20 Popular Products From the 1950s Still Sold Today

The 1950s gave us countless inventions and household staples, and remarkably, many of them are still on store shelves today — proof that good ideas never go out of style.

Sophia Zapanta
November 15, 2025
6 min read

20 Popular Products From the 1950s Still Sold Today — Michael Pollak on Wikimedia Commons

The 1950s were a decade of creativity, innovation, and postwar optimism that shaped how people lived, cooked, and cleaned. Many everyday products born in that era have stood the test of time, adapting to new generations while keeping their classic charm. These 20 popular items from the 1950s are still sold today, proving that quality and nostalgia never fade.

1. 1. Play-Doh

Originally made as a wallpaper cleaner, Play-Doh became a beloved children’s toy in the mid-1950s. Its soft, colorful texture inspired endless creativity in homes and classrooms. Generations of kids have rolled, squished, and molded it into every shape imaginable. Decades later, it’s still a childhood favorite found in toy aisles everywhere.

2. 2. Crest Toothpaste

Introduced in 1955, Crest was the first toothpaste to include fluoride for cavity protection. It quickly became a household name trusted by families across America. Its simple mint flavor and reliable results built a reputation that lasted generations. Today, Crest remains one of the top toothpaste brands worldwide.

3. 3. Barbie Doll

Barbie debuted in 1959 and instantly changed the toy industry. She offered endless possibilities for imagination, fashion, and storytelling. Over the decades, Barbie has evolved to reflect changing times and diversity. However, her charm as an icon of fun and empowerment continues to captivate children everywhere.

4. 4. Dove Beauty Bar

Launched in 1957, the Dove Beauty Bar promised softer skin with its moisturizing formula. Unlike traditional soaps, it didn’t dry out the skin, making it an instant success. Generations have used it for its gentle, creamy lather and mild scent. It remains one of the most trusted skincare staples today.

5. 5. M&M’s Peanut

Peanut M&M’s made their sweet debut in 1954, adding a crunchy twist to the original candy. Their colorful shells and perfect mix of chocolate and peanut became an instant hit. They’re still a movie-night favorite and travel snack for millions. The bright yellow bag remains one of the most recognizable packages in the world.

6. 6. Velveeta Cheese

Velveeta became a kitchen essential in the 1950s for its smooth texture and easy melting ability. Families used it for casseroles, grilled cheese sandwiches, and creamy dips. Its versatility made it a go-to comfort food ingredient. Even today, it remains a key part of classic recipes and game-day snacks.

7. 7. Jif Peanut Butter

Introduced in 1958, Jif quickly became a breakfast and lunch staple for American families. Its creamy texture and sweet taste set it apart from other peanut butters of the time. “Choosy moms choose Jif” became one of the most memorable slogans of the century. It’s still one of the best-selling peanut butter brands today.

8. 8. Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup

Though Campbell’s existed earlier, its chicken noodle soup became a household favorite in the 1950s. It was warm, comforting, and easy to make for busy postwar families. The red-and-white can became a symbol of home-cooked simplicity. Decades later, it remains a pantry essential during cold seasons.

9. 9. Tropicana Orange Juice

Nielsoncaetanosalmeron on Wikimedia Commons

Tropicana brought fresh-tasting orange juice to American breakfast tables in 1954. Its “not-from-concentrate” promise made it stand out from competitors. It represented health, energy, and the ideal start to a day. Today, Tropicana is still one of the most popular juice brands worldwide.

10. 10. Tupperware

Tupperware revolutionized home storage in the 1950s with its airtight plastic containers. It made leftovers easier to store and helped families reduce waste. The famous “Tupperware parties” became a social and cultural phenomenon. Decades later, the brand still stands for practical and durable kitchenware.

11. 11. Sprite

Sprite, introduced in the late 1950s in Germany as “Fanta Klare Zitrone,” became an American favorite by the early 1960s. Its crisp lemon-lime flavor offered a refreshing alternative to cola. The drink’s cool, clean taste made it perfect for all ages. Sprite remains a top-selling soft drink around the world.

12. 12. Dove Chocolate

Though the brand began as a Chicago candy shop, Dove chocolate bars gained national attention in the 1950s. Known for their smooth, rich flavor, they became a quiet indulgence for many households. The classic dark chocolate variety remains a favorite decades later. Dove continues to represent quality and simple luxury in every bite.

13. 13. Heinz Ketchup

By the 1950s, Heinz ketchup was already popular, but it became a true American staple during that decade. Families used it on burgers, fries, and nearly every comfort food imaginable. Its thick texture and tangy flavor never changed. Today, Heinz remains the undisputed leader of condiments.

14. 14. Kellogg’s Corn Pops

This sweet, crunchy cereal first hit breakfast tables in the early 1950s. With its light texture and golden glaze, it quickly became a kid favorite. It represented the growing trend of sugary cereals marketed for fun and taste. Corn Pops still sits proudly on grocery store shelves, loved by new generations.

15. 15. Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing was created in the 1950s by a California ranch owner, and it quickly took over American kitchens. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor worked well on salads, vegetables, and even pizza. By the 1980s, it became the best-selling dressing in the U.S. Today, it’s nearly impossible to imagine a fridge without a bottle of Ranch.

16. 16. Pepto-Bismol

Pepto-Bismol’s pink color and soothing taste became household symbols of relief in the 1950s. It treated everything from stomachaches to indigestion. The catchy jingle and trusted results made it a medicine cabinet staple. Decades later, it’s still the go-to solution for upset stomachs.

17. 17. Eggo Waffles

Kellogg's, Ayzkao on Wikimedia Commons — Kellogg’s, Ayzkao on Wikimedia Commons

Eggo Waffles made breakfast fast and fun when they debuted in the 1950s. They popped right out of the toaster, golden and crispy every time. Their convenience made mornings easier for busy families. Even now, Eggo remains a favorite comfort breakfast around the world.

18. 18. Nescafé Instant Coffee

Nescafé became the symbol of quick, reliable coffee in postwar America. It was convenient, affordable, and perfect for busy mornings. The instant coffee trend grew rapidly thanks to its smooth flavor and easy preparation. Today, Nescafé remains a trusted name in coffee worldwide.

19. 19. Reynolds Wrap Aluminum Foil

By the 1950s, Reynolds Wrap became an essential tool for every kitchen. It helped keep leftovers fresh and made baking and grilling easier. Its durability and shine made it a household staple. To this day, it’s still the go-to choice for wrapping, cooking, and preserving food.

20. 20. Vaseline Petroleum Jelly

Vaseline had existed earlier, but the 1950s cemented its place as an all-purpose household product. Families used it for dry skin, minor cuts, and even shoe polishing. Its simple formula proved endlessly useful. Decades later, it remains a trusted name for both skincare and first aid.