Growing up in the 90s was such a unique experience, especially if you were a kid in the UK. It was a time before smartphones and social media, where the simple things could bring hours of joy. Looking back, I find it amazing how certain items almost universally filled the bedrooms of children across the country. Some were tied to pop culture, while others were just part of the times. Whether it’s the toys we cherished or the posters we plastered on our walls, there’s something wonderfully nostalgic about those bedroom staples. Let’s take a little trip down memory lane, and see if you recognise these 12 things that were probably in your room, too!
1. Beanie Babies
The 90s were all about collecting things, and Beanie Babies were a massive craze. These little plush toys came with heart-shaped tags, each featuring a unique name and a quirky poem. While some of us played with them, others kept them in pristine condition, convinced they’d be worth a fortune one day. Spoiler alert: most didn’t quite become the treasure we hoped, but they sure were cute.
2. Glow-in-the-Dark Stars
What better way to bring a little magic to bedtime than covering your ceiling with glow-in-the-dark stars? Every 90s kid had them scattered above their bed, creating mini constellations to stare at before falling asleep. They soaked up the light during the day and softly glowed at night, transforming any ordinary room into something a little more special.
3. Tamagotchi
Tamagotchis were the must-have digital pets of the decade. These little keychain gadgets demanded constant attention, beeping to let you know when they were hungry, tired, or just plain bored. You had to feed them, clean up after them, and if you didn’t keep up, they’d “die”—which was a pretty big deal back then. The number of kids who brought them to school is too many to count!
4. Lava Lamp
Lava lamps were the ultimate symbol of cool in any 90s bedroom. Their hypnotic, slow-moving blobs of wax floating in coloured liquid could keep you mesmerised for hours. Whether they were neon pink or classic blue, they gave your room a bit of that psychedelic, laid-back vibe. Plus, they were the perfect night light—groovy and calming at the same time.
5. Posters of Pop Bands
Every wall in a 90s kid’s room was likely plastered with posters of the hottest pop stars of the time. Whether you were Team Spice Girls or obsessed with boy bands like Take That or Boyzone, these posters were crucial in showcasing your musical taste. It wasn’t just about liking the music—it was about loyalty to your favourite band and making sure everyone who walked into your room knew it.
6. A CD Collection
Long before Spotify playlists, there were CDs. In the 90s, having your own CD collection was a rite of passage. You’d save up your pocket money or hope for a new album for your birthday. From compilation albums like “Now That’s What I Call Music!” to your favourite band’s latest release, a stack of CDs was essential. And let’s not forget the portable CD players, which skipped if you dared to move!
7. Inflatable Furniture
Inflatable chairs and sofas were all the rage for a while, adding a fun (and slightly impractical) touch to any bedroom. They came in neon colours like bright green or purple and made a satisfying squeak every time you sat down. While not the comfiest, they were definitely trendy—and you felt pretty cool owning one.
8. Polly Pocket or Mighty Max
Depending on whether you gravitated more towards action or imagination, you probably had a Polly Pocket or Mighty Max in your room. These miniature playsets, either filled with tiny dolls or tiny warriors, were perfect for some quick fun. They were pocket-sized, making them ideal for travelling and easy to lose in the depths of your room.
9. Game Boy
The Game Boy was a staple for any 90s kid who loved video games. Whether it was the original grey brick or the more colourful Game Boy Colour, this handheld console was a game-changer (literally). Games like Pokémon Red and Blue or Tetris were everywhere, and trading link cables with friends was a regular activity during sleepovers.
10. Spice Girls Merchandise
The Spice Girls were more than a pop group—they were a movement. And if you were a fan, your bedroom was probably a shrine to them. Whether it was posters, dolls, or even Spice Girls-branded bedding, they were everywhere. You could show off your fandom in a hundred different ways, and every fan had a favourite Spice Girl to idolise.
11. A Lava Lamp Poster
If you couldn’t afford a real lava lamp or didn’t have the space for one, chances are you had a lava lamp poster. These posters often had bright, trippy colours and psychedelic patterns that mimicked the look of a real lava lamp. They were affordable, fun, and added a splash of 90s flair to your walls.
12. TV/VCR Combo
If you were lucky enough, your room had its very own TV/VCR combo unit. Watching your favourite VHS tapes—whether they were classic Disney films or the latest blockbuster—was the ultimate treat. There was something special about popping in a tape, hearing it whir, and watching those grainy images flicker to life on your screen. Rewinding was, of course, a hassle, but it was worth it.
16 American Foods Brits Can’t Stand
Food preferences can vary wildly across cultures, and what’s considered a delicacy in one country might be seen as downright bizarre in another. This cultural divide is particularly evident when comparing American and British cuisines. While the two nations share a common language, their tastes in food can be worlds apart. From overly sweet concoctions to processed cheese products, there are certain American foods that many Brits find hard to stomach.
Read More: 16 American Foods Brits Can’t Stand
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
