20 Things You’ve Owned For So Long That Become “Retro”

Welcome to a walk down memory lane — where the forgotten treasures of yesteryear are now crowned as full-blown retro royalty. If you’ve ever pulled a dusty gadget from a drawer and thought, “Wow, this used to be cutting edge,” then friend, you’re in the right place.

Whether it’s a flip phone that once felt futuristic or a lava lamp that lit up your entire personality, these items were once the peak of cool. And now? They’re conversation starters… or possibly museum pieces. Back in the day, we didn’t toss things out — we saved them.

For “someday.” And now that “someday” has arrived, we’re looking at these old-school staples with a mix of pride, amusement, and mild disbelief. From tech tools that defined the early digital age to decor that screamed personality (in neon), these 20 items have survived the purge and earned their nostalgic stripes.

Let’s dig in and see what’s still hiding in your attic hall of fame.

1. VHS Tapes

Remember VHS tapes? The chunky black bricks that required rewinding before returning to the video store? If you’re like me, you probably still have a few tucked away, gathering dust but holding cherished memories. I can still hear the whirring sound of the VCR gobbling up a tape as the screen flickered to life.

These tapes were more than just movies; they were mini time capsules, capturing family moments and Saturday movie nights. The phrase “Be Kind, Rewind” wasn’t just a slogan; it was a moral duty for every tape renter.

Today, those VHS tapes are both a blast from the past and a source of laughter at how far we’ve come. Yet, there’s a certain charm in the grainy footage that no digital download can replicate. So, while blockbuster nights are now replaced by streaming marathons, let’s not forget the joy of pressing play on a VHS.

2. Cassette Mixtapes

Ah, the art of the mixtape—a labor of love from a time when curating a playlist meant hunching over a tape deck for hours. I remember crafting the perfect mix for a road trip or a crush, each song carefully chosen to convey the right mood. It was our way of saying, “I care about you,” with a touch of musical flair.

The joy of mixtapes wasn’t just in the music but in the personal touch of scribbling track lists with doodles on the cover. Each tape was a personal soundtrack, a snapshot of life at a particular moment.

Nowadays, playlists are a swipe away, but there’s something special about those cassette mixtapes. They were uniquely ours, and no algorithm could replicate the heartfelt selection process. In a world where everything’s digital, these analog gems remind us to press pause and appreciate the magic of personalized music sharing.

3. A Flip Phone

Who could forget the satisfying snap of a flip phone closing? Back in the day, owning one was the height of mobile sophistication. I remember the thrill of flipping it open to take a call or send a text—it felt like I was living in a spy movie.

Sure, it wasn’t as “smart” as today’s devices, but the flip phone had its own charm. It was durable, compact, and perfect for performing that dramatic hang-up.

While the younger crowd might see it as a relic, those who owned one know just how reliable these phones were. It was our introduction to mobile communication, and for that, it will always have a special place in our hearts. So, here’s to the flip phone, the original pocket companion that taught us to text with buttons and call with flair.

4. Tube TV with Dials

Gather ’round, folks, and let me tell you about the tube TV—the heavyweight champion of home entertainment. This boxy behemoth sat in our living rooms, offering a window to the world in glorious black-and-white or, if you were fortunate, color.

But let’s not forget those dials, the original remote controls. Changing channels was a workout, requiring a twist and a turn, sometimes even a smack on the side to clear the static.

As much fun as it was to adjust the rabbit ears for the best reception, the tube TV taught us patience and the simple joy of watching our favorite shows without skipping ads. Nowadays, it’s a museum piece, but the memories of family gatherings and Saturday morning cartoons will forever flicker in our minds.

5. Polaroid Camera

Say cheese! The Polaroid camera was our instant connection to photography long before smartphones. I remember the anticipation of watching a photo develop, shaking it gently as if to speed up the process. Each picture was a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, capturing moments in a way that only a Polaroid could.

This chunky camera was a party favorite, bringing smiles and laughter as we documented life’s candid moments. You never knew what you’d get, and that was part of the fun!

Though Polaroid has made a comeback, nothing beats the nostalgia of the original model. It’s a tactile experience that brings back memories with every click and whirr. In a world of selfies and snaps, the Polaroid remains a timeless reminder of the joy of instant photography.

6. Game Boy (the chunky grey one)

For those who remember the original Game Boy, you’re in for a treat. This chunky gray brick took the world by storm with its simple, addictive games and monochrome screen. I fondly recall hours spent playing Tetris, my fingers deftly maneuvering the bricks while my eyes zoned in on that tiny screen.

The Game Boy was more than just a portable console; it was a gateway to a world of fun and imagination. Powered by AA batteries, it was a reliable companion on long car trips, bringing joy to children and adults alike.

While today’s consoles boast stunning graphics, there’s something heartwarming about the simplicity of the original Game Boy. It reminds us of a time when gameplay trumped visuals, and creativity ruled the day. So, let’s raise a pixelated toast to this iconic gadget—forever a champion in our gaming hearts.

7. Lava Lamp

Ah, the lava lamp—a staple of 70s chic and the ultimate conversation starter. I remember walking into a room and being instantly mesmerized by the blobs of wax floating and merging in a sea of color.

This psychedelic light was more than just a lamp; it was a mood setter, turning any space into a groovy haven. With its smooth, flowing movement, it provided a moment of calm in a chaotic world.

Though modern lighting has taken over, the lava lamp still holds a special place in retro decor. It’s a reminder of a time when life was simpler and colors were bolder. So, if you’ve got one tucked away, dust it off and let it work its hypnotic magic once more.

8. Original iPod

Remember the original iPod? The sleek, white rectangle with a click wheel that revolutionized how we carried our music. It was love at first sight for many, including myself. I still recall the satisfying sensation of scrolling through songs with that wheel.

The iPod was a game-changer, allowing us to carry a thousand songs in our pocket—a feat that seemed impossible at the time. Whether at the gym or on a walk, it transformed how we experienced music on the go.

Though we’ve moved on to streaming and smart devices, the original iPod remains an emblem of innovation. It was a trusty companion that introduced us to portable playlists and personalized soundtracks. So, here’s to the iPod, a digital pioneer that danced to the beat of its own drum.

9. Beaded Door Curtain

Step right up to the beaded door curtain—a whimsical divider that turned any room into a bohemian paradise. I remember the satisfying clatter of beads as I walked through, feeling like I had my own secret entrance.

These curtains were more than just decor; they were a statement of style and freedom, adding a splash of color and texture to any space.

Though they may have fallen out of favor, the beaded door curtain is a nostalgic reminder of carefree days and creative expression. So, if you’ve got one stashed away, consider bringing back the boho charm and let those beads jingle once more.

10. A Walkman (or Discman)

Ah, the Walkman—a marvel of portable audio engineering that once ruled our pockets. It’s hard to believe that this was the pinnacle of music technology, allowing us to carry our favorite tunes in a surprisingly clunky device. I remember strutting down the street with my headphones on, feeling like the king of cool. Back then, skipping a track meant hitting the fast-forward button and hoping you landed in the right spot.

Fast forward to today, and my trusty Walkman sits in a drawer, a testament to music’s evolving journey. Yet, every now and then, I can’t resist popping in a cassette and reliving the analog magic. While it may not impress the Spotify generation, there’s something undeniably satisfying about the tactile experience of holding a cassette tape. Nostalgia in stereo!

So, here’s to the Walkman, the original portable DJ booth. It’s a relic now, but one that played a sweet soundtrack to our lives.

11. Rotary Phone

Dialing up nostalgia, the rotary phone was a household staple that taught us patience, one number at a time. I remember the satisfying click of the dial as each number slowly made its way back to zero.

This phone was more than just a communication device; it was a centerpiece of conversation. Each call felt intentional, a moment to connect without distractions.

Though modern phones have taken over, the rotary remains a symbol of analog elegance and simplicity. It’s a reminder of when talking on the phone was a deliberate act, not just a tap away. So, if you’ve got one lying around, give it a spin and enjoy the retro charm once more.

12. CD Tower

Standing tall and proud, the CD tower was a throne for our music collections. I remember organizing my CDs meticulously, each one representing a piece of my musical journey.

This tower was more than just storage; it was a showcase of taste and personality, a personal playlist on display for all to see.

As digital music takes over, the CD tower stands as a monument to the days of physical media. It’s a reminder of the tactile pleasure of selecting an album and playing it start to finish. So, if you’ve got one gathering dust, let it stand tall and proud, a testament to the golden age of CDs.

13. Trapper Keeper

Organizational nirvana came in the form of the Trapper Keeper, the holy grail of school supplies. I remember proudly carrying mine, with its vibrant cover and Velcro flap keeping my papers securely in place.

This binder was more than just a notebook; it was a personal assistant, helping me manage my assignments and schedule with flair.

As digital devices take over, the Trapper Keeper remains a symbol of practicality and style. It’s a reminder of the joy of writing by hand and the satisfaction of flipping through pages. So, if you’ve got one tucked away, dust it off and embrace the nostalgia of analog organization.

14. Nintendo 64 or Sega Genesis

For many, the Nintendo 64 or Sega Genesis was a gateway to gaming glory, offering pixelated adventures and unforgettable memories. I recall the thrill of plugging in a cartridge and diving into a world of fun.

These consoles were more than just entertainment; they were social hubs where friends gathered for epic gaming sessions and friendly competition.

Though graphics have evolved, the essence of gaming remains rooted in these retro consoles. They remind us of the joy of couch co-op and the excitement of pixelated battles. So, if you’ve got one stored away, plug it in and relive the golden age of gaming glory.

15. Camcorder with MiniDV Tapes

Lights, camera, nostalgia! The camcorder with MiniDV tapes was a relic of personal documentation. I remember shooting family events with a keen eye, feeling like a director capturing life’s moments.

This camcorder was more than just a device; it was a portal to memories, documenting occasions in a way that photos couldn’t.

As digital recording takes over, the camcorder remains a symbol of nostalgia and creativity. It’s a reminder of the joy of filming and the thrill of playback. So, if you’ve got one stashed away, dust it off and relive the magic of filming with flair.

16. Pager / Beeper

Remember the pager? This tiny device was our lifeline before mobile phones took over. I recall the thrill of receiving a page, deciphering the numeric codes that conveyed messages.

The pager was more than just a gadget; it was a statement of connectivity, keeping us in the loop without constant distraction.

As smartphones reign supreme, the pager remains a retro icon of communication simplicity. It’s a reminder of a time when messages were concise and intentional. So, if you’ve got one tucked away, take a page from the past and appreciate the quiet charm of this tiny device.

17. Manual Coffee Grinder

Grinding away, the manual coffee grinder was a testament to the artisan approach to brewing. I remember the satisfying effort of grinding beans by hand, savoring the aroma as it filled the kitchen.

This grinder was more than just a tool; it was a ritual, transforming the mundane act of making coffee into a meditative experience.

While electric grinders have sped up the process, the manual grinder remains a symbol of patience and craft. It’s a reminder of when coffee was savored, not just consumed. So, if you’ve got one in the back of a cupboard, dust it off and enjoy the slow brew of nostalgia.

18. A Tamagotchi

Who remembers the Tamagotchi—a virtual pet that taught us responsibility one beep at a time? I recall the dedication required to feed, play, and clean up after my digital companion.

This pocket-sized pet was more than just a toy; it was a lesson in care and attention, challenging us to keep our virtual friend alive.

Though modern games have taken over, the Tamagotchi remains a symbol of nostalgia and digital companionship. It’s a reminder of a time when technology was simple and engaging. So, if you’ve got one in a drawer, power it up and relive the joy of virtual pet care.

19. Printed Map Books (like Thomas Guide)

Navigating the world before GPS meant flipping through printed map books like the Thomas Guide. I remember plotting routes, feeling like an explorer charting new territories.

These guides were more than just maps; they were tools of adventure, helping us find our way with a sense of discovery.

As digital maps take over, the Thomas Guide remains a symbol of exploration and navigation. It’s a reminder of when getting lost was part of the journey. So, if you’ve got one in the glove compartment, open it up and appreciate the art of analog navigation.

20. A Boombox

Blasting tunes with pride, the boombox was the ultimate portable sound system. I remember carrying mine around, a personal DJ booth that turned any space into a party.

This device was more than just a music player; it was a cultural icon, a statement of style and taste.

Though modern speakers have taken over, the boombox remains a symbol of nostalgia and musical freedom. It’s a reminder of when music was shared, not just heard. So, if you’ve got one in storage, dust it off and let it blast your favorite throwback tracks.