The MIMO
water flosser
collection,
developed
in 2019 during
a niche surge
in Chinese
market,
explored
strategic
product
development
through market
analysis and
user research,
identifying
opportunities
to create
standout
offerings in
a rapidly
growing,
competitive
landscape.
Our Market Analysis Revealed a Clear Trend:
Portable water flossers are winning over consumers, while desktop models are struggling with slower sales and reduced supplier interest. This shift isn’t just about travel needs—it’s a broader change in consumer behaviour, with even homebound users gravitating toward compact, affordable portable options.
What’s Driving This Trend?
The market is saturated with similar entry-level portable products, pushing companies into aggressive price competition and leaving desktop models, typically positioned at higher price points, falling behind. This is because:
Local start-ups focus on speed and simplicity:
They, transitioned from OEMs to stand-alone brands to catch up with niche surge, churn out basic, budget-friendly designs, which leaves them competing on price rather than features.
Consumers want affordability:
Cost-conscious buyers, especially in China, are opting for entry-level options.
Global brands are adapting:
Some international players now offer lower-cost versions alongside their premium lines, catering to shifting preferences.
But there’s more to it.
Water flossers are becoming personal devices, like toothbrushes. Owning one per person is now practical, offering flexibility, better hygiene, and less awkwardness about sharing.
Does the Desktop Model Have a Future?
We dug deeper into consumer lifestyles and behaviours to find opportunities for desktop water flossers. Beyond design tweaks, this is about understanding unmet needs and solving overlooked problems to make these devices relevant again.
What We Found:
1. Warm Water Matters to Older Users:
Many older adults prefer brushing with warm water for comfortability, but the common tank-style water heating systems aren’t always user-friendly. Long waiting for the right temperature—or risking hot water burns—creates a pain point that could be solved with built-in warm water functionality.
2. Young Kids and Seniors Need Extra Care:
These groups often need products that are easier to use and gentler on their gums. But since they’re rarely the ones buying, their needs are often ignored.
3. Small Bathrooms, Big Problem:
Not everyone has the luxury of a sprawling countertop. Compact, cluttered spaces call for designs that fit neatly into tight spots or store away easily.
4. Health Concerns Around Sharing Devices:
Families sharing dental devices worry about bacteria, bad smells, or even infections like H. pylori. A device that tackles these hygiene concerns head-on could stand out.
A New Direction for Desktop Water Flossers:
With these insights in mind, we’ve outlined strategies to give desktop models a fresh edge:
1. A Worthwhile Upgrade at a Fair Price:
Instead of competing solely on cost, focus on how the product improves the experience at affordable prices with meaningful features like instant water warming and UV disinfection that outcompete portable flossers.
2. Slim, Space-Savvy Design:
A narrow, compact build makes it easier to place on crowded countertops or tuck away in cabinets.
3. Better Placement Options:
Design for versatility, so users can position the device where it works best for them—whether that’s head-on or off to the side.
4. Refine User Experience:
Develop an intuitive interface that feels premium but simple to use—something that makes the product memorable and worth talking about.
Instant Warm Water at One Touch
Comfortable, Safe, and Ready in Seconds.
Say goodbye to long waits for heated tap water and the risk of burns. This feature, with a build-in pipe heater, delivers instant, precisely warmed water at 35°C, tailored for elderly users and those with sensitive oral needs. Designed with comfort and safety in mind, it’s a perfect addition for anyone prioritising gentle care.
Slim Design, Smart Fit
A Sleek Solution for Cluttered Countertops.
Unlike bulky cylindrical models, this slim, elongated design seamlessly integrates into tight or congested spaces, such as mirror cabinets or narrow countertops. Its top-relocated interface panel ensures ease of use and visibility, whether placed vertically or horizontally—combining functionality with a streamlined aesthetic.
Hands-Free UV Disinfection
Hygiene Made Effortless.
After each use, the UV disinfection system automatically activates when the flosser is shut, eliminating bacteria and reducing cross-contamination. This built-in safeguard also powers down the flosser, preventing accidental operation and ensuring the highest level of family health protection.