Maya Ellison
The 1950s saw a boom in the production of melamine, a form of plastic resin created in the 1830s by German chemist Justus von Liebig. Technological advances in the 1930s made melamine inexpensive to manufacture, and its sturdy and chemically stable properties made it ideal for mass-produced dishware. During World War II, melamine was used to create affordable dishware for troops, schools, and hospitals. In the post-war era, millions of Americans embraced suburban life and patio culture, creating a high demand for outdoor dishware. The gloss level of plastic is influenced by various factors, including processing conditions, cavity water temperatures, pack/hold pressures, fill speeds, and material temperatures. A cooler mold and slower fill speeds, for example, tend to make plastic glossier. The intrinsic properties of the material and the specific production techniques employed in the 1950s likely contributed to the shiny appearance of 50s plastic.
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What You'll Learn
Melamine was chemically stable and sturdy
Melamine, a synthetic polymer, was widely used in the 1950s due to its unique chemical and physical properties, which made it ideal for a range of applications. Its stability and durability are key factors in its popularity during this era. Chemically, melamine is a thermosetting plastic, meaning it can be molded and shaped when heated, but once set, it becomes permanently hard and rigid. This is because the polymer chains in melamine cross-link and form strong bonds, creating a highly stable structure that is resistant to a wide range of chemicals and solvents. This chemical stability means melamine products could withstand exposure to various substances without warping, discoloring, or breaking down, ensuring their longevity.
The sturdy nature of melamine also contributed to its desirability. It is a very hard material with high impact resistance, making it durable and able to retain its shape even under pressure or impact. Melamine's durability also comes from its heat resistance. Unlike many other plastics, melamine could withstand high temperatures without melting or deforming, making it suitable for use in a wide range of products, including dishware and kitchen utensils. Its heat-resistant properties also meant it could be safely washed in dishwashers and sterilized without damage, further adding to its practicality and longevity.
The smooth, non-porous surface of melamine was another significant factor in its stability and sturdiness. This non-porous nature prevented the absorption of liquids, odors, or stains, ensuring that melamine products remained hygienic and easy to clean. The smooth surface also contributed to the shiny appearance often associated with 1950s plastic products. Additionally, this material could be easily molded into various shapes, allowing for the creation of sleek, modern designs that were aesthetically pleasing and appealing to consumers.
The colorfastness of melamine was another advantage. Unlike other plastics that might fade or discolor over time, melamine products retained their vibrant colors due to the chemical bonds that prevented the breakdown and discoloration of the material. This feature was especially important in an era when colorful, shiny, and modern designs were highly sought after, and it ensured that melamine products maintained their attractive appearance for a long time. Overall, the chemical stability and sturdiness of melamine made it an ideal material for a wide range of household items and contributed to its popularity in the 1950s.
The unique properties of melamine led to its widespread use in mid-century design, and it became a defining material of that era. Its shiny, modern appearance, coupled with its durability and chemical stability, made it a practical and attractive choice for consumers. Today, vintage melamine products from the 1950s are often sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, not only for their retro aesthetic but also because their sturdiness has ensured their survival over the decades. Melamine's impact on design and its continued presence in retro-style products showcase the lasting appeal of this stable and sturdy material.
Melamine's chemical stability and sturdiness extended its use beyond the domestic sphere as well. Its durability and heat resistance made it suitable for use in industrial and laboratory settings, where its ability to withstand high temperatures and chemicals proved valuable. Additionally, melamine's lightweight yet sturdy nature made it ideal for use in outdoor gear and picnicware, further emphasizing its versatility and practicality in various contexts. Overall, melamine's unique properties truly came into their own in the 1950s, shaping design trends and everyday practices in significant ways.
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Melamine was affordable and mass-produced
In the 1930s, technological advancements made melamine inexpensive to manufacture. Designers soon discovered that this thermoset plastic could be heated and moulded into affordable, mass-produced products, such as dinnerware, clock cases, stove knobs, and furniture pulls. During World War II, melamine was mass-produced for troops, schools, and hospitals as metals and other materials were in short supply. Unlike other early plastics like Bakelite, melamine was chemically stable and sturdy enough to withstand regular washings and heat.
In the early days, American Cyanamid was one of the leading manufacturers and distributors of melamine powder, trademarking their version of melamine plastic as "Melmac." Melmac was not a brand of dinnerware but rather the name for American Cyanamid's branded melamine powders that were moulded into plastic dishware. Any manufacturer that bought melamine powders from American Cyanamid could legally label their products "Melmac." Those that did not use American Cyanamid powders labelled their products as "made of Melmac" or something similar.
After World War II, millions of Americans moved to the suburbs, and melamine dishes became popular for outdoor dining due to their durability and affordability. At the height of the baby boom, melamine was the perfect material for the age, as it was affordable and hard to break. Melamine dishes were often designed with bright colours and mid-century geometries, such as elongated serving bowls and teacup handles. Buyers were encouraged to mix and match colours, giving place settings a sense of creativity and fun. A set of dishes that could serve four people cost around $15 in the 1950s, which is about $175 today.
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Melamine was safe for regular washing and heat
Melamine is a type of plastic commonly found in reusable plates, utensils, and cups. It is created by combining melamine, an organic compound, with formaldehyde, resulting in a durable resin that is resistant to heat and breakage. This resin permanently hardens after its initial formation, making it ideal for various applications such as tableware and countertops.
While melamine is generally safe for regular washing, it is important to take certain precautions. Hand washing melamine tableware with a soft sponge or cloth and mild detergent is recommended to maintain its appearance and functionality. It is also dishwasher-safe, but it should be placed on the top rack to avoid damage from high heat and abrasive detergents. High heat can cause melamine to degrade and potentially release harmful chemicals, so it is crucial to avoid using the high-heat drying cycle.
Melamine is heat-resistant and can tolerate high temperatures without warping. However, it is not recommended for use in the microwave as it can cause the material to degrade and potentially release harmful chemicals. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has specifically cautioned against microwaving plastic plates that are not specified as "microwave-safe." Instead, it is advised to microwave food in a safe container and then transfer it to a melamine plate for serving.
To ensure the longevity of melamine products, proper care and storage are essential. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or heat sources can degrade the material over time, so it is best to store melamine away from these conditions. Additionally, while melamine is known for its durability, it is important to avoid using harsh scrubbers or abrasive cleaners that could scratch its surface and dull its finish. By following these care and storage guidelines, melamine products can be safely maintained and their lifespan extended.
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Melamine was used for more than just dishes
Melamine is a type of plastic commonly used in various products, including dishes, utensils, and cups. While it is well-known for its use in dinnerware, melamine has also been utilised in other applications. Its durability and affordability make it a popular choice for commercial settings such as dining halls, daycare facilities, and assisted living communities. Restaurants, in particular, favour melamine dinnerware due to its ability to withstand harsh use, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
One notable advantage of melamine is its versatility in terms of colour, shape, and style. This versatility allows restaurants to find melamine dishes that suit their decor and use the same dinnerware line in different areas, such as the dining room, patio, and poolside bar. Additionally, melamine's lightweight construction makes it ideal for serving food in various settings, such as poolside, on a rooftop, or at the beach, reducing the risk of breakage.
However, there have been safety concerns surrounding the use of melamine, particularly in dishes and utensils. While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has ruled that melamine is safe for serving and eating food, it should not be used in a microwave as it can start to melt at high temperatures, potentially leaking into food and drink products. Studies have shown that acidic foods heated for long periods are more susceptible to melamine migration, although the levels of contamination are considered very low.
Despite the FDA's assurances, there have been incidents of melamine toxicity. In 2007, pet food manufactured in China and distributed in North America was contaminated with melamine, resulting in the deaths of over 1,000 household pets. Similarly, in 2008, infant formula was deliberately contaminated with melamine to increase the apparent protein content, leading to the development of kidney stones in children and several fatalities. These incidents highlight the potential risks associated with melamine exposure, particularly at high temperatures or with prolonged contact.
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Melamine's popularity declined in the 1970s
The unique and iconic shiny plastic of the 1950s, often used in household goods and known for its eye-catching gloss, began to lose its appeal in the following decades, particularly in the 1970s. This decline in popularity can be attributed to several factors, some cultural and others more practical and health-related.
One key reason for the shift away from shiny melamine plastics in the 1970s was a growing environmental consciousness. The public became increasingly aware of the environmental impact of plastic products, especially those made with harmful chemicals. Melamine, a synthetic polymer, was recognized as non-biodegradable, and concerns arose over its potential to contribute to land and ocean pollution. With a rising eco-awareness, consumers began to favor more natural and sustainable materials, such as wood, glass, and ceramics, over melamine.
Health concerns also played a significant role in the decline of melamine's popularity. As scientific understanding advanced, it became clear that some plastics, including melamine, could pose health risks. Melamine, for instance, was found to release toxic chemicals when heated, and there were concerns over its potential to leach harmful substances into food and beverages, especially when used for cooking or food storage. This led to a significant decrease in the use of melamine tableware and kitchenware as consumers prioritized health and safety.
Additionally, the 1970s marked a shift in aesthetic preferences. The shiny, space-age look of the 1950s and 1960s fell out of favor, and more subtle and natural textures and colors gained traction. Consumers began to associate the high-gloss finish of melamine with cheap, mass-produced goods, and instead favored items with more tactile and earthy qualities. This shift in taste influenced designers and manufacturers to explore new materials and textures, moving away from the shiny plastics of the previous decades.
The decline in melamine's popularity was also influenced by the emergence of new plastic alternatives. The development of new polymers and synthetic materials offered designers and manufacturers a wider range of options, many of which were more durable, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing than melamine. These new plastics could mimic the look and feel of more expensive materials, such as wood or stone, while still offering the lightweight and affordable qualities of plastic. As a result, melamine faced stiff competition from these more advanced and desirable materials.
Finally, practical considerations contributed to the decrease in melamine usage. Over time, it became apparent that melamine had certain limitations, such as its tendency to crack or discolor over extended periods of use. It was also prone to scratching and clouding, which diminished its shiny appearance and reduced its visual appeal. These durability issues, coupled with the health, environmental, and aesthetic concerns, led to a significant decline in the popularity of melamine during the 1970s.
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Frequently asked questions
Melamine, the plastic of the 1950s, was mass-produced into affordable dinnerware due to its ability to withstand regular washings and heat. Its chemically stable properties allowed it to be both sturdy and shiny.
Melamine is a form of plastic resin created in the 1830s by German chemist Justus von Liebig.
Metals and other materials were in short supply, so new-fangled plastics were considered the material of the future. Melamine dinnerware was affordable, sturdy, and washable, making it ideal for families who wanted to take dishes outside.
Melamine was primarily used for mass-produced dishware, but it was also used to make clock cases, stove knobs, and furniture pulls.
No, melamine dinnerware fell out of popularity in the 1970s when dishwashers and microwaves became common in American kitchens. Melamine was not safe to use in either appliance and was replaced by Corelle dishware.
