The Wirecutter Show

By The New York TimesSociety & Culture Education Leisure How To Home & Garden

Ranking
3rd
on Home & Garden
Favorites
494
Followers
Typical duration
32 min
per episode
If it hooks
49%
finish an episode

Based on Podcast App listening data

The Wirecutter Show episodes

August 18What an Eye Cream Can (and Can’t) Do
Whether you're trying to soften wrinkles, fade dark circles, or depuff tired morning eyes, a good eye cream can help. But you need to pick one that’s actually meant to address your skin concerns.

In this episode, senior beauty writer Abbie Kozolchyk explains precisely what to look for in an eye cream. She breaks down the specific ingredients to look for depending on your personal skin concerns, how to judge results over time, and when to move on if you’re not seeing a change in the skin around your eyes.

Abbie tested more 50 eye creams with 65 testers aged 23 to 84 to make recommendations for her Wirecutter guide to eye creams. She reveals our top picks, from a $13 drugstore tube that yielded shockingly dramatic results to a splurge-worthy $130 cream that works wonders on deep crow’s feet.

This episode covers:
Why eye creams aren't just face creams in disguise: The skin around your eyes is incredibly thin and delicate. Standard face moisturizers are often too harsh for the eye area. Specially formulated eye creams deliver targeted, more effective treatments.

What topical creams can and can’t do: While eye creams can't erase deep wrinkles or eliminate dark circles caused by underlying vasculature (veins showing through thin skin), they can subtly soften expression lines, fade hyperpigmentation-related darkness, and help drain fluid to reduce morning puffiness.

The active ingredients to seek out: Retinols and peptides are best for wrinkles; niacinamide is a powerhouse for brightening dark circles; caffeine and cooling applicators help depuff; and humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid pull in much-needed moisture for dry skin.

Why it takes time to see results: Consistency and patience are necessary. Active ingredients need a bare minimum of 30 days to show results, and you may even need six to eight weeks before deciding if a product is working or if it's time to move on.

Products we recommend:
Best all-around eye cream: CeraVe Skin Renewing Eye Cream

A luxe, multitasking eye cream: Innbeauty Project Extreme Cream Eye

Best for dark circles: Alastin Restorative Eye Complex

Best for wrinkles: Skinbetter Science EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream

Best for stubbornly dry skin: Belif Moisturizing Eye Bomb

Best for soothing and depuffing: Cocokind Revitalizing Eye Cream

Abbie recommends the Peek Scents Organic Rose Phyto3 - Facial Oil and Facial Cream

Additional reading:
The 6 Best Eye Creams of 2026

The 7 Best Retinol Products of 2026

The 16 Best Drugstore Skin-Care Products of 2026

The 7 Best Moisturizers of 2026

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.
33 min
August 14How to Clean the Air You Breathe (Encore)
This week, we’re re-airing a discussion about keeping your indoor air clean and healthy to breathe. Wirecutter senior writer Tim Heffernan walks us through how to reduce the outdoor pollution that inevitably seeps into your home, what to do if you're dealing with wildfire smoke, and surprising and free ways to keep your air clean.

Tim covers exactly why you shouldn’t overspend on an air purifier, and how often you really need to change the filter. Plus he does some myth busting about whether plants clean the air.

This episode covers:
Monitoring outdoor air: How to use the free EPA Air Now app to track local Air Quality Index (AQI) levels, so that you and know when to wear an N95 mask or seal up your home.

Wildfire preparedness: Practical, low-cost steps to prevent outdoor smoke from contaminating your indoor air, from adjusting your HVAC settings to designated shoe-and-clothes drop zones.

Air purifier science: How HEPA filters capture microscopic particles, why you don't need to replace filters as often as manufacturers claim, and where to position your unit for maximum coverage.

Gimmicks to avoid: Why plants won't clear wildfire smoke and why expensive non-HEPA technologies fail Wirecutter's rigorous testing.

Products we recommend:
The best indoor air quality monitor: AirGradient One

The best app for basic monitoring: AirNow

The best air purifier of 2026: Coway Airmega Mighty2 (AP-1512N)

Another great air purifier: Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty

A great pair of pliers: Knipex Carpenters’ End Cut Pliers

Additional reading:
The 4 Best Air Purifiers of 2026

How Can I Clear My Home of Wildfire Smoke?

How to DIY an Air Purifier

LifeStraw Escape Water Purifier Review: I Drank Swamp Water to See If It Works

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.
39 min
August 11How to Buy a Sofa You Won’t Regret
Whether you call it a sofa or a couch, it’s arguably the hardest-working piece of furniture in your home. And given the expense, shopping for one can often trigger decision paralysis.

This week, Wirecutter home and decor editor Daniela Gorny joins us to break down the complex world of sofa shopping. She shares a practical checklist for testing sofas in-store. And she gives her best tips for shopping for one online, so you won’t be disappointed once it arrives. We also discuss a few easy ways to give new life to an old sofa.

This episode covers:
How long a sofa should last: A truly high-quality sofa should last you 10 to 15 years, while cheaper options may start falling apart, creaking, or sagging after just two or three. To ensure longevity, always look for manufacturers that offer a lifetime or limited lifetime warranty on the frame and the springs.

How to decipher online specs: When shopping online, prioritize solid hardwood or high-quality plywood frames over MDF (particle board). Look for cushions made with "high resiliency" and "high density" foam, which bounce back much better than cheaper alternatives.

How to choose a fabric: Daniela explains how to avoid fabrics that will thin or pill over time, how to decide between natural fabrics (like linen or cotton) and more durable high performance fabrics (like acrylics and polyesters). If you prefer leather, stick to top grain or full grain hides, and steer clear of "bonded leather.”

How to test a sofa in person: Showrooms are invaluable for testing how a sofa actually wears over time—especially in heavily trafficked store floors like IKEA. When testing, try lifting the edge of the sofa; if it feels exceptionally heavy, it's a great sign that it's made with dense hardwoods. Don't be afraid to aggressively launch yourself onto the cushions—if the sofa shifts or squeaks, walk away.

How to make sure the sofa fits your space: Always measure your doorways, hallways, and elevators before purchasing. If space is tight, consider modular sofas that arrive in separate, manageable boxes, and use painter's tape or cardboard to map out the physical footprint in your room before clicking buy.

Products we recommend:
A curvy, low-slung sofa: Sabai The Elevate Sofa

A sofa with staying power: Room & Board Metro Sofa

A pillowy place for kicking back: Sundays Get Together Modular Sofa (Large)

Customizable with a lifetime guarantee: BenchMade Modern Eva Sofa

An airy sofa with natural fabrics: Sixpenny Aria Grande Sectional

A sofa for small spaces: Burrow Range Sofa

A great starter sofa: IKEA Kivik Sofa

Best portable projector: Nebula Mars 3 Air

Additional reading:
The 10 Best Sofas of 2026

How to Buy a Leather Couch That Will Last

The 2 Best Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners of 2026

The Best Projectors for 2026

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.
40 min
August 07The Gadget That Fixed My 8-Hour Screen Time Habit
If you've ever looked at your phone's screen-time report and wondered where the day went, you're not alone. Many people want to stop mindlessly scrolling, but find it challenging to stop. Some Wirecutter staffers have found a solution: The Brick, a physical device that locks you out of the apps you choose.

This episode, Wirecutter senior staff writer Elissa Sanci shares why the Brick worked for her when other approaches didn't. She explains how putting physical distance between herself and her distracting apps helped break the doom-scrolling cycle, how using scheduled "bricking" can protect your workday and mornings, and how families and roommates can share the same device.

This episode covers:
Why the Brick works so well. Elissa found that built-in screen-time limits and apps like Opal were too easy to bypass, while the Brick forced her to physically get up and retrieve the device before she could resume scrolling.

How scheduled bricking protects your time. You can set profiles that automatically block distracting apps during certain hours, including blocking social media before your alarm even goes off so you're not tempted to start the day scrolling.

How the Brick's limited emergency unbricks work. You get just five emergency ways to unlock your phone when you're away from the device, and Elissa says the scarcity makes her reluctant to waste them.

Who The Brick is actually useful for. You don't have to be a social-media addict: you can block whatever is distracting you, including work apps outside office hours, and the same device can be shared among multiple people or used by parents and teens.

Products we recommend:
A device that blocks your most distracting apps: Brick

Additional reading:
I Bricked My Phone for 2 Weeks. My Brain Feels Much Better.

I Revived an Old BlackBerry to Cut Down on Screen Time. Things Went Awry.

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.
16 min
August 04The End of Passwords
If you feel burnt out by endless passwords, security alerts, and authentication codes, you’re not alone. It can feel like the rules for staying safe online are constantly changing.

In this episode, Wirecutter writer Max Eddy, who covers online privacy and security, demystifies modern password hygiene. Max breaks down why reusing passwords leaves your accounts vulnerable and how a password manager can lighten your cognitive load. He also explains why passkeys—a new technology—may finally render passwords obsolete.

Plus, discover practical, stress-free tips to upgrade your online security step-by-step and protect your devices on the go.

This episode covers:
Password managers 101: Why dedicated tools like 1Password and Bitwarden make online safety seamless, reducing cognitive fatigue and automatically generating complex logins.

Understanding two-factor authentication: What two-factor authentication (2FA) actually protects, how to use backup codes, and why authenticator apps outperform text message (SMS) codes.

The promise of passkeys: How this emerging password-free technology works, why tech giants are adopting it, and how it protects your accounts even during data breaches.

Practical security habits: Simple, high-priority actions to secure your personal email, safely share passwords with family, and safeguard your devices when traveling.

Products we recommend:
The best password manager: 1Password

The best free password manager: Bitwarden

Additional reading:
Passkeys Are the New Passwords. You Should Start Using Them Now.

I’m a Security Expert. I Don’t Know Any of My Passwords.

I Tried, and Failed, to Disappear From the Internet

The 2 Best Password Managers of 2026

The 2 Best Two-Factor Authentication Apps of 2026

The 2 Best Security Key for Multi-Factor Authentication of 2026
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.
34 min
July 31How to Shop for Homeowner's Insurance
As climate change makes natural disasters more frequent and intense, preparing for emergencies is becoming more important. A vulnerability for many people is their home-owners insurance policy. Without the right coverage, a disaster can bring devastating financial aftershocks.

This episode, Wirecutter writer Gregory Han shares the questions you should ask to make the process less murky. Gregory’s home was severely damaged in California's 2025 Eaton Fire, giving him a firsthand look at why it’s crucial to know exactly what’s in your policy before disaster strikes.

He breaks down how to ensure you have enough coverage to rebuild, how to find discounts on your premiums, and how to safely use AI chatbots to translate confusing insurance jargon. Whether you’re buying a new policy, renewing an old one, or even renting, these tips will help you protect your home and your finances.

To hear more about Gregory’s experience with recovery, don’t miss our three-part series, The True Cost of Recovering from The LA Wildfires (including part 1, part 2 and part 3).

This episode covers:
Misconceptions about coverage: Many people assume their policy will cover them completely after a disaster, but things like water sewage backups or equipment for a home business are frequently excluded from standard policies.

The terms to look for: Know the difference between Actual Cash Value (ACV), which factors in depreciation, and Replacement Cost Value (RCV), which pays for a brand new replacement. Renters and homeowners alike also need sufficient Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage to pay for rent if they are displaced.

How to ensure you have enough coverage: Real estate values and building costs change. Look at comps on Zillow or Redfin to understand your local market, and consider hiring a professional home appraiser to document unique architectural details and structural elements so your insurer accounts for true rebuilding costs.

Ways to lower your premium: Don't be passive—ask your agent for discounts! You can often save money by bundling your home and auto insurance, asking for loyalty discounts, or proving you have made safety improvements to your home.

Using AI to translate your policy: You can upload your policy (with personal info stripped out) to an AI chatbot to explain terms in plain language. Just be sure to prompt the AI to include citations, and always verify its answers with your insurance agent.

Additional reading and listening:
How to Shop for Homeowner’s Insurance

The True Cost of Recovering from the LA Wildfires, Part 1

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.
23 min
July 28Life After PFAS
You’ve probably seen “forever chemicals” make headlines in the past few years. This class of compounds known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have long been used to make nonstick cookware and high-performance raingear. And they’re being phased out in certain product categories because of their health risks.

This episode, Wirecutter sustainability editor Katie Okamoto explains the potential health risks of everyday exposure to these slippery synthetic compounds. And she breaks down the new wave of PFAS-free cookware, cosmetics, and outdoor gear, revealing which replacements are actually worth buying—and why your most sustainable bet is often to just keep using the gear you already own.

This episode covers:
What PFAS actually are: Developed in the 1940s, these compounds are used to make things slick and waterproof. They’ve been used in nonstick cookware, raingear, and even dental floss.

The real health and environmental risks: Because they don't break down and spread easily through the environment, PFAS have contaminated drinking water and soils, and bioaccumulate up the food chain. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health issues, including liver damage, immune system impacts, and certain cancers. But experts say that exposure from using a single frying pan is low.

The truth about ceramic cookware: After extensive testing, Wirecutter’s kitchen team doesn’t recommend ceramic pans, which are often marketed as an alternative to Teflon. The ceramic loses its non-stick properties far too quickly to justify the price. Instead, they recommend investing in cast iron, stainless steel, or carbon steel.

PFAS in makeup and outdoor gear: The beauty industry is phasing PFAS out of cosmetics, and makeup is not a primary source of PFAS exposure,. For outdoor gear, brands are switching to new PFAS-free coatings, and some are reviving Ventile, a densely woven, highly water-resistant cotton fabric.

Don't toss your old gear: The most sustainable choice you can make is to keep using your older, well-made products—like a rain jacket—until they actually need to be replaced.

Products we recommend:
The best cast-iron skillet: Lodge Chef Collection 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet

The best stainless steel skillet: All-Clad D3 Stainless 12″ Fry Pan with Lid

The best carbon steel skillet: OXO Obsidian Carbon Steel Frypan with Silicone Sleeve

Katie loves: Lemnos Plywood Clock

Additional reading:
It’s Time to Give Up on the Nonstick Pan as We Know It

Everything You Need to Know About PFAS in Your Beauty Products

In the Quest for PFAS-Free Rain Gear, Cotton Is Making a Comeback

The PFAS-Free Cookware Our Kitchen Editor Recommends

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.
37 min
July 24Back-to-School Hacks from Wirecutter Parents
Technically, summer doesn’t end until September, but many kids go back to school as soon as early to mid August. In this episode, we’re celebrating the back-to-school season with practical, real-world advice from Wirecutter parents.

From clever routines to must-have gear, our editors and writers share their favorite shortcuts for making school mornings run just a little bit smoother. Whether you're packing lunches for elementary schoolers or sending a teenager off to college, these tried-and-true tips will help your family ease back into the routine.

Products we recommend:
Eleanor recommends Name Bubbles

Wynn recommends the Tin Can wi-fi phone

Christine recommends a water bottle cleaning set from OXO Good Grips

Lauren Sullivan recommends the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote bag

Andrea recommends Dawn Platinum Plus Powerwash Dish Spray

Dave recommends the Plan Ahead Week Board from Lovevery

Tracy recommends the Totes Kid’s Clear Bubble Umbrella

Annemaire recommends ThermoFlask insulated Food Jar (20oz)

Rachel recommends the Lalo Stainless Nesting Snack Bowls

Lauren Dragan recommends Apple AirTag (2nd generation)

Signe recommends cargo bikes

Jon recommends bento boxes and smart lights

Additional reading:
30(ish) Wirecutter Picks for Heading Back to School at Any Age

34 Wirecutter Clothing and Accessory Picks for Going Back to School

How to Save on School Supplies

The 5 Best Kids Backpacks for School of 2026

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.
18 min
July 21Life's Too Short for Bad Olive Oil (Encore)
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 olive oil: Learn the "HALT" acronym – Heat, Air, Light, and Time – and how these factors degrade your oil.

What to look for on the label: Understand the crucial difference between a harvest date and a "best by" date, and why it matters. Plus, find out why dark bottles or tins are superior to clear glass.

The truth about "extra virgin": Michael explains the standards for extra virgin olive oil and the complexities of international regulations, revealing why the quality on your grocery store shelf might not always match the label.

How to identify rancid oil: Learn how to recognize the telltale signs of spoiled olive oil, often described as smelling like "Crayola crayons."

Storage secrets: Get actionable tips on where not to store your olive oil at home (including right next to your stove and the refrigerator).

Country of origin vs. quality: Michael debunks the myth that certain countries always produce the "best" olive oil and encourages listeners to explore different regions and flavor profiles.

The Wirecutter tasting process: Hear about how Michael and the Wirecutter team conduct their rigorous, brand-concealed olive oil taste tests.

Michael's top tips for shopping: Discover where to find hidden gems in the grocery store and how transparency from producers can be a sign of quality.

And for the adventurous, stick around for a live olive oil taste test where Christine, Caira, and Rosie bravely "swirl, sniff, slurp, and swallow" to experience the nuances of different oils, from grassy and peppery to fruity and bitter.

Products we recommend:
A widely-available olive oil we love: Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil Rich Taste

A fruity, buttery oil we love (and is great on fish and salads!): Bono Sicilia PGI Organic Sicilian Extra Virgin Olive Oil

A balanced green and peppery oil: Graza Sizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil

A mild but fresh and silky oil: Cobram Estate California Select Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Michael’s favorite mail-order oils from Fat Gold

Additional reading:
The 5 Best Olive Oils You Can Buy at the Store in 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.
35 min
July 17The App That Transformed My Closet
Getting dressed every morning can feel like a chore. Maybe you own too many clothes but always wear the same five outfits, or maybe your closet is so crowded that you forget what you already have. That’s where digital wardrobe apps can come in: They let you catalog your clothes, plan outfits, and see your entire closet from your phone.

This episode, Wirecutter style writer Frances Solá-Santiago explains how digital wardrobe apps can help you get more creative with your clothes and shop more intentionally for new pieces. She shares why she recommends Indyx over other wardrobe apps, and why organizing your closet digitally can help you get more out of the clothes you already own. Plus, she shares how she used it to pack for a two-week trip with only a carry-on.

This episode covers:
How a digital wardrobe app can help you stop wearing the same outfits on repeat. Instead of digging through your closet every morning, these apps let you see everything you own in one place, making it easier to rediscover forgotten pieces and experiment with new combinations.

Why Indyx stands out from other digital closet apps. While some apps lean heavily on AI-generated outfits and avatars, Indyx focuses on a simpler experience that helps you organize your wardrobe while keeping the decision-making process in your hands.

How a digital closet can make packing for a trip easier. Frances shares how she used Indyx’s collections feature to create a capsule wardrobe for a two-week honeymoon in Italy, fitting everything—including winter layers—into one carry-on.

How these apps can help you shop smarter. Seeing your wardrobe all together can reveal patterns, like owning many pieces in the same color, and help you decide whether a new purchase will actually fill a gap.

Why digital wardrobes aren’t just for fashion lovers. Even people who wear the same thing every day can benefit from documenting their clothes, whether that means rediscovering forgotten T-shirts or simply making a favorite collection easier to access.

Products we recommend:
A sleek digital closet app: Indyx

Additional reading:
I Catalogued My Wardrobe ‘Clueless’-Style. It Changed My Life.

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.
22 min

About The Wirecutter Show

From the publisher's feed

The Wirecutter Show is a podcast offering expert advice on everyday products that will make your life better. Each week, co-hosts Christine Cyr Clisset and Caira Blackwell, alongside producer Rosie Guerin, speak with Wirecutter’s best-in-class journalists and other expert guests for actionable advice, surprising life hacks, and delightful product discoveries. From which stand-mixer will last you a lifetime, to the best way to travel with pets, to figuring out if your smart lock is spying on you, The Wirecutter Show gives you straightforward solutions based on years of rigorous and independent product testing by more than 140 Wirecutter journalists.