As seen on TV

By Erin Stender, In-Depth Editor

We have all seen them “Call now, only $19.99” ‘Special TV offer” But do these random toys and inventions actually work? The Crimson Crier set out to find the truth.

Snackeez 6/10
For $9.99, the Snackeez can be yours. A 2-in-1 snack-and-drink cup, the Snackeez offers the versatile amity to hold one’s snacks and drink in one place. The cup holds a 4 ounce snack just above the grip of the cup. Overall, this product works. It is extremely clever and helpful for those who are always on the go. The only downside is the snack contain causes as a vacuum-like field that causes awkward suction when drinking.

Juggle Bubbles 7/10
On a box plastered with ages 5 and up, it is easy to keep expectations low. But the Juggle Bubbles exceed expectations by, well, actually working. The “magic gloves” that come with the kit are worn and, after a test, we found them to be different from normal mittens. The Bubbles are still gentile but can actually be juggled and bounced. Until, that is, they pop. While they are not unbreakable, they are much more durable than everyday bubbles. Both the bottle and instructions are mysteriously devoid of the contents in the bubble solution the only label claims “nontoxic”. Regardless the contents, the Juggle Bubbles do work and keep teenagers entertained, so 5-year-olds will probably be infatuated as well.

Ice Cream Magic 3/10
The box, which advertises ice cream in three minutes, is lying. Three minutes? Try 12. Twelve minutes of constant shaking. And the ice cream was not even done. Imagine a quarter of a cup of a half melted Wendy’s Frosty. Not only was it soup-like, but it was also a ridiculously small amount. As a way to entertain young children, the Ice Cream Magic might be useful, but as a way to save money and time? It is probably best to just go buy a pint of Ben & Jerry’s. Honestly, this was a waste of five bucks. It is much more simple and yields more ice cream if one uses a plastic baggie.

Hot Huez 8/10
Hot Huez are a nontoxic, temporary way to streak one’s hair with fun colors. While it was not hard to apply, the struggle to reach it in the store- there was climbing- was real. Originally priced at $9.99, Hot Huez was on clearance for $4.99. The kit comes with four colors: blue, pink, purple and green. The dry conditioner and hairspray are also needed, but not included. Loosely recommended by the company is to lay down a towel or two. The CC would highly recommend to lay down a towel or 10. Overall this product does work, but the step of hairspray must not be skipped. The product works for all types of hair and is extremely easy to remove with water and shampoo.