12 Household Items Everyone Had in the ’70s
From shag carpet to avocado-colored everything, these items were staples in nearly every ’70s home.
- Chris Graciano
- 2 min read
The ’70s brought some unforgettable trends into American households. There were certain items you were guaranteed to find in nearly every home. Here’s a nostalgic look back at 12 must-have household items from the grooviest decade.
1. Avocado Green Appliances
Cle0patra on Flickr
Fridges, stoves, and even blenders came in this iconic green shade. It was trendy, earthy, and somehow ended up in every kitchen.
2. Shag Carpet
Karen on Flickr
This thick, fuzzy carpet came in every loud color imaginable. People loved sinking their toes into it, despite how hard it was to clean.
3. Wood Paneling
Ron Lach on Pexels
Walls covered in fake wood gave homes a “cozy” feel, even if it felt more like a basement. Nearly every living room or den had some variation of it.
4. Rotary Phones
Wesley Hilario on Unsplash
Before touch-tone, everyone was spinning that dial. These phones came in bright colors and were permanently mounted on walls or sat on side tables.
5. Tupperware Sets
VeganHeart Always on Flickr
Whether orange, brown, or mustard yellow, Tupperware parties were all the rage. Every mom had at least one full set tucked into the pantry.
6. Sunburst Clocks
stirwise on Flickr
With spiky rays extending from the center, these clocks doubled as art. Hanging prominently in dining rooms or kitchens, they were both stylish and functional.
7. Console TVs
Daniel Christensen on Wikimedia Commons
TVs weren’t just electronics. They were furniture. These wooden beasts housed the screen and often came with built-in radios or storage.
8. Beaded Curtains
YI REN on Pexels
Usually separating rooms or closets, these swaying strands made a gentle clicking sound when passed through. They offered zero privacy but full style.
9. Macramé Decor
Safa Adnan on Pexels
From plant hangers to wall art, macramé was the DIY statement of the decade. It added a boho flair to even the simplest room.
10. Fondue Sets
Jeffery Simpson on Flickr
Nothing said “dinner party” like melted cheese or chocolate in a communal pot. Fondue was social, stylish, and a bit messy. Nearly every couple had a fondue set.
11. Lava Lamps
Camilo González Velis on Unsplash
Hypnotic blobs floating in colored goo? Yes, please. Lava lamps were mesmerizing mood pieces, especially in teenagers’ bedrooms.
12. Harvest Gold Everything
Achim Hering on Wikimedia Commons
Alongside avocado green, harvest gold ruled the kitchen. From toasters to dishwashers, this warm hue was everywhere.