Americans mocked for 'dark ages' living as Brits spot key difference in homes – Express
While we’re aware of the obvious cultural differences between us and our American counterparts, such as their spelling of “colour” without a “u” and our non-observance of certain US holidays like Thanksgiving, some disparities still manage to catch us off guard.
For instance, it’s astonishing to learn many US households don’t have electric kettles as a standard appliance, instead opting to boil water on the stove – a practice that seems perplexing to tea-loving Brits.
Recently, another difference in household setup left Brits bewildered after being shared on social media. Some even joked that the US must be “living in the dark ages” due to the absence of a common feature in their homes.
A TikTok video posted by a woman named Melissa showcased what she thought was a “game-changing” kitchen gadget. She enthusiastically told her followers about her new “special type” of plug socket that allowed her to switch off her air fryer without fully unplugging it.
Read more… Canadian living in the UK left ‘confused’ after trying to order popular drink
Sometimes the simplest things can make life easy. Swapped out my standard kitchen outlet for one on a switch. #thedailydiy #kitchenaccessories #airfryer #kitchenhacks #homehacks #homeimprovement #lifehacks
Melissa proudly displayed her new gadget – a plug socket with a switch – and proclaimed it the “coolest thing ever” as she demonstrated how her air fryer would turn on and off with the flip of the switch.
In the UK, it’s hardly a revelation to see switches on plug sockets. They’re a standard feature in most homes, allowing residents to easily switch off appliances directly at the wall. While some switchless sockets still exist, the presence of a switch is now the norm.
Across the pond in the US, however, the concept of having a switch on a plug socket isn’t as widespread. It’s not completely unheard of to have a switch on your power outlet, but it is far less common – leading to some people believing they’re a new invention.
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The TikTok post sparked surprise among viewers, with many expressing their astonishment at how the US appears to lag behind the “rest of the world” in terms of plug socket design.
It’s worth noting, though, that switches on sockets aren’t universally used and are predominantly found in European countries, as well as Australia and New Zealand.
One commenter exclaimed: “It’s a beautiful sight when you watch Americans enter the 21st century! It warms the heart!”
Meanwhile, another quipped with heavy irony: “Oh, now that’s clever. Can’t wait until the UK catches up with this genius.”
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