13. Asbestos Irons
Asbestos irons were household staples before electric models, using asbestos lining to retain and evenly distribute heat. At the time, asbestos seemed like a miracle material—efficient and long-lasting. Only later did people realize the serious health risks associated with asbestos exposure, leading to its ban in many countries. These irons are a stark reminder of how yesterday’s innovations can become today’s hazards, and how progress often involves learning from the past’s hidden dangers.
