Kmart has been slowly releasing a range of retro home items, and judging by how quickly they are disappearing from shelves, it’s hitting a nerve with Aussie shoppers.
At first glance, these retro finds — from portable CD and cassette players to a digital camcorder and a retro phone handset — might seem like a step back in time. However, the excitement surrounding these Kmart finds reveals just how much Australians are looking for a slower, more grounded way of living at home.
When Kmart announced some of these products on Instagram, the comments section lit up with excitement.
“I need the cassette player,” wrote one person.
Another joked: “I can’t wait to try to find a pen to rewind my cassette tape after it gets stuck and pulls out.”
“About time someone brings the good old days back… love this,” another said.
Why the slow-home trend is making a comeback
After years of endless streaming, scrolling and smart gadgets in every corner, it’s easy to see why the slow-home trend is making a comeback. All those screens, updates, and notifications can leave our homes feeling very overstimulated.
Old tech offers something different. There are no algorithms, no running out of cloud storage or software updates, just objects that do exactly what they’re meant to. And if I’m being honest, I’m totally here for it.
Retro Kmart items we can’t wait to get our hands on
Cassette player
Cassette players bring back the charm of rewinding, flipping the tape and listening without skipping. They slow the pace of listening, and offer a screen-free way to enjoy music that feels personal and intentional. Cassette tapes can be found on Etsy and eBay.
Where to buy
Kmart portable radio
For those who want ambience without needing to open an app, an old-school portable radio is for you.
Where to buy
Kmart portable CD player
CD players, such as Kmart’s portable CD player, are making a comeback, with many of us kicking ourselves for getting rid of our CD collections. The idea of taking a break from algorithms and curating your own listening without notifications is bliss.
Where to buy
Kmart retro wired handset
This is a no-brainer for parents wanting to set some boundaries with their children. Kids can talk to their friends, and once the conversation is over, the phone stays in the kitchen. While the Kmart handset isn’t precisely a landline phone, it can be used in the same way, allowing the smartphone to be attached to the wall while chatting on the handset.
Where to buy
Kmart digital camcorder
Families want to capture birthdays, holidays, and everyday moments without using their phones. A dedicated camera keeps you present, avoids distractions, and captures footage that you can store, share, or watch without relying on the cloud.
Where to buy
How to bring the slow-home trend into your own space
- Create a screen-free corner
- Bring back one tactile ritual (CDs, radios, books)
- Choose physical objects you enjoy displaying
- Swap one smart item for a simple one
- Use technology intentionally, not automatically
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