Introduction

In a world where technology moves at lightning speed, it’s easy to forget that some people cling fondly to the past. A recent buzz from the BuzzFeed community reveals the remarkably outdated items that parents persistently keep, often for sentimental or nostalgic reasons. Can you relate to this quirky phenomenon?

Many of us absorb crucial life lessons from our parents—like cooking, budgeting, and, intriguingly, the art of holding on to things that have long outlived their usefulness. Whether it's a vintage appliance or old-school technology, the reasoning often boils down to, "If it still works, why get rid of it?"

Examples of Outdated Treasures

Here are some of the most amusing examples shared by community members:

1. Eyeliner from the Past

“My mom has kept the same dark blue eyeliner from the mid-'80s. It was only for special occasions, so it's endured the years.” - dmcrowe12.

2. Cable TV Conundrum

“Despite complaining about the cost, my mom won’t part with her regular cable TV; it’s just easier to change channels the old-fashioned way.” - anonymous.

3. The Timeless Mixer

“My mom firmly holds onto her avocado green kitchen mixer from the ’70s. Ironically, my newer mixer just broke. Hers remains as sturdy as ever!

4. Overhead Projectors in College

“My dad revolutionized his niche university class with PowerPoint only after using an overhead projector for over 30 years!” - luxahoy.

5. Encyclopedias Galore

“My mother-in-law still has two full sets of 30-year-old encyclopedias, despite owning both a tablet and a laptop.” - buzzfeedstolemyname.

6. Vintage Communications

“My grandparents retain a phone in a bag—something you rarely see anymore.” - anonymous.

7. Flip Phone Fixation

“At 50, my dad still rocks a flip phone. He texts using a method that seems from another era, pushing buttons six times.” - marvelousaardvark208.

8. Voicemail Etiquette

“Their outgoing voicemail message could be from the 1970s. They still use it verbatim!” - anonymous.

9. Newspaper Lovers

“My parents still receive both a daily newspaper and a Sunday edition from another publisher.” - luxahoy.

10. Classic Typewriter

“My mother clings to her old IBM Selectric typewriter, and yes, she has a backup.” - sweetcaboose.

11. Old Typing Habits

“My dad insists on using two spaces after each sentence, despite it being outdated in modern typing standards.” - anonymous.

12. Alarm Clock Anecdotes

“My dad relied on his ancient flip phone as an alarm clock until just a year ago!” - beananddog.

13. Spam Central

“He holds onto the landline even though it receives nothing but spam calls—his answering machine is practically a spam filter.” - anonymous.

14. Cash-Only Lifestyle

“My dad avoids credit cards like the plague, preferring cash transactions. I often have to order things online for him!” - nycgirl2014.

15. Antique Obsession

“My mom adores vintage antiques, but she’s surprisingly attached to a chamber pot gifted to her—it’s definitely not something anyone in our family wants!” - anonymous.

16. VHS Standoff

“My mom valiantly kept her entire VHS tape collection, even when she no longer had a VCR, until a major move was the last straw.” - dellarock.

17. Kitchenware Packed Away

“My in-laws have a massive china cabinet filled with unused antique plates, yet they move it with them every time.” - gigimomster.

18. Reluctant Smartphone User

“My 68-year-old dad avoided smartphones until his old Nokia broke, but even now, he just uses it for calls.” - anonymous.

19. MP3 Loyalty

“I gifted my parent a Sansa MP3 player, which they swear by for traveling. While they have access to music on their iPhone, this trusty gadget holds their entire collection.” - anonymous.

Conclusion

Is there a piece of outdated technology or quirky item in your parent’s possession that makes you laugh or think twice about the evolution of our society? Share your stories about your parents and their vintage treasures!