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
Speakers don’t have to be complicated. Wirecutter senior audio writer Brent Butterworth tells us about some surprising hacks to improve the sound setup you may already have, and affordable speaker upgrades worthy of consideration. Products we recommend: Best ultra-portable bluetooth speaker: JBL Go 4 Best budget bluetooth speaker: Tribit StormBox Mini (sold out) Best bluetooth speaker with solid bass: Fender x Teufel Rockster Go 2 Best computer speakers (upgrade pick): JBL Professional 305P MkII...
Apr 23, 2025•36 min•Ep. 37
Plant expert Darryl Cheng, of the popular Instagram account @houseplantjournal , teaches us how to keep those pothos and monsteras alive. He also reveals a few tips from his most recent book, The New Plant Collector , for helping various plants thrive. Then senior staff writer and plant collector Rose Maura Lorre shares her insider secrets for scoring cheap or totally free houseplants. Things We Recommend: Rose likes: Who Gives a Crap 100% Recycled Toilet Paper How to use your phone as a light m...
Apr 16, 2025•37 min•Ep. 36
Concerned about tariffs spiking prices? Wirecutter’s senior tech editor, Caitlin McGarry, explains how new trade policies might affect the cost of Wirecutter-recommended products—at least for now. Additional Reading: Wirecutter's Expert Advice on How to Navigate the New Tariffs 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 Facebo...
Apr 11, 2025•10 min
Skin care doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be effective. We cover the basics anyone might need in their skin-care regimen, and our favorite drugstore brands that we’ve tested. Guests: Dr. Nikhil Dhingra, board-certified dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology, and Rory Evans, Wirecutter’s senior beauty writer. Products we recommend: Facial Moisturizers: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Face Moisturizer CeraVe Moisturizing Cream Augustinus Bader ...
Apr 09, 2025•37 min•Ep. 35
Our staff experts reveal time-tested methods for cleaning the most neglected (and grimy) areas of your home–from greasy ovens to stained patio furniture. Guests : special projects director Christine Cyr Clisset, editorial director Marguerite Preston, senior writer Doug Mahoney, senior writer Rachel Wharton, staff writer Thom Dunn and senior editor Harry Sawyers Products We Recommend: Dish soap for all kinds of cleaning tasks: Seventh Generation Dish Soap An abrasive cleaner that comes in handy f...
Apr 02, 2025•34 min•Ep. 34
23andMe, maker of popular DNA test kits, has filed for bankruptcy and is looking for a buyer. Here’s why customers should delete their info before it’s sold. Guest: Wirecutter staff writer Max Eddy To delete your 23andMe data: Log in to your account and select Settings. Scroll to the bottom of the page and select 23andMe data, then View. (Download a copy of your genetic information). Select Delete Data and then Permanently Delete Data. In Settings, you can also opt to have your genetic material ...
Mar 28, 2025•14 min
In the final part of our stain series, we tackle trickier listener questions–from eliminating fishy odors to whether you can truly remove paint stains. Guest: Senior writer Andrea Barnes Products we recommend: A good stain remover for ink or sugary stains: Amodex Ink & Stain Remover A good stain remover for cat odors: Nature's Miracle A good way to remove odors from clothes: Downy Rinse & Refresh For acrylic paint stains, you might try: Dawn Powerwash For oil paint stains, you can try mi...
Mar 26, 2025•34 min•Ep. 33
