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The Wirecutter Show: Daily Summaries Delivered
by The New York Times
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.
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- Today17 min
What We Learned from Testing 40 Canned Cocktails
Gone are the days when canned alcoholic drinks meant only hard seltzers and tailgate beverages. Today’s ready-to-drink cocktails include everything from espresso martinis and old-fashioneds to gin- and soju-based spritzes. Wirecutter kitchen writer, Antara Sinha, joins us to explain how she tested 40 canned cocktails, what separates a great canned drink from a mediocre one, and which ones are actually worth bringing to your next picnic, barbecue, or dinner party. Plus, we conduct a live taste test in the studio. This episode covers: Why canned cocktails have become a legitimate alternative to bar drinks. Antara explains how the category has evolved from hard seltzers and tailgate beverages into a market full of carefully crafted cocktails made with premium spirits, higher alcohol content, and recipes designed to mimic what you'd order at a cocktail bar. How to identify a great canned cocktail before you buy it. After tasting 40 different drinks, Antara found that the best brands are transparent about their ingredients and feature high quality spirits. How to choose the right canned cocktail for your tastes and occasion. Antara suggests using canned cocktails as a low-commitment way to explore drinks you might not otherwise make at home, whether that's a negroni, espresso martini, or old fashioned. Products we recommend: A citrusy, soju-based cocktail: Jumo Soju Cocktail (Mango, Yuja, Citrus Mint) Bold, rich, and complex: Tip Top Old Fashioned Botanical, light, and crushable: The Original Southside Indulgent, luxe, and seasonal: Cutwater White Russian Additional reading: The 9 Best Canned Cocktails of 2026 21 Best Nonalcoholic Drinks of 2026 Wirecutter’s Guide to Shopping at Trader Joe’s We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: <a href="htt
- 3 days ago31 min
The Beginner’s Guide To Retinol Products
A retinoid is one of the best, scientifically-backed products you can use to keep your skin looking youthful. These vitamin A derivatives are among the very few skin-care products that can boost collagen, minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines. In this episode, we’re bringing on two experts to help you determine the type of retinol product that’s best for you. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nikhil Dhingra, of Spring Street Dermatology, explains how retinoids work and how to decide between using over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription-strength products. Wirecutter editor Rory Evans shares the top OTC products from Wirecutter’s extensive testing. This episode covers: What retinoids can do for your skin: Helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. They can also help with hyperpigmentation, protect the skin against sun damage, and thicken skin that’s starting to thin with age. The difference between prescription-strength and OTC retinoids: Prescription-strength retinoids are generally more powerful and can also be more irritating to the skin. Some, such as tretinoin, are already in their active form, retinoic acid, while others bind directly to retinoid receptors in the skin. OTC retinol products, by contrast, are generally less potent and often less irritating because they must be converted by the skin into active retinoic acid before exerting their effects. The difference between OTC ingredients: Although OTC products are often referred to as retinols, they feature a range of active ingredients. Retinal (short for retinaldehyde), requires one conversion step to become retinoic acid. Retinol needs two conversion steps, while retinyl palmitate requires three. Adapalene doesn't convert to retinoic acid and interacts differently with skin to limit oil production and minimize inflammation (which is why it’s mostly used in acne treatment). Tips for using retinol products: Dr. Dhingra recommends starting with a pea-sized amount only a few times a week. To reduce irritation, you can also use the sandwich method—apply moisturizer, layer your retinol product, and top it with moisturizer again to safely dilute the product. OTC retinol products, by skin type: Rory walks us through the top OTC products from Wirecutter’s extensive testing. Products we recommend: Best for mature skin: SkinMedica Retinol Complex 1.0 Best for adjustable potency: Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 Best for sensitive skin: Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum Best for dry skin: LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream Best adapalene for acne: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Best value: Trader Joe’s Retinol Night Serum Best drugstore retinol: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 0.3% Pure Retinol Rory loves: Wander Sports Sun Visor Additional reading: The 7 Best Retinol Products of 2026 The Best Face Sunscreens and SPF Moisturizers <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-moisturizers/?utm_source=the_wirecutter_show&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=episode_number_95 " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferre
- 1 weeks ago28 min
Are Extended Warranties Ever Worth It?
If you've ever bought a cell phone, an appliance, or any other high-value item, you've likely felt pressured to buy an extended warranty for peace of mind. However, these protection plans rarely pay off for most people. In this episode, Wirecutter senior writer Liam McCabe explains why extended warranties are generally a “terrible investment,” how incredibly profitable they are for warranty companies, and the very few instances when paying for extra coverage might actually be worth it. This episode covers: The difference between manufacturer and extended warranties: A manufacturer's warranty is automatically included for free as a promise against defects (usually for 30 days to a year). An extended warranty, on the other hand, is an optional, extra-cost protection plan that you have to actively choose to buy. Why you probably won’t use an extended warranty: People tend to overestimate the failure rate of most products. And the likelihood that the product will fail during the extended warranty period is quite low. How extended warranties mainly benefit warranty companies: Extended warranty companies generally only pay out around 25% of what they take in, keeping 75% of the money. By comparison, health insurance companies generally pay out 80% to 90% to policy holders. When it’s worth getting an extended warranty anyway: Sometimes it’s worth getting one of these warranties, even if you’ll likely lose money. It could make sense if it offers you peace of mind, the product has a bad reliability reputation, or you’re buying something for an accident-prone kid. Additional reading: That Extended Warranty Is Almost Never Worth the Money. This Is Why You Fall for It Anyway. Is That Extended Warranty Worth It? Take Our Quiz. We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: 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.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick P
- 2 weeks ago29 min
Pro Tips for an Easier Move
Moving can be expensive, stressful, and time-consuming, but there are ways to make it easier. In this episode, Wirecutter travel writer Kit Dillon–who moonlights as a professional mover–shares insider tips on how to make the process less painful. From selecting the best packing supplies to hiring the right crew, Kit’s advice will help you save time, money, and hassle. If you’re in the weeds of an upcoming move and need even more guidance, check out Wiriecutter’s series on moving (including a moving checklist, the best supplies for moving, tips for packing a moving truck, and essentials for the first week of your move). This episode covers: Why you should get uniform boxes: Professional movers can stack brand-new, uniform boxes neatly on a hand truck and more efficiently inside a van, potentially saving you hours in labor costs. In contrast, a hodgepodge of different-sized boxes is harder to move, and used grocery store boxes can harbor bugs or break easily. Supplies that will actually protect your stuff: A heavy-duty mattress bag with handles offers far better protection than flimsy plastic versions. Light newsprint is the professional’s choice for packing kitchen gear and delicate items, and you should choose packing tape designed specifically for your storage conditions (such as cold or high-moisture environments). Why you should pack a “first night” box: Pack a single, clearly marked box with your immediate essentials—a bathrobe, toothbrush, chargers, and a favorite book—to make your first night in a new home bearable. Strategies for hiring movers: Kit advises getting at least a few quotes from different movers.A suspiciously low bid can be a red flag for cut corners. Always ensure a company is insured and dive deep into user reviews to see if specific movers are mentioned by name for their consistency. Tipping etiquette: While not strictly required, tipping is highly encouraged for such physically taxing work. If the move goes well, try to give cash directly to each individual mover at the end of the day. Products we recommend: Uniform medium boxes: uBoxes Medium Moving Boxes (pack of 20) or uBoxes Basic Moving Kit Light newsprint for packing: uBoxes Newsprint Packing Paper - 10 lbs Heavy-duty mattress bag: Belador Extra-Thick Queen Mattress Bag with Handles Great all-purpose moving tape: Scotch Tough Grip Moving Packaging Tape Packing tape for long-term storage: Scotch Long Lasting Storage Packaging Tape Packing tape for additional weather resistance: Gorilla Tough & Wide Shipping Tape (currently out of stock) An easy to use tape dispenser: Uline H-150 Tape Dispenser Kit loves: Blueair Blue Pure 211i Max Additional reading: Plan Your Move With These Tips from Wirecutter <a href="ht
- 3 weeks ago14 min
How to Choose the Best Language Learning App for Your Next Trip
Summer travel season is here, and you might be tempted to download a language-learning app before your next trip. But which ones actually help? Wirecutter writer Matthew Guay tested 15 different language apps to figure out how they can (and can’t) help you learn a foreign language. This episode covers: Why language learning apps are better for travel confidence than fluency. Matthew explains that most apps won’t make you conversational, but they can help you recognize words, order food, ask basic questions, and feel less intimidated traveling abroad. How to choose the right language app for your learning style. Rather than naming one universally “best” app, Matthew breaks down which apps work best for different types of learners—whether you prefer grammar explanations, TikTok-style video lessons, addictive streaks and rewards, or long-form audio lessons you can listen to during a commute. Why practicing with real people matters more than endless app lessons. Matthew says the sweet spot for language apps is learning enough to start trying small real-world interactions, like ordering at a restaurant or introducing yourself. That’s the point where language learning starts to feel rewarding and where you can decide whether you want to pursue it more seriously. Products we recommend: Best for learning theory alongside vocabulary practice: Babbel Best for visual learners: Speak Best for free vocabulary lessons: Duolingo Best for classroom-style lessons: Pimsleur Additional reading: The 4 Best Language Learning Apps The Best Gear for Travel in 2026 We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqazdXS3J1S1FOYTZfSmIzVFN3WVgweE5zVHZhUXxBQ3Jtc0ttRzdrQ2J4OGFSdDE4ZllBaXV5S0J4U3RFaUdzN1dYWG9WdzRMRlNZd3NXVkdjS
- 3 weeks ago35 min
Why Do Stores Throw Away Perfectly Good Products?
Have you ever wondered what happens to products that aren’t sold or the items that you return to a store? It turns out, a lot of them end up in the trash. This week, Wirecutter Deputy Editor Annemarie Conte discusses her recent reporting on how and why stores throw away perfectly good products. Annemarie takes us from the strip malls of Dallas-Fort Worth to the curbs of New York City, shadowing social media influencers Dumpster Diving Mama, GlamourDDive, and The Trash Walker who rescue everything from kids' toys to slashed Coach bags. We dive into why retailers often find it cheaper to destroy and toss items than to donate or recycle them, the environmental life cycle of these items and what companies (and consumers) can do to move toward a more circular economy. This episode covers: The economics of retail waste: Why it is often more profitable for major retailers to throw away perfectly good products—and even intentionally destroy them—than to donate or liquidate them. The world of dumpster diving influencers: A look at the community of people who film their "hauls" to expose corporate waste and re-sell goods that are headed for the landfill. The overproduction problem: How the sheer volume of goods has overwhelmed the logistics chain, creating a secondary market where items are sold by the pallet or simply discarded because they are too expensive to re-process. Potential solutions for a circular economy: The environmental impact of overproduction and how legislative changes, like those seen in the EU, could encourage companies to stop destroying unsold goods and find more sustainable alternatives. Additional reading: Why Do Stores Throw Away So Many Perfectly Good Products? I Went Dumpster Diving to Find Out. What Slashed Coach Bags Found in a Dumpster Can Teach Us About Product Waste We Bought a 450-Pound Mystery Pallet Packed With Returned Goods From Amazon and Beyond. Here’s What We Found Inside. Inside Wirecutter’s Mystery-Pallet Adventure We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event
- May 6, 202637 min
Find Your Perfect Swimsuit
Finding a swimsuit you feel good in can be daunting. This episode, we’re sharing insider tips on choosing designs, fabrics, and brands that you’ll actually love. Wirecutter style writer Zoe Vanderweide walks us through the finer points of finding high-quality swimwear that fits and flatters. Zoe shares the construction details to look for that will emphasize (or de-emphasize) different body parts, the brands that are making some of the best suits right now, and how to care for your suits so that they’ll last longer. This episode covers: Why some brands are better at size inclusivity: Many brands design for a size 6 "fit model"– the model used to try on a pattern and make adjustments. The brand generally then sizes the pattern up or down to make different sizes, which often doesn’t translate into the best fit for larger bodies. Brands who use plus-size fit models tend to make suits that are more flattering for plus-size bodies. Fabric and texture tips: Thicker, compressive fabrics will help hold you in more. Textured fabrics, such as ribbed or crinkle fabric, provide a "blurring" effect that can hide lumps and bumps you don’t want to emphasize. But both can take longer to dry. How to care for your spendy suits: Hanging a wet suit stretches the fibers. Instead, roll it in a towel to remove moisture, then lay it flat in a shady, well-ventilated spot. The suits our testers loved and why: We walk through the brands that Zoe features in her review, why they’re great, and which will work best for different body types. Products we recommend: A plunging cross-back one-piece swimsuit: Left on Friday Weekender Suit A waist-cinching one-piece swimsuit: Left on Friday Sunday Suit A well-priced classic one-piece swimsuit: Quince Italian Cami One-Piece Swimsuit A splurge-worthy knotted bikini top: Mikoh Kaloko 2 Top A splurge-worthy hipster bikini bottom: Mikoh Cruz Bay 2 Bottom An ultra-stretchy crinkle suit: Youswim Aplomb One-Piece A chic, compressive rash-guard one-piece: Hunza G Tyra UPF 50+ Swim A glamourous one-piece swimsuit with a keyhole neckline: L’Agence Belle Keyhole One-Piece An uplifting underwire bikini top: Monday Swimwear Sorrento Top A no-dig high-waisted bikini bottom: Monday Swimwear Sorrento Bottom Additional reading: 15 Best Women’s Swimsuits of 2026 How to Wash Your Swimsuits to Prevent Fading and Stretching The Best Shapewear of 2026 The Best, Most Comfortable Bras We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
- Apr 29, 202632 min
The Best Mother’s Day Gifts for Every Type of Mom
If you need fresh gift ideas for Mother’s Day this year, this is your episode. This week, Wirecutter gifting expert Samantha Schoech brings a range of ideas that go far beyond a bouquet of flowers and brunch. Instead of generic ideas, we’re approaching gifts by personality type—from the exhausted new mom to the outdoorsy adventurer. Samantha also shares her core gifting philosophy (including what not to give), plus thoughtful, sometimes surprising picks that actually make people feel seen. This episode covers: Why you shouldn’t add to someone’s to-do list. One of Samantha's strongest rules is to avoid gifts that create work. That means no high-maintenance plants, complicated projects, or aspirational hobbies the person didn’t ask for. Why the best gifts are things they wouldn’t buy themselves. If someone needs socks, they can buy socks. A good gift is something slightly indulgent or unnecessary—like elevated basics or small luxuries—that feels special precisely because they wouldn’t justify spending money on it. Why “giving mom a break” is often the most meaningful gift. Instead of another object, Samantha emphasizes the value of rest—like helping them carve out uninterrupted time alone or booking them a night in a hotel. It’s a way to acknowledge the workload of motherhood, not just gesture at it. Why your time and attention still matter most. Across every category, Samantha comes back to this: a gift lands best when it’s paired with genuine effort—whether that’s a handwritten card, quality time together, or simply showing that you’ve paid attention to what they actually like. Products we recommend: For the new mom: Chic, lightweight harem sweatpants: Le Bon Shoppe Balloon Pants (women’s) Well-priced, super-soft fleece sweatpants: Gap High Rise VintageSoft Relaxed Joggers (women’s) A scrubby bar for smoother body skin: Soft Services Buffing Bar Actually, it’s a lip balm: Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream For the first-time grandma: Handwritten necklace: Gldn Handwriting Necklace The best digital photo frame: Aura Carver The Grandmothers by Doris Lessing For the empty nester: A luscious, affordable paint set: Kuretake Gansai Tambi Watercolors 48-Color Set For audiobook lovers: Libro.fm Credit Bundle A delightful way to discover new titles: Books Are Magic Book Club A hat that understands: Inside Joke Don't Ask Me What's For Dinner Hat For the outdoorsy mom: Best picnic blanket for roving picnickers: Rumpl Everywhere Mat Beanie baby: Mira Blackman Hand Dyed Chunky Beanie For the mom who loves sparkles: Party-trick socks: Maria La Rosa One Ribbed Laminated (women’s) Classic hoops: Quince 14K Gold Pave Diamond Mini Huggies
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About The Wirecutter Show
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.
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