Aaron Krause: A Biography of the Scrub Daddy Inventor

Aaron Krause: The Inventive Mind Behind Scrub Daddy

Early Life and Education

Aaron Krause, the founder and CEO of Scrub Daddy, has been an inventor at heart since childhood. Born with a talent for identifying problems in everyday products and devising creative solutions.

Krause’s journey into the world of innovation began at a young age. He even created a pulley system in his bedroom using casters and dental floss to turn off his overhead light from bed.

Krause’s formal education at Syracuse University, where he graduated in 1992 with a major in Psychology and a minor in Marketing, further honed his inventive instincts.

Initial Business Ventures

Following his graduation, Krause ventured into the business world, starting a car washing business that used a new material, urethane foam, for polishing cars.

Aaron’s business in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, not only showcased his entrepreneurial spirit but also set the stage for his first major invention.

While working in the production department, Krause accidentally damaged a car during machine polishing.

This mishap led him to invent a new kind of buffing pad, which would later be acquired by the 3M Corporation in 2008.

The Birth of Scrub Daddy

The concept of Scrub Daddy originated while Krause was manufacturing buffing pads. The chemicals used in the factory left his hands dirty, prompting him to seek a cleaning solution.

What began as a product intended for cleaning hands evolved into a kitchen sponge.

This eureka moment came when Krause used the sponge to wash dishes, discovering its effectiveness beyond its original purpose.

Rediscovery and Success

Scrub Daddy was almost forgotten, relegated to a box labeled ‘scrap’ until 2011. It was only when Krause used it to clean lawn furniture that he rediscovered its unique dual-texture feature: it softens in warm water and hardens in cold water.

After securing a patent and investing $75,000 in production, Scrub Daddy was featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer and sold out on QVC’s shopping channel in April 2012.

Shark Tank Breakthrough

Krause’s appearance on Shark Tank in 2012 marked a turning point. He turned down Kevin O’Leary’s offer and accepted Lori Greiner’s offer of $200,000 for 20% equity.

The episode significantly boosted the business, propelling Scrub Daddy to become the third-largest sponge company in the US.

Growth and Expansion

Post-Shark Tank, Scrub Daddy expanded into major retailers like Bed Bath & Beyond, Walmart, and Target.

Its unique selling proposition (USP), including being scratch-free, odor-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and changing texture with water temperature, set it apart in the market.

The company has expanded its range to include various cleaning products and is available in over 60 retailers across the US.

In January of the article’s year, Krause ventured to Australia, launching Scrub Daddy in Coles and Woolworths supermarkets.

New Innovations and Future Goals

Krause’s innovative spirit didn’t stop with Scrub Daddy. His latest creation is the Ion Belt, a wearable device designed to recharge smartphones, developed in collaboration with Piers Ridyard.

They launched a Kickstarter campaign, using it to gauge market demand and gather customer preferences.

Safety was a paramount concern, leading to the development of Encapsulpak technology to safely house the lithium-ion batteries.

Philosophy and Advice for Entrepreneurs

Krause emphasizes the importance of believing in one’s product and making it unique. He advises budding entrepreneurs and inventors to take a chance and act on their ideas, regardless of the idea’s size.

Krause’s approach to invention involves thorough prototyping, market research, and collaboration with experts, blending different areas of knowledge.

Legacy and Impact

Aaron Krause’s journey from a creative child to a successful entrepreneur and inventor embodies the spirit of innovation and adaptability.

Aaron’s story is a testament to the impact that a simple idea, like a smiley-shaped sponge, can have on the world of business.

Krause’s continuous learning, exploration of new industries, and commitment to improving the world through innovation make him an inspirational figure in the entrepreneurial world.

Key Points and Facts

Aaron Krause: Key Points and Facts

Background and Early Life

Childhood Inventiveness: Aaron Krause showed his ingenuity from a young age, creating a unique pulley system in his bedroom.
Education: Graduated from Syracuse University in 1992 with a major in Psychology and a minor in Marketing.

Early Business Ventures

First Business: Started a car washing business using urethane foam for polishing cars after college.
Invention of Buffing Pad: Invented a new kind of buffing pad due to an accident during machine polishing, later sold to 3M Corporation in 2008.

Scrub Daddy: The Breakthrough Invention

Origin of Scrub Daddy: Initially developed as a cleaning solution for his hands while manufacturing buffing pads.
Design Evolution: Evolved into a kitchen sponge after Krause discovered its effectiveness in washing dishes.
Unique Feature: Scrub Daddy’s dual-texture changes with water temperature, softening in warm water and hardening in cold water.

Entrepreneurial Success

Patent and Initial Sales: Secured a patent for Scrub Daddy and invested in its initial production.
Shark Tank Appearance: Gained significant business boost after accepting Lori Greiner’s investment offer on Shark Tank.
Growth and Expansion: Became the third-largest sponge company in the US, expanding into various cleaning products.

Market Presence

Retail Distribution: Available in over 60 retailers across the US, including major retailers like Bed Bath & Beyond, Walmart, and Target.
International Expansion: Launched Scrub Daddy in Australia, with plans for distribution in Coles and Woolworths supermarkets.

Entrepreneurial Philosophy and Advice

Philosophy: Emphasizes the importance of believing in one’s product and making it unique.
Advice for Entrepreneurs: Encourages budding entrepreneurs and inventors to act on their ideas, regardless of the idea’s size.

Continuous Innovation and New Ventures

Latest Innovation – Ion Belt: A wearable device for recharging smartphones, developed in partnership with Piers Ridyard.
Kickstarter Campaign: Used to fund and gauge market demand for the Ion Belt.
Safety Focus: Developed Encapsulpak technology to ensure safety for the Ion Belt.
Future Goals: Hinted at future projects in wearable technology, including a women’s version of the Ion Belt.

Approach to Invention and Collaboration

Learning and Diversifying: Continuously learns and explores new industries.
Collaboration Strategy: Believes in sharing ideas and collaborating with experts.
Prototyping and Market Research: Uses thorough prototyping and market feedback for product development.

These key points highlight Aaron Krause’s journey as an inventor and entrepreneur, from his early days of creativity to his success with Scrub Daddy and beyond.

Krause’s story is a testament to innovation, adaptability, and the power of a single idea in the world of business.

Aaron Krause

Early Years

Childhood: From a young age, Krause showed a talent for inventing, often engaging in creative projects. One notable creation was a pulley system to turn off his bedroom light.

1992

Education: Aaron Krause graduated from Syracuse University, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Marketing.

Early 1990s

Initial Business Venture: Started a car washing business in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, using urethane foam for polishing cars.

Mid to Late 1990s

Invention of Buffing Pad: While working in his car detailing business, Krause invented a new kind of buffing pad after accidentally damaging a car.

2008

Sale of Buffing Pad Business: Krause sold his buffing pad business to 3M Corporation, excluding the Scrub Daddy product.

2011

Rediscovery of Scrub Daddy: Krause rediscovered Scrub Daddy in a box labeled ‘scrap’ while cleaning lawn furniture, noticing its unique dual-texture feature.

2012

Patenting Scrub Daddy: Secured a patent for Scrub Daddy and invested in its initial production.
Initial Sales Success: In April, Scrub Daddy sold out on QVC’s shopping channel after being featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Shark Tank Appearance: Appeared on Shark Tank, securing a deal with Lori Greiner for a $200,000 investment for 20% equity in Scrub Daddy.

Post-2012

Growth and Market Position: Scrub Daddy became the third-largest sponge company in the US and expanded into various cleaning products.
Retail Expansion: The product became available in over 60 retailers across the US, including Bed Bath & Beyond, Walmart, and Target.
International Expansion: Launched Scrub Daddy in Australia, planning distribution in Coles and Woolworths supermarkets.

Recent Innovations

Ion Belt Development: Developed the Ion Belt, a wearable device for recharging smartphones, in partnership with Piers Ridyard.
Kickstarter Campaign: Launched a Kickstarter campaign for the Ion Belt, focusing on customer preferences and safety with Encapsulpak technology.

Ongoing Entrepreneurial Journey

Advice for Entrepreneurs: Continues to advise aspiring entrepreneurs and inventors to believe in and act on their ideas.
Learning and Diversifying: Remains committed to continuous learning and exploring new industries.

This timeline presents a clear picture of Aaron Krause’s journey from a creative child to a successful entrepreneur and inventor, showcasing his milestones in innovation and business.

Lessons from Aaron Krause’s Life

Embrace Creativity and Problem-Solving

Lesson: From childhood, Aaron Krause showed a unique ability to solve problems creatively, like inventing a pulley system for his bedroom light.

Aaron’s journey teaches us the importance of embracing our creativity and using it to solve everyday problems.

Whether it’s finding a new way to turn off a light or improving a common household product, creativity is a powerful tool for innovation.

Persistence Pays Off

Lesson: Aaron’s story is a testament to the power of persistence. When he first started his car washing business, he faced challenges with existing buffing pads. Instead of giving up, he invented a new kind of buffing pad.

This persistence led to the development of Scrub Daddy, a product initially forgotten in a box, but later rediscovered and turned into a multimillion-dollar business.

Krause’s journey shows that persistence, even in the face of setbacks, can lead to amazing achievements.

Adaptability and Continuous Learning

Lesson: Throughout his career, Krause has shown a remarkable ability to adapt and learn. From starting a car washing business to inventing the Scrub Daddy and later the Ion Belt, he has continually evolved his skills and interests.

This adaptability, coupled with a commitment to continuous learning and exploring new industries, highlights the importance of being flexible and open to new opportunities.

It’s a reminder that learning never stops, and adapting to change is key to success in any field.

Aaron Krause’s life is filled with lessons on creativity, persistence, and adaptability.

Aaron’s journey from a creative child to a successful entrepreneur and inventor shows that with the right mindset, any challenge can be an opportunity for innovation and growth.

Questions and Answers

Frequently Asked Questions about Aaron Krause

What is Aaron Krause Known For?

Aaron Krause is most famous as the inventor of Scrub Daddy, a unique kitchen sponge known for its ability to change texture based on water temperature. He’s also known for being a lifelong inventor and an entrepreneur who has been creating new products since childhood.

How Did Aaron Krause Come Up with Scrub Daddy?

The idea for Scrub Daddy emerged while Aaron was running his car washing business. He developed a cleaning product for his hands from urethane foam, which eventually led to the creation of Scrub Daddy. The sponge’s design, a smiley face with a dual-texture that changes in different water temperatures, was a serendipitous outcome.

What Happened with Aaron Krause on Shark Tank?

Aaron Krause appeared on Shark Tank in 2012. He turned down Kevin O’Leary’s offer and accepted Lori Greiner’s offer of US$200,000 for 20% equity in Scrub Daddy. This appearance and deal greatly boosted the business, making Scrub Daddy a household name.

What Other Inventions Has Aaron Krause Created?

Besides Scrub Daddy, Aaron Krause has also invented the Ion Belt, a wearable device designed for recharging smartphones. This innovation stemmed from his own need for a reliable charging solution during his travels. He has also been involved in other creative projects since his childhood.

What Is Unique About Scrub Daddy’s Design?

Scrub Daddy is known for its scratch-free, odor-resistant features, and its ability to change texture with water temperature. Its design includes a smiley face with ‘eye-holes’ for better grip, making it not only functional but also visually appealing.

Where Did Aaron Krause Go to College?

Aaron Krause graduated from Syracuse University in 1992, where he majored in Psychology and minored in Marketing.

What Was Aaron Krause’s First Business Venture?

In the early 1990s, after college, Aaron Krause started a car detailing business in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania. This venture found brief success and led to his first invention of a new kind of buffing pad.

What Advice Does Aaron Krause Give to Entrepreneurs?

Aaron Krause advises budding entrepreneurs and inventors to take chances and act on their ideas, regardless of the idea’s size. He emphasizes the importance of believing in one’s product and making it unique.

These questions and answers provide a snapshot of Aaron Krause’s journey as an inventor and entrepreneur, highlighting his creativity, innovation, and impact on the world of business.