HUMAN INTEREST / VIRAL
20 Things You Probably Had In Your House In The 90’s
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The 1990s were a vibrant decade filled with iconic toys, unique gadgets, and memorable fashion trends. This era brought a mix of technological advancements and cultural phenomena that made everyday life exciting and fun. From digital pets and powerful water guns to beloved video game consoles, the 90s had something for everyone. Many of these items became cherished parts of our daily lives, leaving a lasting impression on those who grew up during this time. Join us as we take a nostalgic journey through 20 things you probably had in your house in the 90s.
Beanie Babies
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Beanie Babies were small, stuffed animals filled with plastic pellets that became a massive collector’s craze in the 90s. Each Beanie Baby had a unique name and a tag with a poem. Many people bought and traded them, hoping their value would increase over time. These plush toys were a ubiquitous part of 90s childhood and collecting culture.
Tamagotchi
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Tamagotchis were handheld digital pets that became a global sensation in the 90s. Owners had to feed, play with, and clean up after their Tamagotchi to keep it happy and healthy. These virtual pets required constant attention, making them both fun and challenging to care for. Tamagotchis were one of the first popular digital toys, marking the beginning of the virtual pet phenomenon.
Furby
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Furby was an electronic robotic toy that resembled a cross between an owl and a hamster. It could “learn” English over time and respond to commands, making it an interactive and engaging toy. Furbies were highly sought after during the holiday seasons and quickly became a must-have item. Their expressive eyes and interactive nature made them a memorable part of 90s toy culture.
Nintendo 64
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The Nintendo 64 was a groundbreaking video game console released in the mid-90s. It introduced gamers to iconic titles such as Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and GoldenEye 007. The console’s innovative 3D graphics and multiplayer capabilities made it a staple in many households. It remains a beloved piece of gaming history for those who grew up during the 90s.
Pokémon Cards
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Pokémon cards became a worldwide phenomenon in the late 90s, with kids and collectors alike striving to “catch ’em all.” The trading card game featured various Pokémon characters, each with unique abilities and stats. Collecting and trading these cards became a major pastime, and many schools even had to ban them due to distractions. The Pokémon card craze was a defining trend of the decade.
Discman
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The Discman was a portable CD player that allowed people to listen to their favorite music on the go. It followed the success of the Walkman and was a staple for music lovers in the 90s. The Discman provided a high-quality listening experience and often featured anti-skip technology for smoother playback. It represented the height of personal music technology before the advent of digital music players.
Goosebumps Books
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Goosebumps books, written by R.L. Stine, were a series of children’s horror novels that captivated young readers. Each book featured a different spooky story, often with a twist ending. These books became incredibly popular in the 90s, spawning TV adaptations and various merchandise. Goosebumps encouraged a love of reading with their thrilling and engaging tales.
Polly Pocket
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Polly Pocket was a line of miniature dolls and playsets that could fit into compact, portable cases. Each playset opened to reveal a small world for the tiny dolls to explore, complete with intricate details and accessories. Polly Pocket toys were perfect for on-the-go play and collecting. Their small size and imaginative design made them a beloved toy for many children in the 90s.
Super Soaker
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Super Soaker water guns were a popular outdoor toy in the 90s, known for their powerful water streams. Invented by Lonnie Johnson, these water guns revolutionized summer play with their innovative design and impressive range. Kids enjoyed epic water battles, cooling off on hot days with their Super Soakers. The toy’s success led to numerous models and variations, cementing its place in 90s culture.
Tickle Me Elmo
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Tickle Me Elmo was a sensation in the 90s, becoming one of the most sought-after holiday toys. This plush toy giggled and shook when squeezed, providing endless amusement for children. Its popularity led to massive demand, with stores selling out quickly and parents scrambling to find one. Tickle Me Elmo became an iconic toy of the decade, known for its infectious laughter and cuteness.
Lisa Frank Stationery
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Lisa Frank stationery was known for its vibrant, colorful designs featuring unicorns, dolphins, and other whimsical creatures. These school supplies, including notebooks, folders, and stickers, were a hit with kids who loved the bright and cheerful artwork. Lisa Frank products added a fun and imaginative touch to everyday schoolwork. The brand’s distinctive style became a hallmark of 90s childhood.
Rollerblades
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Rollerblades, or inline skates, became a popular recreational activity in the 90s. They provided a fun way to exercise and get around, with many people using them for casual skating, sports, and tricks. Rollerblading was often seen in parks, on streets, and at roller rinks. The sport’s popularity led to a boom in skate culture and related fashion.
Gel Pens
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Gel pens were a must-have school supply in the 90s, known for their smooth writing and vibrant ink colors. These pens came in a variety of shades, including metallic and neon, making note-taking and doodling more fun. Gel pens were popular among students for personalizing their schoolwork and artwork. Their popularity extended to scrapbooking and other creative hobbies.
Sega Genesis
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The Sega Genesis was a popular video game console in the 90s, competing with the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). It featured a wide range of games, including Sonic the Hedgehog, which became the console’s mascot. The Genesis was known for its fast gameplay and edgy marketing. Many households had a Sega Genesis, making it a key part of 90s gaming culture.
Floppy Disks
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Floppy disks were a common data storage medium in the 90s, used for saving and transferring files. These square, magnetic disks came in different sizes, with the 3.5-inch version being the most popular. Floppy disks were essential for computer use, whether for school projects, work, or games. Their limited storage capacity is a reminder of how far technology has come since the 90s.
Magic Eye Books
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Magic Eye books featured autostereograms, which are images that reveal 3D scenes when viewed with a specific focus. These books captivated readers, challenging them to find the hidden pictures within the colorful patterns. The phenomenon became a popular pastime, with people enjoying the sense of discovery and visual trickery. Magic Eye books were a unique and entertaining part of 90s pop culture.
Push Pop Candy
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Push Pop candy was a popular treat in the 90s, known for its fun and convenient design. This lollipop could be pushed up from its plastic tube, making it easy to enjoy and save for later. Push Pops came in various fruity flavors and were a favorite among kids. The candy’s playful design and delicious taste made it a staple of 90s snack culture.
Doc Martens
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Doc Martens boots became a fashion staple in the 90s, known for their durability and distinctive style. Originally designed as work boots, they were adopted by various subcultures, including grunge and punk. The boots’ chunky design and yellow stitching made them instantly recognizable. Doc Martens were a versatile footwear choice, symbolizing rebellion and individuality in 90s fashion.
Power Rangers Action Figures
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Power Rangers action figures were based on the popular TV show “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.” These toys allowed kids to recreate the adventures of their favorite heroes, complete with accessories and vehicles. The action figures came in various sizes and featured the different Ranger characters. Power Rangers toys were a huge hit, inspiring imaginative play and collecting.
Pogs
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Pogs were small, circular cardboard discs that became a popular game and collectible in the 90s. Players would stack Pogs and use a heavier disc, called a “slammer,” to flip them over, winning the ones that landed face-up. The game was simple but addictive, with Pogs featuring various designs, from cartoons to holographics. Collecting and trading Pogs was a major playground activity, making them a memorable part of 90s childhood.
Conclusion
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Reflecting on the 90s, it’s clear that this decade was a time of innovation and cultural impact. The toys, gadgets, and fashion trends from this era continue to evoke fond memories and a sense of nostalgia. These items not only entertained and engaged us but also shaped the way we interacted with the world around us. As we look back, we can appreciate how the 90s influenced our lives and the enduring legacy of its iconic treasures. Revisiting these beloved items reminds us of the joy and simplicity of those times, inspiring us to cherish the memories they created.
