Remember these gems? Garanimals, the clothing line designed to help kids mix and match their outfits, is still around! Each piece is labeled with an animal, so if you grab a “zebra” shirt and “zebra” pants, you know they’ll go together. Brilliant, right? But now that I’m a parent, I’ve realized that kids are actually experts at not matching. Honestly, I could use some Garanimals for myself. If I could just slap two hippo tags together, I’d feel like a fashionista. Hey, Michael Kors, are you listening?
2. L.L.Bean Original Bean Boots
These boots were all the rage in the ’80s, combining the appeal of rubber boots with, well, not much protection beyond the ankle. L.L.Bean still sells these classics, but they’ve managed to keep the ordering process slow. Their website even warns you to “order now” due to limited supply—and then they’ll ship them to you via horse and buggy. You might be waiting for eight to ten months!
3. Steak-umms
Can you believe these were a hit in the ’80s? Steak-umms are thinly sliced beef that supposedly cooks from frozen to ready in under a minute. I’m not a scientist, but that sounds a bit sketchy. As a busy mom, though, a 60-second meal is pretty tempting—just hope it doesn’t go through me just as fast! Here’s a classic 1981 Steak-umm ad that’s a blast from the past. And does anyone else think it’s odd that the mom isn’t eating one? What does she know that we don’t?
4. Underoos
Remember the joy of wearing Underoos in the ’80s? Well, now you can relive that childhood dream because they’re available in adult sizes! They’re a bit hilarious—great from the waist up, but let’s just say the humor may not extend down below (sorry, Batman!).
5. ThighMaster
This classic is still on the market, thanks to Suzanne Somers hawking it. Now it even vibrates with the ThighMaster Vibrato. There were probably high-fives all around when they came up with that tagline: “Just put it between your knees and squeeze.” Genius! You can even find the original on eBay if you’re feeling nostalgic. I mean, what exercise equipment can you use while lounging on the toilet or lying in bed? I’d totally multitask while waiting for my Steak-umms to cook!
6. Enya
Not only is Enya still around, but she boasts nearly two million Facebook fans. Her music is like a soothing balm; it’s hard to feel pain when one of her songs is playing. Honestly, they should pipe her tunes into doctor’s offices during check-ups. I heard her on the radio the other day, and suddenly I was at the beach.
7. Swanson TV Dinners
Friday nights as a kid meant two things: Love Boat and a TV dinner on a tin tray. Swanson still makes frozen meals, but sadly, the iconic tin tray is gone (thanks, microwaves!). There was something so satisfying about scraping your spoon against that metal tray to get every last bit of mashed potatoes. And if you were lucky, you’d pop out that gooey square of apple cobbler in one go!
8. Electric Blankets
Electric blankets are still a thing, and I find that amazing! Just imagine tucking your little ones in under those cozy wires. “If you get cold, crank it up to 9, but don’t spill your water!” It’s like cooking them gently—preheat, then cook at 350 degrees for 9 hours!
9. Molly McButter
Molly McButter is still alive and well, boasting over 10,000 Facebook fans. She’s basically the Kim Kardashian of butter flakes! Check out this 1988 commercial, but be warned—the jingle will be stuck in your head for days. Who knew butter-flavored flakes could be so alluring?
For more nostalgic content, check out our other blog posts on home insemination kits. Also, if you’re looking for insights or resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit ASRM.
In summary, these childhood staples remind us of simpler times, and it’s surprising to see how many of them have stood the test of time. Whether it’s the quirky fashion of Garanimals or the comforting warmth of electric blankets, they bring a touch of nostalgia to our lives today.