Foot-Powered Washing Machine 

Believe it or not, it is possible to wash your clothes without pushing the buttons of a washer and dryer. Over 85 percent of households in the United States have a washing machine, and the other 15 percent most rely on laundromats. Yirego is a company that has recently developed a foot-powered washing machine that can save you money while not sentencing homeowners to endless hours bent over a washboard. This $369 portable washing machine can wash up to five pounds of laundry in a quick 5 to 10-minute timeframe. An easy-to-use foot pedal works the inner drum for deep cleansing and then allows you to spin-dry your clothes. A simple clothesline for air drying is all you need to finish the job.

Manual Food Processor

If you can't (or don't want to) live without a food processor, the Ultra Chef Food Chopper is a smaller, less expensive option that is super versatile. It has seven different functions that chop, slice, shred, and even juice.

Hand Mixer

One of the hallmarks of electric appliances is that they claim that they save us time. But in many cases, human-powered mixers and egg beaters can get the job done in virtually the same amount of time as their electric-powered counterparts. Whether you are beating eggs, whipping cream, or only stirring up a stew, hand mixers are incredibly easy to use and don't require any electricity. If you cannot find one at your local antique store, this hand mixer (also known as a rotary egg beater) costs less than $20 and comes with stainless steel blades and a chrome handle.

Human-Powered Espresso Machines

Human-powered appliances are also helpful for specialty, high-end food luxuries. Have you ever heard of a human-powered espresso machine? ROK Coffee specializes in a hand-powered espresso machine that starts at under $200. The device might look a little funky, but it is convenient. It allows homeowners to enjoy a hot cup of high-quality espresso without waiting in line at Starbucks or spending thousands of dollars on an electric option. You can find US dealers of this human-powered espresso machine here.

Hand Coffee Grinder

Many coffee lovers opt for hand grinders, especially while traveling, and some even prefer them to electric mills. The Skerton Pro, a recently updated version by Hario, has a removable arm, a glass bowl and is reasonably priced below $50.

Juice Press

There are a lot of fantastic electric juicers out there. But, sometimes, a simple, durable press is all you need! This stainless steel juice press is popular with restaurants and bars AND will last you a lifetime.

Pasta Maker

The time-tested Atlas 150 manual pasta maker by Marcato would be a great addition to any kitchen. This sturdy, stainless option comes in many colors, and the classic, made in Italy stainless version is available for less than $100.

Leg-Powered Blender

If you want to get crazy, you can combine getting a little exercise indoors with blending up a smoothie. This Fender Blender by Rock the Bike allows you to blend up your creation while riding a stationary bicycle. AT $1,700, a new one is pricey, but you can fit one on your bike for much less. Or, if you are a serious DIY-er, make your human-powered blender with your bike and blender for less than $25 using these instructions.

Bottom Line

Human-powered appliances might seem like they belong in a museum instead of a kitchen. However, as you can see, we can find many ways to rely on a little bit of elbow grease instead of kilowatts. It is a great way to reduce your household energy demand, carbon footprint - and save a little money on your monthly electric bill. Many of these appliances are also exceptionally well built and challenge the standard of planned obsolescence, meaning that they'll still be around to pass down to your grandchildren.