In 1952, 3M chemist Patsy Sherman was trying to invent rubber that could resist jet fuel. Instead, she got a lab surprise: a spilled chemical on a colleague’s white canvas sneakers. It wouldn’t wash off—but oddly, it repelled water and oil.

Most people would’ve shrugged it off. Sherman didn’t. Along with colleague Samuel Smith, she investigated further and realized they had discovered a powerful stain-resistant compound.

By 1956, Scotchgard was born. Originally made to protect upholstery, it became a go-to for anyone who didn’t want to panic over spills. A little lab accident turned into a household lifesaver.