culinary history for millennia—early humans used clay vessels as far back as 10,000 years ago, and archaeologists can identify ancient diets from food residue on pottery shards. Cast iron cookware,
introduced in the 1700s, revolutionized kitchens with its durability and heat retention, while the invention of non-stick Teflon in 1938 was a happy lab accident that later transformed omelet-making forever. Apple peels can
restore shine to aluminum pans thanks to their natural acids, and placing foil in hollow handles can keep them cool while cooking. From sacred stone vessels in ancient Israel to the invention of the Crock-Pot inspired
by Shabbat cholent traditions, pots and pans are more than tools—they’re cultural storytellers.
Glassware has dazzled civilizations for millennia—ancient Mesopotamians were crafting glass objects as early as 3500 BCE, and the Romans revolutionized the art with glassblowing techniques still used today. Despite its solid
appearance, glass is an amorphous solid, meaning its molecules move slowly like a liquid, giving it unique properties like transparency and moldability2. Brown glass bottles are used to protect beverages from UV rays, preserving
flavor, while tempered glass, found in modern drinkware and safety applications, shatters into harmless granules rather than sharp shards4. And here’s a quirky twist—Benjamin Franklin invented the glass harmonica, an instrument
played by rubbing wet fingers on spinning glass bowls. From chemistry labs to cocktail parties, glassware is both functional and fascinating.
Bowls have been essential to human life for thousands of years—archaeologists discovered ancient Egyptian bowls dating back to 5000 BC, used for both games and daily tasks. In kitchens, bowls evolved from simple clay vessels
to intricate designs made of porcelain, glass, and even biodegradable materials. Their shape isn’t just aesthetic: the curved sides help mix, serve, and contain food efficiently. In Japanese tea ceremonies, handcrafted bowls
called chawan are prized for their imperfections, reflecting the philosophy of wabi-sabi. And fun twist—some bowls are designed with a “bias” in lawn bowls, causing them to curve strategically when rolled. Whether in sport,
ritual, or mealtime, bowls are quietly brilliant.
Dinnerware has a surprisingly rich and varied history—porcelain, often used for fine china, originated in China during the Tang Dynasty and was once so prized it was called “white gold”. Disposable dinnerware, on the other hand,
offers modern convenience with lightweight, recyclable designs and even microwave-safe options. Some cultures, like Japan, practice kintsugi, repairing broken porcelain with gold to celebrate imperfections. And fun fact: all pandas
in the world technically belong to China, so if you’re dining on panda-themed plates abroad, they’re part of a global loan program. From ancient artistry to eco-friendly innovation, dinnerware reflects both tradition and transformation.
Spoons have been around since the Paleolithic Age, originally crafted from shells, wood, and bone, with ancient Egyptians even decorating theirs with hieroglyphics. The word “spoon” comes from the Old English spon, meaning a chip
of wood, and in Ancient Rome and Greece, spoons made of bronze and silver signified wealth. During the Middle Ages, spoons were status symbols, often made from precious metals and gifted as heirlooms, like the Apostle Spoon in
Tudor England. Victorian England saw an explosion of specialized spoons—grapefruit, mustard, Stilton cheese—each reflecting culinary trends and social refinement. Today, spoons range from ergonomic designs for accessibility to
smart spoons that assist people with tremors, and the world’s largest spoon stands over 53 feet tall. From ritual tools to musical instruments and collectible souvenirs, spoons have stirred up far more than soup throughout history.
Forks have a surprisingly dramatic history for such a humble utensil. Originating in ancient Egypt and later used by Byzantine nobility, early
forks had just two tines and were reserved for cooking and serving rather than personal dining. When a Byzantine princess used golden forks at her
wedding in 1004, religious leaders condemned them as “vanity,” even linking their use to divine punishment. It wasn’t until the 16th century, when
Catherine de Medici introduced them to France, that forks gained popularity in Europe, eventually evolving into the familiar three- and four-tined
versions we use today. The word “fork” comes from the Latin furca, meaning pitchfork, and specialized forks now exist for everything from salad to
ice cream. The world’s largest fork stands 35 feet tall in Springfield, Missouri, and the Guinness World Record for most forks balanced on a chin
is 17—proof that even tableware can be extraordinary.
Cutlery has a surprisingly dramatic backstory—knives are the oldest eating tools, dating back to the Bronze Age, and were once so personal that guests brought their own to meals. Forks were considered scandalous when first introduced
to Europe in the 11th century, with religious figures calling them “instruments of the devil” due to their horn-like tines. Spoons, meanwhile, were status symbols in Ancient Egypt and Rome, often made of gold or silver and reserved for
the elite1. The word “cutlery” itself comes from the Latin culter, meaning knife. And here’s a quirky twist: research shows food tastes better when eaten with heavier, high-quality utensils—so your silverware might actually make
dessert sweeter.
Knife sets aren’t just culinary tools—they’re windows into human ingenuity and cultural traditions. The earliest knives date back 2.5 million
years, originally fashioned from flint in Ethiopia, with later versions evolving through stone, bone, copper, and steel. Modern sets include
specialized blades like chef’s, paring, utility, and Santoku knives, each with a distinct role in food prep. Some knives feature unique blade
shapes—straight edge, serrated, tanto, drop point—tailored for precision and technique. Japanese knives, particularly those made from layered
Damascus steel, blend centuries-old samurai forging methods with elegant craftsmanship, and are even honored in temple ceremonies for their service.
Superstitions also swirl around knives: gifting one can symbolize cutting a relationship, so people often exchange a coin to "buy" it instead.
And for record-breakers, the most extravagant kitchen knife costs $98,000 and includes diamonds and platinum, while the largest functional knife
stretches 6.9 feet long and weighs 51 kg.
Utensils such as spatulas, ladles, and knives carry rich histories and unexpected cultural twists. Knives, the oldest eating tools, began as
flint and bone in the Stone Age and were once carried to meals in medieval Europe for both dining and defense, until Cardinal Richelieu introduced
blunt tips in 1637 to promote etiquette. Ladles, essential for serving soups and stews, date back to ancient civilizations and were often crafted
from wood or bronze with long handles for reaching deep cauldrons—sometimes even used in ceremonial rituals. Spatulas, whose name traces back to
Greek and Latin roots meaning “broad sword,” evolved from simple paddles into specialized tools for flipping and scraping, with one rubber version
humorously dubbed the “child cheater” for stealing every last bit of cake batter. Together, these utensils reveal the intersection of utility,
tradition, and personality in kitchens across time.
Cookware such as pots, pans, and baking sheets has a rich and unexpected history, dating back nearly 20,000 years to ancient China, where early
cooking vessels were used to boil food. Native Americans crafted clay-lined baskets that served as roasting pans, showcasing ingenuity long before
modern kitchens. Materials like copper offer superior heat conductivity but require lining to prevent reactivity with acidic foods, while aluminum
is lightweight yet sensitive to ingredients like tomatoes. Clever design touches—like lids with drip edges and handles made from Bakelite or
wood—maximize comfort and safety. Science also plays a part: unlined copper bowls help whip fluffier egg whites, and boiling apple peels can
restore shine to aluminum pans. Even cleaning tricks, like using tannic acid from tea bags, highlight the fascinating blend of function, chemistry,
and creativity embedded in everyday cookware.
Fine-tuning a home isn’t just about filling rooms—it’s about creating an environment that balances function, comfort, and personality in every
space. The living room comes alive with inviting staples like a plush sofa, ambient lighting, and tasteful accents that set the mood for unwinding
or entertaining. Kitchens thrive with reliable cookware, sharp utensils, space-saving storage, and hardworking appliances that turn meal prep into
a joy. Bedrooms become restful retreats through cozy linens, smart storage, and calming decor. Bathrooms shine with fresh towels, sleek organizers,
and daily essentials that add both convenience and calm. Laundry zones stay efficient with sturdy hampers, easy-access supplies, and time-saving
tools. Entryways make strong first impressions with stylish mats, clever hooks, and catch-all solutions for a seamless start and end to the day.
And scattered throughout the home, practical must-haves like toolkits, surge protectors, and safety gear bring peace of mind. Altogether, these
handpicked essentials create a harmonious space that elevates both your daily rhythm and the way you feel at home.
Housewares—also known as household goods—are everyday essentials that support the functionality and comfort of a home. Items such as kitchen
utensils, cleaning supplies, laundry tools, and decorative accents contribute to maintaining hygiene, organization, and a welcoming atmosphere.
These goods span a range from the purely utilitarian, like a broom or saucepan, to those that enhance personal expression and coziness, such as
throw pillows or wall art, making them vital to both daily routines and overall quality of life.
Tatami mats are an essential part of traditional Japanese interiors, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits;
they remain a timeless element of Japanese design, blending tradition with modern functionality.
History & Cultural Significance - Tatami mats date back to the Nara period (710–794 AD) and were originally a luxury
item for nobility. Over time, they became more widespread, and by the Edo period (1603–1868), tatami flooring was common in Japanese homes.
They are deeply tied to Japanese customs, including tea ceremonies and Zen practices, symbolizing simplicity and harmony with nature.
Materials & Construction - Traditional tatami mats are made from woven rush grass (igusa) on the surface and a rice straw core,
providing natural insulation and a pleasant aroma. Modern versions may use foam or synthetic materials for durability and ease of maintenance.
The edges are reinforced with cloth borders (tatami-beri), which prevent fraying and add decorative elements.
Types & Uses
Tatami mats come in different sizes and styles:
Igusa Tatami – Made from rush grass, offering a natural feel and scent.
Hemp Tatami – Uses hemp fibers for increased durability.
Foam Tatami – A modern alternative with enhanced cushioning.
Tatami mats are commonly found in washitsu (Japanese-style rooms), used for sleeping, sitting, and tea ceremonies. They are also
incorporated into modern homes for a minimalist aesthetic.
Benefits
Comfort & Insulation – Soft underfoot and regulates humidity.
Sound Absorption – Reduces noise, making rooms quieter.
Cultural Connection – Preserves traditional Japanese aesthetics.
Houseware varies across cultures, reflecting local traditions, materials, and lifestyles around the world. It reflects the ingenuity and traditions of different cultures, evolving alongside human civilization.
Kitchenware
Tajine (Morocco) – A clay cooking pot with a conical lid for slow cooking. Originating from Berber culture,
tajines have been used for slow cooking since ancient times, preserving moisture and enhancing flavors.
Wok (China) – A deep, round-bottomed pan for stir-frying. Dating back over 2,000 years, woks were developed for efficient
cooking over open flames, allowing for quick stir-frying.
Molcajete (Mexico) – A traditional clay pot used for cooking; it's a stone mortar and pestle used for
grinding spices. This volcanic stone mortar and pestle has been used since pre-Columbian times for grinding spices and making
traditional salsas.
Samovar (Russia) – A heated metal container for brewing tea. Introduced in the 18th century, samovars became
a staple for tea brewing in Russian households.
Bento Box (Japan) – A compartmentalized box for carrying meals. Originating in the Kamakura period (1185–1333),
bento boxes were used to carry meals, evolving into an art form with decorative arrangements.
Dining and Drinkware
Khurja Pottery (India) – Hand-painted ceramic bowls and plates. Dating back to the Mughal era, Khurja pottery
is known for its intricate hand-painted designs.
Horn Drinking Cup (Nordic Countries) – A traditional drinking vessel made from animal horn. Used by Vikings,
these cups were crafted from animal horns and symbolized strength and tradition.
Tea Set (England) – A porcelain or ceramic set for afternoon tea. Tea culture flourished in the 17th century,
leading to the development of elegant porcelain tea sets.
Kuksa Cup (Finland) – A wooden drinking cup, traditionally carved from birch bur. Traditionally carved
from birch burl, kuksa cups have been used by the Sami people for centuries.
Mezcal Copitas (Mexico) – Small clay or ceramic cups for sipping mezcal. Small clay cups have been used
for sipping mezcal since the colonial era, enhancing the drink’s earthy flavors.
Furniture & Decorative Houseware
Tatami Mat (Japan) – A woven-straw mat used in traditional homes. Introduced in the Nara period (710–794),
tatami mats became a symbol of traditional Japanese interiors.
Rug Kilim (Turkey) – A flat-woven, decorative rug often hand-crafted. Kilims date back thousands of years,
woven by nomadic tribes using geometric patterns.
Chabudai (Japan) – A low wooden table used for dining or tea ceremonies. Low wooden tables gained popularity
in the Edo period (1603–1868) for communal dining.
Hammam Towels (Middle East) – Lightweight woven towels used in baths. Used in Turkish baths since the
Ottoman era, hammam towels are lightweight and highly absorbent.
Mosaic Lamps (Morocco) – Stained-glass lamps with intricate designs. Inspired by Islamic art, mosaic
lamps have been crafted for centuries using stained glass and intricate metalwork.
Storage & Organization
Tansu Chest (Japan) – A wooden storage chest with sliding doors. Developed in the Edo period, tansu chests
were designed for portability and efficient storage.
Pueblo Pottery (Southwest USA) – Clay pots used by indigenous cultures for storing grains and water.
Indigenous Pueblo people have crafted clay pots for storage and ceremonial use for over a thousand years.
Wicker Baskets (Various) – Handwoven baskets used for storage or carrying items. Woven baskets have been
used since ancient times for carrying goods and organizing household items.
Baskets (Kenya): Handmade baskets from Kenya.
Lacquerware Boxes (China/Vietnam) – Decorative containers with glossy finishes. Dating back to the
Tang dynasty (618–907), lacquerware boxes were prized for their glossy finish and durability.
Cleaning & Utility Items
Coconut Husk Scrubber (India) – A natural scrubber made from coconut fibers. A natural cleaning
tool used for centuries in Indian households.
Furoshiki Cloth (Japan) – A traditional wrapping cloth used for carrying goods. Originating in the Nara
period, furoshiki cloths were used for wrapping and carrying goods.
Bamboo Broom (Thailand) – A lightweight broom made from dried bamboo. Traditional Thai
brooms have been crafted from dried bamboo for generations.
Clay Water Filter (Mexico/South America) – A natural way to purify water. Indigenous communities have
used porous clay filters for water purification since ancient times.
Cathrineholm enamelware, Griswold cast iron skillets, Jadeite glassware, KitchenAid Hobart's vintage mixers, and antique copper cookware are the rarest and most valuable vintage kitchenware houseware
items that collectors seek out.
Cathrineholm Enamelware – Known for its striking lotus flower pattern, this Norwegian enamel cookware is highly collectible.
Griswold Cast Iron Skillets – These antique skillets, especially rare models like the "No. 13" or early "ERIE" series, can fetch thousands.
Jadeite Glassware – This opaque green milk glass from the 1930s and 40s is highly sought after, with complete sets valued in the hundreds or even thousands.
KitchenAid Hobart Vintage Mixers – Early models from the 1930s-1980s are prized for their durability and retro charm, sometimes selling for thousands.
Antique Copper Cookware – French brands like Mauviel produce some of the most coveted pieces, admired for their craftsmanship and heat conductivity.
Jadeite glassware is a stunning green milk glass that was first produced in the 1930s and became popular for its durability and vintage charm.
Mosser Glass Jadeite Panel Pitcher – A beautifully crafted measuring jar with a striking jadeite green finish.
Martha Stewart Jadeite Glass 2-Piece Serving Bowl Set – A stylish and functional set perfect for serving dips or snacks.
Martha Stewart Everyday Jadeite Glass 2-Piece Bowl Set – A lovely addition to any kitchen, featuring a milky jade green hue.
Griswold cast iron skillets are highly collectible and prized for their craftsmanship and durability. The Griswold Manufacturing Company, based in Erie, Pennsylvania, produced some of the finest cast
iron cookware from the late 19th century until 1957. Collectors seek out rare models like the Erie Spider Skillet and the Griswold No. 13 and No. 20, which are considered some of the most valuable.
The company’s skillets are known for their smooth cooking surfaces and lighter weight compared to other vintage cast iron brands.
Hobart KitchenAid's vintage mixers are highly sought after for their durability and classic design.
Rare 1957 KitchenAid Hobart Model K5-A Mixer – A well-preserved piece with original attachments, perfect for collectors.
Vintage KitchenAid Hobart Model 4 Stand Mixer – A timeless kitchen classic from the 1930s-40s, known for its sturdy build and reliability.
Vintage Hobart KitchenAid K45 Stand Mixer – A 10-speed model with attachments, offering both functionality and nostalgia.
The invention of the toothbrush dated back to 3000 BC when ancient civilizations used chew
sticks—twigs with frayed ends—to clean their teeth. The first bristle toothbrush similar to the type used today, was invented in China around 1498, these brushes
had bristles made from the stiff hairs of a hog's neck and were attached to handles made of bone or bamboo. In 1780, William Addis from England
created the first mass-produced toothbrush by carving a bone handle, drilled holes into it, and inserted boar bristles held in place by wire. The modern toothbrush with nylon bristles was introduced in 1938 by the DuPont company,
which replaced the hog hair bristles with more durable nylon fibers. The first electric toothbrush , the Broxodent, was invented in Switzerland in 1954.
Chopsticks have been used for over 5,000 years, originating in ancient China and predating the fork by millennia. Initially crafted from twigs for cooking, they evolved into eating utensils and spread across Asia, with each
culture developing its own style—Chinese chopsticks are long and blunt, Japanese ones are shorter and pointed, and Korean chopsticks are flat and made of metal. The Chinese word for chopsticks, kuai zi, means “quick little
bamboo fellows,” reflecting their nimble use. Etiquette around chopsticks is deeply rooted in tradition—sticking them upright in rice is taboo as it resembles funeral rites, and passing food from one pair to another mimics
a ritual associated with death. Over 45 billion pairs are used annually in China, prompting environmental concerns and a push for reusable options. Chopsticks are also celebrated in art, pop culture, and even have their own
holiday—National Chopsticks Day on February 6th.
Chopsticks , which are smoothed, and frequently tapered, are traditionally made of
wood , bamboo , metal ,
ivory , and ceramics , and in modern days, increasingly available in non-traditional materials such as
plastic , stainless steel , and even
titanium . Wood and bamboo were the natural early forms of chopsticks, and are still the most common materials today. Chopsticks range from 9.1 inches
(23 centimeters) to 10 inches (26 centimeters) long, tapering to one end; very long, large chopsticks, usually about 12 or 16 inches (30 or 40 centimeters), are used for cooking, especially for deep frying foods. Japanese
chopsticks are typically shorter than Chinese ones.
Chopsticks are shaped pairs of equal-length sticks that have been used as kitchen and eating
utensils in most of East Asia for over three millennia. They are held in the dominant hand, secured by fingers, and wielded as extensions of the hand, to pick up food.
Chopsticks were developed about 5,000 years ago in China ; by 500 AD, chopsticks had spread to other countries, including Japan,
Vietnam and Korea. Thais, Laotians and Cambodians do not commonly use chopsticks. Today, in China, an estimated 45 billion pairs of disposable chopsticks are produced yearly. The most widespread use of disposable chopsticks is in Japan,
where around a total of 24 billion pairs are used each year, which is equivalent to almost 200 pairs per person yearly.
A paper cup is a disposable container made of paper, typically lined with plastic or wax to prevent leaks or liquid absorption, making it ideal for hot and cold beverages. Its origins trace back to imperial China, where paper was
invented by the 2nd century BC and later refined by Cai Lun in 105 AD. Historical records suggest that early forms of paper containers were used for ceremonial purposes, though they weren't mass-produced like modern cups. Today’s
paper cups reflect thousands of years of innovation, blending ancient ingenuity with modern convenience.
A coffee cup is a vessel used to serve coffee and espresso-based beverages, commonly made of ceramic for reusable use or paper for disposables. The first notable patent for a coffee cup lid, filed in 1967 by Alan Frank, aimed to
create a secure seal between lid and cup to prevent leakage and included a vent hole to release steam. While earlier lid patents existed, they primarily targeted cold drinks, and it wasn’t until later innovations—like pull-tab lids
in 1975 and dome-shaped designs in 1984—that the modern coffee-to-go experience began to take shape.
Coffee lid design played a key role in the rise of coffee-to-go culture by transforming how people consumed coffee on the move. Initially, lids didn’t allow for sipping without removal, prompting customers to tear or modify
them—unintentionally sparking design innovation. As mobility became essential, designers introduced peel-back tabs, domed lids, and vented sip holes, enhancing drinkability while walking or driving. These features aligned perfectly
with the surge of coffee chains in the 1980s, turning coffee into a portable ritual. Lids also evolved to support branding, aroma enhancement, and sustainability through biodegradable materials, making them a vital component of both
convenience and experience in modern coffee culture.
Sterling silver is a high-quality silver alloy that consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% of other metals—most commonly copper—to enhance its strength and durability, since pure silver is quite soft and prone to damage.
This combination strikes a balance between beauty and practicality, making sterling silver a popular choice for jewelry, flatware, and decorative objects.
The sterling silver alloy, composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (typically copper), originated in continental Europe and was actively used for commerce in the 12th century, particularly in the region that
is now northern Germany. Its durability made it ideal for coins and trade goods, and it eventually became the standard for high-quality silver across Europe. England adopted the alloy soon after, and by 1275, it had a
legal definition under Edward I’s statute.
Silver tarnishes when exposed to air due to a reaction with sulfur compounds, forming a layer of silver sulfide; to prevent this, silver should be stored in treated anti-tarnish cloth or lined cabinets that reduce exposure
to moisture and pollutants. It’s best to avoid placing silver in plastic bags, especially if they contain rubber bands, since rubber emits sulfur that can accelerate tarnishing. Proper storage preserves the appearance and longevity
of silver pieces.
The first electric blender was invented by Stephen J. Poplawski in 1922,
originally designed to make soda fountain drinks like malted milkshakes. He was the first to place a spinning blade at the bottom of a container, a design that became the foundation for modern blenders1. His invention was later
refined and popularized through innovations like the Waring Blender in the 1930s, which expanded its use into homes, hospitals, and scientific labs.
A mixer , a kitchen appliance intended for mixing, folding, beating, and whipping food ingredients; the first electric standing
was invented by Herbert Johnson in 1908.
The first carpet sweeper with revolving brushes which picked up the dust and dirt and deposited it inside the sweeper housing was
invented in 1876 by Melville Reuben Bissell (1843 – 1889)
Grand Rapids, Michigan
The modern can opener , with a cutting wheel that rolls around the rim, was patented in July 1870 to
William Lyman Meriden, Connecticut , and produced by the firm Baumgarten
in the 1890s.
The flashlight was patented in August 1903 to Conrad Hubert (1855–1928) ,
a Russian inventor who moved to the U.S. at the age of 35.
The Franklin Stove , which is a metal-lined fireplace was invented in 1741
by Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790)
The light bulb , an electric lamp in which a filament is heated to incandescence by an electric current, was patented in January 1880
to Thomas Alva Edison (1847 - 1931) , Milan, Ohio.
Percy Spencer invented the first microwave oven after World War II
from radar technology developed during the war. Named the "Radarange", it was first sold in 1947. Raytheon
later licensed its patents for a home-use microwave oven that was first introduced by Tappan in 1955, but these units were still too large and expensive for general
home use. The countertop microwave oven was first introduced in 1967 by the Amana Corporation , which was acquired in 1965 by Raytheon.
Nutcracker , mechanical device used to crack nuts, typically consisting of two
hinged metal levers between which the nut is squeezed, was patented to Henry Marcus Quackenbush (1847- 1933) , Herkimer, New York, in 1913.
At the age of 16, Henry Marcus Quackenbush (1847- 1933) invented the extension
ladder , which he patented on Oct. 22, 1867, and then began manufacturing them himself, until he sold the patent for $500, a considerable sum at the time.
Chopsticks , which are shaped pairs of equal length sticks that have been used as the traditional utensils
of China, Vietnam, Korea and Japan for thousands of years, were developed as early as the 3rd Century BCE in China.
Japanese people consume a tremendous 25 billion sets of wooden
chopsticks a year — about 200 pairs per person.
Around 97% of these throwaway chopsticks in Japan come from China ; Japan produces only 500 million of its own chopsticks, only a
sixth of what they produced only 1 or 2 decades ago.
China’s annual production of disposable wooden chopsticks exceeds 45 billion pairs — equivalent to about 25 million trees. The majority of Chinese chopsticks go to Japan and South Korea, with the remainder being used locally.
The first reliable (hand-powered) dishwasher was invented in 1887 by Josephine Cochrane
and unveiled at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair .
In 1924 William Howard Livens invented a small dishwasher , which was the first
modern dishwasher, and incorporated most of the design elements that feature in the models of today.
In 1679, French physicist Denis Papin , better known for his studies on steam, invented the steam
digester in an attempt to reduce the cooking time of food.
Thomas Ahearn (1855 – 1938) was a Canadian inventor and businessman, invented the
first electric oven in 1882 and it was put into service in 1892 at the Windsor Hotel of Ottawa.
The range oven/kitchen stove was invented by William Hadawy in 1910.
Percy Spencer invented the first microwave oven
after World War II from radar technology developed during the war
In 1798 Count Rumford invented a working iron kitchen stove called the Rumford stove
that was designed for very large working kitchens.
Sewing machine , which is an apparatus primarily used in the making of clothing, was patented in 1846
to Elias Howe , an American inventor
and sewing machine pioneer
The first refrigerator (fridge) and/or freezer, which is an electrical appliance that uses refrigeration to
help preserve food, was invented by Carl von Linde (1842 - 1934) of Germany. He obtained a patent for his refrigerator in Germany in 1877
Fred W. Wolf Jr. invented one of the first electric refrigerators for domestic use in 1913, known as the
DOMELRE —short for Domestic Electric Refrigerator2. His design replaced the traditional icebox with an electrically powered cooling unit that could be mounted on top of
an existing icebox and simply plugged in. It featured innovations like automatic temperature control, an air-cooled condenser, and even a freezing tray for ice cubes2. Wolf’s invention marked a turning point in household food preservation
and helped pave the way for the modern refrigerator.
A smoke detector is a device that senses smoke , typically as an indicator
of fire .The first automatic electric fire alarm was invented in 1890 by Francis
Robbins Upton ; George Andrew Darby patented the first electrical heat detector and smoke detector in 1902 in
Birmingham , England
Pesticides are suppose to prevent, destroy, or repel pests they can also be dangerous or hazardous to humans, animals or the environment, but not all pesticides are dangerous
or hazardous to humans.
If someone splashes a household chemical in the eyes, rinse out the eyes for 15-20 minutes in the shower or under a faucet, and then call your poison control center at 1-800-222-1222, call 911 or your local emergency ambulance number.
If someone splashes a household chemical on the skin, take off the wet clothing and rinse the skin for 15-20 minutes in the shower or under a faucet, and then call your poison control center at 1-800-222-1222, call 911 or your local
emergency ambulance number.
If someone drinks a household chemical, give them half a glass of water to drink, and then call your poison control center at 1-800-222-1222, call 911 or your local emergency ambulance number.
If someone inhaled a poisonous gas, quickly get the person to fresh air; do not breath the fumes yourself, open all the doors and windows wide, and then call your poison control center at 1-800-222-1222, call 911 or your local
emergency ambulance number.