The Wirecutter Show

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Back-to-School Hacks from Wirecutter Parents Jul 24, 2026

Show notes

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:

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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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Life's Too Short for Bad Olive Oil (Encore) Jul 21, 2026

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.

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

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

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The App That Transformed My Closet Jul 17, 2026

Show notes

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.

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

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Find Your Perfect Shampoo Jul 14, 2026

Show notes

Walking down the shampoo aisle can feel overwhelming. There are formulas for curls, volume, moisture, color-treated hair, sensitive scalps, and everything in between—but how do you know what your hair actually needs?

In this episode, Wirecutter beauty writer Amanda Rosenthal explains how to choose a shampoo based on your hair type, scalp health, and biggest concerns. After testing 92 shampoos and consulting dermatologists, hairstylists, and a trichologist (a hair and scalp specialist), Amanda shares what makes a shampoo effective, which ingredients are worth paying attention to, and why the most expensive bottle on the shelf isn’t necessarily the best one for your hair.

This episode covers:

How to choose a shampoo based on your actual hair type. Determining whether you have fine, medium, or thick hair, as well as your curl pattern, density, and biggest concerns will help you pick the right shampoo. Consult your hairstylist if you’re not sure.
Why your scalp matters just as much as your hair. Shampoo’s main job is to cleanse your scalp and remove oil, debris, and product buildup—and a healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair.
The truth about sulfates. Amanda debunks one of the biggest shampoo myths and explains why sulfates can actually be useful cleansers for many people.
How often you should actually wash your hair. There’s no universal rule for shampooing frequency. Your hair type, lifestyle, styling products, and scalp health all play a role.
Expensive shampoos aren’t necessarily better. After testing dozens of formulas, Amanda found that a good shampoo doesn’t need to cost a lot—it just needs to address your specific hair and scalp concerns.

Products we recommend:

Best for fine hair: Ouai Fine Hair Shampoo
Best for tight curls and coils: Pattern Beauty Hydration Shampoo
Best for dry, damaged hair: L’Oréal Paris Elvive Hyaluron + Plump Hydrating Shampoo
Best for medium and thick hair: California Naturals Classic Clean
Best for sensitive skin and scalps: Vanicream Shampoo
Best for dandruff: Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Shampoo
Best for oily hair: Nécessaire Rosemary Shampoo
Amanda loves: The Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

Additional reading:

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

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The Best Fake Tans for Every Skin Tone Jul 10, 2026

Show notes

If you grew up with self-tanners, you may remember them as an orange, streaky mess. Today's formulas have come a long way, delivering a natural, sun-kissed glow—as long as you know how to apply them correctly.

In this episode, Wirecutter beauty writer Ayanna Redwood-Crawford explains how today's self tanners work better for a range of skin tones. She shares how to choose the right formula for you, avoid the dreaded orange streaks, and find the best self tanner whether you're a first-timer or getting ready for a beach vacation.

This episode covers:

Why self tanners aren't just for light skin. Self tanners work on virtually every skin tone. While lighter skin may develop a deeper tan, darker skin tones can use them to even out uneven pigmentation and add a healthy glow.
How they actually work. The active ingredient in self tanners, DHA, is a sugar-derived ingredient that reacts with the amino acids in the outer layer of your skin to temporarily darken it without any UV exposure.
How self tanners differ from spray tans and bronzers. At-home self tanners use the same active ingredient as professional spray tans, while bronzers only provide temporary color. Self tanners are also a much safer alternative to tanning in the sun or a tanning bed.
How to apply without streaks or orange patches. Ayanna walks through her step-by-step routine, from exfoliating and moisturizing dry spots to using an application mitt and choosing the right clothing while your tan develops.
How to make it last longer. The right maintenance routine preserves an even tan for up to a week. Consider how to shower, when to moisturize, and avoiding exfoliation until you're ready for the color to fade.

Products we recommend:

Best for beginners: Jergens Natural Glow + Brighten Daily Moisturizer
Best for a streak-free tan: Norvell Venetian Self-Tanning Mousse
Best for the quickest, darkest tan: St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse

Additional reading:

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

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The Light Switches That Changed My Life Jul 07, 2026

Show notes

Buildings generally aren’t designed for people with disabilities—and when your own home poses daily physical barriers, it can be incredibly frustrating. But smart home technology can offer surprisingly simple, life-changing solutions for people with disabilities, those aging in place, or anyone with temporary mobility issues.

This week, Wirecutter accessibility editor Claire Perlman and smart home editor Jon Chase join us to discuss a recent project where they retrofitted Claire's apartment with smart light switches. Because Claire uses a wheelchair and has limited arm mobility, her apartment's light switches were too high for her to easily turn on, leaving her in the dark if a helper wasn't around. Jon and Claire share how they solved this issue using switches that allow Claire to control her overhead lighting using just her voice.

They also break down the learning curve of setting up smart home devices, the frustrating realities of Wi-Fi pairing, and the best devices to start with if you want to make your home more accessible.

This episode covers:

The limitations of standard ADA compliance: An "ADA compliant" apartment is designed to meet a wide range of needs, which may not work for every disability.
Smart switches vs. smart bulbs: If you want to automate built-in overhead lighting, you don't need to replace your bulbs. Instead, you can replace the physical wall switch with a smart switch that wires directly into your existing setup and can be controlled via an app or a voice assistant like Alexa.
The 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi pairing trick: If you are struggling to get a new smart device to connect to your phone during setup, it's likely because your phone is on a 5 GHz Wi-Fi network while most smart devices use a 2.4 GHz network. You can often fix this by temporarily disabling the 5 GHz band on your router until the setup is complete.
The best smart devices for accessibility: You don't have to automate your entire home at once. Start small with high-impact devices. Smart plugs can turn any standard lamp into a voice-controlled device. Smart locks allow you to let guests or helpers in without needing to get up. Smart smoke detectors let you silence false alarms from your phone, and automated shades can help control room temperature and glare without physical effort.
Why you should stick to name brands: When investing in smart home gear, established companies offer better cloud support, longer software updates, and more reliable compatibility with major ecosystems like Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

Products we recommend:

The best smart switch for Z-wave users: Leviton Decora Smart Z-Wave Dimmer ZW6HD
The best smart switch, neutral wire not required: Leviton Decora Smart No-Neutral Dimmer DN6HD
The best smart plug: TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Slim (EP25)
The best smart deadbolt lock: Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt
The best smart light bulb : WiZ 60W A19 Color LED Smart Bulb
The best smart shade: SmartWings Motorized Light Filtering Roller Shades
The best smart smoke alarm: Kidde Smart Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Alarm
The best power washer for the constant user: Ryobi RY142500 2500 PSI Brushless Electric Pressure Washer

Additional reading:

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

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Lawn Games We Love, Beyond Cornhole Jul 03, 2026

Show notes

A soccer ball, a football, a tried-and-true set of cornhole are all classic go-to’s for a summer gathering. But there are a lot more outdoor games worth trying.

This episode, Wirecutter staff writer and resident games expert James Austin shares his favorite lawn games for every kind of summer hangout, from backyard barbecues to picnics and camping trips. He explains a few under-the-radar picks that might earn a permanent spot in your warm-weather rotation this season.

Products we recommend:

Best cornhole set: AllCornhole Tournament Series Cornhole Boards
Best for highly competitive groups and energetic beach days: Spikeball
Best for an easy-to-learn game that's great for mixed ages and abilities: EastPoint Sports Steel Ladderball Set
Best for something with a little more strategy: GoSports Kubb Viking Game Regulation Size
Best for a packable, string-based shuffleboard game: Helinox StringTrees
Best for a portable, fun version of chess: Hive Pocket
Best for a chunky tabletop game that travels well: Azul
Best for a frisbee-based game that’s especially good for tailgates: Kan Jam
Best kite: Prism Vertex

Additional reading:

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

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The Secrets to Being Stink-Free Jun 30, 2026

Show notes

Finding the right deodorant or antiperspirant can feel weirdly difficult. Maybe your go-to product suddenly stops working, maybe you're tired of pit stains ruining your clothes, or maybe you're still not entirely sure what the difference is between deodorant and antiperspirant in the first place.

In this episode, Wirecutter senior staff writer Abbie Kozolchyk explains why choosing an underarm product is so personal. She breaks down the science behind sweat and body odor, debunks common fears about aluminum, and shares what she learned from testing dozens of products with everyone from teenagers to older adults.

Plus, we hear about one of the strangest jobs in the personal care industry: a professional armpit sniffer.

This episode covers:

The difference between deodorant and antiperspirant. Deodorant masks odor and antiperspirant reduces sweat. Understanding the difference can make it much easier to find the right product for you.
Why finding your perfect deodorant or antiperspirant is mostly trial and error. Everyone's body chemistry is different, which means the product your friend swears by might do absolutely nothing for you.
Why aluminum in antiperspirants probably isn't something to fear. Abbie breaks down why scientists aren’t concerned about antiperspirants causing breast cancer or Alzheimer's.
How to get better results from the products you already use. From applying antiperspirant at bedtime to giving a new deodorant a full week before judging it, small tweaks can make a big difference.

Products we recommend:

Best to prevent pit stains Degree UltraClear Black + White Antiperspirant Deodorant
Best for preventing white streaks on clothing: SheaMoisture Fresh Antiperspirant Deodorant
Best for heavy sweaters: Mitchum Women Advanced Control Antiperspirant & Deodorant Gel
Best for odor control with elevated scents: Nécessaire The Deodorant
Best for exotic fragrances: Saltair 5% AHA Serum Deodorant
Best for people with sensitive skin: Dove Aluminum Free Deodorant Stick
A controversial deodorant balm: Akt’s The Deodorant Balm

Additional reading:

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

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The '90s Are Calling. This Landline for Kids Is Answering. Jun 26, 2026

Show notes

If you want to get your kids off screens this summer, you aren't alone. Along with a growing nostalgia for '90s tech like point-and-shoot cameras and MP3 players, parents are increasingly turning to Wi-Fi landlines to avoid smart phones. These Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phones look and feel like old-school corded phones but run over your home internet connection.

This episode, Wirecutter baby and kid editor Rachel Hurn explains why families are embracing these devices. She shares how her own Wi-Fi phone, a Tin Can, has given her eight-year-old independence to set up playdates and created an environment for undistracted conversations.

This episode covers:

Why parents are returning to landlines: Phones like the Tin Can delay the need for smartphones and allow kids to have more independence and less distraction.
How VoIP phones differ from traditional landlines: Instead of using physical copper wires, VoIP phones make calls using your internet connection.
Kid-friendly safety features: These phones feature controlled contact lists to prevent spam calls and allow parents to set quiet hours.
Competitors and costs: Although we’ve only tested the Tin Can, other companies (including Ooma, Pinwheel, and Ring Ring Club) sell similar devices. These phones typically cost between $60 and $100, and subscriptions for added features (like a controlled contact list) typically cost around $10 per month..
The limits of Wi-Fi: Because these phones rely entirely on your Wi-Fi connection, they won't work during an internet or power outage.

Products we recommend:

A Wi-Fi–enabled home phone: Tin Can
You can also check out Ooma, Pinwheel, and Ring Ring Club for other kid-friendly Wi-Fi landlines.

Additional reading:

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

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Better Than Store-Bought: The Best Gear for Homemade Popsicles, Slushies, and Ice Cream Jun 23, 2026

Show notes

It’s officially summer, and prime time for ice cream, ice pops, slushies, and more. Making frozen treats at home lets you customize flavors and accommodate dietary restrictions, and having the right tools on hand can help make the process more fun.

Wirecutter senior kitchen editor Marilyn Ong walks us through the most reliable gear for every type of frozen treat, from $10 ice pop molds to an $800 gelato maker. Plus, she reveals Wirecutter’s take on popular gadgets like the Ninja Creami, Ninja Slushi, and KitchenAid shaved ice attachment.

We also hear from Wirecutter experts Lesley Stockton, Ciara Murray Jordan, and Kathleen Squires, who share their favorite treat recipes and tips for making great frozen treats.

This episode covers:

Why DIY treats are worth making: You won’t necessarily save money on ingredients, but you will have total control over those ingredients. You can control the sugar content, dairy options, and flavor combinations.
Popsicle molds that actually work: Our favorite ice pop molds are easy to fill and release with little effort. You can choose from kid-friendly shapes (think fun animal shapes) all the way to refined classic molds fit for adults.
Shaved ice and slushie makers we like: The KitchenAid shaved ice attachment is a powerhouse for making Bingsu (a popular Korean-style shaved ice), while our kitchen team was surprised by how much they like the Ninja Slushi for making frozen drinks at home.
Why we don't recommend the Ninja Creami: Despite its viral popularity for making healthier frozen treats, in our testing it resulted in burning smells and complaints of plastic shavings.
Choosing an ice cream maker: Start by asking yourself how much you’re willing to spend and the texture you want to create. Our recommendations range from a $60 option that makes denser scoops, to an $800 machine that makes smooth, airy gelato.

Products we recommend: