The Wirecutter Show

Latest Episodes:

Goodbye, Dead Butt Syndrome! Sep 17, 2025

Show notes

You’ve likely heard the adage that "sitting is the new smoking." Basically, that sitting all day at work or elsewhere is one of the most harmful things you can do for your health.

But is it really all that bad?

In this episode, we talk with Molly Mirhashem, an editor from the New York Times Well Desk, about the health risks of being too sedentary, what you should know about “dead butt syndrome,” and what you should be doing if you have a desk job.

Then we talk with Wirecutter's home office writer Arriana Vasquez, who shares what you should know about standing desks, walking pads, and other office gear that can help you stay more active during the workday.

This episode covers:

The real health risks of too much sitting: Molly shares how sitting for more than even 30 minutes can increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes, and contribute to pain in your muscles and joints.
Why you should schedule “movement snacks” in the day: Experts recommend getting up to stand or move around at least every 30 to 60 minutes. Even if you work out during the day, it’s important that you break up long periods of sitting as much as you can.
Simple tips to get moving: We provide practical advice for incorporating movement into your daily routine without needing to invest in expensive equipment.
The best office gear for movement: We discuss different types of home office equipment, including standing desks, walking pads, and under-desk ellipticals, and explain who each one is best for.

Products we recommend:

Our favorite standing desk: Uplift V2 Standing Desk
Our favorite standing desk converter: FlexiSpot AlcoveRiser Standing Desk Converter M7
Our favorite walking Pads: Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill and GoYouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Electric Treadmill
Our favorite balance board: Fezibo Balance Board
Arrianna’s favorite stepper: Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper

Arrianna also likes her Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper and as of this recording was testing the Cubii JR1, Cubii Move, Cursor, and Putnen ellipticals.

Additional Reading:

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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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Wirecutter's Guide to Shopping at Trader Joe's Sep 10, 2025

Show notes

Trader Joe’s is more than a grocery store; it’s a cultural phenomenon with a fiercely loyal fan base. But with shelves full of ever-changing products, which ones are actually worth the hype?

In this episode, associate staff writer Antara Sinha on the kitchen team shares Wirecutter’s picks for the 18 best Trader Joe’s items, explains how TJ’s keeps prices low, and reveals why your favorite snack might disappear forever. She also gives insider tips on navigating seasonal drops and finding alternatives at local markets.

This episode covers:

What’s actually worth buying at Trader Joe’s: After tasting over 70 snacks, frozen meals, and pantry staples, Antara Sinha shares Wirecutter’s top 18 picks—and why they stand out in a sea of seasonal gimmicks.
How Trader Joe’s keeps prices low: Learn how the chain uses white-labeling and avoids slotting fees to make you feel like you’re getting gourmet products at bargain prices.
Why your favorite item disappears without warning: We reveal the business strategy behind sudden product discontinuations (and how to spot them coming).
The secret behind TJ’s cult following: Explore how the store’s “treasure hunt” vibe, quirky packaging, and rotating seasonal drops make grocery shopping feel like an event.
How to stock up and find dupes: Insider tips on when to buy multiples, how to track seasonal launches, and what to do if your favorite Trader Joe's snack vanishes.

Products we recommend:

A delicious rice roll from the freezer aisle: Trader Joe’s Kimbap
A zingy, zesty tortilla chip reminiscent of Taki’s: Trader Joe’s Chili & Lime Flavored Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips
A crowd-pleasing cheddar: Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar Cheese
A plush cake for a birthday or any day: Trader Joe's Dark Chocolate Ganache Mini Sheet Cake

Read about all the products Antara and the team liked best: 18 Best Trader Joe’s Foods: Our Favorite Things

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

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Is an E-Bike the Answer to Your Commuting Woes? Sep 05, 2025

Show notes

Fall can be bittersweet—you may be coming home from vacation and settling back into your routines, but you also want to soak up the last of the warm weather before the winter comes. An e-bike might seem like a tempting compromise for an affordable, but adventurous and outdoorsy commute.

In this bonus episode, Wirecutter Senior Editor and bike expert Chris Ryan tells us what an e-bike is, which kind you probably want to look for, and what common safety and repairability issues you’ll want to be aware of before you buy.

This episode covers:

What e-bikes are good for: They’re a great way to commute quickly without getting sweaty. They can also be an affordable alternative to a second car and can help people with mobility issues get back into cycling.
What to know before you buy: E-bikes are heavy, so figure out how you'll store and maneuver one at home and at your destination. You'll also want to decide between a regular or a cargo e-bike, which is built to carry kids or groceries.
Why you should buy from a local bike shop: They’re complex machines and require more frequent maintenance than regular bikes. It's a good idea to have a local professional you can go to for service, repairs, and support.
Why buying a cheap replacement battery can be a fire hazard: It’s dangerous to buy cheap, off-brand replacement batteries. Low-cost batteries often lack a Battery Management System (BMS), which prevents them from overheating and catching fire. Always buy a replacement battery from the original manufacturer.
How to protect your investment: E-bikes can be expensive. Check if your homeowners or renters insurance covers e-bikes, and if not, consider a separate policy. You should also register your bike with a nonprofit like bikeindex.org, which can help you get it back if it’s ever stolen.

Products we recommend:

The best e-bike for most commuters: Specialized Globe Haul ST
The best e-bike for work and play: Trek Verve+ 3

Additional reading:

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

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Should You Switch to an Electric Toothbrush? Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

Oral health is about more than just a pretty smile; it's also connected to your overall health and well-being.

In this episode, senior staff writer and toothbrush fanatic Nancy Redd explains how to brush properly, whether a manual or electric toothbrush is right for you, and how to find the best toothbrush for your family, no matter the budget. She shares surprising tips about oral hygiene and how to get kids excited about taking care of their teeth.

And don’t forget to check out our video guide on how to properly brush your teeth.

This episode covers:

Why oral hygiene is so important: Brushing for 2 minutes is key to a healthy mouth. Poor oral hygiene can affect your overall health.
Electric vs. manual: A manual toothbrush is just as effective as an electric one if you brush for a full two minutes. The benefit of an electric toothbrush is its built-in timer, which ensures you brush long enough.
Two types of electric toothbrushes: The top-rated Oral-B and Sonicare models differ in how they clean. Oral-B toothbrushes use an oscillating motion (a spinning, round head), while Sonicare models use a vibrating motion (a brush-shaped head that moves back and forth). If one is uncomfortable, try the other.
Gentle toothbrushes: For a more gentle clean, consider a kid's electric toothbrush. They have a softer, smaller head and a milder vibration that's more comfortable for sensitive teeth and gums.
Water flossers: If you have trouble flossing, a water flosser can be a great alternative. It uses a pressurized stream of water to blast away gunk from your teeth.

Products we recommend:

The best oscillating electric toothbrush: Oral-B Pro 1000
A quieter, vibrating brush with more expensive refills: Philips Sonicare 4100
The best kids electric toothbrush (also good for adults with sensitive teeth): Philips Sonicare for Kids Design a Pet Edition
The best countertop water flosser: Waterpik Ion
The best cordless water flosser: Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 3000 Cordless

Additional reading:

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

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Yes, the World Is Actually Too Loud (Encore) Aug 27, 2025

Show notes

More than 100 million Americans are exposed to unhealthy levels of noise daily. To help you protect yourself and those you love, we’re re-airing this episode on how to determine if you’re at risk of hearing loss and what you can do about it.

Lauren Dragan, Wirecutter’s longtime senior writer covering headphones and audio equipment, walks us through the health issues linked to noise pollution, how to find out if you’re exposed to too much noise, and specific ways to reduce sounds at home, while commuting, or in noisier situations (like concerts or parties).

Lauren shares her favorite headphones, from noise-canceling headphones to sleep headphones. And she recommends specific ear muffs and ear plugs for adults, kids, and babies. Lauren also reveals how to use various frequencies of noise—like brown or pink noise—to block out irritating sounds that may be bothering you.

Products we recommend:

Gear to help you monitor sound levels:

Apple Watch with sound metering: Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
An app for any phone to monitor sound levels: NIOSH Sound Level Meter

Everyday protection options for your ears:

Earplugs for concerts or other loud moments: Loop Experience 2 or Loop Switch
Noise cancelling earbuds: Sony WF-1000XM5
Noise cancelling over-ear headphones: Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700
Noise Isolating tips for most earbuds: Comply ear tips

Headphones for sleeping:

Protecting little ears:

Earmuffs for babies: Ems for Kids Baby Earmuffs
Earmuffs for kids and teens: Muted Earmuffs
Earplugs for kids and teens: Loop kids
Noise cancelling headphones for kids: Puro Sound Labs PuroQuiet-Plus

Lauren loves:

Bearaby Cotton Napper

Additional reading:

Lauren Dragan

Instagram: /laurendragan

Bluesky: /‪@laurendragan.bsky.social‬

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

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The Bidet Episode Aug 20, 2025

Show notes

Using a bidet may seem a little intimidating to some, but to others it's a way of life.

In this episode, senior staff writer and bidet-convert Doug Mahoney explains why these modern fixtures that wash your bum are a game-changer for hygiene. He shares how they work, what to look for when buying one, and his top recommendations for every budget.

This episode covers:

How to choose between cold and warm-water bidets: They each have their pros and cons. Cold ones are the cheapest and easiest to install, while warm ones are more expensive and offer a luxury experience.

What to know about installation: If you can install a regular toilet seat, you can install a cold-water bidet. Warm water bidets are a little trickier, and require access to an outlet. You’ll also want to make sure your toilet has an accessible water shutoff valve.

Why it’s worth paying for a reliable brand: Given a bidet is a plumbing fixture, you should buy from a trusted brand, like Toto or Brondell. These companies tend to have reliable products that will last–and that will be less likely to cause leaks and other issues.

Why bidets are great for everyone (including those with accessibility issues): A good bidet can make anyone feel cleaner, and they’re particularly helpful for people who have mobility issues – whether that’s a potty training kid, someone recovering from surgery, or an older adult who wants to live longer independently.

Products We Recommend:

The best bidet: Toto Washlet C5
A cheaper Toto with slightly less style: Toto Washlet C2
Our new favorite bidet: Toto S5 Washlet
A cheaper version of our new favorite: Toto S2
A great cold water model that replaces your toilet seat: Brondell EcoSeat S101 Non-Electric Bidet Seat
A great cold water model to use with an existing toilet seat: Bio Bidet SlimEdge Attachment

Additional reading:

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

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Are Your Smart Devices Really Spying on You? Aug 13, 2025

Show notes

If you’ve ever suspected your smart devices are spying on you, you’re right. In this episode, Jon Chase, Wirecutter's supervising editor for smart home coverage, reveals how even everyday devices you may not consider "smart" are monitoring you. They’re collecting data to build a profile that can then be sold to the highest bidder.

The conversation covers:

The devices collecting your data: Any device connected to the internet can collect data. This isn’t necessarily malicious; a smart thermostat, for instance, collects data to heat your home more efficiently.
How your devices build a profile: Devices use your IP address, online activity, location, and even associations with other people to compile a detailed profile. This profile is often sold to the highest bidder for various reasons.
How your smart TV builds on this profile: Modern TVs use automatic content recognition (ACR) to screenshot your screen every few seconds, adding to your data profile. Data brokers mine this info.
How to protect your data: Jon shares practical, actionable steps to keep your data safe. He provides specific tips for adjusting privacy settings making more informed choices about the devices you bring home.

Products we recommend:

Best streaming device if you you want to avoid ACR: Apple TV 4K
Jon’s favorite power washer: Ryobi RY142500 Brushless 2500 PSI Pressure Washer

Additional reading:

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

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How to Build an Emergency Kit (Encore) Aug 06, 2025

Show notes

Natural disasters are becoming more intense and unpredictable. To help you prepare, we’re re-airing this episode on how to build a disaster kit. Wirecutter also just published a handy tool to help you customize an emergency kit specific to your needs, an article on preparing a disaster pantry, and guidance on choosing a generator.

In this episode, Harry Sawyers, who edits Wirecutter’s extensive emergency-preparedness coverage, walks us through the supplies everyone should have on hand to stay comfortable and safe—regardless of the emergency. We break down a basic supply kit that won’t break the bank—you may already own many of these items—and that should help in the face of a power outage, minor flooding, or more-serious disasters.

Plus, Harry introduces us to the wild world of folding hand saws, solar floating lanterns, and weather radios.

Find a full episode description here.

Articles about emergency preparedness:

Products we recommend:

Water & Food
- Best rigid water container: Reliance Aqua-Tainer 7-Gallon
Light
- Best flashlight: ThruNite Archer 2A V3
- Best floating solar lantern: LuminAid Titan 2-in-1 Power Lantern
Power
- Best portable solar charger: BigBlue 28W USB Solar Charger
Tools
- Best weather radio: Midland ER310
- Best multi-tool: Leatherman Skeletool CX
- Folding saws Harry likes: Silky Pocketboy 130 mm Folding Saw Medium Teeth 340-13, Silky Professional BIGBOY Folding Saw 360mm Large Teeth (354-36), Silky Zubat Curved Hand Saw 270mm Large Teeth (270-27)
Harry’s favorite recent purchase: Aquatabs

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

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Life's Too Short for Bad Olive Oil Jul 30, 2025

Show notes

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.

Read a full description of this episode and access a transcript here.

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

Michael Sullivan

Instagram: /little__michael__

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

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How to Get Rid of Ants and Roaches for Good Jul 23, 2025

Show notes

Tired of creepy crawlies? Wirecutter's pest expert Doug Mahoney reveals the right way to tackle ant and roach infestations. He offers practical advice and debunks common myths (for example, cockroaches aren’t actually the most radiation-resistant insects!).

Doug's 4-Step Pest Control Plan:

Observe & Identify: Know your enemy! Find their entry points & hotspots. Sawdust + carpenter ants? Call a pro ASAP!
Clean Up: Starve 'em out! Secure all food (pet food is a big one!), wipe surfaces constantly. Roaches love protein, ants crave sugar.
Seal Entry Points: Block their access! Heavy-duty caulk is your best friend around foundations & pipes.
Use Bait (Most Effective!): The ultimate weapon! Baits combine food + slow-acting poison. Ants take it to the colony; roaches share the toxic love (🤢). Place bait where you see 'em most!

Avoid:

Kill-on-contact sprays: These can make ant problems worse by splitting colonies.
Bug bombs/foggers: They don't reach hiding spots and are explosion risks.
"Natural" remedies (e.g., Diatomaceous earth): Often messy and less powerful than bait.

When to Call a Pro: If DIY baits aren't working after a couple of weeks, it's time for an exterminator.

More Pest Help: If you need more pest-control help, check out our episodes on combatting mice and rats, and repellents that work against mosquitos and ticks.

Access the full show notes for this episode.

Products we recommend: