Dive into the world of laundry troubles as listeners share their most frustrating stain experiences. From mysterious spills to stubborn marks, each story reveals the creative and often comical attempts at removal. Tune in for expert advice from a stain guru, who offers tips and tricks to tackle even the toughest blemishes. Join the fun as common laundry woes are turned into engaging tales of perseverance and problem-solving!

Join Bianca Alba, a non-binary sexual health educator and Wirecutter's sex toy writer with a master's in public health, as they dive into the often-overlooked world of personal lubricants. Discover why lube enhances sexual pleasure and how to choose the best one for your needs. They break down the different types of lubricants—water-based, silicone, hybrid, and oil-based—while sharing tips on ingredient safety and addressing common myths. Plus, find out about coconut oil as an eco-friendly alternative!

Kit Dillon, a senior staff writer at Wirecutter specializing in travel, shares his expert insights on choosing the right luggage. He discusses the pros and cons of hard vs. soft shell bags and offers practical packing tips. Personal anecdotes add humor, like a wild encounter with an alligator at a baggage claim. Kit emphasizes investing in quality luggage and provides recommendations for carry-ons, duffels, and packing cubes, ensuring travelers have the best gear for adventures. Prepare to pack smarter and travel easier!

Ingrid Skjong, a former fitness writer turned large appliance editor and certified personal trainer, joins Seth Berkman, Wirecutter's senior staff fitness writer and home gym expert. They discuss why strength training is crucial for health at any age, share tips for starting at-home workouts, and recommend essential equipment like adjustable dumbbells and pull-up bars. The conversation also tackles overcoming gym intimidation and the benefits of personalized fitness approaches, motivating listeners to enhance their well-being through strength training.

Andrea Barnes, a Wirecutter staff writer with a knack for large appliances, joins the discussion on maximizing dishwasher efficiency. She tackles common household conflicts over dishwashing habits, humorously contrasting the meticulous 'white glovers' with the chaotic 'raccoons.' Listeners learn effective loading techniques, the best detergents, and insights into cleaning and maintaining dishwashers. Andrea also sheds light on how modern dishwashers outperform hand washing in efficiency and sanitation, making a strong case for their indispensable role in our kitchens.

Join Ben Keough, Wirecutter's supervising editor with over six years of expertise in home office gear, as he shares insights on the printer conundrum. Most printers are frustrating and expensive! He unveils tips for buying a reliable printer, comparing the pros and cons of inkjet versus laser models. Discover how to save on ink costs and why refurbished printers are worth considering. Ben also highlights modern alternatives to traditional printing, making your home office setup more efficient and stress-free.

Dana G. Smith, a New York Times health reporter specializing in personal health, joins Marguerite Preston, Wirecutter's senior kitchen editor, to explore the joys of non-alcoholic drinking. They discuss the health risks of alcohol consumption and advocate for a vibrant bar cart filled with tasty alternatives. The conversation highlights creative non-alcoholic cocktails and the appeal of sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages, emphasizing how they can elevate social experiences without compromising well-being.

Discover life-enhancing products that Wirecutter staff swear by! From a space heater that saved a marriage to innovative running shoes that transformed workouts, personal stories add a touch of humor. Enjoy thoughtful gift ideas like custom birthday books and practical household tools, all curated to improve daily living. Highlights include a beloved coffee maker and a stylish lamp that brightens any room. Dive into anecdotes about music, cooking, and essential comforts, making life a little easier and a lot more enjoyable!

Doug Mahoney, a Wirecutter senior staff writer with a background in construction, shares vital tips for fireproofing your home. He discusses the alarming speed at which homes can burn today and highlights the importance of modern smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. The conversation also covers the dangers of synthetic materials versus natural furnishings during fires. Additionally, Doug provides essential advice on selecting the right fire safety gear and maintaining emergency escape routes to ensure peace of mind, especially during the holiday season.

Samantha Schoech, a Wirecutter staff writer known for her expertise in gift guides, helps tackle the challenge of buying gifts for those who are hard to please. She shares clever strategies for impressing picky recipients, featuring ideas like personalized handwriting bracelets and experiential gifts like snack boxes. The conversation also highlights utilitarian gifts, such as stylish French presses and cozy slippers, while emphasizing the importance of meaningful connections over mere materialism.