Lisa O
Styles change, and technology moves fast, but some things stick around—especially in homes where comfort beats trends. For many Boomers, certain old-school items still feel practical, reliable, and even a little comforting. They may look outdated to younger folks, but they’ve earned their place after years of dependable use. Here are 15 household items Boomers still love, even if the rest of the world has moved on.
Landline Phones
Even with smartphones everywhere, a lot of Boomers still keep a landline phone plugged into the wall—usually one with a long curly cord and big buttons. They like knowing their phone works even during a power outage, and they trust it more than a battery-powered device. It’s reliable and familiar, and you’ll never catch them asking where they last set it down.
China Cabinets
China cabinets used to be a household staple, especially for families that hosted holiday dinners. Many Boomers still love them, not just for holding dishes but for showing off wedding china, old teacups, and passed-down treasures. They’re more than storage—they’re about memories. Every dish inside has a story, and they’re proud to keep those stories on display, even if they rarely open the doors.
Alarm Clocks
While most people now set their alarms on phones, plenty of Boomers still have a digital clock on their nightstands. They like how easy it is to glance at during the night without touching anything, and they trust it not to crash, freeze, or need an update. That bright red display and loud buzz are part of a morning routine that just works.
Rolodexes
Before contact lists went digital, Rolodexes ruled every desk. And believe it or not, some Boomers still use them. There’s just something satisfying about flipping through handwritten cards to find a number. You don’t need a password, a charger, or Wi-Fi—it’s always there. For them, it’s not just about phone numbers—it’s about keeping important contacts right where you can see them.
TV Trays
TV trays may seem like relics from another era, but Boomers still swear by them for eating dinner while watching the news or a favorite show. They’re practical, easy to fold and store, and perfect for holding snacks, puzzles, or bills. Younger people may call it multitasking—Boomers call it relaxing. These trays bring comfort, convenience, and a touch of old-school living room life.
Decorative Soaps
Boomers love setting out little decorative soaps shaped like roses, seashells, or hearts—especially in guest bathrooms. No one’s really meant to use them, and that’s the point. They’re there to make things look nice, not to wash up. It’s a small, thoughtful detail from a time when putting in extra effort for visitors was just what you did to show hospitality.
Wall Calendars
Even with smartphones and digital reminders, many Boomers still hang a big wall calendar in the kitchen or office. They like flipping the page each month, crossing off days, and writing notes in pen. It’s a habit that helps them feel more in control of their schedule, and those scenic photos or cat pictures? That’s just a bonus. Some traditions don’t need an upgrade.
Plastic Couch Covers
Most younger people can’t stand the feel or look of plastic couch covers, but Boomers know exactly why they’re still around. They protect the furniture from spills, wear, and grandkid chaos. They might squeak when you sit or stick in the summer, but they help keep couches looking brand-new decades later. For many Boomers, function beats fashion every time.
Mail Sorters
With paperless billing and digital everything, mail sorters aren’t as common now—but Boomers still use them to keep things in order. Whether it’s coupons, letters, bills, or catalogs, these organizers help divide everything into its place. It’s part of a system they’ve relied on for years, and it helps keep the paper chaos at bay without needing a single app.
Recipe Boxes
In a world full of cooking apps and YouTube recipe tutorials, many Boomers still treasure their wooden recipe boxes filled with handwritten cards. Some have grease stains, food smudges, or notes written in grandma’s handwriting. These boxes aren’t just about cooking—they’re about connection, memories, and time-tested dishes that have been passed down for decades. You can’t get that kind of soul from a search bar.
Quilted Toilet Paper Covers
These fuzzy little hats for toilet paper rolls might look strange to younger generations, but Boomers still find them charming. They sit neatly on the back of the toilet, often handmade, and give the bathroom a cozy touch. It’s not just decoration—it’s a habit. And let’s be honest: if you’ve ever seen one with a doll’s head on top, you’ll never forget it.
Magazine Racks
Boomers love keeping a stack of magazines in easy reach—Reader’s Digest, Good Housekeeping, or National Geographic all have their spots on a wooden rack beside the couch. It’s part of their quiet time. Instead of scrolling a phone, they flip through stories and articles the old-fashioned way. To them, there’s nothing outdated about sitting down with a good magazine and a cup of coffee.
Knick-Knack Shelves
Some people call it clutter, but Boomers call it charm. Shelves filled with little porcelain animals, glass birds, or souvenir thimbles are like memory books you can walk past. Each item was picked up on a trip, gifted by a friend, or part of a collection that grew slowly over time. These shelves aren’t random—they’re a life story told in tiny pieces.
Doilies
Lacy and delicate, doilies were once a common sight under lamps, vases, and candy dishes—and many Boomers still keep them proudly in place. They’re a sign of a well-kept home, offering both decoration and a little protection for tabletops. They may seem fussy today, but back then, they were a mark of care. And for some, they still are.
Ceramic Cookie Jars
There’s something magical about opening a cookie jar shaped like a barn, a bear, or a clown and finding fresh cookies inside. Boomers love these cheerful containers not just for holding treats but for the nostalgia they bring. They often sit right on the counter as a welcome sign to kids and guests, and it’s not just a jar—it’s part of the warm feeling of home.
