Reply #39: Washing machines are gadgets now? To whom?

[dmallind]

And no they are not the same. Dishwashers are far more common and affordable. A microwave was a rare luxury item 40 years ago and a small time purchase today. Automatic washing machines are far superior and require less labor to dry and fold when paired with far superior dryers too (my memory is a bit suspect here but I don't even remember tumble dryers being normal 40 years ago either - I remember spin dryers and drying racks). We have wrinkle-free clothing to reduce ironing needs (at the same cost as any comparable item). We have delayed timers so laundry and dishwashers can run at night without disrupting the day or water supply/heat.


And of course you failed to mention how much more cheaply you can live in a typical 1970 home over a typical 2010 home if you are willing to do so.

It is not impossible to live like it's 1970. It's just not that attractive to many real people, no matter how much the sanctimonious would like to tell them it was a simpler and better time.