The Wirecutter Show

Kalee Thompson, a senior editor at Wirecutter with extensive baby gear expertise and personal experience as a parent, dives into the essentials for newborns. She shares her must-have items such as car seats, strollers, and thoughtful gifts for expecting parents. Kalee emphasizes the importance of choosing wisely amidst overwhelming options, including the benefits of buying used gear. She also discusses navigating parental pressures influenced by social media and highlights how meaningful gifts can foster connections between families and new babies.

Mother's Day can be a mix of joy and emotional complexity. The speakers share personal stories and thoughtful gift ideas, highlighting meaningful gestures over elaborate celebrations. You'll hear about memorable moments, simple crafts, and the joy of gifting chocolates. Creative options, like a trip to the Bronx Zoo, offer last-minute inspiration. The conversation celebrates love, empathy for new mothers, and the significance of honoring those special in our lives.

Looking to limit exposure to plastic and nonstick kitchen gear? In our first roundtable episode, two of our staff experts share their best advice. Sustainability editor Katie Okamoto digs into the health risks of various materials, while kitchen editor Marilyn Ong shares swaps that are beloved by chefs—and that may last a lifetime. Products we recommend: PFAS and plastic free, non-stick pans:  OXO Obsidian Carbon Steel Frypan with Silicone Sleeve and Lodge Chef Collection 12-Inch Cast Iron SkilletGlass food storage containers (with plastic lids): Pyrex Freshlock 10-piece Glass Storage SetCompletely plastic free food storage containers we love: Pyrex Ultimate 10-Piece Glass Storage SetA toaster over option we love (to consider replacing an air-fryer): Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster OvenA rice cooker alternative with a stainless steel bowl: Instant Pot Rio 6-quartOur favorite spatula:  Victorinox Swiss Army Slotted Fish TurnerOther plastic-free spatulas we love: GIR Mini Flip Silicone Spatula, OXO Good Grips Silicone Small Flexible Turner and GIR Ultimate SpatulaBaking sheets without non-stick coating: Nordic Ware Naturals Baker’s Half SheetCake pans without non-stick coating: USA Pan 9-inch Round Cake PanOur favorite wood cutting board: Jones Cutting Board 20 x 14 x 1.5 Inch Maple End GrainA plastic-free kettle: Cuisinart GK-1 Digital Gooseneck KettleA single use plastic bag swap we like: Stasher Reusable Silicone Bag Multi-PackKatie loves: Amrikan: 125 Recipes from the Indian American DiasporaMarilyn loves: HoMedics Shiatsu Elite II Massage Cushion Additional reading: Forever Chemicals Are Everywhere. Here’s How to Limit Your Exposure.Black Plastic Kitchen Tools Might Expose You to Toxic Chemicals. Here’s What to Use Instead.12 Ways to Break Up With Single-Use PlasticsMicroplastics Are Everywhere. Here’s How to Avoid Eating Them.The 3 Best Nonstick Pans of 2025The 4 Best Food Storage Containers of 2025The 11 Best Spatulas of 2025The 5 Best Cutting Boards of 2025The 6 Best Cake Pans for 2025The Wirecutter Show Episode 7: Can We Stop Eating Microplastics?The Best Plastic-Free Bowls, Plates, Cups, and Utensils for Babies and KidsSilicone Kitchen Gear Isn't As Sustainable As Many People Think. Try These Solutions Instead. We are conducting a listener survey to learn more about what listeners to the Wirecutter Show are looking for from this podcast. Please share your thoughts with us.  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

Speakers don’t have to be complicated. Wirecutter senior audio writer Brent Butterworth tells us about some surprising hacks to improve the sound setup you may already have, and affordable speaker upgrades worthy of consideration. Products we recommend: Best ultra-portable bluetooth speaker: JBL Go 4Best budget bluetooth speaker: Tribit StormBox Mini  (sold out)Best bluetooth speaker with solid bass: Fender x Teufel Rockster Go 2Best computer speakers (upgrade pick): JBL Professional 305P MkIIBest passive bookshelf speakers (they’ll need an amp): Polk Signature Elite ES15Best budget bookshelf speakers: Micca MB42X G2Best amp: WiiM AmpBest stereo receiver: Sony STR-DH190Brent loves this screwdriver: Megapro 13-in-1 Ratcheting Driver 211R2C36RD Additional reading: The 5 Best Portable Bluetooth Speakers of 2025The 5 Best Computer Speakers of 2025The 5 Best Bookshelf Speakers for Stereo and Surround Sound of 2024The 3 Best Home Bluetooth Speakers of 2025The Best Stereo Amplifiers and Receivers Under $300 of 2025How to Build the Best Multiroom Wireless Speaker System for YouWhat Do You Get When You Spend More for Speakers?How to Connect Your New Turntable to Any Audio SystemHow to Get Great Sound in Your Backyard  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Follow us on instagram @wirecutter Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

Darryl Cheng, a plant expert and author known for his engineering-based plant care approach, shares how to keep popular houseplants like pothos and monsteras alive. He emphasizes the importance of understanding plant needs and offers tips from his latest book for thriving plants. Joining him is Rose Maura Lorre, a senior writer specializing in affordable plants, who reveals insider secrets for scoring cheap or free houseplants, bringing a fun and frugal twist to indoor gardening.

In this discussion, Caitlin McGarry, a Senior Tech Editor at Wirecutter, sheds light on the tumultuous impact of tariffs on consumer products. She breaks down how recent trade policies, especially a staggering 145% tariff on Chinese imports, can spike prices for everyday items like electronics and clothing. Caitlin shares strategic shopping tips, emphasizing the value of timing, opting for refurbished goods, and exploring local marketplaces to navigate this evolving landscape. Tune in for valuable insights into getting the best deals despite tariff challenges!

Dr. Nikhil Dhingra, a board-certified dermatologist, shares his expertise on skincare myths while emphasizing that effective skincare doesn't need to be expensive. Rory Evans, a senior beauty writer, highlights tested affordable products. They discuss essentials for customized routines addressing various skin types, including cleansers, moisturizers, and the importance of retinol and Vitamin C. The duo empowers listeners to navigate the overwhelming skincare landscape with informed choices and budget-friendly solutions.

Discover expert insights on tackling the grimiest spots in your home, from greasy ovens to stained patio furniture. The hosts share clever cleaning hacks and recommend essential tools like dish soap and abrasive cleaners. Learn how to simplify spring cleaning by breaking tasks into manageable parts and collaborate with others for efficiency. Health tips emphasize using unscented supplies with essential oils while maintaining functionality. With practical techniques for indoor and outdoor cleaning, make every surface sparkle!

Max Eddy, a Wirecutter staff writer specializing in privacy, dives into the impact of 23andMe's bankruptcy and why it's critical for customers to delete their data. He provides a step-by-step guide on data deletion, highlighting the risks of retaining sensitive genetic information. Max discusses the implications of genetic data privacy, including how it affects individuals and families, and urges listeners to reclaim their personal agency. With practical tips and serious warnings, he empowers users to safeguard their privacy in an uncertain digital landscape.

Andrea Barnes, Wirecutter's laundry expert, shares invaluable stain removal secrets. She tackles listener questions about the toughest stains, from ink to acrylic paint, and emphasizes the importance of timely care. Practical tips include using Downy Rinse & Refresh for odors and Clorox 2 for old blood stains. The discussion highlights a systematic five-step approach to cleaning, ensuring your fabrics stay fresh and clean. Additionally, she advocates for skills-based hiring, shedding light on the value of expertise in everyday challenges.