Swab Box: Easy-to-pick Solution for Cotton SwabsSolving the Hassle of Opening a New Package
Opening a new package of cotton swabs can be a frustrating experience. The first few swabs are often difficult to pull out, leading to unsanitary situations as people struggle to retrieve them. Designer Yibo Fu recognized this problem and set out to create a solution that would make picking up cotton swabs easier and more hygienic.
Fu's innovative design, known as the Swab Box, addresses the inconvenience of accessing the first few swabs in a new package. The key feature of the Swab Box is its deformable bottom, made of silicone. By simply pushing the bottom up with a finger, the cotton swabs rise to different heights, allowing users to easily pick out a swab without touching the others.
The Swab Box's deformable bottom is made possible through the use of silica gel, which can be easily manipulated by finger pressure. This material ensures that the box remains sturdy and durable while still providing the necessary flexibility for the swabs to rise to the top.
Measuring at 90mm x 90mm x 160mm, the Swab Box is compact and portable, making it convenient for travel or everyday use. Its sleek design and functionality make it a practical addition to any bathroom or beauty routine.
Extensive research conducted by Fu confirmed the widespread frustration with the current method of accessing cotton swabs. An online survey revealed that 83.3% of respondents found it bothersome to retrieve the first few swabs from a new package. This data further emphasized the need for a design solution that would enhance the user experience.
The Swab Box project began in November 2018 in Guangzhou and was completed in January 2019 in Beijing. Throughout the design process, Fu faced the challenge of finding a modification that would effectively solve the problem without drastically altering the original design. Ultimately, the deformable bottom made of silicone proved to be the ideal solution.
The Swab Box's innovative design and practicality have been recognized with the prestigious Bronze A' Design Award in the Packaging Design category. This award celebrates designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life. The Swab Box's ability to address a common inconvenience while incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology sets it apart as an outstanding and ingenious solution.
Project Details and Credits
Project Designers: Fu Yibo
Image Credits: Fu Yibo
Project Team Members: Fu Yibo
Project Name: Swab Box
Project Client: Fu Yibo