The Wirecutter Show

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 Sox
• Silk hair accessories: Lilysilk Perfect Silk Beauty Set For Hair
• A simple gold chain: Laura Lombardi Mini Omega Chain
• Fancy chocolates Recchiuti XOXO Box 16pc
• Flowers: UrbanStems
• Fancy cookies: Eugénie cookies
• Paper flower bouquet: Unwilted Single Stems

Additional Reading

• The 33 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her 2025
• 32 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him in 2025 
• 24 Best Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts of 2025
• The Best Online Flower Delivery Service of 2025
• 24 Best Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts of 2025
• 37 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Kids of 2025
• 15 Exclusive Valentine’s Day Deals Just for Wirecutter Readers
• 38 Best Cheap Valentine’s Day Gifts (Mostly) Under $25 of 2025
• Sign up for  The Gift Newsletter

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Wirecutter Social and Website

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Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

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We are working on a new episode about laundry—specifically, those stains that never seem to come out—and we need your help!  

Record a voice memo on your phone and tell us about the most irritating stain you’ve battled. How did you get it? What was the culprit? What did it stain? And what did you use to try and get it out?

Try and keep it under two minutes and don’t forget to tell us your first name and where you’re calling from!

Email your voice memo to [email protected] and you might be featured on the show with advice from our laundry expert (aka stain doctor Andrea Barnes). 

Thanks!  

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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.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Personal lubricants make sex more fun–but not all of them are created equal. We’re covering how to find ones you’ll love and the ingredients to avoid.

Guest: Wirecutter writer Bianca Alba 

Products we recommend: 

• Best water-based lube:  Aloe Cadabra Natural Aloe
• Best thinner water-based lube: Coconu Water Based
• Best silicone lube: Überlube
• Best hybrid lube: Sliquid Silk
• Best oil-based lube: Coconu Oil Based
• Bianca recommends: Vuvla-shaped candle mold

Additional reading :

• The 6 Best Personal Lubricants of 2025
• The 5 Best Vibrators of 2025 
• The Best Anal Toys 
• How to Clean Sex Toys 

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.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The right luggage can make traveling easier. We share expert tips for choosing between hard and soft shells, carry-on or checked bags, plus pro packing hacks.

Guest: Wirecutter senior staff writer Kit Dillon

Products we recommend: 

• The best soft-sided carry-on bag: Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner
• The best hard-sided carry-on bag: Away The Carry-On
• The upgrade pick carry-on: Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner
• A travel backpack we love: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack Del Dia
• The best duffel bag:  Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L
• The best packing cubes: Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set
• Kit recommends: Pat Rawson Surfoards

Additional Reading: 

• The 6 Best Carry-On Luggage of 2025
• The Best Suitcases for Checking
• The 6 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for 2025
• The 9 Best Duffle Bags of 2025
• The 4 Best Packing Cubes of 2025

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.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Strength training might seem intimidating, but it’s also key for living a long, healthy life. We cover how to start and the simple at-home gear that’ll help.

Guests: Wirecutter supervising editor Ingrid Skjong and Wirecutter fitness writer Seth Berkman 

Products we recommend: 

• Best yoga mat: JadeYoga Harmony Mat
• Best kettlebell: Rep Fitness Kettlebell
• Best adjustable dumbbell set: Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Set
• Best pull-up bar: Ultimate Body Press Elevated XL Doorway Pull-Up Bar
• Best resistance bands: Bodylastics Stackable Tube Resistance Bands (5 Bands Pro Series Set) and Serious Steel Assisted Pull-Up, Resistance, and Stretch Bands
• Seth loves: KSY Jump Rope

Additional Reading: 

• The 4 Best Resistance Bands of 2025 
• The 3 Best Yoga Mats of 2025 
• The 3 Best Pull-Up Bars of 2025 
• The 2 Best Kettlebells of 2025 
• The 3 Best Adjustable Dumbbells of 2025
• The 5 Best Jump Ropes of 2025 

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.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dishwashers make life easier—but most people don’t use them quite right. This episode, we’re diving deep into how you can get yours to wash dishes even better. 

Guest: Wirecutter staff writer Andrea Barnes

Products we recommend:

• The best dishwasher detergent: Cascade Free & Clear ActionPacs
• What to use to clean your dishwasher: Affresh or citric acid
• Rinse aids to consider: Ecover or Finish Jet Dry
• The best dishwasher: Miele G5008
• Andrea loves: The League of Kitchens Cookbook

Additional reading:

• The 4 Best Dishwasher Detergents of 2024 
• How to Clean Your Dishwasher 
• Why You Should Clean Your Dishwasher Filter 
• How to Use Your Dishwasher Better
• We Smeared Hundreds of Dishes With Peanut Butter, Egg Yolk, Red Sauce, and Lipstick to Test Dishwashers in 2024
• Is It You, or Is Your Dishwasher Just Lousy? Here’s How to Tell.

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.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most printers suck. This week we crack the code on how to buy one you might actually like, and reveal the secrets to saving cash on ink and toner. 

Guest: Wirecutter supervising editor Ben Keough 

Products we recommend:

• Basic B&W laser printer we recommend: Brother Wireless HL-L2460DW
• Online photo printing we recommend: Nations Photo Lab
• Ben’s new/used camera: Nikon F3

Additional Reading:

• Why All Printers Suck (Even the Best Ones)
• The 4 Best Home Printers of 2024
• The 4 Best All-in-One Printers of 2024
• The 3 Best Photo Printers of 2024
• The 4 Best Mobile Scanning Apps of 2024
• The Best Online Photo Printing Service of 2024

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.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s Dry January—but non-alcoholic cocktails needn’t be sad. We’re discussing the health risks of alcohol and how to build out a delicious buzz-free bar cart.

Guests: NYT reporter Dana G. Smith and Wirecutter editor Marguerite Preston 

Products we recommend: 

• A gin-like alternative: Pentire Adrift
• St. Agrestis Non-Alcoholic Phony Negroni
• A bitter Amaro-like favorite: The Pathfinder
• Rosie enjoys mixing this with Pathfinder: Uncle Waithley’s Vincy Brew
• Less bitter options: Curious No. 2  and Casamara Superclasico
• Great for your NA Bar Cart: Bitter Queens Essential Bitters Variety Pack and Luxardo Original Maraschino Cherries
• Marguerite loves: Onyx Coffee Lab Instant Coffee Advent Calendar

Additional Reading 

• 14 Best Nonalcoholic Drinks of 2024
• Even a Little Alcohol Can Harm Your Health by Dana G. Smith
• What, Exactly, Is ‘Moderate Drinking’? by Dana G. Smith
• What to Know About Non-Alcoholic Beverages by Dana G. Smith
• Hop Water Isn’t Trying to Be Beer. That’s Why We Like It.
• The 8 Best Nonalcoholic Wines of 2024
• The Best Instant Coffee

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.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From a space heater that saves a marriage to sunscreen that saves a surfer’s skin, Wirecutter’s staff opens up about the best things they bought in 2024.

Guests: We heard voicemails from Wirecutter staffers including Mel Plaut, Ingela Amundson, Annemarie Conte, Jackie Reeve, Brent Butterworth, Katie Okamoto, Zoe Vanderweide, Liam McCabe, Elissa Sanci, Alex Aciman, Kathleen Squires, Julia Bush, Claire Wilcox,  Jon Chase,  Lauren Dragan, and Dorie Chevlan. 

Products We Recommend: 

• Mel Plaut likes: Vornado AVH10 space heater
• Ingela Amundson likes: Sterilite Stacking Laundry Basket
• Annemarie Conte likes: Garmin Forerunner 165 watch
• Jackie Reeve likes: Donner DUC-1 Concert Ukulele
• Brent Butterworth likes: JBL Go 4 Bluetooth Speaker
• Katie Okamoto likes: HAY Matin Table Lamp 
• Zoe Vanderweide likes: Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette
• Liam McCabe likes: Gordon 20-in-1 Multi-Tool
• Elissa Sanci likes: Trtl Pillow
• Alex Aciman likes: Comfort Colors 1717 Adult Heavyweight Tee
• Kathleen Squires likes: The New York Times Premium Birthday Edition book
• Julia Bush likes: Adizero Adios Pro 3 super shoes
• Claire Wilcox likes: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Jon Chase likes: Channel Master FLATenna
• Lauren Dragon likes: WhiteBark Workwear Full Cross-Back Apron
• Dorie Chevlen likes: Cuisinart Round Flip Belgian Waffle Maker WAF-F30
• Christine Cyr Clisset likes: Technivorm Moccamaster KBT coffee maker
• Caira Blackwell likes: Lilysilk 25 Momme Oxford Envelope Luxury Pillowcase
• Rosie Guerin likes: ViscoSoft 3 inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Additional Reading: 

• The Best T-Shirt I Ever Bought Came From a Midwest Strip Mall. I Tracked It Down on Amazon.
• I Test Bras for a Living. The Harper Wilde Triangle Bralette Is the Only One I Actually Wear. 
• Super Shoes Aren’t Just for Olympians. But Do Casual Runners Really Need Them?
• The Silly-Looking Trtl Travel Pillow Is the Only Way I Can Sleep on Flights

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.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Homes burn crazy fast these days. Are you prepared? We’re covering everything you need, from the newest smoke alarms to the right fire extinguishers. 

Guests: Wirecutter senior staff writer Doug Mahoney and senior editor for smart home coverage Jon Chase 

Additional reading: 

• The 4 Best Basic Smoke Alarms of 2024 
• The 2 Best Smart Smoke Alarms of 2024 
• The Best Fire Extinguisher
• The Best Fire Escape Ladder 
• UL video of room burning test: New Comparison of Natural and Synthetic Home Furnishings

Products we recommend: 

• The best smoke alarm: First Alert SM500V Interconnected Battery-Operated Smoke Alarm with Voice Alerts
• The best smart smoke alarm: Google Nest Protect
• The best fire extinguisher: First Alert Pro5
• The best fire ladder: X-It 2-Story Emergency Escape Ladder
• Doug recommends: Veto Pro Pac XL Extra Large Compact Tool Bag

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.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.