20 Unique Boomer Habits That Set Them Apart From Everyone Else
Every generation has its quirks, but Baby Boomers stand out for their distinct habits and behaviors that no other generation seems to embrace. Whether it’s their love for handwritten letters or their loyalty to brands from decades ago, Boomers hold onto traditions and routines that feel nostalgic and unique in today’s world.
As younger generations move towards newer trends, these practices highlight a charming (and sometimes puzzling) generational divide. Here are 20 things Boomers do that no other generation does.
Write Checks at the Grocery Store
While most people have transitioned to debit cards or mobile payments, many Boomers still whip out a checkbook at the register. It’s a slower process that drives younger generations crazy, but for Boomers, it’s a trusted and familiar way to manage money.
Collect Newspaper Clippings
Boomers love to cut out interesting articles, recipes, or obituaries from newspapers. While others bookmark online or screenshot, Boomers swear by the tactile charm of physical clippings.
They’re often shared with friends or saved in scrapbooks.
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Save Plastic Grocery Bags
Boomers are pros at reusing plastic bags for everything—trash can liners, lunch bags, or even makeshift storage. Younger generations lean toward reusable totes, but Boomers see value in repurposing.
Use Landlines
Despite the ubiquity of smartphones, many Boomers still have a trusty landline at home. It’s often seen as a backup in emergencies or a nostalgic nod to a simpler time.
Iron Everything
From tablecloths to jeans, Boomers are all about perfectly pressed fabrics. Younger generations are more likely to embrace the wrinkle-free look right out of the dryer—or skip ironing altogether.
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Forward Chain Emails
Boomers have kept the chain email phenomenon alive. Whether it’s inspirational quotes, warnings about scams, or funny jokes, their inboxes remain full of messages that younger folks would delete instantly.
Talk to Customer Service on the Phone
While younger generations prefer live chats or emails, Boomers often pick up the phone for a personal touch. They value speaking directly to a human, even if it means long wait times.
Use Cash for Big Purchases
Boomers often prefer to pay with cash for cars, furniture, or other large expenses. It’s a habit rooted in avoiding debt, a stark contrast to the swipe-now-pay-later culture of younger groups.
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Clip Coupons From the Newspaper
Although digital coupons are widely available, Boomers still enjoy the satisfaction of cutting out coupons by hand. It’s a ritual tied to their thrifty nature and love for tangible savings.
Keep a Rolodex
Despite the rise of digital contacts, many Boomers still have a Rolodex on their desk. It’s a physical, reliable backup filled with handwritten names, numbers, and notes.
Watch Network News Every Night
While streaming and social media have replaced traditional news for many, Boomers remain loyal to nightly broadcasts. It’s part of their routine to sit down and watch trusted anchors deliver the day’s events.
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Print Photos and Put Them in Albums
For Boomers, memories belong in albums, not on hard drives. They still develop prints, carefully organizing them into photo books to preserve family history.
Use Bar Soap
Bar soap remains a bathroom staple for Boomers, while younger generations often opt for liquid body washes or shower gels. It’s a simple preference rooted in familiarity.
Call Instead of Text
Boomers often prefer to call instead of text, valuing the personal connection of a voice conversation. Younger generations, however, might find this intrusive or unnecessary.
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Keep Old Appliances Until They Break
Boomers are less likely to replace appliances just because newer models are available. If it still works, they keep it, often repairing it themselves before considering a replacement.
Send Holiday Cards in the Mail
While many now send e-cards or texts, Boomers still love sending and receiving physical holiday cards. They carefully choose designs, write heartfelt messages, and even include family updates.
Refer to Maps Instead of GPS
Some Boomers keep a road atlas in the car and consult it during trips. It’s a skill they’ve mastered and trust, even in the age of turn-by-turn navigation apps.
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Stick With Trusted Brands
Boomers are fiercely loyal to the brands they’ve used for decades. They’ll often choose the same products, from toothpaste to cars, because they trust what’s worked in the past.
Wear Watches for Telling Time
While smartwatches are popular, many Boomers wear traditional watches simply to tell time. It’s a habit tied to practicality rather than tracking notifications or fitness stats.
Call It “The Facebook”
Boomers sometimes add “the” before popular website names, like “The Facebook” or “The Google.” It’s an endearing quirk that highlights how they experienced the internet as it first emerged.
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