‘Shark Tank’ preview: Beneath the Ink, NeatCheeks, PittMoss, Melni Connectors, and a Sun-Staches update

One of the nice things about both watching and covering “Shark Tank” at this point is the element of surprise. For example, last week we did not expect Forus Athletics to be given the primo spot at the end of the show, even if they were not offered a deal in the end.

Going into Friday’s episode, the biggest thing we’re surprised about is that with one exception, every product featured is so completely out of our wheelhouse that they’re tough to comment on from a usability standpoint. Not every product will be appealing to every consumer, but much of Friday’s lineup will only be useful to you if you are familiar with gardening, are a parent to a very young child, know electrical work, or like to read. As always, let’s start with the synopsis before getting to the products:

“A man from Pittsburgh, PA invented a sustainable soil replacement for peat moss that he hopes will green up the landscaping and gardening industries; two moms from Castle Rock, CO came up with a tasty and tantrum-free way to clean messy kids with sweet-flavored face wipes; with help from a veteran power lineman, two business partners from N. Twin Falls, ID believe they can change the electric industry with a safer way to connect electrical wires; a man and woman from Boulder, CO present a digital text technology that is poised to change the way eBooks are read. In a follow-up segment, David Levich, Eric Liberman & Dan Gershon from Chatsworth, CA give an update on their H2W Inc. business that makes novelty eyewear and other licensed looks, which Daymond invested in during Season 6.”

For those wondering, H2W Inc. are the people behind Sun-Staches, which was a fun little novelty product that may end up surprising us Friday with their sales numbers.

Beneath the Ink – A way to enhance the content of your eBook with extra information and features. We almost equate it to getting a DVD with deleted scenes and a commentary track. We’re not sure every reader out there wants or needs it (some like the text to speak for itself), but this could be a cool resource to the right audience. We follow the publishing industry fairly closely, so we’re intrigued to see what happens here.

NeatCheeks – Basically, they are flavored face wipes that help to ensure that your young one doesn’t hate going through the cleanup process. It’s probably a good idea, or at least it could be if they get the right retail expansion. They are already in some stores, but we’re not sure it would be the sort of thing you’d be patient enough to order online.

PittMoss – This is apparently a strong alternative to peat moss that is more environmentally friendly, retains water better, and also produces a better carbon footprint. It seems like a good idea, but it seems like the business is still expanding and like a plant, has some growing to do.

Melni Connectors – Our advice to you for now is to watch the video below for information on the product and how it works. With the right sales strategy and presentation they could get a deal (home improvement products have done well in the past), but this is so far out of our knowledge base we would look stupid even trying here.

If you do want to get some other updates from this season of “Shark Tank,” head over to the link here right away! Also, you can sign up now to acquire some other TV updates on all we cover via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: ABC.)