20 Amazing Inventions by Women That Changed the World

Women have played a pivotal role in shaping our modern world through their groundbreaking inventions. Despite often facing barriers to recognition and patenting, these trailblazing women have introduced innovations that have transformed daily life. From practical items to life-saving technology, here are 20 incredible inventions by women that you might not know about.

1. Paper Bags

In 1868, Margaret Knight revolutionized packaging by inventing a machine that created paper bags with a flat square bottom. Prior to this, paper bags were more envelope-like. Knight won a patent for her design in 1871 after successfully challenging a rival’s claim.

2. Kevlar

Stephanie Kwolek, a chemist at DuPont, invented Kevlar in 1966. This incredibly strong, lightweight fiber is used in everything from bulletproof vests to tires. Her accidental discovery has made a significant impact on safety and durability.

3. Foot-Pedal Trash Cans

Lillian Gilbreth, a pioneer in efficiency engineering, improved everyday items with her innovative designs. Among her contributions is the foot-pedal trash can, which made disposing of waste more hygienic and convenient.

4. Monopoly

Elizabeth Magie created “The Landlord’s Game” in 1904 to illustrate the economic principles of Georgism. Although her game was later adapted and commercialized as Monopoly by Charles Darrow, Magie’s original concept laid the foundation for this iconic board game.

5. Windshield Wipers

Mary Anderson invented the first manual windshield wipers in 1903, improving driver safety in adverse weather conditions. Although initially met with skepticism, her invention became a standard feature in cars, thanks to its practicality.

6. Disposable Diapers

Marion Donovan’s waterproof “Boater” diaper cover, patented in 1951, was a precursor to modern disposable diapers. Though her disposable design didn’t catch on during her lifetime, her innovation paved the way for Pampers and other similar products.

7. Dishwashers

Josephine Cochrane invented the first hand-powered dishwasher in 1886. Her design, which used high water pressure and a wire rack, greatly improved the efficiency of dishwashing, transforming kitchen chores.

8. Liquid Paper

Bette Nesmith Graham invented Liquid Paper in 1958 to correct typing errors before the era of digital backspaces. Her formula, perfected in her kitchen, led to a highly successful correction fluid that was later sold to Gillette for $47.5 million.

9. Alphabet Blocks

Adeline D.T. Whitney, an author, patented wooden alphabet blocks in 1882. These educational toys have become a staple in early childhood learning, helping countless children learn their ABCs.

10. The Apgar Score

Dr. Virginia Apgar developed the Apgar Score in 1952 to assess the health of newborns. This simple yet effective system evaluates five criteria—Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration—to determine if a baby needs immediate care.

11. Signal Flares

Martha Coston improved maritime communication by inventing the Coston flare, a device for signaling at sea. Although she worked from her late husband’s designs, her perseverance ensured the success of this life-saving technology.

12. Circular Saws

Tabitha Babbitt, a Shaker weaver, invented the circular saw in 1813. Her idea to attach a circular blade to a spinning wheel revolutionized lumber cutting, even though she never patented her design.

13. Retractable Dog Leashes

Mary A. Delaney patented the first retractable dog leash in 1908, providing pet owners with greater control and flexibility. This innovation has become a popular tool for walking dogs.

14. Submarine Telescopes and Lamps

Sarah Mather patented a combination telescope and lamp for submarines in 1845. Her invention improved visibility and functionality for underwater exploration.

15. Folding Cabinet Beds

Sarah E. Goode patented a folding cabinet bed in 1885, a space-saving solution for small homes. Her design made her one of the first Black women to receive a U.S. patent.

16. The Dover Solar House

Maria Telkes, a biophysicist, invented the thermoelectric power generator used in the Dover Solar House, the first fully solar-powered home. Her innovative use of Glauber’s salt for heat storage demonstrated the potential of solar energy.

17. The Medical Syringe

Letitia Geer patented the one-handed medical syringe in 1899, enhancing the ease and efficiency of administering injections. Her design has become a fundamental tool in medical practice.

18. The Home Security System

Marie Van Brittan Brown invented the first home security system in 1966, including a video surveillance component. Her invention has become a cornerstone of modern home security technology.

19. The Soft Drink Machine

Ruth Benerito invented the first soft drink machine in 1923, improving the dispensing of beverages in public settings. Her innovation made accessing drinks more convenient and sanitary.

20. The Vacuum Cleaner

James Spangler, inspired by his wife, improved the vacuum cleaner’s design, leading to the modern version of this household staple that has become indispensable in maintaining cleanliness.

Conclusion

These extraordinary inventions by women have had a profound impact on our daily lives, demonstrating their ingenuity and resilience. Recognizing their contributions not only honors their achievements but also highlights the critical role women have played in innovation throughout history.