Unbuckling a child’s car seat can be a surprisingly difficult task. For parents, grandparents, and caregivers with arthritis, weaker hands, or even just long nails, that seemingly simple red button can become a daily struggle. Enter Unbuckle Me, a clever car seat unbuckle tool that pitched its solution on Shark Tank, seeking to make this everyday challenge a thing of the past. Let’s dive into the story of Unbuckle Me, explore their journey on Shark Tank, and discover how this simple yet effective tool is still making waves today.
What is the Unbuckle Me Car Seat Buckle Release Tool?
Unbuckle Me is a small, ergonomic device designed to reduce the force needed to unbuckle car seat buckles. Invented by Barb Heilman and her daughter Becca Davison, this ingenious tool addresses a common problem faced by millions: the stiffness of car seat buckles. As Becca explained on Shark Tank, the inspiration came from Barb’s own struggles. When Barb offered to help with childcare for Becca’s first child, her arthritis made unbuckling the car seat an excruciating task.
The problem is real: car seat buckles are intentionally designed to be secure, requiring around nine pounds of pressure to release. While this is crucial for safety, it presents a significant challenge for individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity. Unbuckle Me cleverly circumvents this issue. The user simply places the Unbuckle Me device over the buckle, positions a small pin on the red release button, and gently pinches the device. This action multiplies leverage, reducing the force needed and effortlessly popping the buckle open. It’s a simple solution, but one that offers significant relief and convenience.
This car seat buckle release tool isn’t just for those with arthritis. It’s beneficial for anyone who finds car seat buckles difficult, including:
- Grandparents and elderly caregivers: Often experiencing reduced hand strength.
- Parents with hand pain or injuries: Making daily tasks like unbuckling painful.
- Individuals with long nails: Protecting nails from breakage while unbuckling.
- Speeding up school car lines: Potentially allowing older children to unbuckle themselves more easily.
Unbuckle Me on Shark Tank: Seeking a Deal
Barb and Becca stepped into the Shark Tank in Season 11, Episode 21, seeking $100,000 for 10% equity in their company. They presented a product with clear market appeal and already demonstrated impressive sales figures. In the year of filming, Unbuckle Me had already achieved $400,000 in year-to-date sales, with a significant portion coming from grandparents – highlighting a key demographic resonating with their product.
The Sharks were visibly impressed with the ingenuity and practicality of the car seat unbuckle tool. The product’s low manufacturing cost ($1.80) compared to its retail price of $14.99 also caught their attention, showcasing healthy profit margins.
The negotiation in the Tank was lively, with multiple Sharks expressing interest. Kevin O’Leary and guest Shark Anne Wojcicki initially offered a complex deal involving royalties. Daymond John presented a straightforward equity offer. However, it was Lori Greiner and Mark Cuban who ultimately won the deal, offering $100,000 for 20% equity, which Barb and Becca accepted.
Unbuckle Me Update: Thriving After Shark Tank
While the aired deal with Lori Greiner and Mark Cuban ultimately didn’t close after the show, Unbuckle Me has continued to flourish. This car seat unbuckle tool has proven its staying power and market demand. In a testament to their product’s value and their own business acumen, Barb and Becca have grown Unbuckle Me into a resounding success.
Despite not securing a Shark Tank deal, Unbuckle Me boasts over $3 million in lifetime sales, a remarkable achievement for a product addressing such a specific, yet widespread, need. Their products have expanded beyond online sales and are now available in major retailers like Walmart, Target, and buybuyBABY, increasing accessibility for customers.
Furthermore, Unbuckle Me has expanded its product line, demonstrating innovation beyond their original car seat unbuckle tool. They introduced the Totebook, a car activity book designed to keep children entertained during car rides. This product extension shows their understanding of their target market – families and caregivers seeking solutions for common car-related challenges.
Where to Find the Unbuckle Me Car Seat Unbuckle Tool
The Unbuckle Me car seat unbuckle tool remains readily available for purchase online and in stores. You can find it on Amazon and other major online retailers, as well as in brick-and-mortar stores like Walmart and Target. For those seeking a simple, effective, and affordable solution to the often-frustrating task of unbuckling car seats, Unbuckle Me provides a valuable tool.
In conclusion, Unbuckle Me’s journey from a personal challenge to a successful Shark Tank pitch and beyond is an inspiring story of innovation and perseverance. This car seat unbuckle tool exemplifies how a simple idea, born from understanding a common problem, can make a real difference in people’s lives. For anyone struggling with car seat buckles, Unbuckle Me offers an affordable and effective solution, proving its lasting value in the market.
