No-Frills Shampoo Dispenser

Manufacturer: Sanki
Price:$19
http://www.sanki-web.net/index.html/tsumekae.html

This lets you use refills for shampoo, conditioner or body soap rather than buying new bottles. Sanki is originally a backstreet factory in Tokyo making metal parts. At home, the 57-year-old factory owner, Masayuki Abe, grew tired of refilling shampoo bottles for his family and so spent three years to come up with his product as an alternative. Since its release last December, it has sold more than 30,000 sets in eight months. "While our main business has been slow due to the economic climate, this side business is unexpectedly covering the losses," he says.