The Wirecutter Show

This episode features Mel Plaut, a Wirecutter staff writer specializing in pet gear, who shares her expertise on safe pet travel. She discusses the importance of secure restraints and industry standards for pet carriers. Listeners learn about the challenges of flying with pets, including vaccinations and airline regulations, as well as tips for in-cabin travel. Mel also highlights essential products like the SturdiBag Pro 2.0 and offers personal anecdotes to make traveling with pets a smoother, worry-free experience.

Lauren Dragan, a senior writer for Wirecutter and an expert in audio equipment and children's headphones, dives into the impacts of harmful noise levels. She discusses how to identify risks of hearing loss and the importance of early detection. The conversation highlights effective products like noise-canceling headphones and earplugs to protect hearing, especially for children. They emphasize creating quiet spaces and promoting ear hygiene for better sleep, while exploring the importance of safe audio gear for little ears.

Join Michael Sullivan, a seasoned Wirecutter kitchen staff writer, as he shares nearly a decade of expertise in kitchen gear. He discusses the crucial investment in durable cookware and tools that can last a lifetime. Discover the best practices for maintaining cast iron pans and how to identify high-quality kitchen essentials. Michael highlights the benefits of choosing long-lasting items over disposable options while sharing personal stories that connect food, family, and craftsmanship.

Doug Mahoney, a senior staff writer at Wirecutter specializing in home improvement, shares his expertise on rodent control as fall arrives. He discusses the migratory habits of mice, offering practical tips for prevention and recognizing infestations. The conversation dives into various traps, weighing the ethics of humane methods versus quick-kill solutions. Listeners will enjoy humorous anecdotes from a New Hampshire farm, along with insights on managing not just mice but also rat challenges in urban settings.

Struggling with hard-to-please gift recipients? You're not alone! This discussion dives into the challenges of holiday gift-giving, featuring expert insights on how to impress even the most discerning giftees. Listeners are encouraged to share their toughest gifting stories for a chance to get tailored advice. Discover what makes certain people tough to shop for and hear practical tips that can help you unlock the secrets of successful gifting this holiday season!

Bianca Alba, a non-binary sexual health educator and Wirecutter's sex toy writer, dives into the often-taboo world of vibrators. They provide expert tips on choosing the perfect product, debunk myths around vibrators, and discuss the importance of personal exploration. Bianca also highlights the diverse range of vibrators available and shares essential advice for beginners, ensuring everyone feels empowered in their choices. The conversation blends humor with valuable insights, making it accessible and enlightening for listeners.

Katie Okamoto, Wirecutter's sustainability editor, dives into the pervasive issue of microplastics—from their origins in everyday products to their potential health risks. She shares practical tips for reducing exposure, especially in drinking water, and advocates for mindful choices in reducing plastic use. The discussion emphasizes easy, impactful changes like choosing glass containers and water filters. With humor and insight, Katie encourages listeners to balance personal actions with broader systemic solutions against plastic pollution.

Harry Sawyers, a Wirecutter senior editor with expertise in emergency preparedness, shares crucial insights on how to be ready for natural disasters. He discusses essential supplies everyone should have on hand, likening preparedness to budgeting—where procrastination has serious consequences. Hear about the best tools, from solar lanterns to multi-tools like the Leatherman Skeletool, as well as strategies for assembling emergency kits. Harry emphasizes incremental steps toward readiness, ensuring safety and resilience in the face of rising climate-related disasters.

Jackie Reeve, a seasoned Wirecutter senior staff writer and quilter, dives into the world of bedsheets. She discusses common disappointments in bedding and how to choose sheets that truly satisfy. The conversation highlights key distinctions between cotton weaves, debunks the myth of thread count, and shares essential tips for ensuring quality. Jackie also explores the nostalgic charm of flannel sheets and amusingly recounts her creative testing methods, while advocating for smart shopping strategies in the bedding industry.

In this engaging discussion, Ellen Lee, a senior staff writer at Wirecutter specializing in kid gear, and Dr. Devorah Heitner, a media and technology expert, tackle the pressing question of when to give your child a phone. They share practical advice on assessing a child's readiness and fostering healthy tech habits. The duo also highlights various phone options, including kid-friendly smartwatches and parental control apps. With insights into the digital landscape, they emphasize the importance of open communication and setting boundaries for young users.