TV infomercial products that actually work

  | 
Team Clark is adamant that we will never write content influenced by or paid for by an advertiser. To support our work, we do make money from some links to companies and deals on our site. Learn more about our guarantee here.

“Call now! Operators are standing by!” I want you to be careful about TV offers. Some  years ago I did a fun news story in my TV work where we ordered a number of products off television ads. Each one was hyped to be the greatest product ever sold.

In the news spot, we first showed the TV demonstration, then they cut to me actually using that same item. Not a single product worked like it did in the commercial!

One of my favorites was an ultra-strong power washer that attached to your garden hose, with a claim that you’d never need to hire a professional power washer for your concrete or siding again. I hooked it up to a hose, turned the water on high, pulled the lever… and the water barely dribbled out. Nothing happened. At least it made for some great video!

Well, Time‘s Moneyland blog did a piece recently on 7 infomercial products that actually work. Here’s their list:

  • PastaBoat ($6)
  • NuWave Oven ($130)
  • Open-X ($10)
  • Gutter Getter ($10)
  • Magic Mesh ($20)
  • Yoshi blade ($20)
  • Grill Daddy ($15)

I just want you to know that when you see something advertised on a commercial or infomercial, the sales pitch is geared to create a sense of urgency before you come to your senses. (“But wait! There’s more!”) Know that you can never be sure what you’re going to get. If you do buy something, make sure that you have — in writing — your right to return the product for a refund. And only pay by credit card so you can dispute the charge if necessary.

This post was last modified on March 22, 2017 2:15 pm

Recent Posts

Chase Increases Sign-up Bonus for Popular Credit Cards for Limited Time

If you've been considering signing up for one of the Chase Sapphire credit cards, now…

21 hours ago

6 Home Expenses You Have To Budget For (Beyond Your Mortgage)

The costs associated with owning a home go way beyond the amount on the mortgage. …

22 hours ago

Should I Pay Off My Mortgage Before Retirement or Invest?

Inflation hits people on a fixed income the hardest. Say you're retired. You're living off…

24 hours ago

Should I Fire My 1% Financial Advisor To Save on Fees?

Deciding to save and invest are great habits. But once you check that box, your…

2 days ago

Fubo Drops Popular Channels Amid Dispute with Warner Bros. Discovery

If you're considering subscribing to Fubo, you need to be comfortable missing out on some…

3 days ago

5 Things To Know About the Wells Fargo Signify Business Cash Card

Are you looking for a way to earn 2% back on every purchase you make…

3 days ago