Leo Gerstenzang was an American inventor best known for creating the first disposable cotton swab, which he called the Q-tip. He developed this product in the 1920s after observing his wife using cotton swabs to clean their baby's ears. His invention quickly gained popularity for its convenience and versatility. Gerstenzang founded the Leo Gerstenzang Company to manufacture and market the Q-tip. The product became a household staple, used for various purposes beyond ear cleaning, such as applying makeup and cleaning small items. Today, Q-tips are a widely recognized brand, synonymous with cotton swabs.