The Wirecutter Show

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 Sunscreen Value Size SPF 50A reef-safe physical sunscreen that rubs in easily: Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50A pleasing, fragrance-free physical sunscreen: Badger Adventure Mineral Sunscreen Cream SPF 50A superlative chemical sunscreen: Banana Boat Light As Air SPF 50+A sweet-smelling reef-friendly sunscreen: Thinksport Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50Nancy loves: Tobiq Free People 60L Additional reading:The 4 Best Sunscreens of 2025The 12 Best Sunscreens for Your Face of 2025Lots of People Apply Sunscreen Wrong. Here’s How to Do It Right.The 3 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens of 2025There’s No Difference Between Baby and Adult Sunscreen Sun-Protective Clothing Is a Reliable UV-Blocker. Here Are Some Options We Love.  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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 MightyOur favorite upright vacuum: SEBO Felix PremiumOur favorite canister vacuum: SEBO Airbelt K3 Premium Additional Reading: The Wirecutter Show Episode 2: How to Clean the Air You BreatheThe 8 Best Air Purifiers of 2025The 15 Best Vacuum Cleaners of 2025Nina’s reporting on how to tell if you have allergies and what actually works for combatting seasonal allergies    We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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 SoftGood laundry detergent for baby clothes:  Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry DetergentCar seats we recommend: Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX; Chicco KeyFit 35; Uppababy Aria.A good lightweight stroller: Uppababy Minu V2A polarizing bassinet: Snoo Smart SleeperKalee loves: Zojirushi Stainless Steel MugUse this site to check for recalls on products you may be buying used: CPSC.gov Additional reading:Gifts For New MomsIs the $1,700 Snoo Smart Sleeper Bassinet Worth It? What to Know Before You Buy.The 4 Best Infant Car Seats of 2025The 6 Best Bassinets and Bedside Sleepers of 2025The 5 Best Full-Size Strollers of 2025The 2 Best Travel Strollers of 2025The Best Baby CarriersThe 5 Best Baby Monitors of 2025The 2 Best Diaper Pails of 2025   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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 DryerRecchiuti 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› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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 SkilletGlass food storage containers (with plastic lids): Pyrex Freshlock 10-piece Glass Storage SetCompletely plastic free food storage containers we love: Pyrex Ultimate 10-Piece Glass Storage SetA toaster over option we love (to consider replacing an air-fryer): Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster OvenA rice cooker alternative with a stainless steel bowl: Instant Pot Rio 6-quartOur favorite spatula:  Victorinox Swiss Army Slotted Fish TurnerOther plastic-free spatulas we love: GIR Mini Flip Silicone Spatula, OXO Good Grips Silicone Small Flexible Turner and GIR Ultimate SpatulaBaking sheets without non-stick coating: Nordic Ware Naturals Baker’s Half SheetCake pans without non-stick coating: USA Pan 9-inch Round Cake PanOur favorite wood cutting board: Jones Cutting Board 20 x 14 x 1.5 Inch Maple End GrainA plastic-free kettle: Cuisinart GK-1 Digital Gooseneck KettleA single use plastic bag swap we like: Stasher Reusable Silicone Bag Multi-PackKatie loves: Amrikan: 125 Recipes from the Indian American DiasporaMarilyn loves: HoMedics Shiatsu Elite II Massage Cushion Additional reading: Forever Chemicals Are Everywhere. Here’s How to Limit Your Exposure.Black Plastic Kitchen Tools Might Expose You to Toxic Chemicals. Here’s What to Use Instead.12 Ways to Break Up With Single-Use PlasticsMicroplastics Are Everywhere. Here’s How to Avoid Eating Them.The 3 Best Nonstick Pans of 2025The 4 Best Food Storage Containers of 2025The 11 Best Spatulas of 2025The 5 Best Cutting Boards of 2025The 6 Best Cake Pans for 2025The Wirecutter Show Episode 7: Can We Stop Eating Microplastics?The Best Plastic-Free Bowls, Plates, Cups, and Utensils for Babies and KidsSilicone Kitchen Gear Isn't As Sustainable As Many People Think. Try These Solutions Instead. We are conducting a listener survey to learn more about what listeners to the Wirecutter Show are looking for from this podcast. Please share your thoughts with us.  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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 4Best budget bluetooth speaker: Tribit StormBox Mini  (sold out)Best bluetooth speaker with solid bass: Fender x Teufel Rockster Go 2Best computer speakers (upgrade pick): JBL Professional 305P MkIIBest passive bookshelf speakers (they’ll need an amp): Polk Signature Elite ES15Best budget bookshelf speakers: Micca MB42X G2Best amp: WiiM AmpBest stereo receiver: Sony STR-DH190Brent loves this screwdriver: Megapro 13-in-1 Ratcheting Driver 211R2C36RD Additional reading: The 5 Best Portable Bluetooth Speakers of 2025The 5 Best Computer Speakers of 2025The 5 Best Bookshelf Speakers for Stereo and Surround Sound of 2024The 3 Best Home Bluetooth Speakers of 2025The Best Stereo Amplifiers and Receivers Under $300 of 2025How to Build the Best Multiroom Wireless Speaker System for YouWhat Do You Get When You Spend More for Speakers?How to Connect Your New Turntable to Any Audio SystemHow to Get Great Sound in Your Backyard  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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 PaperHow to use your phone as a light meter More from Darryl Cheng: His first book The New Plant Parent (2019)His latest book The New Plant Collector (2024)His website: houseplantjournal.com Additional ReadingFill Your Home with Houseplants for Practically No MoneyThe 2 Best Places to Buy Plants Online of 202525 Best Gifts for Plant Lovers of 2025The 7 Best Fake Plastic Trees and Artificial Houseplants of 2025  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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 MoisturizerLa Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Face MoisturizerCeraVe Moisturizing CreamAugustinus Bader The Rich CreamRetinols:SkinMedica Retinol Complex 1.0Trader Joe’s Retinol Night SerumVitamin C Serums: SkinCeuticals C E FerulicTimeless Skin Care 20% C + E Ferulic Acid SerumNaturium Vitamin C Complex SerumLa Roche-Posay’s 10% Pure Vitamin C SerumDr. Dhingra likes these facial cleansers: Cetaphil Gentle Skin CleanserCeraVe Foaming Facial CleanserLa Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial CleanserRory likes: East Fork Everyday Bowl Additional Reading:The 7 Best Moisturizers of 2025The 6 Best Vitamin C Serums of 2025The 5 Best Retinol Products of 2025So You’re Ready to Start Using Retinol. Here’s What You Should Know First.The 12 Best Sunscreens for Your Face of 2025   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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 SawyersProducts We Recommend: Dish soap for all kinds of cleaning tasks: Seventh Generation Dish SoapAn abrasive cleaner that comes in handy for lots of tasks: Bar Keepers Friend All-Purpose Cleaner and PolishA good descaling product for coffee machines: Urnex Descaling Powder Solution Additional Reading: Clean Everything NewsletterHow to Clean Your Coffee MakerHow to Clean Your OvenHow to Clean a Toaster OvenHow to Clean a HumidifierHow to Clean Patio Furniture CushionsExtremely Satisfying Pressure Washer ProjectsHow to Clean Your DishwasherHow to Clean Your Front-Loading Washing MachineHow to Clean Your Shower Curtain  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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 EddyTo 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 destroyed.Navigate to the Research and Product Consents section and revoke permission to allow your genetic material to be used in research projects. (Doing so revokes that permission only for future research).23andMe notes that you have to provide additional verification before your data-deletion request can be processed, and that you must follow instructions detailed in a 23andMe confirmation email for your request to be processed. The company recommends emailing customercare@23andme.com if you have issues submitting the data-deletion request. Additional Reading: 23andMe Just Filed for Bankruptcy. You Should Delete Your Data Now.The 2 Best DNA Testing Kits of 2025  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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 RemoverA good stain remover for cat odors: Nature's MiracleA good way to remove odors from clothes: Downy Rinse & RefreshFor acrylic paint stains, you might try: Dawn PowerwashFor oil paint stains, you can try mineral spiritsA good stain remover for old blood stains: Clorox 2 Stain Remover & Color BrightenerThe best liquid laundry detergent & a great product for pre-treating stains: Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry DetergentThe best powdered laundry detergent (with oxygen bleach) for dirt and clay: Tide Ultra Oxi Powder Laundry Detergent Additional reading:The Wirecutter Show Episode 32: The Art of Stain Removal Part 1So You Stained Your Shirt. Now What? The 6 Best Stain Removers of 2025Skip the Stain Removers. This Detergent Is All You Need.The 5 Best Laundry Detergents of 2025The Wirecutter Show Episode 1: The Secret to Better LaundryThe Best Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

In part one of our stain series, we tackle your toughest questions–from reviving dingy whites to rescuing clothes from stubborn oils and baked-on gummy bears.Guest: Wirecutter senior writer Andrea Barnes Products we recommend:The best liquid laundry detergent & a great product for pre-treating stains: Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry DetergentThe best powdered laundry detergent (with oxygen bleach)  :Tide Ultra Oxi Powder Laundry DetergentAnother great laundry detergent: ​​Persil Original Liquid Detergent Everyday CleanIf you want an “eco-friendly” detergent or to support a smaller brand, we like: Dirty Labs Free & Clear Bio Laundry DetergentA good stain remover for most starch or protein food stains: ZoutA good stain remover for ink or sugary stains: Amodex Ink & Stain Remover Additional reading:So You Stained Your Shirt. Now What? The 6 Best Stain Removers of 2025Skip the Stain Removers. This Detergent Is All You Need.The 5 Best Laundry Detergents of 2025The Wirecutter Show Episode 1: The Secret to Better Laundry  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Digital hygiene rarely tops spring cleaning lists—but it should. Our tech editor shares how to declutter your phone, and why you need a password manager. Guest: Wirecutter Senior Tech Editor, Caitlin McGarry Products we recommend: The best Password Manager: 1PasswordThe best free Password Manager: BitwardenTwo-Factor Authenticator Apps: Duo Mobile and Google AuthenticatorThe best bluetooth tracker: Apple AirTag Additional Reading: How to Organize and Store Your Phone’s Camera Roll PhotosThe Best External Hard Drive You Don’t Need a New Phone. Here’s How to Make the One You Have Last Longer.How to Clean Your PhoneThe 2 Best Password Managers Step 1 to Simple Online Security: Always Use Strong PasswordsThe 2 Best Two-Factor Authentication AppsThe 2 Best Bluetooth Trackers  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

You don’t need to settle for a bad vacuum. Our expert reveals how to pick one that’ll actually make your life easier—and your home a lot cleaner.Guest: Deputy Director, Editorial Operations & Testing Courtney Schley Products we recommend:Best upright vac: SEBO Felix PremiumBudget upright vac: Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352Best canister vac: SEBO Airbelt K3 PremiumAnother canister vac we love: Miele Complete C3 Calima PowerLineBest stick vac: Dyson V12 Detect SlimBest robot vac: Roborock Q5 Max+Budget robot vac: Eufy RoboVac 11S MaxCourtney loves: Cuisinart Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven TOB-260N1 (and Trader Joe's frozen chocolate croissants!) Additional Reading:The 15 Best Vacuum Cleaners of 2025 We Spent a Weekend With Dozens of Vacuum Enthusiasts. Here’s What We Learned. What’s the Best Vacuum for Pet Hair?How to Clean a Vacuum Cleaner  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

It’s time to turn the clocks forward – but don’t let Daylight Saving Time mess with your health. Here’s our best advice to overcome the time shift ahead. Guest: podcast co-host Caira Blackwell Products we recommend:The best blackout curtains: IKEA Rosenmandel Black-out Curtains or Target Pillowfort Blackout Chambray Cotton Kids’ PanelThe best eye mask: Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep MaskThe best sunrise alarm clock: Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light HF3520Caira loves this alarm clock: Hatch Restore 2 Additional Reading: How to Survive Daylight Saving TimeThe Best Sunrise Alarm Clock of 2025 The 4 Best Blackout Curtains of 2025The 3 Best Sleep Masks of 2025  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Our networking pro reveals three dead-simple fixes most people miss for faster internet, plus insider secrets to choosing a better internet plan.Guest: Senior staff writer Joel Santo Domingo Products We RecommendTool to find internet providers in your area: www.broadbandmap.fcc.govLook up your internet speed (upload speeds especially!): www.speedtest.net  or www.fast.com (from Netflix)USB hub for plugging in an ethernet cord to a computer or laptop: Anker 555 USB-C Hub (8-in-1)Powerline adapter for better wifi without a cord: TP-Link TL-WPA8631P KitJoel loves: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro Additional ReadingThe Gear to Get Reliable Wi-Fi in Any HomeThe 3 Best Wi-Fi Routers of 2025The Best Cable Modem of 2025The 4 Best Powerline Networking Adapters of 2025  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Our expert demystifies towel shopping—from plush terry to spa-like waffle—and reveals why that soft store feel is deceptive. Plus care tips to make them last. Guest: Staff senior writer Jackie Reeve  Products We Recommend: Top terry cloth towels: Frontgate Resort Collection Bath TowelBudget terry cloth towels: Threshold Spa Plush TowelUpgrade terry cloth towels: Riley Spa Bath TowelBudget waffle towels: Casaluna Waffle Bath TowelUpgrade waffle towels: Onsen Waffle Bath TowelUpgrade peshtemal towel: Coyuchi Mediterranean Organic Towel Also great (cheaper) peshtemal towel: Huckberry Mediterranean Turkish Towel Jackie loves: Sugoi Mart Japan KitKat Variety Pack Additional Reading: The 5 Best Bath Towels of 2025 The 4 Best Beach Towels of 2025All My Houseguests Ask Me About My Towels by Daniela GornyMore about Frontgate Resort Cotton Bath Towels  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

An uncomfortable bed can screw up your sleep. We’re covering how to make your current mattress more comfortable–and how to shop for a new one.  Guest: senior writer and podcast co-host Caira Blackwell  Products we recommend: Memory foam mattresses we like: Leesa Original Mattress and Saatva Loom & Leaf (Relaxed Firm)A cheaper memory foam mattress:  Novaform 14″ ComfortGrande Advanced Gel Memory Foam MattressHybrid mattress we like: Leesa Sapira Hybrid MattressA favorite innerspring mattress: Stearns & Foster Estate PT Firm MattressAn innerspring mattress we like (that’s kind of a hybrid): WinkBed (Luxury Firm)A $75,000 mattress: Hastens 2000TA great cheap mattress: Zinus Cooling Comfort Support Hybrid Mattress Additional reading links:Pillows: The 5 Best Bed Pillows of 2025 Mattress Toppers: The 4 Best Mattress Toppers of 2025 Mattresses: How to Choose a Mattress for 2025The 24 Best Mattresses of 2025 The 4 Best Cheap Mattresses (Under $500) of 2025 The 3 Best Memory Foam Mattresses You Can Buy Online in 2025The 5 Best Innerspring Mattresses of 2025 The 4 Best Hybrid Mattresses for 2025The 4 Best Mattress and Pillow Encasements of 2025  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Skip predictable chocolates and roses this Valentine's Day. Our gift expert shares luxurious ways to delight loved ones—and pamper yourself. Guest: Staff writer Samantha Schoech Products we recommend:Sparkly Socks: Calzedonia Soft SoxSilk hair accessories: Lilysilk Perfect Silk Beauty Set For HairA simple gold chain: Laura Lombardi Mini Omega ChainFancy chocolates Recchiuti XOXO Box 16pcFlowers: UrbanStemsFancy cookies: Eugénie cookiesPaper flower bouquet: Unwilted Single Stems Additional ReadingThe 33 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her 202532 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him in 2025 24 Best Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts of 2025The Best Online Flower Delivery Service of 202524 Best Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts of 202537 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Kids of 202515 Exclusive Valentine’s Day Deals Just for Wirecutter Readers38 Best Cheap Valentine’s Day Gifts (Mostly) Under $25 of 2025Sign up for  The Gift Newsletter  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast