The nature of e-commerce, which is projected to reach almost US$6,5bn by 2029, means that consumers oftentimes can determine the quality of their purchase only after they receive the order. And the results aren't always great.
So Reddit user Flaky_Show6239 decided to stir up some nostalgia and asked everyone on the platform to list the products and services they believe were better in the past than they are now.
From fast food to clothing, home appliances, and beyond, continue scrolling to check out the entries that have been mentioned the most.
#41
Craftsman tools. In the 50s-70s, among the best tools available and came with a lifetime guarantee. Now cheap junk, not even as good as Harbor Freight tools.
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30points
#42
Mattresses. Used to be solid, last longer, and more comfy. Flippable too.
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29points
#43
Doc Martens boots. Still have mine from the 90s, made in the UK. Some I got back in 2010 or so (made in China) are sturdy as f**k but of lesser quality overall.
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29points
#44
Shoes. If you're unwilling to spend over $200, you're going to get plastic shoes that if you're lucky will last a year. From sneakers, loafers, to boots, heels. And that woven sneaker material with the plastic molded soles have their analogue in the throw-away slub knit tee shirts: designed to be replaced frequently and destined to create more landfill mountains.
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26points
#45
I bought underwear 2 years ago that is still in great shape. I have been losing weight and needed to go down a size. I bought the exact same brand 2 months ago and half of them are coming apart at the seems.
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25points
#46
Pyrex. Used to be made of ultra low thermal expansion borosilicate glass, so you could use it like metal for roasting and baking, but it retained its heat like cast iron.
These days it’s made with cheaper lithium silicate glass, which will still resist heat fine, but is prone to shattering from thermal shock if the temperature change is too sudden.
These days it’s made with cheaper lithium silicate glass, which will still resist heat fine, but is prone to shattering from thermal shock if the temperature change is too sudden.
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23points
#47
Levis. The pair I had as a teen lasted years. The most recent ones got holes in several places after a few months.
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21points
#48
Obscure but skateboard bearings
I have some nmb and nsk bearings that I put in my lad’s skateboard. I got them second hand 40 years ago
I have some nmb and nsk bearings that I put in my lad’s skateboard. I got them second hand 40 years ago
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19points
#49
Heated blankets. My grandma’s from 1993 is still a fire hazard and mine from 2021 Costco isn’t working on one half side now
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17points
#50
My Torrid clothes from the 2000s are still going strong but the stuff I got last year has snags and holes in them.
15points