Wine glasses
Even though they hold expensive liquid that stains very easily, wine glasses were designed with an elevated center of gravity, a small base, and a very fragile mid-section. This make spills much more likely. How did nobody realize this beforehand?
Note: wine lovers will argue that the shape and size of the glass greatly influences taste. On the other hand, scientists will argue that everything influences taste…including perceptions about the glass shape. At least the glasses could be made out of a sturdier material.