Q-tip: How a Name Became the ProductA simple rebrand defined an entire product category.

A brand name can become so powerful it replaces the generic term for an item. Originally sold as "Baby Gays," the inventor strategically rebranded the cotton swab to "Q-tips," with the "Q" standing for "Quality," to build trust and appeal to families. The new name was so effective it led to total market dominance, making "Q-tip" the common name for the product itself, a testament to the lasting power of a name.

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