14 Outdated Bathroom Fixtures from the ’70s That Would Never Work Today

This post may contain affiliate links.

The 1970s were a bold time for home design, and nowhere was that more obvious than in the bathroom. Color was everywhere, textures were layered on thick, and practicality sometimes took a backseat to style. What felt modern and trendy back then now looks like something straight out of a time capsule.

Looking back, a lot of these fixtures didn’t just fall out of style; they wouldn’t really work in today’s homes at all. Between hygiene concerns, safety issues, and changing preferences, most of these designs have been completely left behind.

Here are some of the most memorable (and questionable) bathroom fixtures from the ’70s.

Tiled Bathtub Surrounds

Bathtubs were often surrounded by matching tiles that extended up the walls, sometimes with built-in features. While it created a cohesive look, it could feel heavy and hard to update.

Modern bathrooms lean toward simpler, cleaner lines that are easier to maintain.

Harvest Gold and Avocado Green Toilets

Color was a major theme in ’70s bathrooms, and even toilets weren’t spared. Shades like avocado green and harvest gold were everywhere, making bathrooms feel bold but also a bit overwhelming.

Today, most people lean toward neutral tones that feel clean and timeless, not something that instantly dates the entire space.

Carpeted Bathrooms

Yes, wall-to-wall carpet in the bathroom was once considered cozy and even luxurious. It softened the space and felt warmer underfoot.

But in reality, it trapped moisture, odors, and bacteria, making it one of the least practical choices imaginable by today’s standards.

Sunken Bathtubs

Sunken tubs were designed to feel spa-like and dramatic, but they often created more problems than they solved. Stepping down into a tub might look sleek, but it also introduces a real safety risk.

Modern bathrooms focus more on accessibility and ease of use, which makes this design feel outdated.

Plastic Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops were popular because they were affordable and came in a variety of patterns. From faux wood to fake marble, they tried to mimic more expensive materials.

Over time, though, they scratched easily and didn’t hold up well, which is why more durable surfaces are preferred today.

Shiny, Patterned Wallpaper

Bathrooms in the ’70s often featured bold wallpaper with metallic finishes or busy patterns. It was meant to make a statement, but it could easily overwhelm a small space.

Today’s designs tend to favor cleaner, subtler finishes that don’t feel as visually heavy.

Hollywood Vanity Lighting

Rows of exposed bulbs around mirrors gave bathrooms that backstage, dressing-room feel. While bright, the lighting was often harsh and unflattering.

Modern lighting is softer and more diffused, creating a more natural and comfortable look.

Pastel and Colored Sinks

Sinks in shades like pink, blue, or yellow were once considered stylish and unique. They added personality but also made bathrooms feel very tied to a specific era.

Now, simpler designs and neutral colors tend to win out for longevity.

Shell-Shaped Sinks

Novelty sinks shaped like seashells were a popular decorative choice. While they added character, they weren’t always practical for everyday use.

Water splashing and awkward shapes made them more decorative than functional.

Wood Paneling

Wood paneling made its way into bathrooms as part of the broader design trend of the time. It gave spaces a warm, natural look but didn’t hold up well in humid environments.

Moisture damage and maintenance issues eventually made it an impractical choice.

Fuzzy Toilet Seat Covers

Soft, shag-style toilet seat covers were meant to add comfort and match the rest of the bathroom décor.

In reality, they trap dust and moisture, making them difficult to keep clean and far from hygienic.

Mirror Tiles

Mirror tiles were used to make bathrooms feel bigger and more glamorous. But in practice, they created a busy, reflective space that was hard to maintain.

Keeping all those small mirrored surfaces clean was a constant challenge.

Pedestal Sinks Without Storage

Pedestal sinks were sleek and minimal, but they came with one big drawback: no storage.

Today, most bathrooms prioritize function, which is why vanities with built-in storage are far more common.

Glass Block Walls

Glass blocks were used to divide spaces while still letting light through. At the time, they felt modern and stylish.

Now, they tend to look bulky and dated compared to more streamlined glass options.

Other Posts You Might Like

• 13 Beloved Toys from the 60s and 70s That Would Never Be Allowed Today
• 20 Household Items Pawn Shops Will Pay Big Bucks For
• Wallpaper Trends for 2026
• 15 Home Decor and Design Trends Millennials Love
• Top Kitchen Design Trends for 2026 You’ll Want to Try
• Ombre Walls: A Stylish Design Trend for 2025