Memorable “As Seen on TV” Products of the 1980s

There’s no denying the influence of television commercials. When viewers are hungry, a juicy hamburger ad might prompt a kitchen break. Those considering higher education might look into a college they saw during a football game. One type of commercial that consistently hooks people is for “As Seen on TV” products, which gained immense popularity in the 1980s.

The 1980s was an era focused on technological advancement. Many imagined a future where appliances responded to simple actions like clapping. Enter The Clapper. This device, when plugged into a wall, allowed users to control appliances by clapping. The simple jingle “Clap on, Clap off” became ingrained in the minds of 1980s viewers.

Another memorable product from that time was LifeCall. Although designed in the 1970s, its market peaked in the ’80s. Many adult children wanted their elderly parents to have LifeCall in case of falls or injuries. This product has saved countless lives over the years and prevented numerous disasters.

To compile this list of the most memorable “As Seen on TV” products from the 1980s, 24/7 Tempo consulted various entertainment sources, including Mental Floss, MeTV, and Something Great Marketing.

Folks in the 1980s were always dreaming about the future. Companies invested millions into research and development, aiming to create the “next big thing.” One standout product from that era was The Clapper. This invention eliminated the need to stand up to turn something on or off. Users just had to plug it in, and clapping would activate or deactivate the connected appliance. While it didn’t gain widespread traction, the jingle “Clap on, Clap off” remains memorable.

Another intriguing creation was the Flowbee. Given the less stringent consumer protection laws of the 1980s, many unique products emerged. The Flowbee combined a razor and vacuum cleaner, allowing people to cut their hair at home. While convenient, the end result often wasn’t the desired hairstyle, and many deemed it unsafe. Ultimately, the product didn’t last.

The Buttoneer addressed a common problem: buttons falling off clothes. Before its advent, one needed a sewing kit to fix a button. The Buttoneer simplified this by punching a fastener into the fabric, attaching the button securely. This innovative idea is still popular today and remains a staple in clothing stores.

Fishing enthusiasts were introduced to the Pocket Fisherman. This compact fishing rod featured a mini tackle box in its handle. It allowed spontaneous fishing trips, appealing to those who enjoyed impromptu outings. The product’s success has endured, and it’s still popular today, especially post-pandemic as more people explore the outdoors.

LifeCall provided essential aid for the elderly. Before its introduction, older individuals had limited means to call for help if they fell. LifeCall, worn around the neck, allowed immediate contact in emergencies. Its importance and affordability have kept it on the market, remaining vital for older adults living alone.

Music has always been significant in American culture. In the 1980s, K-tel albums offered an affordable way to enjoy a variety of hits. These compilation albums featured more songs than typical vinyl records, popularizing the concept and becoming a hit among young people.

The Record Vacuum was another must-have for music lovers. It ensured records were clean, preventing distortion from dust or fingerprints. Despite its name, it didn’t vacuum dirt but rather cleaned records safely. With a renewed interest in vintage records, this product remains relevant today.

Knowing how much power remains in a battery is crucial. In the 1980s, the Ronco Battery Tester provided a solution. By removing the battery and testing it, users could see its charge level, ensuring devices like flashlights were ready for use. While less popular now, it served a crucial role in its time.

In the kitchen, shortcuts are always welcome. The Ronco Egg Scrambler offered a unique way to prepare eggs, even scrambling them within the shell. While it had its challenges, such as the risk of breaking hard-boiled eggs, it found favor among those who loved omelet-style eggs. Today, there are many more options for cooking eggs.

Kids love having pets, but not all families can accommodate one. The Chia Pet, which grows from planted seeds inside an animal-shaped shell, became a sensation. It taught kids responsibility and provided a fun growth project. Nowadays, Chia Pets include characters from shows like “Scooby-Doo,” and they continue to be a beloved item.

Ginsu Knives revolutionized kitchenware. Despite its Japanese-sounding name, the product hailed from Ohio. Known for their sharpness and durability, these knives eliminated the need for frequent sharpening. Today’s kitchenware continues to build on the Ginsu Knife’s legacy, enhancing food preparation.

Mr. Microphone was a dream come true for aspiring stars. This device allowed users to broadcast their voices over any FM station, providing a platform for showcasing talent. Although obsolete in today’s social media era, it was a creative solution for self-promotion in the 1980s.

Source: Mental Floss, MeTV, Something Great Marketing