Tupperware was first introduced in 1946 by Earl Tupper. He had developed a new type of plastic that was durable, non-toxic and airtight.

Vintage Tupperware from the 1950s to the late 1980s is a popular collector's item these days and for good reason. Tupperware has been known for more than 70 years and the iconic plastic containers are indispensable in kitchens all over the world.

Tupperware was a revolutionary product when it was first introduced in America in the late 1940s and quickly became a household name. In the 1960s, women increasingly started working independently and they were looking for convenient and sustainable household solutions to relieve their busy lives. Tupperware products were designed to keep food fresher for longer, which was a key selling point for consumers looking for ways to save time and money in the kitchen.

Its popularity continued to grow in the following decades, and today vintage Tupperware pieces are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. By the 1970s and 1980s, Tupperware had become a cultural phenomenon, with "Parties" and gatherings centred around the brand's innovative and practical products.

Let's take a closer look at the history of vintage Tupperware from the 1950s to the late 1980s.

1950
Tupperware sales boomed in the 1950s. The company developed new products such as the Tupperware Wonderlier Bowl (the Wonderbowl), which had a closure so airtight that it could be held upside down even when filled with water without leaking. The company also introduced a range of bright colours, making Tupperware products even more appealing to consumers.

The 1950s was a pivotal decade for Tupperware, as the company gained widespread recognition for its innovative and sustainable plastic containers.

The brand's signature airtight closure and lightweight design made it a huge success with busy housewives, who could then easily store and transport food without worrying about spills or spoilage. Tupperware gatherings, called Tupperware Parties, also became popular in this decade, with women organizing gatherings to demonstrate the latest Tupperware products and learn how to use them.

Some of the most iconic vintage Tupperware products from the 1950s include the Wonderlier Bowl, a versatile round bowl that can be used for mixing, storing and serving food, and the Tupper Seal, a small bowl that was perfect for storing spices and other small items.

Tupperware also introduced its first "burping" lid in this decade, which allowed you to release air from the bowls and containers, helping to keep food fresher for longer.

1960
In the 1960s, Tupperware introduced a range of interchangeable containers, the Tupperware Modular Mate.

These containers were stackable and available in a variety of sizes, making them perfect for storing everything from cereal to flour to pasta.

The company also introduced a Tupperware-Party line, including the Tupperware Deviled Egg Container and the Tupperware Dip Bowl.

The 1960s was a time of change and renewal for Tupperware, as the company expanded its product line and focused on new ways to market its trays and bowls. The brand's famous Lifetime Warranty was introduced in this decade, guaranteeing that Tupperware products would last a lifetime and would be replaced if ever broken or damaged.

More Vintage Tupperware products from the 1960s include the Ice-Tup, an easy tool designed for making popsicles at home, and the Party Susan, a round tray with compartments that made it easy to serve snacks and hors d'oeuvres at parties. to serve.

Tupperware also introduced its first so-called modular storage system this decade, with containers that could be stacked and arranged in different ways.

1970
In the 1970s, the Tupperware Servalier line was introduced with airtight lids, the well-known sun or star lids, which were perfect for transporting food. The company also introduced a line of Tupperware toys, called Tupper-Toys, made from the same durable plastic as the company's other products.

The 1970s was a time of growth and change for Tupperware, as the brand expanded its reach and introduced new products to keep pace with changing consumer needs. Tupperware Parties remained a popular way for women to socialize and learn about the latest products, but the company began selling its well-known containers through more traditional sales channels.

Vintage Tupperware products from the 1970s include the Microwave Stack Cooker, a set of microwave-safe containers that could be stacked to prepare a variety of dishes, and the Tupper Mini-Mate, a small container designed to hold herbs and spices. to preserve. Tupperware also introduced its first line of children's products in this decade, featuring colourful cups and plates that were durable and easy to clean.

1980
In the 1980s, Tupperware continued to innovate with the introduction of the Tupperware Microwave Cooking Line. These products were specially designed for microwave use, making it easy to prepare and store food in the same container. The company also introduced a range of Tupperware baking products, such as the Tupperware Pie Keeper and the Tupperware Cake Taker.

The 1980s was a time of change and upheaval for Tupperware, as the brand faced increased competition from other companies and changing consumer preferences. The brand continued to innovate and introduce new products but also faced challenges as more consumers sought environmentally friendly alternatives to plastic packaging.

Well-known vintage Tupperware products from the 1980s included the Heat 'n Serve, a bowl that could be used to store and reheat food in the same container, and the CrystalWave line, which introduced microwavable containers and bowls with a clear design, allowing users to see what was inside. Tupperware also expanded its product line to include non-plastic items, such as stainless steel mixing bowls and glass measuring cups.

Today, vintage Tupperware, especially those from the 1950s through the late 1980s, is highly sought after by collectors. The bright colours and unique designs of these products make them perfect for displaying in a retro kitchen or for use at a vintage-themed party. Tupperware parties are still popular, and vintage Tupperware pieces are often used as conversation starters or as a way to connect to the past.

In short, vintage Tupperware products are fascinating collectables that offer a glimpse into the past. The bright colours and unique designs of these products make them a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a Tupperware fan or simply love retro kitchenware, vintage Tupperware is sure to be a welcome addition to your collection.

Tupperware products have stood the test of time, with many vintage items still in use today. And whether you're a collector of vintage Tupperware or simply appreciate the brand's durable and practical designs, there's no denying the lasting impact of this iconic brand on kitchens around the world.

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Vintage Tupperware Catalogus from 1975