Essential Toys from the 1970s That Every Kid Wanted

Toys have always been a big part of childhood.

In the 1970s, many toys not only entertained us but also sparked our imaginations.

This decade brought a mix of creativity, technology, and fun, with toys that are now considered classics.

From action figures to board games, the toys we played with helped shape our playtime experiences and often became cherished keepsakes.

When we think about toys from this period, it’s clear that some had qualities that made them stand out.

Many were designed with durability in mind, using materials that could withstand rough play.

Safety was also important, especially as toys became more complex with added features.

As we look at essential toys from the 1970s, we should pay attention to the materials they are made from and whether they have small parts, which could pose a choking hazard for younger kids.

In exploring these toys, we can rediscover what made them so special for us and how they continue to capture the hearts of new generations.

We spent time researching and testing a variety of popular toys from the 1970s to find those that truly stand the test of time.

Essential Toys from the 1970s

Get ready to take a trip down memory lane! We’ve gathered a list of the coolest toys from the 1970s that brought so much fun and joy to countless kids.

Let’s dive into some of these classic treasures that defined our childhood playtimes.

Star Wars Retro Collection Action Figures

These action figures are a great way to bring back the magic of Star Wars from the 70s.

✔️ Pros
  • Nostalgic design that sparks great memories.
  • Detailed figures that are fun to display.
  • Perfect gift for fans and collectors.
Cons
  • Packaging can sometimes arrive damaged.
  • Collectibility may vary based on the figure.
  • Some might find the price a bit high.

We absolutely love these Star Wars Retro action figures.

They really capture the spirit of the original toys from the late 70s.

The characters look just like we remember from our childhood, and it’s great to see them updated with the same attention to detail.

Each figure is about 3.75 inches tall and comes with six accessories, making playtime more exciting.

Whether you want to recreate iconic scenes or just display them on a shelf, these figures do the job beautifully.

The craftsmanship is solid and offers nostalgia for any fan.

That said, some people received their boxes with minor damage.

Although the figures themselves are fine, it might not be ideal if you’re a collector who prefers pristine packaging.

Overall, these figures are a fantastic trip down memory lane.

Star Wars Saelt-Marae Figure

This collectible Star Wars figure is a must for any fan looking to add a classic piece to their collection.

✔️ Pros
  • Great attention to detail and design.
  • Fully articulated for various poses.
  • Nostalgic packaging that harks back to the 1970s.
Cons
  • Some shipping issues leading to damaged packaging.
  • Might be smaller than expected for some collectors.
  • Limited availability could make it hard to find.

We recently added the Saelt-Marae action figure to our collection, and it did not disappoint.

The figure captures the character from “Return of the Jedi” brilliantly.

The color and texture make it stand out.

The attention to detail is impressive, with realistic features that any fan would appreciate.

Handling the figure is a joy.

With multiple points of articulation, we found ourselves experimenting with different poses.

We love that it can easily fit into various displays or dioramas.

It’s a fun way to show off the character in many ways.

The packaging is also nostalgic, taking us right back to the 1970s.

Just seeing the Kenner branding brings back memories.

But we did hear some complaints about shipping.

A few collectors experienced bent cards because of how they were packed.

It’s something to consider if you’re picky about packaging condition.

Overall, we think this figure is worth adding to any Star Wars collection.

VOSERY Retro Flower Satin Pillowcase

We think the VOSERY Retro Flower Satin Pillowcase is a charming addition to any bedroom, blending style with functionality.

✔️ Pros
  • Soft and silky feel on the skin
  • Helps reduce hair tangles while sleeping
  • Hidden zipper makes it easy to use
Cons
  • Hand washing might be a bit of a hassle
  • Limited color options available
  • May not fit all pillow types perfectly

Using the VOSERY satin pillowcase is like giving our hair a spa day every night.

The smooth texture feels amazing against your skin.

Plus, we noticed fewer tangles in our hair in the morning, which is a definite win.

The design is cute, giving a vintage vibe that fits perfectly in a retro-themed room.

The hidden zipper is a neat feature.

It makes putting the pillow in and out a breeze, unlike some other cases that can be tricky.

Caring for the pillowcase is manageable, but it’s best to keep in mind that hand washing is recommended.

If you’re okay with that, it should hold up well over time, adding a lovely touch to your space.

Overall, this pillowcase is a stylish choice for anyone looking to blend comfort with a cute retro look.

70s Groovy Tissue Box Cover

This tissue box cover brings together style and practicality, making it a fun piece for any room.

✔️ Pros
  • Made from durable, waterproof PVC leather.
  • Easy to clean with just a damp cloth.
  • Fits well in various settings, adding to home decor.
Cons
  • Limited color options may not suit everyone’s taste.
  • The foldable design might feel a bit flimsy for some.
  • Slightly smaller than traditional tissue boxes.

Using the 70s Groovy Tissue Box Cover adds a touch of nostalgia to our space.

The retro design brightens up any room, whether it’s on our living room coffee table or the office desk.

It feels light but sturdy, and cleaning it is a breeze—just a quick wipe, and it looks good as new.

The size fits perfectly in tight spots, making it handy wherever we want to place it.

The snap button opening is a nice touch that makes changing tissues simple.

It feels like a blend of charm and function in one neat package.

Yet, one thing we noticed is that it doesn’t come in many colors.

Some might prefer a more vibrant choice.

Also, while the foldable aspect is convenient, it does feel a bit less sturdy than traditional plastic options.

Despite these minor issues, we really enjoy having this tissue box cover around.

VOSERY 70s Cowboy Pillowcase

This satin pillowcase mixes style with function, making it a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their bedroom.

✔️ Pros
  • Soft and gentle on hair
  • Stylish Western design
  • Easy to use with a hidden zipper
Cons
  • May require special care while washing
  • Limited color options
  • Satin may not be for everyone

We recently got our hands on the VOSERY 70s Western Cowboy Satin Pillowcase, and it quickly became a favorite.

The blend of polyester and spandex feels luxuriously smooth against our skin, which is perfect for a cozy night’s sleep.

It really does help prevent tangles in our hair, making mornings a bit easier to manage.

The hidden zipper design is a nice touch.

It makes putting the pillow in and taking it out a breeze, unlike some pillowcases that can be a struggle.

The queen size fits most pillows perfectly, and it adds a fun vintage flair to our decor.

One thing to consider is the care instructions.

While it’s simple to wash, approaching it with a light touch is recommended to maintain that shiny finish.

Still, with its stylish look and practical benefits, this pillowcase can be a great addition to any room.

Buying Guide

Choosing the right toy from the 1970s can be fun and exciting.

Here are some tips to help us make our selections.

Factors to Consider

  • Age Appropriateness: Make sure the toy is suitable for the age group we have in mind.
  • Material: Look for toys made from durable materials that can withstand playtime.
  • Safety: Check for any small parts or hazards that could pose a risk.
  • Nostalgia: Consider if it brings back good memories or represents what we loved as kids.

Where to Buy

We can find 1970s toys at various places:

Location Pros Cons
Thrift Stores Often low prices Limited selection
Online Auctions Wide variety available Shipping costs
Toy Collectors’ Fairs Chance to meet sellers May be more expensive

Condition

When selecting a toy, we should think about its condition:

  • New: Unopened and in original packaging.
  • Used: Shows signs of wear but still functional.
  • Vintage: Unique items that are hard to find, often priced higher.

By keeping these factors in mind, we can make the best choice.

Let’s enjoy the hunt for those memorable toys!