Planned Obsolescence

There is a term that was introduced to American industry back in the 30’s that became a catchphrase for manufacturers in the 1950’s and is still with us today.  That term is “Planned Obsolescence.”  By definition, planned obsolescence is “a policy of deliberately planning or designing a product with a limited useful life, so it will become obsolete or nonfunctional after a certain period of time.”  Planned obsolescence proved to be a windfall to manufacturers, increasing sales and profits and decreasing costs.  The culture was so vigorously embraced by our automobile industry that it eventually led them to produce the junk automobiles that cost them dearly when better made Japanese products hit the American market.

I mention this because I came face to face with the issue yesterday, in my kitchen.  Specifically, I am talking about “Handi-Wipes.”  For those of you who haven’t tried them, you will be amazed at how easily they rinse out.  An ordinary “dishrag” is more difficult to keep clean than the dishes they are meant to clean, but it seems like nothing sticks to a “Handi-Wipe.”  Because of this, we have been using “Handi-Wipes” for well over thirty years but that will now change.  In the past year I have been noticing how quickly they deteriorate!  The useful life of the product has changed so drastically that it can only be attributed to one thing; planned obsolescence.

“Handi-Wipes” are manufactured by the Clorox Company and I am affronted by their covert attempt to get into my pockets.  I called them yesterday to let them know I was “on to them” and, like most corporations, they offered to send me vouchers for free products.  I respectfully declined the offer and told them I would not be a customer of theirs any longer; my small way of fighting back.