The 1970s were a time of unique cultural and design trends that left a lasting impression on those who lived through them.
Did you know that avocado green and harvest gold were more than just popular colors? These hues were chosen for their ability to evoke a sense of warmth and comfort, perfectly aligning with the decade’s desire for cozy, inviting homes.
Here’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane, with 19 things every household in the 70s had that you rarely, if ever, see today.
1. Rotary Phones
Many people from the 1970s remember fondly the unmistakable sound of the rotary dial. These phones were a staple in every household, and dialing was an experience in itself. The tactile feedback of each click as the dial returned was almost meditative, though it seems cumbersome by today’s standards.
With the advent of touch-tone phones in the 80s and then the explosion of mobile phones, rotary phones quickly became obsolete. Today, they are more likely to be found in antique stores or as retro decorative pieces rather than in active use.
2. Wood Paneling
If there was one design element that screamed “1970s,” it was wood paneling. Covering the walls of countless homes, this decor choice aimed to bring a rustic, warm feel to living spaces. Often made from inexpensive materials, it offered an affordable way to update a room’s look.
However, as home design trends evolved, wood paneling fell out of favor. Modern homes now opt for sleeker, more minimalistic wall treatments.
3. Shag Carpets
Shag carpets, with their long, fluffy fibers, were the epitome of 70s comfort and style. These carpets came in various bold colors, adding a vibrant touch to any room. The deep pile made them a favorite spot for kids to play and adults to lounge.
Despite their initial popularity, the practical challenges of cleaning and maintaining shag carpets led to their decline. Nowadays, cleaner and more practical flooring options like hardwood and low-pile carpets are preferred.
4. Avocado Green Appliances
In the 70s, kitchen appliances were often a statement of fashion, and avocado green was the color of choice. From refrigerators to ovens, this earthy tone dominated American kitchens. It was a bold departure from the more subdued colors of previous decades.
However, the 80s brought a shift towards more neutral colors and stainless steel finishes. As tastes evolved, avocado green appliances became a relic of the past.
5. Harvest Gold Kitchens
Alongside avocado green, harvest gold was another popular color in 70s kitchens. This warm, mustardy hue was seen on everything from dishwashers to countertops. It was all about bringing a cheerful, sunny feel into the heart of the home.
But like many trends, harvest gold fell out of favor as design sensibilities changed. Modern kitchens now favor more versatile and timeless colors.
6. Console Stereos
The 70s was a golden age for music, and console stereos were the centerpiece of home entertainment. These large, often wood-paneled units combined record players, radios, and speakers in one stylish package. They were perfect for spinning the latest vinyl or tuning into the top hits on the radio.
As technology advanced, more compact and efficient audio systems replaced these bulky units. Today, high-quality sound systems are much smaller, leaving console stereos as charming relics of a more analog time.
7. Waterbeds
Waterbeds were the ultimate symbol of 70s bedroom coolness. They promised unparalleled comfort, with the gentle waves of water providing a unique sleeping experience. Many people believed they offered health benefits, like better spinal alignment and reduced pressure points.
However, the practical issues of leaks, maintenance, and heating costs led to their decline. Modern mattresses now offer superior comfort and support without the hassle.
8. Macramé Décor
Macramé, the art of knotting rope or yarn into decorative patterns, was a ubiquitous craft in 70s homes. From wall hangings to plant holders, macramé added a bohemian, handmade touch to interiors. It was a popular hobby and a way for people to personalize their living spaces.
Although macramé experienced a brief resurgence recently, it no longer holds the same widespread appeal. Today, it’s seen more as a niche craft rather than a mainstream décor trend.
9. Hi-Fi Systems
Hi-fi systems were the pride of many ’70s households, representing the pinnacle of audio technology at the time. These systems, often housed in elaborate cabinets, included turntables, amplifiers, and large speakers, delivering superior sound quality for music lovers.
With the rise of digital music and compact, high-performance audio equipment, the need for large Hi-Fi systems has diminished. Modern homes now favor wireless speakers and streaming devices.
10. Bean Bag Chairs
The casual comfort of bean bag chairs made them a hit in the 70s. These versatile seating options were perfect for lounging, and their soft, malleable shape made them a fun addition to any room. They were especially popular in kids’ and teenagers’ bedrooms.
While bean bag chairs never entirely disappeared, their prevalence has waned. Today, they are often seen more as playful, occasional furniture rather than a staple in every home.
11. Fondue Sets
Fondue parties were all the rage in the 70s, bringing people together to dip bread, fruit, and other goodies into communal pots of melted cheese or chocolate. Fondue sets, complete with special forks and burners, were a must-have for entertaining guests.
As culinary trends evolved, fondue fell out of favor, and the sets were relegated to the back of kitchen cabinets. While fondue has made a minor comeback as a nostalgic treat, it’s far from the widespread phenomenon it once was.
12. Tupperware Parties
In the 1970s, Tupperware parties were social events where friends and neighbors gathered to buy the latest in food storage solutions. These parties were as much about socializing as they were about selling and creating a sense of community.
With the rise of online shopping and a wider variety of food storage options, Tupperware parties have largely disappeared. While Tupperware remains a trusted brand, the social aspect of buying it has faded into history.
13. Lava Lamps
Lava lamps’ mesmerizing motion made them a popular decorative item in the 1970s. With their flowing, colorful blobs, they added a psychedelic flair to any room and were particularly beloved by teenagers and young adults.
Although lava lamps have a kitschy appeal, they are no longer a common household item. They are now more likely to be found as retro novelties rather than mainstream lighting choices.
14. 8-Track Tapes
8-track tapes were the music format of choice in the 70s, offering a portable way to enjoy albums in cars and at home. The tapes’ chunky cartridges and distinctive “click” as they switched tracks were part of the listening experience.
The advent of cassette tapes and, later, CDs rendered 8-tracks obsolete. Nowadays, they are collectors’ items cherished by music enthusiasts who appreciate their historical significance.
15. Electric Can Openers
In the 70s, electric can openers were a modern convenience that made opening cans quick and easy. These appliances, often mounted under kitchen cabinets, were seen as a must-have for any efficient kitchen.
However, as manual can openers became more user-friendly and compact, electric can openers fell out of favor.
16. TV Antennas (Rabbit Ears)
Before the age of cable and satellite TV, households relied on antennas, often humorously called “rabbit ears,” to receive broadcast signals. Adjusting these antennas to get a clear picture was a common ritual in 70s homes.
With the advent of digital broadcasting and the widespread availability of cable and streaming services, rabbit ears have become obsolete.
17. Corn Popper Popcorn Makers
Making popcorn in a corn popper was a fun and common activity in the 70s. These machines, often seen on kitchen counters, used hot air to pop kernels, offering a healthier alternative to oil-popped popcorn.
While popcorn makers still exist, the convenience of microwave popcorn has largely replaced them. Modern families are more likely to pop a bag in the microwave than break out a corn popper.
18. Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures
Fluorescent lighting fixtures, often with long, tube-shaped bulbs, were common in 1970s kitchens and basements. These lights were valued for their brightness and energy efficiency.
However, the harsh, flickering light they produced fell out of favor as more aesthetically pleasing lighting options became available. Today, LED lights have largely replaced fluorescents, offering better quality light and efficiency.
19. CB Radios
Citizens Band (CB) radios were all the rage in the 1970s, especially after the release of the movie Smokey and the Bandit. These radios allowed people to communicate over short distances and were popular among truckers and hobbyists alike.
With the rise of cell phones and other modern communication methods, CB radios have mostly faded into obscurity. They remain a symbol of a bygone era when staying connected meant picking up a microphone and saying, “10-4, good buddy.”
The 1970s were a decade of bold design choices and unique household items that defined an era. Revisiting these vanished household staples offers a glimpse into the trends and lifestyles that shaped a generation, proving that some things, though out of style, are never truly forgotten.
Read Next:
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.