Yeah, but does it work?

Snow Wovel

2021-01-28T20:14:00.001-06:00

Snow Wovel

The "Snow Wolf" or "Wovel" is basically a shovel with a large wheel in the middle of the extra long handle. The wheel in the middle acts as fulcrum point to make pushing or lifting much easier.

Living in the northern Midwest, I've had my Wovel for years, and it works great. However, it takes a bit to get use to. The most difficult part is developing the touch to "throw" the snow when you reach the edge of driveway or walkway.

Plus, the confusing looks from the neighbors is pretty entertaining.

Link : https://wovel.com/

WaxVac

2013-04-08T20:21:00.003-05:00

WaxVac

URL: http://www.waxvac.com/

Does it work? Huh...

I love writing these types of reviews. It's almost like the manufacturers create something, then try to market it to an audience. Needless to say, the product is a weak powered vac with some attachments. It’s not powerful enough to displace ear wax. I’m not sure I would like a powerful vacuum in my ear.

I guess if you had some water in your ear, it may suck up that. On the upside, it guess it could be used to vacuum dirt from a keyboard or crevices in a car.

XHose

2013-01-19T15:19:00.005-06:00

XHose
URL: http://www.xhose.com
Does it work? It may

It is true, garden hoses could use innovation. They are often cumbersome, they kink, they are heavy, and a space hog. A lightweight hose that also shrinks would be great. However, it seems we are not quite there yet.
* The rubber on the inside is not durable enough for the intended purpose and is easily ruptured.
* The connections are not build to leak-proof specs.
* If the ground surface is not perfectly smooth, the outside material of fabric doesn't always allow for normal expansion of the hose.

The problem is the materials.

No! No! Hair Removal

2013-01-19T14:47:00.001-06:00

No! No! Hair Removal
URL: https://www.trynono.com
Does it work? Actually, it could hurt a little

The No! No! Hair removal goes into the defies "physics" pile. The device is sort of a shaver with a heat element. I guess the idea is to shave and heat the hair off. But has you probably can imagine if you are heating the hair, it will heat everything in the area, such as skin. If you heat hair enough to effect it growing back, it will also affect your skin. Burning your skin to stop hair growth is a little like mowing your lawn with a blowtorch.

Gyro Bowl

2012-11-04T20:00:00.002-06:00

URL: https://www.buygyrobowl.com
Does it work? Yes

The Gyro Bowl is kid friendly snack bowl. The bowl stays level as the child moves about, turn it far enough and a lid swings over the top.

The main issue with the product is that it set the bar to high. In the advertisements, it is sometimes described as spill proof, or 100% kid proof. Most kids will for example, will shake it, which will negate the gyro aspect of the bowl.

Take the 'spill-proof' out of the title, and it would set the expectation correctly. It's better than a normal cup or bowl, but I still prefer a good snack cup on the go. I would use this bowl more around the house.

Another more minor issue it is over-sided. Will not store as easily as other bowls.

Links
http://www.target.com/p/as-seen-on-tv-gyro-bowl/-/A-13388648

http://www.amazon.com/GYRO-BOWL-Spill-Resistant-Gyroscopic/dp/B004J69U98

Stretch Genie

2012-09-09T15:06:00.002-05:00

URL: www.stretchgenie.com/
Does it work? Yes

Links
http://www.amazon.com/Stretch-Genie/dp/B008BVBT28

As usual, general common sense should be used. This product will not adjust shoes up to a different size, instead can be used for minor adjustments in a specific areas - as in stretching out a narrow heal or a tight tip of a shoe.

The process is simple, wet the material with the solution, then use the knobs to stretch it.

Note: Only for real leather. Non-natural materials, such as pleather, do not really stretch.

Pour to Store

2012-08-04T14:08:00.001-05:00

Pour to Store
URL: http://www.pourtostore.com/
Does it work? In deed
The pour to store is is a funnel like device that comes with attachments to accommodate liquids, powders, or a combination type solution or item. (e.g. olives in a brine). It also has some attachments for different size vessels.

A funnel does come in handy. It can be cumbersome to try to get olives back in a the jar, or soup into a bag for the freezer. I would the device on occasion. In reality, it just doesn't come up that often in my household or when it does,most people just pour it over the the sink.

I do admire the product for the appeal, its great for TV Infomercials. It’s because it is cheap, and appeals to multiple demographics, such as those that like gadgets people and women in general..

Links
http://www.asseenontvonsale.com/kitchen/pour-to-store/

Perfect Meatloaf

2012-04-02T21:23:00.001-05:00

URL: https://www.perfectmeatloaf.com
Does it work? Yup

Americans love their meatloaf. I enjoy meatloaf, and while I like making meatloaf I don’t have a chance to make it that often. And by the by the number of reviews out there, this is a popular product.

While I don’t like single use products, it’s a simple product - a loaf pan with a insert with handles and allows a space for fat to drain.

I can’t say its the most genius invention, but it works.

Links
http://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Meatloaf-PE011106-Pan-Set/dp/B005A5D0QG

Music Bullet™

2012-01-24T15:05:00.004-06:00

Music Bullet™

URL: getmusicbullet.com

Does it work? For some

The music bullet is a small set of portable speakers for mobile devices and tablets that uses the headphones port for sound, and is powered/recharged by a USB port. The speakers are small, therefore there is a limit the quality/volume of sounds they can produce (damn those laws of physics). The sound is okay, at best - keep your expectations low.

In my opinion, speakers that need to be recharged are annoying, but I realize there is no other way. One last note, definitely buy at a local store, the website and other online stores such as Amazon charge a bit more for the product.

LINKS:

http://www.asseenontvonsale.com/gadgets/music-bullet-speakers/

Potty Patch

2011-12-30T15:31:00.002-06:00

Potty Patch

URL: www.pottypatch.com

Does it work? Not.

The Potty Patch is artificial turf pad with and collection tray underneath with a screen between.

The idea is that your pet could use this product of going outside. (Yeah, you hear me - like a potty seat for your pet)

This product is a downer; here are the issues:

1) It smells, and is difficult to clean.

2) The fake grass frays, and is easily chewed apart by your pet.

3) The product makes a couple of assumptions: One, that your dog will not learn to drag around the turf making a bigger mess than their 'deposits'. Two, that your pet will be attracted to the pad and not use for a chew toy or sleeping pad.

I think this is a pretty poor idea to begin with, but the turf and screen should definitely snap in. The grass should be durable-able, and should be for a patio only.

Interestingly, there is a close cousin product called a "Patio Park" for outside use.

Here's the link: http://www.patiopark.com

TV Hat

2011-12-20T16:24:00.005-06:00

URL: https://www.buytvhatnow.com/
Does it work? Fail.

This product falls into the ‘I-can’t-believe-this-is-a-real-product’ category. It’s a baseball cap type device with an extra long bill, and a pocket at the end for the phone. The pocket has a plastic cover and a x2.5 magnifying viewer to look through.

First the good: It is ambitious – and I Iove the name, “TV Hat”.
Simple and good for a short URL.

The bad
It reminds of the weird and wonderful Japanese inventions/contraptions; such as, the tiny umbrella to protect your cigarette in the rain, or glue-type stick made with butter for spreading on toast.

As you can guess, it fails on many levels.

The pocket doesn't fit many popular phones.
The plastic cover on the pocket doesn't lay flat and therefore distorts the video picture. That’s in addition to the magnifying screen which obfuscates the video also.
It makes my eyes hurt just thinking about it.
It’s slightly creepy, eccentric looking. (I’m thinking it may be best for a creative Halloween costume)
How often do you need to watch video on a phone, and there’s a glare, and you happen to have the TV Hat, and you don’t mind looking odd?

Magic Mesh

2011-12-09T16:23:00.001-06:00

Magic Mesh, Magic Mesh. (slow head shake here)

This product falls into the “could-probably-do-it-yourself” with better results category. The product uses magnets and Velcro to support the screen over a door. As you can probably speculate, Velcro and magnets are not up to the task. The fabric does not stayed adhered to the door frame, nor does fabric typically close properly.

In addition, the screen material is low quality and prone to ripping and fraying.

If I wanted such a product, I would use metal wire or depending on the door frame a piece of wood or metal to properly support the fabric with mechanical fasteners such as screws or hooks. I would also weigh the bottom of the door with string of beads sewn into the bottom to drape the fabric.

Special note: It has been rumored, as so often with ‘as-seen-on-tv’ products ordering from the website or 1-800 number at your own peril. There are been reports of duplicate orders, difficult to cancel orders, and high “shipping and handling” charges. (See link below)

Links

http://www.asseenontvonsale.com/for-the-home/magic-mesh/

Table-Mate II

2011-12-02T12:27:00.001-06:00

Table-Mate II
URL: www.tablemate2.com/
Does it work? Yup

One of the best items, I’ve ever brought that has been advertised as seen on TV. After years of use with the “Table-mate II” -- it’s a very functional side table for the couch or sofa. The main advantage of this table is that the legs slide under the couch or chair that you are sitting making it a excellent platform for eating, drinking, writing, or using a laptop.

However, a couple of minor cons to note: A) it’s not especially stable – it will not necessary fall over, but a drink will spill if bumped. B) It’s not a looker. While it’s not awful or anything - Its is white and plastic, and it looks like an inexpensive white plastic table. (We hide it when company comes over)

Easy Feet Cleaner

2011-11-16T12:17:00.001-06:00

Easy Feet Cleaner

URL: https://www.buyeasyfeet.com/

Does it work: No way Philip-pa

It’s been a while since a product has struck out and since I've used a cheesy metaphor.

Here are the 3 strikes:

Strike 1. The bristles are not long enough, nor are they right firmness. This causes the soap not to sud up, and with the bristles bending, it hard for them to actually clean.

Strike 2. The suction cups will not work for many shower surfaces. For the suction cups to work, the shower surface as to be clean, flat, and smooth. Often shower floors are not causing easy feet will slide out of place.

Strike 3. The overall design: In addition to the suction cups, the with stone at the back, it is easily broken. It also doesn't really clean the sides or the top of your feet.

My advice is to use a bath brush - it's less work then trying to use easy feet.

Cleanstep Mat

2011-10-28T12:40:00.002-05:00

URL: www.cleanstepmat.com
Does it work? Yup, it is a mat.

First impressions; this mat will not win special awards for being fashionable. It is also on the small side.

It's not going to 'grab' mud or other debris off footwear, so the real question is does it stuck up moisture or work better than a normal mat. It does seems to. The fabric of the mat is good at soaking up moisture better than a typical doormat.

It's best use maybe for pets; for example, when walking the dog.

Note: Has to be washed before using.

Links:
http://www.kfvs12.com/story/15619790/does-it-work-wednesday-clean-step-mat

Stamp Out

2011-10-07T12:22:00.001-05:00

URL: www.StampOut.com
Does it work? Conditional

The "Stamp Out "stamper is for those of us who would like to minimize the chance that personal financial information could be stolen.

The stamp is more of a deterrent than a replacement for a shredder. It is easier and more convenient than sorting and saving items up for the monthly or weekly shedding session; to be used in lower risk areas as in credit card applications in the mail. If you have a sizable amount of paper, this is not the solution.

A couple of notes:
* It does not replace a shredder. For example, it will not cover up text that was impressed on paper (e.g. by a typewriter)
* Could be improved by making it a bit larger to cover a more area.

Aluma Wallet

2011-09-15T13:57:00.000-05:00

Aluma Wallet
URL: www.alumawallet.tv
Does it work? As they say in Spanish - No.

This week - short and sweet. The Aluma Wallet, in my view, has a basic problem. Wallets are made of flexible material, because pants and human bodies bend. It's not comfortable having something that doesn't flex in your back pocket.

Other problems; it opens with some force causing the contents to fly out of the wallet. It's cumbersome to open, plus it is kind of small. (only room for 4-5 items)

Pros: It could be useful to have your debit and credit cards separate for extra security.

Possible replacement products and links
Flipside Wallet
Ogon

The Amazing Pocket Chair

2011-09-09T15:11:00.002-05:00

The Amazing Pocket Chair
URL: www.pocketchairontv.com

Does it work? :-| (Double Meh)

The Amazing Pocket Chair from a design perspective is interesting. They were able to design a chair with very little fabric and metal, that can hold up an adult. My concern is the quality and usefulness. I had the same issue that you can tell people in promo video had (although they were doing their best to hide it) - is that you have pretty accurate 'landing' when you sit down otherwise you will tip over or even crush the chair. Its also not very stable. While it is smaller regular bag lawn chair, it is it less comfortable and harder to use (the locking mechanism is not for everyone).

Once again, since everyone is entitled to my opinion, I would make the chair a bit larger and easier to lock in place. It may not fit in a pocket, but it would certainly be more useful. Replacement ideas: a empty 5 gallon bucket or the 3 legged folding stools.

Total Pillow

2011-08-29T12:20:00.000-05:00

URL: https://www.trytotalpillow.com/
Does it work? Personal taste...

A pillow is a matter of personal taste. I like a high profile, hard pillow; my wife likes a low profile and soft. In other words, no neck pillow will be the answer for all. Most will find, the total pillow confortable. I believe this pillow is good for the car for a long drive or a long flight, something to be used once in a while. One of the first things most people will note is the quality. The seams or stiching seems doesn't seem to be great. Also, it doesn't seem to be washable.

For an everday neck pillow, my suggestion would be go with a product I like the Shiatsu bag even search "neck pillow" on Amazon - which has tons of low cost options.

Flex Seal

2011-08-12T16:15:00.000-05:00

Flex Seal
URL: http://www.getflexseal.com
Does it work? Nope.

This product is a good example of at least 3 cliches of 'as-seen-on-tv' products.

One, like many infomercials products, ordering from the official website or phone number can be a problem: double charging, over-charging for shipping, and difficulty getting refunds occurs way more than it should.

To avoid this issue, I usually wait the 6 months or so until I can buy the product in a local store (Walgreen's, Bed Bath & Beyond, Dollar stores, etc.)

Secondly, this product falls into the category of products that are re-packaged to seem like a new product. Like the "Mend-it" product which is just epoxy putty - Flex Seal is just rubberized spray, very similar to the stuff sold in auto parts and hardware stores. (The product is also sold as liquid rubber sealant; like paint)

I believe it would work for lining a truck bed or another container for protection or lining the bottom of a vessel for protection against scratches.

However, it does NOT stop leaks (or at least any of the ones I tried). This is the third cliche of product that is too good to be true.

Yoshi Blade

2011-08-10T13:00:00.000-05:00

URL: https://www.yoshibladeknives.com
Does it work? Yes

I have always felt the ‘as-seen-on-tv’ as the iron horse of products. Who doesn’t remember and love Ginsu the knife infomericals (they are still around!) They practically invented the ‘hard sell’ directly to consumers. Therefore it is my obligation to review the latest of knife products on TV, the Yoshi blade.

I own a couple of these ceramic knives. They come in fun colors, they are lightweight, and convenient small size. Plus, some come with a cover for traveling (for a picnic). I like them because they are cheap and don’t rust. Also, I use them for tasks I would never use my good knives for - like opening up a box or package when I don’t have the pocket knife handy.

However, these knives are not good for chopping. And, its hard to tell from the commercial or ad, but they are pretty small, making it easy to get your fingers in the way.

If you are making soup, salad, or cutting bread get out the regular knives, but for miscellaneous little tasks they work fine.

Chef’s Envy

2011-07-26T12:55:00.002-05:00

Chef’s Envy
URL: www.buychefsenvy.com
Does it work? Yup

The Chef's Envy mandolin slicer is good for soups or salads where there is a lot of slicing to be done. And since I am unskilled this area; it has been a big help. It works for the vegetables I have tried, such as carrots, onions, cumbers, tomato, and potatoes; and even some small chili peppers. I have had no major problems with it’s use.

The cons, besides cleaning the device, I assume the blade will eventually get dull. And as always, since everyone is entitled to my opinion - my suggestion would be to make the blade replaceable. At 35 dollars, they maybe could even throw in an extra blade.

As a side note, I do have a question- and maybe it's just TV, but why don't we see more chefs use a mandolin slicer more often. I normally don't see chefs us any other slicer than a knife.

CarMD

2011-07-06T12:42:00.002-05:00

CarMD – Handheld Engine Code Reader

URL: www.carmd.com/
Does it work? Half - yes, Half - no

In a nutshell, the device connects with your car’s OBDII port to download the ‘check engine’ error code of your car problem. Then you connect the device to your computer to upload the information to the database at www.carmd.com. (Important note: you can use the device with 3 cars that have issues)

The device does not reset the code - in other words, you will still have to visit a repair shop or use another device to clear the check engine light. The real value of the product, is the advice it gives on the code. It provides, based on your location, the estimated cost and shops that can fix the problem. In my case, it was the mass air flow sensor (also called oxygen sensor - not sure how a layman is suppose to know that)

Other options?
Rather then buying a single purpose device, the idea of using the goPoint Technology GL1 OBD-II Accessory for iPhone/iPod/iPad. I haven't try this product, but if I have another car issue, I’ll probably give a try.

Swivel Store

2011-05-13T12:40:00.002-05:00

Swivel Store
URL: https://www.buyswivelstore.com/
Does it work? Not for spices

Kitchen organizers are problematic, and spice racks, in particular, are cumbersome, and could use some amelioration. However, this is probably not the answer. Placing spices in sideways, it eliminates one's view of the spices as soon as you open the cabinet. Stacking spices vertically should save space, but this device requires some room on both sides to slide out. As with many as seen on tv items, the material used (plastic) is to lightweight; it can't handle the weight of the spices and can tip over easily. In addition, for spices in the mini-canister type bottles, the rack covers up the labels.

For now, stick with the traditional methods, like the mini- step type shelves or on-the-door holders.

Summary:
* Rack can tip with the weight of the spices
* Requires room on the sides to slide out
* Mini step shelves and on-the-door holders work better

Links
http://www.consumerproductguide.org/2011/05/swivel-store-review/

Mister Steamy

2011-04-21T12:51:00.000-05:00

URL: mistersteamy.com
Does it work? Kinda of a bust

After a couple of uses, I stopped using the product. In my opinion, the clothes smelled a little musty. There may be a small difference in wrinkles, but it’s hard to tell for sure. The big difference, is the amount of noise from the dryer. I also worry about the durability of the item. The balls seems to get awful soft, I worry about it staining items in the dryer.

As in other TV products, I wonder again about the physics of the claim made in the commercial. I'm far from a physicist, but I think the steam point of water is higher than the avg temp of the typically American dryer. (Can you imagine putting your hand in a dryer of clothes at 200 degrees?) Does steam get created or is it just adding moisture to the drying process?