We recently got to explore the Museum of Failure in Georgetown, and it did not disappoint! Beyond sharing lots of laughs over the 150+ failed products and inventions on display, we ended up learning a lot about the risky business of innovation.
While you’ll have to plan your visit to see all of the crazy inventions, we’ve highlighted a handful of interesting failures from the exhibit below. However, if you’re thinking of making a trip to the Museum of Failure, you will have to act fast since the exhibit closes on December 10th.
Plus, those who purchase tickets to the Museum of Failure on November 16th and 17th can enjoy 20% off tickets for any date with the code THANKS20.
1. Rejuvenique Beauty Mask
We’ve all heard the saying “beauty is pain,” but how far would you go to maintain a youthful complexion? According to the instructions for this facial toning mask, users were expected to strap it onto their face for 15 minutes a day, three to four times a week. However, people quickly started reporting that the pain was unbearable, one user sharing that it “feels like a thousand ants are biting my face.” Ouch!
2. Colgate Frozen Lasagna
We debuted this product on our Instagram story and, unsurprisingly, most viewers decided that this Colgate-brand frozen beef lasagna feels like it should be illegal (sorry Colgate, we’re with them on this one).
In the 1980s, the well-known toothpaste brand launched this frozen TV dinner, yet Colgate’s legal representatives now claim they have “no recollection of a frozen lasagna.” Taking matters into his own hands, museum curator and licensed psychologist Dr. Samuel West fashioned a creative reconstruction of the packaging.
3. Jarts Lawn Darts
These lawn darts were simply a recipe for disaster from the start. Jarts encouraged users to toss the massive metal darts like horseshoes and they would “stand up in the ground.” While the darts weren’t particularly sharp, they were heavily weighted.
The result? Countless injuries and trips to the ER — 6,000 of which were children. And when three children were killed from the product, Jarts were officially banned in 1988.
4. Google Glass
Remember when Google Glass smart glasses were deemed the next big thing? Well, it turns out that everybody makes mistakes – even Google! This futuristic headgear got loads of attention, and people even shelled out $1,500 for a pair.
However, the built-in camera raised privacy concerns about being filmed at any time and place, and Google Glass ended up getting banned in several places. It’s giving Black Mirror.
5. Harley-Davidson Cologne
Ever wanted to smell like a motorcycle? While Harley-Davidson was, and still is, a big lifestyle brand, the company took things a little too far when they debuted their own cologne line that came in the scent “Hot Road.” After harsh criticism from its fan base, the product was discontinued.
Looking for more funny fails? While we could keep going, you’ll want to see them for yourself at the Museum of Failure. Located at Georgetown Park, the traveling museum will remain open until December 10th.
