10 Old-School Household Routines That Have Disappeared And 5 That Will Never Go

In a world where gadgets are smarter than ever and AI can practically do your laundry (well, almost), it’s no surprise that many old-school household routines have faded into oblivion.

Gone are the days of rewinding VHS tapes, manually rolling down car windows, or waiting for dial-up internet to connect. But not all traditions have vanished—some routines are just too practical, too nostalgic, or too downright comforting to ever go extinct.

So, let’s take a fun, time-traveling tour through 15 daily habits that have disappeared faster than a Blockbuster rental return, and 5 that refuse to go down without a fight.

From ironing everything (yes, even jeans!) to waiting by the phone for an important call, we’ll revisit the routines that defined an era—while also celebrating the ones that still keep our households running.

Buckle up, because this ride through time is packed with nostalgia, humor, and maybe even a few “Oh wow, I totally forgot about that!” moments!

1. Rewinding VHS Tapes

“Be kind, rewind!” was more than just a catchy slogan—it was a social obligation. Back in the day, after watching a movie, the considerate thing to do was rewind the VHS tape before returning it to Blockbuster. This forgotten ritual required patience and, sometimes, a trusty pencil for manual rewinding.

With the advent of DVDs and streaming services, rewinding tapes became obsolete faster than you could say “Netflix and chill.” Digital media ensures instant access, no rewinding needed.

Today, the rewind button is more of a nostalgic relic, leaving us to wonder: did we lose something sentimental when we lost this little ritual? Could this be why we treasure digital playlists, where we can replay our favorite tunes at the touch of a button? Or perhaps we’re just glad to skip the hassle and get straight to the good stuff.

2. Ironing EVERYTHING

Once upon a crisp time, ironing was essential, making clothes look fresh off the runway. People ironed everything — shirts, sheets, even underwear! A wrinkle was a fashion faux pas, and folks were determined to smooth their way through life.

With innovations like wrinkle-free fabrics, powerful steamers, and a shift toward “casual chic,” the iron’s reign began to wane. Modern dryers now bestow clothing with an almost ironed look.

Yet, while ironing may seem like a relic, for some, it remains a therapeutic ritual. The steam rising, the satisfaction of a perfectly pressed crease, and the nostalgic scent of freshly ironed linen transport you to a simpler era. Ironing might be down, but it’s certainly not out, clinging to those who revel in its methodical dance.

3. Using a Rolodex for Contacts

In a pre-smartphone world, the Rolodex was the Rolodex-ter of contact management. Spinning cards, each holding vital information, ensured you never lost touch with clients or friends. It was the original swipe-left-or-right.

With smartphones digitizing our lives, Rolodex cards gave way to apps and cloud storage, where contacts sync automatically, and a lost number is the stuff of nightmares.

Yet, there’s a tactile nostalgia to the Rolodex, a physical memory jogger that digital screens can’t replicate. It taught us the value of organization and the joy of finding a hand-written note from a colleague. While the Rolodex may have spun its last card, its spirit lives on in every organized contact list and color-coded app we use today.

4. Manual Dishwashing (Even with a Dishwasher)

Once upon a dish time, folks would wash dishes by hand before loading them into the dishwasher. This extra-clean assurance was a testament to meticulousness, ensuring no stubborn food particles survived the transition.

With modern dishwashers boasting super-clean technology, pre-scrubbing seems as old-fashioned as using a washboard. These machines now promise spotless results, freeing us from sudsy duties.

Still, for some, handwashing remains a cherished routine, offering a moment of zen amidst the day’s chaos. The rhythm of washing dishes can be meditative, soothing even the most frazzled spirits. While manual dishwashing may no longer be necessary, it’s certainly not forgotten by those who find solace in its simplicity.

5. Polishing Silverware for Special Occasions

There was a time when families polished silverware weekly or for special occasions, turning tarnished utensils into dazzling showpieces. This task required patience, a steady hand, and a love for sparkle.

As stainless steel took over and formal dinners declined, the need for polished silverware waned. Today, casual dining often means mismatched cutlery and minimal fuss.

Yet, the art of polishing isn’t entirely lost. It connects us to traditions of hospitality and elegance. For those who cherish the gleam, it’s a labor of love that transforms a meal into an event. Polishing silver isn’t just about shine; it’s about preserving a piece of history, one polished fork at a time.

6. Hanging Clothes on a Clothesline

Remember the days when clotheslines peppered backyards like flags of domesticity? Hanging clothes to dry was an art, utilizing nature’s dryer, the sun, and wind for freshness and that irresistible line-dried scent.

With energy-efficient dryers and HOAs frowning upon clotheslines, this practice has faded into a nostalgic memory of simpler times.

However, for those in the know, clotheslines still hold a certain charm. They offer a sustainable, energy-saving alternative and a touch of nostalgia—a reminder of sunny days and the simple pleasures of life. In some circles, clotheslines are making a quiet comeback, proving that sometimes the old ways are the best ways.

7. Answering the Landline Without Knowing Who’s Calling

Before caller ID, answering the phone was a daily gamble. Who could it be? Grandma, a telemarketer, or an exciting new prospect? This suspenseful moment tested your social skills and improvisation abilities.

Caller ID and smartphones revolutionized communication, letting us screen calls and dodge unwanted conversations. Now, unknown numbers raise suspicion more than curiosity.

Yet, the thrill of surprise calls is missed by some—a relic of spontaneity in an over-planned world. For those nostalgic for the mystery, sometimes it’s fun to answer without looking, just to see (or hear) who’s on the other end. We may be more connected than ever, but the unexpected gift of a surprise call is a joy from the past.

8. Using Encyclopedias for Research

Encyclopedias were once the Google of their time, providing a treasure trove of knowledge at your fingertips. Flipping through these hefty volumes, one learned not just facts but the joy of discovery.

Today, Wikipedia and online tools make information instantly accessible. This digital shift transformed research from a physical journey to a virtual one, with AI now offering even more profound insights.

Despite their decline, encyclopedias symbolize the pursuit of knowledge and a tactile connection to learning. For some, they remain a beloved resource, offering a break from screens and a reminder of a time when learning was a hands-on adventure. In a digital age, they’re a testament to the enduring value of curiosity and exploration.

9. Setting the Table for Every Meal

Once, setting the table was an art form practiced thrice daily, adding grace to every meal. Plates, cutlery, and napkins were placed with precision, fostering family bonds over shared suppers.

Fast food, TV dinners, and the lure of the couch dining experience have simplified mealtime routines. Formal table settings are now reserved for special occasions.

Yet, the ritual of setting the table endures for those who appreciate mealtime as a cherished gathering. It transforms eating from a rushed necessity to a treasured ritual, where details matter. In a world where dining can be casual, a set table is a reminder of the pleasure found in tradition and togetherness.

10. Writing Checks for Everyday Purchases

Once upon a transaction, checks reigned supreme. Grocery shopping, paying bills, even rent—everything required a handwritten check, complete with signature flourish.

Today, credit/debit cards, Venmo, and mobile banking have made checking out a breeze, rendering checks a rare sight outside of rent and nostalgic reminders of finance classes.

Even so, writing checks taught us financial literacy, responsibility, and the importance of balancing a checkbook—skills that remain relevant. For those who grew up with them, checks symbolize a methodical approach to spending and saving. They remind us that while convenience is key, there’s value in the tangible, deliberate act of financial management.

11. Spring Cleaning

Every year, spring cleaning invites us to refresh our homes, letting go of winter’s clutter and welcoming the new season with cleanliness. It’s a ritual that no robotic vacuum can replace.

Though cleaning technologies advance, the satisfaction of a deep clean keeps this tradition alive. There’s something about a tidy home that’s universally appealing.

Spring cleaning is more than a chore; it’s a metaphorical renewal, a chance to reset and rejuvenate. Whether it’s dusting shelves or airing out linens, it connects us to a cycle of renewal and is a testament to the timeless appeal of a fresh start.

12. Meal Prepping & Cooking at Home

Despite the convenience of fast food and delivery services, meal prepping and cooking at home retain their place as culinary cornerstones. Preparing meals from scratch connects us to the food we eat and the people we share it with.

Home-cooked meals tend to be healthier, tastier, and more economical. They offer a creative outlet and a chance to explore flavors without stepping outside.

Cooking is more than just sustenance; it’s an experience of bonding, love, and tradition. It fosters creativity and provides the comfort of familiar flavors. In a fast-paced world, cooking at home remains a delicious reminder of the joy found in nourishment and togetherness.

13. Folding Laundry

Ah, folding laundry—a routine task that endures despite technological leaps. Even with dryers doing the heavy lifting, folding remains a necessary chore.

Until robots conquer this task, folding laundry is a shared domestic ritual that transforms chaos into order. It brings the satisfaction of a job well done, tangible in neat stacks of clothing.

Folding laundry can be meditative, a pause in the day to reflect and unwind. It’s a common thread in household routines, reminding us of the simple joys in daily life. While technology may evolve, this chore’s persistence speaks to the enduring nature of domestic harmony.

14. Taking Out the Trash

For all the advancements in household convenience, taking out the trash remains a constant. No self-emptying bins yet, this task is as much a part of life as laundry.

Despite technological strides, trash inevitably piles up, and someone has to handle it. It’s a responsibility that connects us to the cycle of consumption and disposal.

Taking out the trash offers a moment of reflection—on waste, consumption, and the impact of our choices. Though a simple task, it carries the weight of environmental consciousness and the everyday rhythm of household life. Until robots take over, it’s a tradition we’ll carry to the curb.

15. Making the Bed

The simple act of making the bed has long been a mainstay of daily routines. It transforms a chaotic space into an oasis of calm, setting the tone for the day ahead.

While some skip this step, preferring the lived-in look, many find comfort and order in a neatly made bed. It’s a small accomplishment that starts the day on a positive note.

Making the bed is more than tidying up; it’s about creating a sanctuary. It signifies care and attention to detail, turning a bedroom into a retreat. This routine persists because the allure of a made bed is timeless, offering peace amidst the day’s hustle.