This week, we get nerdy about sheets—why you might be unhappy with your current set, how to pick ones you’ll actually love, and the marketing scams to avoid. Jackie Reeve, Wirecutter’s in-house sheets expert, enlightens us on everything you need to know to invest in a great set you’ll be happy with for years. This episode covers: Percale vs sateen: Percale and sateen are terms that describe how sheets are woven, and the weave determines the feel of the fabric. Percale tends to be lighter and cri...
Sep 24, 2025•39 min•Ep. 59
Apple’s September iPhone event usually comes and goes with only minor tweaks to the lineup. This year feels a little different. Alongside the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max, Apple unveiled its first-ever iPhone Air—a super-thin model that promises Pro-level features without the massive price tag. In this bonus episode, Christine talks with senior staff writer Brenda Stolyar, who’s been testing the new phones all week. They dig into what’s exciting, what’s lacking, and why upgrading may not be...
Sep 18, 2025•17 min
You’ve likely heard the adage that "sitting is the new smoking." Basically, that sitting all day at work or elsewhere is one of the most harmful things you can do for your health. But is it really all that bad? In this episode, we talk with Molly Mirhashem, an editor from the New York Times Well Desk, about the health risks of being too sedentary, what you should know about “dead butt syndrome,” and what you should be doing if you have a desk job. Then we talk with Wirecutter's home office write...
Sep 17, 2025•31 min•Ep. 58
Trader Joe’s is more than a grocery store; it’s a cultural phenomenon with a fiercely loyal fan base. But with shelves full of ever-changing products, which ones are actually worth the hype? In this episode, associate staff writer Antara Sinha on the kitchen team shares Wirecutter’s picks for the 18 best Trader Joe’s items, explains how TJ’s keeps prices low, and reveals why your favorite snack might disappear forever. She also gives insider tips on navigating seasonal drops and finding alternat...
Sep 10, 2025•34 min•Ep. 57
Fall can be bittersweet—you may be coming home from vacation and settling back into your routines, but you also want to soak up the last of the warm weather before the winter comes. An e-bike might seem like a tempting compromise for an affordable, but adventurous and outdoorsy commute. In this bonus episode, Wirecutter Senior Editor and bike expert Chris Ryan tells us what an e-bike is, which kind you probably want to look for, and what common safety and repairability issues you’ll want to be a...
Sep 05, 2025•16 min
Oral health is about more than just a pretty smile; it's also connected to your overall health and well-being. In this episode, senior staff writer and toothbrush fanatic Nancy Redd explains how to brush properly, whether a manual or electric toothbrush is right for you, and how to find the best toothbrush for your family, no matter the budget. She shares surprising tips about oral hygiene and how to get kids excited about taking care of their teeth. And don’t forget to check out our video guide...
Sep 03, 2025•31 min•Ep. 56
More than 100 million Americans are exposed to unhealthy levels of noise daily. To help you protect yourself and those you love, we’re re-airing this episode on how to determine if you’re at risk of hearing loss and what you can do about it. Lauren Dragan, Wirecutter’s longtime senior writer covering headphones and audio equipment, walks us through the health issues linked to noise pollution, how to find out if you’re exposed to too much noise, and specific ways to reduce sounds at home, while c...
Aug 27, 2025•38 min•Ep. 55
Using a bidet may seem a little intimidating to some, but to others it's a way of life. In this episode, senior staff writer and bidet-convert Doug Mahoney explains why these modern fixtures that wash your bum are a game-changer for hygiene. He shares how they work, what to look for when buying one, and his top recommendations for every budget. This episode covers: How to choose between cold and warm-water bidets: They each have their pros and cons. Cold ones are the cheapest and easiest to inst...
Aug 20, 2025•34 min•Ep. 54
If you’ve ever suspected your smart devices are spying on you, you’re right. In this episode, Jon Chase, Wirecutter's supervising editor for smart home coverage, reveals how even everyday devices you may not consider "smart" are monitoring you. They’re collecting data to build a profile that can then be sold to the highest bidder. The conversation covers: The devices collecting your data: Any device connected to the internet can collect data. This isn’t necessarily malicious; a smart thermostat,...
Aug 13, 2025•36 min•Ep. 53
Natural disasters are becoming more intense and unpredictable. To help you prepare, we’re re-airing this episode on how to build a disaster kit. Wirecutter also just published a handy tool to help you customize an emergency kit specific to your needs, an article on preparing a disaster pantry , and guidance on choosing a generator . In this episode, Harry Sawyers, who edits Wirecutter’s extensive emergency-preparedness coverage, walks us through the supplies everyone should have on hand to stay ...
Aug 06, 2025•40 min•Ep. 52
This episode, senior kitchen writer Michael Sullivan demystifies all things olive oil. He shares how to navigate the overwhelming olive oil aisle, what “extra virgin” really means, and the best way to store this kitchen staple so it will stay fresh (and won’t go rancid). Whether you're an olive oil aficionado or just looking to improve your everyday cooking, this episode is packed with essential information to help you select and savor better olive oil. The conversation covers: The enemies of ol...
Jul 30, 2025•35 min•Ep. 51
Tired of creepy crawlies? Wirecutter's pest expert Doug Mahoney reveals the right way to tackle ant and roach infestations. He offers practical advice and debunks common myths (for example, cockroaches aren’t actually the most radiation-resistant insects!). Doug's 4-Step Pest Control Plan: Observe & Identify: Know your enemy! Find their entry points & hotspots. Sawdust + carpenter ants? Call a pro ASAP! Clean Up: Starve 'em out! Secure all food (pet food is a big one!), wipe surfaces con...
Jul 23, 2025•33 min•Ep. 50
In this episode, our guest is Suleika Jaouad, author of The Book of Alchemy and creator of The Isolation Journals Substack. We delve into how journaling can help you unlock creative potential and navigate life’s challenges. Suleika shares her personal journey with journaling as a lifeline during her battle with leukemia and a pathway to "creative alchemy" – transforming difficult experiences into meaningful expression. She highlights the benefits of journaling on mental health, and how it has ch...
Jul 16, 2025•37 min•Ep. 49
Nothing says summer like ketchup, chips, and ice cream. In this taste test special, we take a field trip to the Wirecutter test kitchen to sample these items alongside staff experts Antara Sinha, Rachel Wharton and Marguerite Preston—sharing top picks and behind-the-scenes testing moments. Check out a video version of this episode on YouTube ! Products we tasted: Ketchups: The best classic ketchup: Heinz Tomato Ketchup The best organic ketchup: Trader Joe’s Organic Ketchup (Christine’s favorite)...
Jul 09, 2025•31 min•Ep. 48
Tanya Sichynsky, an editor for New York Times Food and Cooking sections, and editor of The Veggie newsletter , shares her ideas for the best hot-weather-friendly foods to pack for the beach, a picnic, or any outdoor adventure. Plus, surprising hacks for keeping them cool. If you missed our prior episode on beach gear, go back and listen for tips on coolers that will keep your lunch cold all day. Recipes we recommend: Easy Chickpea Salad D.I.Y. Vegan Mayo Hot Dogs With Pico de Gallo Extra Green P...
Jul 04, 2025•15 min
It’s officially beach season. Staff writer Kit Dillion shares his favorite gear to make any beach day, picnic, or pool adventure better, from shelters to chairs to coolers. It’s all about elevating your day in the sun. Products we recommend: Best versatile weather beach shelter: Sun Ninja Tent 4 Person Best beach shade shelter for steady wind: Shibumi Shade Classic Best beach umbrella: BeachBUB All-In-One Beach Umbrella System Best beach umbrella with flaps: Sport-Brella Premiere XL Best budget ...
Jul 02, 2025•28 min•Ep. 47
Is it even possible to disappear from the internet? Wirecutter writer Max Eddy explains how he tried to do it, why it’s so hard, and what steps you can take to take control of the information that’s out there. Plus, some of the surprising sentimental hurdles he had to overcome during this project. Things we recommend: Find websites that have exposed your email in a data breach: Have I Been Pwned Find google results with your personal information in them: Google’s Results About You tool The best ...
Jun 25, 2025•35 min•Ep. 46
Summers are getting hotter. First, staff writer Thom Dunn shares expert strategies to keep your home cool, including the features you’ll want to look for in a window AC unit and a simple hack for your ceiling fan that will help beat the heat. Then, we learn all about what heat pumps have to do with keeping cool from senior staff writer Liam McCabe. Plus, everything you need to know about the Midea U recall. Products we recommend: The best budget window AC: Frigidaire FHWW084TE1 Weatherizing gear...
Jun 18, 2025•37 min•Ep. 45
We tracked the prices of 40 Wirecutter picks for 60 days to gauge the impact of tariffs. Most prices didn’t increase—but they likely will soon. Deputy editor Annemarie Conte explains why prices haven’t risen dramatically so far, why the cost of goods will likely start rising around Black Friday, and how you should navigate your purchases going forward. We also discuss how to avoid getting slammed with big customs bills when ordering goods online. Additional reading: We Tracked Prices on 40 Wirec...
Jun 17, 2025•18 min
Appliances don't last as long as they used to—but not for the reasons you probably think. Senior staff writer Rachel Wharton explains why modern fridges, ovens, and other large appliances often won’t last more than a decade. She also reveals the strategies you can use to invest in new appliances that will last you longer. Additional Reading: Rachel's new article: The Real Reasons Your Appliances Die Young 14 Best Refrigerators of 2025 The 6 Best Electric Stoves and Ranges of 2025 7 Tips From Our...
Jun 11, 2025•32 min•Ep. 44
Red light devices promise a lot—but do they deliver? Wirecutter supervising editor Rory Evans demystifies the science behind them, shares her top picks, and explains who might want to think twice before trying one. Correction: In this episode, we misstated that the irradiance, or power over an area, of red light devices is measured in megawatts per square centimeters. It is measured in milliwatts, not megawatts. Products we recommend: Best red light wand: LightStim for Wrinkles Best flexible red...
Jun 04, 2025•32 min•Ep. 43
If you’re planning on traveling abroad this summer, it might be a good idea to use a VPN when browsing the web. In this bonus episode, staff writer Max Eddy explains what they are, and why they’re beneficial when you’re far from home (and sometimes when you’re not far, too). What we recommend: Top pick: Mullvad Best VPN for Travel: IVPN Good free VPNs: ProtonVPN doesn’t limit your data but does limit your locations. TunnelBear limits your data but not your locations. Best password managers: 1Pas...
Jun 02, 2025•15 min
Mosquito and tick bites aren’t just annoying–they spread dangerous diseases. In this episode, senior staff writer Doug Mahoney shares proven prevention tips and breaks down the differences between various effective repellents. He also explains why you should avoid certain “natural” repellents, like essential oils and citronella candles, and why bug zappers are bad for the environment. Products we recommend: Best DEET-based repellent: Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent Best picaridin-based rep...
May 28, 2025•33 min•Ep. 42
Help us make The Wirecutter Show even better, by filling out the The Wirecutter Show Audience Survey . We promise it's short and sweet. We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and Website Instagram: /wirecutter Threads: /@wirecutter Twitter: /wirecutter Facebook: /thewirecutter TikTok: /wirecutter LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/ Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.c...
May 23, 2025•35 sec
Our experts share their time-tested strategies for better grilling. Senior staff writer Lesley Stockton reveals the proper way to clean and oil grates, why it’s probably time to clean your entire grill, and the unexpected tools (like restaurant tongs and a grill basket) that will immediately uplevel your next cookout. Then Sam Sifton, assistant managing editor at The New York Times and co-founder of NYT Cooking, walks us through heat zones, why you should limit food flipping, and his favorite re...
May 21, 2025•36 min•Ep. 41
Most people misuse sunscreen. In this episode, senior staff health writer Nancy Redd joins us to explain the differences between mineral and chemical types, how you should properly apply any sunscreen, and why many 'reef-safe' sunscreens still harm marine life. Please take a few minutes to fill out The Wirecutter Show Audience Survey . It'll help us make decisions about the future of the show. Thanks! Products we recommend: Our favorite inexpensive chemical sunscreen: Equate Sport Broad Spectrum...
May 14, 2025•39 min•Ep. 40
It’s not your imagination. Climate change is making seasonal allergy season longer and more intense. New York Times health reporter Nina Agrawal joins us to discuss what to do when the pollen count is high, how to improve your indoor air quality this spring and summer, and the differences between allergy medications. Products we recommend: A really good air purifier: Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty Our favorite upright vacuum: SEBO Felix Premium Our favorite canister vacuum: SEBO Airbelt K3 Premi...
May 12, 2025•13 min
Baby gear editor Kalee Thompson shares her tried-and-true tips for what new parents really need for a newborn (and what to skip), the most helpful gifts for expecting parents, and the gear you can safely buy used. Please take a few minutes to fill out The Wirecutter Show Audience Survey . It'll help us make decisions about the future of the show. Thanks! Products we recommend: Great baby bouncer: BabyBjörn Bouncer Balance Soft Good laundry detergent for baby clothes: Tide Free & Gentle Liqui...
May 07, 2025•38 min•Ep. 39
Mother’s Day doesn’t have to be complicated. Wirecutter staffers share the classic and unexpected gifts that have delighted the mothers in their lives. Products we recommend: Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer Recchiuti Confections Black Box Additional reading: 13 Best Boxed Chocolates of 2025 The Best Online Flower Delivery Service of 2025 35 Best Mother’s Day Gifts of 2025 We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter...
Apr 30, 2025•16 min
Looking to limit exposure to plastic and nonstick kitchen gear? In our first roundtable episode, two of our staff experts share their best advice. Sustainability editor Katie Okamoto digs into the health risks of various materials, while kitchen editor Marilyn Ong shares swaps that are beloved by chefs—and that may last a lifetime. Products we recommend: PFAS and plastic free, non-stick pans: OXO Obsidian Carbon Steel Frypan with Silicone Sleeve and Lodge Chef Collection 12-Inch Cast Iron Skille...
Apr 30, 2025•39 min•Ep. 38
