8 As-Seen-on-TV Products That Just Aren't Worth the Money

Infomercials have a familiar formula of showing frustration, introducing a product that appears to solve it in seconds, and offering a price that seems too good to pass up. Then comes the familiar "but wait" pitch, adding bonus items and limited-time discounts before shipping, handling, or recurring charges enter the picture. For shoppers trying to save on groceries and shopping, those extra costs deserve a closer look.

Not every As-Seen-on-TV product is a waste of money. Some have earned a lasting place in American homes, while others struggle to deliver the convenience, performance, or health benefits promised in their advertising. These eight products show why independent testing, customer feedback, and a careful look at the fine print matter before placing an order.

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

George Foreman Grill

The George Foreman Grill promises quick indoor grilling with less grease and minimal cleanup. However, a 2026 hands-on review from Tom's Guide gave the tested model just two out of five stars. The reviewer found that steaks lacked a proper sear and lost flavorful juices. It is useful for certain sandwiches, but a regular skillet offers more cooking control.

Slap Chop

The Slap Chop promises quick chopping without the knife skills associated with traditional food preparation. But Tom's Guide tested the gadget again in 2026 and found that moist ingredients, including onions, tended to stick between its blades. Pieces also came out unevenly, while food spilled during handling. The hands-on review concluded that an inexpensive electric chopper offered better value for many cooks.

Tummy Tuck Miracle Slimming System

The Tummy Tuck Miracle Slimming System is marketed as a waist-slimming belt paired with cream and abdominal exercises. However, the promise of accelerated fat burning deserves skepticism. One Walmart listing displayed a rating of 2.8 out of five from 20 ratings when checked. The FTC also warns that weight-loss claims involving belts, creams, or effortless results are unreliable. Temporary compression changes appearance, not body fat.

Flex Seal Liquid

Flex Seal Liquid is promoted as a useful solution for leaks, cracks, and household repairs. A Consumer Reports test found that it sealed a small experimental boat, but other applications proved less successful. Three coats failed to seal certain gutter joints, and larger holes in a pipe resisted the treatment under water pressure. The product has practical uses, but it shouldn't replace the correct sealant for a specific repair.

Bondic

Bondic uses a UV light to harden a liquid plastic compound, promising quick repairs across a variety of materials. The limitation is that curing the material doesn't guarantee a strong bond between every pair of surfaces. A WRTV product report explains that it relies on forming a physical bond around a repair, rather than adhering to every smooth surface like conventional glue. It is better suited to specific small fixes than heavy-duty repairs.

PowerXL Dual-Basket Air Fryer

The PowerXL name covers multiple appliances, so not every model belongs on a do-not-buy list. However, the DUAF-10 and DUAF-005 Vortex Dual-Basket Air Fryers were recalled in December 2023. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that a connector could break during use, creating a burn hazard. The recall covered approximately 319,000 units and followed 41 reported breakages, including three reports of burns. Owners should stop using either recalled model.

Balance of Nature

Balance of Nature sells fruit and vegetable supplements promoted as a convenient addition to daily nutrition. Yet its regulatory history warrants scrutiny. In 2023, a federal court entered consent decrees restricting the company's supplement operations until manufacturing and labeling requirements were met, following FDA findings involving manufacturing violations and disease-related claims. A Good Housekeeping review also raises questions about value and quality assurance. The supplements shouldn't be treated as a proven replacement for whole produce.

Perfect Smile Veneers

Perfect Smile Veneers promises a more polished smile without a conventional dental procedure. But a CBS Los Angeles product test found that the veneers struggled to stay in place, and testers reported difficulty speaking comfortably while wearing them. Customer reviews also describe problems with fit and appearance. These cosmetic covers might appeal as a temporary accessory, but shoppers shouldn't confuse them with properly fitted dental restorations.

The "but wait" bundle can make a deal more expensive

Infomercial prices often highlight the cheapest possible starting point rather than the complete order. Extra sets, processing fees, and shipping charges may push the total well beyond the amount shown during the demonstration. Before ordering, calculate the final price, divide it by the number of usable items, and compare that cost with a similar product from a regular retailer.

Auto-ship offers deserve a double check

Some promotional offers include a trial period or an enrollment in recurring deliveries. The initial order may seem inexpensive, but the regular price and cancellation terms determine the longer-term cost. The FTC's guide to free trials and automatic renewals explains what shoppers should look for before agreeing to these arrangements. Read the terms before providing payment information, and save a copy of the order confirmation.

Check store prices before ordering from television

A product's television price isn't necessarily its lowest available price. Search the exact model number at major retailers and compare the number of accessories, product size, warranty, shipping cost, and return policy. A store version may be cheaper. Also check whether return shipping is your responsibility before buying bulky appliances or items that require assembly.

Some as-seen-on-TV products really do work

It's worth giving the category some credit. In its 2026 review of classic TV-advertised gadgets, Tom's Guide rated the Pocket Hose four out of five stars and recommended both the JML Scrub Buddi and SodaStream. These products prove that a memorable commercial doesn't automatically mean poor quality. The distinction is whether a product solves a specific problem reliably at a reasonable price.

Bottom line

Bundles, delivery charges, repeat orders, and difficult returns all affect value. A low sticker price isn't much of a bargain if the product sits unused in a cupboard or requires additional purchases to perform its advertised job.

To avoid wasting money before buying, ask if the demonstration shows the product working under ordinary conditions. Look for realistic surfaces, normal household use, reasonable effort, and honest limitations. Then compare independent reviews and the full checkout price. If the advertisement relies on a dramatic stunt instead of a practical demonstration, waiting before purchasing may be the better decision.

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