Inside Every ’70s Kid’s Bedroom

Before smartphones and gaming consoles took over kids’ bedrooms, the 1970s child’s room was a colorful mix of toys, crafts, and decorations that reflected the distinctive style of the era. These rooms weren’t just places to sleep – they were personal kingdoms decorated with items that would make today’s minimalist designers cringe. Let’s take a nostalgic look at what you’d find in virtually every ’70s kid’s bedroom.

1. Lava Lamp

The ultimate mood lighting for any ’70s bedroom, these groovy lamps came in psychedelic color combinations like purple/orange or blue/green. The mesmerizing motion of the “lava” could keep kids entertained for hours, especially during late-night reading sessions. They took forever to warm up, but the wait was always worth it.

2. Shag Carpet

Deep, plush, and often in bold colors like harvest gold or avocado green, shag carpeting was the foundation of any proper ’70s bedroom. It was perfect for lying on while reading comics or playing with toys, though keeping it clean was another matter entirely. The longer the shag, the more prestigious it was.

3. Bean Bag Chair

Usually in vinyl and often in vibrant colors, these slouchy seats were the epitome of casual ’70s cool. Despite the occasional bean leakage and the sticky feeling on bare legs in summer, they remained a favorite spot for reading, watching TV, or just hanging out.

4. Holly Hobbie Decor

From bedsheets to wall plaques, Holly Hobbie’s bonneted character appeared everywhere in girls’ rooms. The rustic, homespun look perfectly matched the decade’s fascination with American folk art and country themes. Many rooms featured the complete set – lamp, wastebasket, and even curtains.

5. Macramé Wall Hangings

These knotted creations, often holding plants or purely decorative, were staples of ’70s decor. Many kids made their own in craft classes, proudly displaying their handiwork. The more elaborate the pattern and the more beads incorporated, the better.

6. Black Light Posters

Fluorescent posters that glowed under black light were must-have wall decorations. Whether featuring rock bands, zodiac signs, or psychedelic patterns, these posters transformed ordinary bedrooms into mini light shows. The black light bulb was usually precariously clipped to a desk lamp.

7. Portable Record Player

These compact turntables, often in bright colors with built-in speakers, were perfect for playing 45s and LPs. The sound quality wasn’t great, but the independence of having your own music system made up for it. Most had a stack of scratched records nearby.

8. Star Wars Merchandise

After 1977, no kid’s room was complete without Star Wars items. From action figures to bedsheets, posters to drinking glasses, the franchise dominated bedroom decor. The action figures were displayed proudly, often in elaborate setups using shoeboxes as buildings.

9. Mood Ring Collection

These color-changing rings were more than jewelry – they were emotional barometers (or so we believed). Kids kept collections of them on bedside tables or in special jewelry boxes, often consulting the color charts to analyze their moods.

10. Pet Rock

The ultimate low-maintenance pet came in its own cardboard carrying case with air holes and straw. Many kids kept their Pet Rocks on display with the training manual nearby. Some even created elaborate homes for their geological companions.

11. Crochet Afghan

Usually handmade by a grandmother or aunt, these colorful blankets featured zigzag or granny square patterns in earth-tone colors. They were perfect for afternoon naps or fort-building adventures. The more clashing the colors, the more authentic it was.

12. Spirograph Set

This geometric drawing toy created endless patterns that often ended up decorating bedroom walls. The plastic gears and pens were usually scattered across desks, along with pages of colorful designs. Lost pieces under the bed were a common occurrence.

13. Magic 8 Ball

This mysterious decision-making oracle sat on many a bedside table, ready to answer life’s important questions. Whether choosing what to wear or deciding if you should do homework, the Magic 8 Ball was the ultimate authority.

14. String Art

Created in art class or from kits, these geometric designs made from nails and colored string adorned many bedroom walls. Popular patterns included sunbursts, hearts, and peace signs. The more complex the pattern, the more impressive the display.

15. Foil Art Posters

These shiny metallic posters featured everything from zodiac signs to fantasy scenes. The reflective surface caught light and created rainbow effects across bedroom walls. Many kids collected entire series, creating dazzling wall displays.