From the quirky infomercials in the dead of night to the too-good-to-be-true deals online, some products truly have us questioning their target market. Here are 19 products that seem almost exclusively marketed to the unsuspecting:
Pet Rock
Introduced in the 1970s, this product was a rock inside a box with straw and breathing holes. The appeal was a “pet” that required no care, but in essence, it was just a common rock.
USB Pet Rock
A modern iteration of the original Pet Rock, this product connects to your computer via USB, yet does absolutely nothing else. It’s mostly a novelty or gag gift.
Banana Slicer
A plastic device that slices a banana into even pieces. Critics argue it’s superfluous because a knife can achieve the same effect and is more versatile.
Sock Sliders
A device meant to help individuals put on socks without bending over. While it might be helpful for those with severe mobility issues, its infomercial makes it seem like a universal necessity.
DVD Rewinders
A gag gift. DVDs don’t function like VHS tapes and don’t need rewinding, making this product’s existence a joke.
Hair-Growing Helmets
Devices that claim to use laser therapy to stimulate hair growth. While some studies suggest light therapy can benefit hair health, many of these products may not deliver on their promises.
Rear Gear
A decorative sticker for a pet’s tail area. Its purpose is purely cosmetic, covering an area most people accept as a natural part of an animal.
Bottled Air
Some companies market bottled air from pristine locations, targeting those living in polluted cities. The effectiveness and practicality of these products are debated.
Egg Cubers
Devices that mold hard-boiled eggs into cube shapes. Aesthetically amusing, perhaps, but of limited utility.
Anti-Eating Face Mask
A mask designed to prevent wearers from eating. It’s a controversial and likely ineffective approach to dieting.
Solar-Powered Flashlights
While some versions store energy for nighttime use, the concept seems counterintuitive since flashlights are mainly used in the dark.
Shoe Umbrellas
Small umbrellas attached to shoes to keep them dry. While novel, they’re unlikely to be as effective as simply wearing waterproof shoes.
Stick-on Abs
Adhesive patches that mimic the appearance of toned abdominal muscles. They’re a cosmetic shortcut without any real fitness benefits.
Battery-Powered Battery Charger
A device that, oddly enough, uses batteries to charge other batteries. It seems counter-productive when there are more efficient methods available.
Diet Water
Brands have marketed water with added minerals and elements that supposedly aid weight loss. It’s often viewed with skepticism since regular water has zero calories.
Goldfish Walker
A mobile miniature fish tank allowing you to “walk” your goldfish. While it might provide a change of scenery for the fish, its practicality is questionable.
Fake TV Burglar Deterrent
A device that simulates the flickering light of a TV, suggesting someone’s home. It may offer some security, but its effectiveness is likely inferior to more established security measures.
Nothing
A gag gift comprised of clear packaging with nothing inside. It’s a statement on consumerism or perhaps a humorous way to give “nothing” to someone.
Universal Remote Wraps
Rubber covers for TV remotes. While they can provide some grip and protection, they might seem redundant to many.
It’s essential to approach products with a healthy dose of skepticism and research. The market is filled with absurd, redundant, and sometimes just plain silly items. Always remember, if it seems too good to be true (or too ridiculous to believe), it probably is!
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