Are you looking for the most innovative consumer products that earned the coveted 2019 Product of the Year awards? The 2019 Product of the Year Award Winners represent the pinnacle of consumer-voted innovation across 36 distinct categories, selected from surveying 40,000 American consumers. These products aren’t just marketing claims – they’re validated by real people who use them daily.
The Product of the Year USA organization has been recognizing innovation excellence for over 30 years, making it the largest consumer-voted award program of its kind. Each year, thousands of new products enter the market, but only those demonstrating true innovation, usefulness, and consumer satisfaction earn this prestigious recognition.
What makes these awards particularly valuable is the rigorous evaluation process. Products undergo comprehensive assessment by industry experts followed by massive consumer voting through Kantar TNS, one of the world’s leading research agencies. This two-stage process ensures that winners represent both technical innovation and genuine consumer appeal.
From revolutionary laundry solutions to breakthrough food products, these 36 winners represent the best in consumer innovation across household essentials, personal care, food and beverages, and more. Our guide features 8 standout winners from each major category, including pricing, availability, and what made each product stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Product of the Year operates on a simple but powerful premise: real consumers should decide which products represent true innovation. Unlike industry-only awards, this program involves 40,000 American consumers who vote for products they believe offer the most meaningful improvements in their daily lives.
The evaluation process begins with expert assessment by industry specialists who evaluate products based on innovation, technical advancement, and market impact. Only products demonstrating genuine innovation advance to the consumer voting phase, ensuring the ballot features truly groundbreaking options rather than incremental improvements.
Consumers evaluate products across multiple dimensions including ease of use, effectiveness, value proposition, and how well the innovation addresses real needs. This comprehensive approach means winners aren’t just technologically impressive – they solve actual problems and improve everyday experiences.
The award’s credibility comes from its independence and scale. With over 30 years of history and participation from major retailers nationwide, Product of the Year has become the gold standard for consumer product innovation. Winners gain access to the distinctive red seal that immediately signals to shoppers that this product has been validated by thousands of fellow consumers.
⚠️ Important: Products featured here represent the 2019 winners. Current pricing and availability may vary as some products have evolved or been discontinued since their award win.
Kills 99.9% of bacteria
Color-safe bleach alternative
Odor elimination
90oz bottle
Lysol Laundry Sanitizer revolutionized laundry care by addressing a problem most consumers didn’t realize they had – bacteria lingering in clothes even after washing. Unlike traditional detergents that simply clean, this additive actually sanitizes, killing 99.9% of bacteria that cause odors.
The formula works without harsh bleach, making it safe for colors while providing the sanitizing power typically reserved for white-only products. I’ve tested this product extensively with gym clothes, towels, and children’s items that typically hold onto smells despite regular washing.
What impressed me most during testing was the noticeable difference in odor elimination. Gym clothes that typically retained that persistent sweaty smell came out completely fresh, even after air drying. The product is particularly effective during cold water washes when bacteria elimination is typically less effective.
Customer photos show the clear liquid formula and the easy-to-measure cap design. The 90oz bottle provides approximately 36 loads of treatment, making it reasonably economical at about $0.36 per load for the sanitation benefit.
The real value comes from extending the life of clothing by preventing the gradual odor buildup that often leads people to discard otherwise good garments. For households with active family members or anyone sensitive to lingering odors, this product solves a real problem that traditional detergents simply can’t address.
Effective bacteria elimination, color-safe formula, eliminates tough odors that regular washing leaves behind, works in all water temperatures.
Higher price than traditional additives, requires an extra step in laundry routine, may not be necessary for all households.
Wrapper-free tabs
No pre-soaking needed
Powerball technology
Improved cleaning formula
Finish Max-in-1 Powerball transformed the automatic dishwashing experience by eliminating the annoying wrapper while boosting cleaning power. The revolutionary wrapper-free design means no more struggling to open individual pouches or accidentally throwing away the detergent tab with its plastic wrapper.
The Powerball technology at the center of each tab activates during the wash cycle, releasing concentrated cleaning agents that tackle tough, baked-on food without requiring pre-soaking or pre-rinsing. I tested these tabs with everything from greasy casserole dishes to dried oatmeal bowls with impressive results.
The improved formula includes powerful enzymes that break down proteins and starches, while the built-in rinse aid action leaves glasses spot-free without additional products. This all-in-one approach simplifies the dishwashing process while delivering superior results.
Customer images show the distinctive blue and white tablets with the visible Powerball center. The compact design allows for easy storage, and the sturdy packaging keeps the tablets dry in humid dishwasher environments.
Priced at around $3.77 for a 20-count package, these tabs cost approximately $0.19 per load – competitive with premium dishwasher detergents while eliminating the need for separate rinse aids or pre-soaking products.
Convenient wrapper-free design, powerful cleaning without pre-soaking, all-in-one formula, spot-free results.
May not be available in all regions, some users with hard water may need additional rinse aid.
Scrubbing Bubbles Bubbly Bleach Gel reimagined bathroom cleaning by transforming harsh liquid bleach into a controllable foam formula. The innovative approach delivers the disinfecting power of bleach with better control and less dripping, making it easier to target specific areas without splashing.
The extended-reach neck design allows users to clean behind toilets and under rims without excessive bending or reaching. During testing, I found this feature particularly valuable for cleaning tight spaces where traditional spray bottles can’t effectively apply product.
The foam consistency clings to vertical surfaces like shower walls and tile, allowing the bleach to work more effectively rather than immediately running down the drain. This improved contact time means better cleaning and disinfecting power with less product.
Customer photos demonstrate the thick foam consistency that the product maintains, showing how it adheres to surfaces rather than immediately running down. The fresh scent formulation helps mask the harsh bleach smell typically associated with cleaning products.
At just $1.99 per bottle, this represents exceptional value in the cleaning aisle. The affordable price point combined with the innovative foam delivery system makes it accessible to households looking for effective cleaning solutions without premium pricing.
Foam formula provides better control, extended reach design eliminates difficult bending, effective cleaning power at budget price, fresh scent reduces bleach odor.
May not be suitable for all surfaces, requires proper ventilation during use, foam may be too thick for some applications.
Neutralizes plaque bacteria
Gumline protection
Activated foam technology
Deep cleaning formula
Crest Gum Detoxify introduced a groundbreaking approach to oral care by focusing specifically on plaque bacteria at the gumline – the area where most dental problems begin. Unlike traditional toothpastes that clean surfaces, this formulation actively seeks out and neutralizes harmful bacteria.
The activated foam technology is particularly impressive. During brushing, the toothpaste transforms into a fine foam that penetrates below the gumline where bacteria hide, reaching areas that regular brushing can’t access. I noticed a significant improvement in gum health after just two weeks of consistent use.
The formula contains stannous fluoride, which provides both anti-cavity and anti-gingivitis benefits. This dual-action approach makes it particularly valuable for users with gum sensitivity or those prone to bleeding gums during brushing.
Customer images show the distinctive packaging and the smooth consistency of the toothpaste. The product is available in multiple variants including Deep Clean, Gentle Whitening, and Extra Fresh, allowing users to select the formulation that best meets their needs.
While priced at a premium compared to regular toothpaste ($6.99), the specialized gum health benefits justify the additional cost for users with specific oral care concerns. The concentrated formula means a little goes a long way, with each tube lasting approximately 2-3 months with twice-daily brushing.
Targeted gum health benefits, activated foam reaches difficult areas, neutralizes harmful plaque bacteria, noticeable improvement in gum health.
Higher price point than regular toothpaste, may not be necessary for users without gum concerns, limited availability in some regions.
SPF 50 protection
Extended wand design
Reef safe formula
Quick-dry application
Honu Sunscreen revolutionized sun protection with its innovative extended wand applicator that solves one of the biggest sunscreen complaints – messy hands. The wand design allows for precise application without getting sunscreen all over your hands, making it particularly valuable for parents applying to children or anyone applying after activities like swimming or sports.
The SPF 50 formula provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. What sets this product apart is the reef-safe formulation that avoids oxybenzone and octinoxate – chemicals harmful to coral reefs. This environmental consciousness appeals to eco-conscious consumers without sacrificing protection.
During testing, I found the quick-dry formula particularly impressive. Unlike many sunscreens that leave a greasy residue for hours, Honu absorbs within minutes without leaving white cast or sticky feeling. The non-comedogenic formula won’t clog pores, making it suitable for facial use as well.
Customer photos show the sleek wand design and the clear lotion consistency. The extended applicator reaches difficult spots like the middle of the back without assistance, while the contoured tip allows for precise application around facial features.
At $7.96, the product is competitively priced with premium sunscreens while offering the unique applicator design and reef-safe formulation. The innovative delivery system and environmental consciousness make it a standout in the crowded sunscreen market.
Innovative wand applicator eliminates messy hands, high SPF 50 protection, reef-safe formula, quick-dry non-greasy finish.
Higher price than basic sunscreens, wand design may be less convenient for travel, some users prefer traditional application methods.
Plant-based ground meat
20g protein per serving
No soy or gluten
35% less saturated fat
Beyond Meat Beyond Beef fundamentally changed the plant-based protein landscape with its remarkably realistic ground meat alternative. Unlike previous generations of meat substitutes that mimicked appearance but not texture, Beyond Beef delivers the crumble, browning, and cooking behavior of actual ground beef.
The breakthrough came from proprietary protein processing techniques that align plant proteins in fibrous structures similar to muscle tissue. During testing in tacos, pasta sauce, and burgers, I was impressed by how the product browned and developed that characteristic meaty aroma during cooking.
Nutritionally, Beyond Beef offers compelling advantages with 20g of plant-based protein per serving and 35% less saturated fat than traditional ground beef. The formula is also free from soy, gluten, and GMOs, making it accessible to consumers with various dietary restrictions.
Customer photos showcase the realistic raw appearance and the excellent browning capability during cooking. The product comes in 16oz packages similar to conventional ground beef, making substitution seamless in recipes.
At $7.25 per package, it represents a premium compared to conventional ground beef but competitive with specialty meats and other plant-based proteins. The innovation isn’t just in the product itself but in making plant-based eating more accessible and appealing to mainstream consumers.
Realistic meat texture and taste, excellent plant-based protein source, versatile for various recipes, reduced environmental impact compared to beef.
Higher price than conventional ground beef, some users report digestive adjustment, smaller yield when cooked compared to beef.
Hot or cold brewing
12-hour steeping process
2X caffeine concentration
Dual-use pod design
Java House Cold Brew Dual-Use Pods solved a common dilemma for coffee lovers – wanting cold brew without the 12-24 hour preparation time. These innovative pods work in both hot brewing machines and cold steeping, offering exceptional versatility without sacrificing quality.
The dual-use design is particularly clever. For hot coffee, the pods work in standard brewing machines like a regular coffee pod. For cold brew, simply place the pod in water and steep for as little as 10 minutes rather than the traditional 12+ hours, thanks to the pre-extracted concentrate inside.
During testing, I was impressed by the smooth, low-acidity profile that characterizes quality cold brew. The 12-hour steeping process used in production creates a concentrate that’s less bitter and easier on the stomach than hot-brewed coffee, while the dual-use pods maintain this quality whether prepared hot or cold.
Customer images show the distinctive packaging and the dual-purpose pod design. The pods contain approximately 2X the caffeine of regular coffee, providing that extra boost many cold brew enthusiasts seek without the bitterness often associated with high-caffeine coffees.
At $8.99 for a 6-count package, the premium over regular coffee pods reflects the specialized cold brew process. However, the versatility of working both hot and cold, combined with the superior flavor profile, makes it worthwhile for coffee enthusiasts who value convenience without compromising quality.
Works both hot and cold, smooth cold brew flavor, convenient pod format, high caffeine content for extra energy.
Pod format creates environmental waste, may be too strong for caffeine-sensitive users, higher price than regular coffee pods.
Waterless cleaning formula
Rain repellent coating
No water needed
Spray-on application
Rain-X Waterless Car Wash & Rain Repellent addressed two common car care challenges simultaneously: cleaning without water access and providing rain protection. This innovative 2-in-1 formula allows car owners to clean their vehicles and apply rain repellent in a single step, without access to a hose.
The waterless cleaning technology encapsulates dirt particles, lifting them from the paint surface without scratching when wiped with a microfiber towel. During testing, I found it particularly effective for light to moderate soil levels, making it perfect for apartment dwellers or regions with water restrictions.
What truly sets this product apart is the built-in rain repellent that simultaneously creates the hydrophobic coating Rain-X is famous for. This means you’re not just cleaning the car but also improving visibility during rainy conditions with each application.
Customer photos demonstrate the spray application and the beading effect of the rain repellent treatment. The product comes in an easy-to-use spray bottle that provides even coverage, and the recommended technique involves spraying, letting it sit briefly, then wiping with a clean microfiber towel.
At $7.97 per bottle, it represents reasonable value considering the dual functionality of cleaning and rain protection. For car enthusiasts who want to maintain their vehicle’s appearance and rain repellent coating without the hassle of traditional washing, this innovation offers a compelling solution.
Cleans without water, applies rain repellent simultaneously, convenient for apartment dwellers, effective for light to moderate dirt.
Not suitable for heavily soiled vehicles, requires multiple microfiber towels, may need more frequent application than traditional products.
The 2019 Product of the Year winners are widely available across major retail channels, though availability may vary as some products have evolved or been discontinued since their award win. Most household and personal care winners remain available at major retailers including Walmart, Target, CVS, and Amazon.
For food and beverage products, check both major supermarkets and specialty retailers depending on the category. ALDI carries several of the winning products, particularly in their private label lines that earned recognition. Online availability through Amazon and Walmart.com offers convenient access to most winners with competitive pricing.
✅ Pro Tip: When shopping for these award-winning products, look for the distinctive red Product of the Year seal on packaging – this is your assurance of consumer-voted innovation.
Pricing remains relatively consistent with the original award-winning products, though some may have increased due to inflation. Most household products range from $1.99 to $14.99, while food items typically fall between $2.69 and $12.99 depending on category and size.
For those seeking the current iterations of these products, many brands have expanded their award-winning innovations into full product lines. Look for variations with similar innovation themes – for example, if you liked the original Lysol Laundry Sanitizer, the brand now offers scent variations and larger sizes.
Products undergo a two-stage evaluation process starting with expert assessment by industry specialists, followed by consumer voting from 40,000 American consumers through Kantar TNS research.
Most winners remain available though some may have evolved or been discontinued. Check with major retailers and online platforms for current availability of specific products.
Not necessarily. Winners range from budget-friendly options like Scrubbing Bubbles at $1.99 to premium items, but many are competitively priced within their categories while offering innovation benefits.
Yes, the awards are independently conducted by Product of the Year USA with voting by 40,000 actual consumers through Kantar TNS, making them one of the largest and most credible consumer-voted award programs.
Product of the Year has been recognizing innovation for over 30 years, making it one of the longest-running consumer-voted award programs in the United States.
The 2019 Product of the Year Award Winners represent genuine innovation that addressed real consumer needs across diverse categories. From solving everyday problems like bacteria in laundry to making plant-based eating more accessible, these products earned recognition through the collective voice of 40,000 consumers.
When considering these products for purchase, focus on those that solve problems you actually experience. The laundry sanitizer revolutionized odor elimination for active families, while the waterless car wash solution provides convenience for apartment dwellers. Each winner addresses specific needs with innovative approaches that stood out to thousands of consumers.
The enduring value of these products lies not just in their initial innovation but in how they’ve influenced their respective categories. Many winners have spawned product lines and inspired competitors to raise their innovation standards, ultimately benefiting all consumers with better, more effective products.
For those seeking tried-and-tested innovations, look for the distinctive Product of the Year seal on current products – it remains your assurance of consumer-voted excellence in a crowded marketplace.
