If your desk drawers are a bit overloaded, chances are you’ve got some retro office supplies hanging around. These older tools might seem harmless, but they often take up more space than you realize. Over time, they can pile up and add to the clutter, making it harder to stay organized.
Knowing which vintage items are crowding your workspace helps you decide what to keep and what to clear out. Clearing those out will give you more room for the essentials you actually use and can even make your workflow feel smoother.
Old rotary dial phones
You might still have one of those old rotary dial phones tucked away in a drawer. These phones were everywhere from the 1940s until the 1980s before push-button models took over.
They work by sending electrical pulses when you spin the dial for each number. While mostly decorative now, some folks restore them or even use kits to connect them to modern phone lines.
If you’re thinking about dusting yours off, be ready for a slower dialing experience compared to today’s touchscreens. They definitely add a vintage vibe to any space.
Vintage metal pencil sharpeners
You’ve probably got a few vintage metal pencil sharpeners tucked away in your drawers. These sturdy little tools were once a must-have on every desk, built to last and often made from brass or steel.
They’re not just practical—they carry a bit of nostalgia, adding a retro touch to your workspace. If you ever decide to dust them off, you’ll notice how satisfying it is to use something so solid compared to modern plastic sharpeners.
Retro staplers with wood handles
If you’ve got one of those staplers with a wood handle tucked away, you’re holding a little piece of office history. These staplers often mix wood with metal, giving them a sturdy feel and a cool vintage vibe.
They’re not just stylish; many were built to last, with heavy-duty mechanisms that still work today. Perfect if you want a retro touch on your desk without sacrificing function. Plus, their unique look stands out compared to plastic ones you see everywhere now.
Classic typewriter ribbon tins
You’ve probably seen those small, colorful tins that once held typewriter ribbons. They date back to the 1870s and were used until the 1960s.
The designs often reflect the style of their time, making them interesting little pieces of history. Some even had space to stamp the typewriter model on the tin.
If you’re sorting through old office stuff, don’t be surprised to find these vintage tins. They’re popular with collectors because of their nostalgic charm and unique graphics.
Vintage ink wells
You might find vintage ink wells tucked away in your drawers, relics from a time when fountain pens ruled the desk. These small, often decorative containers once held ink for dipping pens by hand.
Though they’re no longer practical for everyday use, they add a nostalgic touch to your workspace. Some even serve as unique decor pieces, reminding you of a slower, more deliberate way to write.
Metal letter trays from the 70s
If you’ve got metal letter trays from the 70s lying around, you probably know they’re sturdy but take up a lot of space. These trays were designed for serious organization, with multiple slots to separate letters, papers, and notes.
You might find some with visible wear or stains, which adds character but also shows their age. They’re great for sorting mail, but can quickly clutter your drawers if you’re not careful with what you keep.
Retro tin desk organizers
If you’ve got a bunch of old tin desk organizers, they’re probably taking up space in your drawers. These vintage pieces often have simple designs but can be surprisingly handy for sorting small items like paper clips or pens.
You might think they’re outdated, but they still work well to keep your desk tidy. Plus, their classic look adds a bit of character to your workspace without feeling too flashy. If you want, you can even give them a quick clean to bring back some shine.
Old-school wooden stamp pads
You probably have some wooden stamp pads lying around from years ago. These pads were made to work with traditional wood-handled stamps, giving your desk that classic, vintage vibe.
They come in a bunch of ink colors and sizes, so they were pretty handy back in the day. Even now, if you want that authentic stamped look, old-school pads still do the trick.
More from Cultivated Comfort:
- 7 Vintage Home Items From the ’60s That Are Collectors’ Dream Finds
- 7 Vintage Home Goods That Became Collectors’ Gold
- 7 Fast-Food Chains That Changed for the Worse
- 7 Frozen Dinners That Were Better Back in the Day
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
