12 Classic Infomercial Products That Were Surprisingly Useful
Not all late-night infomercial gadgets were junk; these 12 classics actually worked and stood the test of time.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Infomercials were once TV’s go-to playground for outrageous claims and wild demonstrations. While many products were gimmicky, a few genuinely delivered on their promises and became household staples. Here’s a look at 12 surprisingly effective infomercial items that proved their worth.
1. The George Foreman Grill
Roastedbeanz1 on Wikimedia Commons
This compact countertop grill promised healthier meals by draining fat as it cooked. It became a dorm room legend and a staple in busy kitchens.
2. OxiClean
inujillow on Flickr
Billy Mays wasn’t exaggerating; this stain remover actually worked wonders on laundry, carpets, and even outdoor furniture. It quickly became a household essential.
3. The Snuggie
David Shankbone on Wikimedia Commons
Marketed as a “blanket with sleeves,” the Snuggie looked goofy but delivered serious comfort. Perfect for staying warm while reading or watching TV, it found its way into millions of homes.
4. ShamWow
Anirudh Koul on Flickr
This super-absorbent towel soaked up spills like magic and wrung out dry with ease. Whether for cars, kitchens, or pet messes, it held up over time.
5. Magic Bullet Blender
Mack Male on Wikimedia Commons
This compact blender was perfect for smoothies, salsas, and quick food prep. It saved space and sped up kitchen chores.
6. The Clapper
Alexandr Kozlenko on Pexels
Clap your hands, and the lights turn on or off — simple, fun, and great for accessibility. While it may seem outdated today, it was ahead of its time.
7. Ginsu Knives
alexandre nakonechnyj on Flickr
Infamous for slicing through cans and still chopping tomatoes with ease, these knives lived up to their flashy pitch. Affordable and shockingly durable, many kitchens still have them decades later.
8. PedEgg
Michelle Cesare on Flickr
This odd-looking foot file removed dead skin gently and cleanly. Gross? A little. Effective? Very. It became a bestseller for good reason.
9. The Ab Roller
KoolShooters on Pexels
Simple in design but effective for core workouts, the Ab Roller supported your neck while crunching. Many home gyms included one during the fitness boom.
10. ThighMaster
CATHY PHAM on Unsplash
Made famous by Suzanne Somers, this odd-looking device promised toned thighs — and surprisingly delivered. Easy to use while watching TV, it made at-home toning convenient.
11. Flex Tape
Hardcast on Flickr
Slap it on a leak, and it holds just like the commercial promised. Whether for plumbing, boating, or general repair, this heavy-duty tape earned its fan base.
12. Swivel Sweeper
Liliana Drew on Pexels
This lightweight electric broom cleaned in all directions and was a lifesaver for quick pickups. It maneuvered easily under furniture and held a surprising amount of debris.