Victor Mills

Victor Mills

Victor Mills (March 28, 1897 – November 1, 1997) was an American chemical engineer who, while working for Procter & Gamble (P&G), revolutionized child care with the invention of the disposable diaper, branded as Pampers. His innovation fundamentally changed the way parents manage their infants' hygiene and has had a lasting impact on the baby care industry.

Early Life and Education

Victor Mills was born in Milford, Nebraska, and pursued his education in the field of chemical engineering. He graduated from the University of Minnesota, where he laid the foundation for his future contributions to consumer products and manufacturing processes.

Career at Procter & Gamble

Mills began his career at Procter & Gamble in the 1920s, where he initially worked on projects unrelated to diapers. His contributions to P&G were diverse, including the development of Duncan Hines cake mixes, Jif peanut butter, and the improvement of Tide detergent's cleaning effectiveness. However, his most notable achievement came in the 1950s when he turned his attention to improving the diapering process.

Invention of the Disposable Diaper

Dissatisfied with the cloth diapers used for his grandchildren, Mills sought a more convenient and hygienic solution. He spearheaded a project at P&G that led to the development of the first disposable diaper. The project was initially met with skepticism within the company, but Mills's persistence paid off. The disposable diaper, branded as Pampers, was introduced to the market in 1961. This innovation not only made diapering more convenient for parents but also initiated a significant shift in the baby care market.

Legacy

Victor Mills's invention of the disposable diaper has had a profound impact on society. It has not only simplified parenting but also contributed to the growth of the baby care industry. Mills retired from Procter & Gamble in 1967 but left behind a legacy of innovation that continues to benefit millions of families worldwide. He passed away in 1997 at the age of 100, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer in consumer products engineering.

Death

Victor Mills passed away on November 1, 1997, at the age of 100. His contributions to the field of chemical engineering and consumer products continue to be celebrated.