The Wirecutter Show

In the final part of our stain series, we tackle trickier listener questions–from eliminating fishy odors to whether you can truly remove paint stains. Guest: Senior writer Andrea Barnes Products we recommend:A good stain remover for ink or sugary stains: Amodex Ink & Stain RemoverA good stain remover for cat odors: Nature's MiracleA good way to remove odors from clothes: Downy Rinse & RefreshFor acrylic paint stains, you might try: Dawn PowerwashFor oil paint stains, you can try mineral spiritsA good stain remover for old blood stains: Clorox 2 Stain Remover & Color BrightenerThe best liquid laundry detergent & a great product for pre-treating stains: Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry DetergentThe best powdered laundry detergent (with oxygen bleach) for dirt and clay: Tide Ultra Oxi Powder Laundry Detergent Additional reading:The Wirecutter Show Episode 32: The Art of Stain Removal Part 1So You Stained Your Shirt. Now What? The 6 Best Stain Removers of 2025Skip the Stain Removers. This Detergent Is All You Need.The 5 Best Laundry Detergents of 2025The Wirecutter Show Episode 1: The Secret to Better LaundryThe Best Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner  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 

03-26

35:22

In part one of our stain series, we tackle your toughest questions–from reviving dingy whites to rescuing clothes from stubborn oils and baked-on gummy bears.Guest: Wirecutter senior writer Andrea Barnes Products we recommend:The best liquid laundry detergent & a great product for pre-treating stains: Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry DetergentThe best powdered laundry detergent (with oxygen bleach)  :Tide Ultra Oxi Powder Laundry DetergentAnother great laundry detergent: ​​Persil Original Liquid Detergent Everyday CleanIf you want an “eco-friendly” detergent or to support a smaller brand, we like: Dirty Labs Free & Clear Bio Laundry DetergentA good stain remover for most starch or protein food stains: ZoutA good stain remover for ink or sugary stains: Amodex Ink & Stain Remover Additional reading:So You Stained Your Shirt. Now What? The 6 Best Stain Removers of 2025Skip the Stain Removers. This Detergent Is All You Need.The 5 Best Laundry Detergents of 2025The Wirecutter Show Episode 1: The Secret to Better Laundry  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 

03-19

37:07

Digital hygiene rarely tops spring cleaning lists—but it should. Our tech editor shares how to declutter your phone, and why you need a password manager. Guest: Wirecutter Senior Tech Editor, Caitlin McGarry Products we recommend: The best Password Manager: 1PasswordThe best free Password Manager: BitwardenTwo-Factor Authenticator Apps: Duo Mobile and Google AuthenticatorThe best bluetooth tracker: Apple AirTag Additional Reading: How to Organize and Store Your Phone’s Camera Roll PhotosThe Best External Hard Drive You Don’t Need a New Phone. Here’s How to Make the One You Have Last Longer.How to Clean Your PhoneThe 2 Best Password Managers Step 1 to Simple Online Security: Always Use Strong PasswordsThe 2 Best Two-Factor Authentication AppsThe 2 Best Bluetooth Trackers  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 

03-12

31:07

You don’t need to settle for a bad vacuum. Our expert reveals how to pick one that’ll actually make your life easier—and your home a lot cleaner.Guest: Deputy Director, Editorial Operations & Testing Courtney Schley Products we recommend:Best upright vac: SEBO Felix PremiumBudget upright vac: Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352Best canister vac: SEBO Airbelt K3 PremiumAnother canister vac we love: Miele Complete C3 Calima PowerLineBest stick vac: Dyson V12 Detect SlimBest robot vac: Roborock Q5 Max+Budget robot vac: Eufy RoboVac 11S MaxCourtney loves: Cuisinart Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven TOB-260N1 (and Trader Joe's frozen chocolate croissants!) Additional Reading:The 15 Best Vacuum Cleaners of 2025 We Spent a Weekend With Dozens of Vacuum Enthusiasts. Here’s What We Learned. What’s the Best Vacuum for Pet Hair?How to Clean a Vacuum Cleaner  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 

03-05

36:34

It’s time to turn the clocks forward – but don’t let Daylight Saving Time mess with your health. Here’s our best advice to overcome the time shift ahead. Guest: podcast co-host Caira Blackwell Products we recommend:The best blackout curtains: IKEA Rosenmandel Black-out Curtains or Target Pillowfort Blackout Chambray Cotton Kids’ PanelThe best eye mask: Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep MaskThe best sunrise alarm clock: Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light HF3520Caira loves this alarm clock: Hatch Restore 2 Additional Reading: How to Survive Daylight Saving TimeThe Best Sunrise Alarm Clock of 2025 The 4 Best Blackout Curtains of 2025The 3 Best Sleep Masks of 2025  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 

03-04

11:26

Our networking pro reveals three dead-simple fixes most people miss for faster internet, plus insider secrets to choosing a better internet plan.Guest: Senior staff writer Joel Santo Domingo Products We RecommendTool to find internet providers in your area: www.broadbandmap.fcc.govLook up your internet speed (upload speeds especially!): www.speedtest.net  or www.fast.com (from Netflix)USB hub for plugging in an ethernet cord to a computer or laptop: Anker 555 USB-C Hub (8-in-1)Powerline adapter for better wifi without a cord: TP-Link TL-WPA8631P KitJoel loves: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro Additional ReadingThe Gear to Get Reliable Wi-Fi in Any HomeThe 3 Best Wi-Fi Routers of 2025The Best Cable Modem of 2025The 4 Best Powerline Networking Adapters of 2025  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 

02-26

36:02

Our expert demystifies towel shopping—from plush terry to spa-like waffle—and reveals why that soft store feel is deceptive. Plus care tips to make them last. Guest: Staff senior writer Jackie Reeve  Products We Recommend: Top terry cloth towels: Frontgate Resort Collection Bath TowelBudget terry cloth towels: Threshold Spa Plush TowelUpgrade terry cloth towels: Riley Spa Bath TowelBudget waffle towels: Casaluna Waffle Bath TowelUpgrade waffle towels: Onsen Waffle Bath TowelUpgrade peshtemal towel: Coyuchi Mediterranean Organic Towel Also great (cheaper) peshtemal towel: Huckberry Mediterranean Turkish Towel Jackie loves: Sugoi Mart Japan KitKat Variety Pack Additional Reading: The 5 Best Bath Towels of 2025 The 4 Best Beach Towels of 2025All My Houseguests Ask Me About My Towels by Daniela GornyMore about Frontgate Resort Cotton Bath Towels  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 

02-19

35:38

An uncomfortable bed can screw up your sleep. We’re covering how to make your current mattress more comfortable–and how to shop for a new one.  Guest: senior writer and podcast co-host Caira Blackwell  Products we recommend: Memory foam mattresses we like: Leesa Original Mattress and Saatva Loom & Leaf (Relaxed Firm)A cheaper memory foam mattress:  Novaform 14″ ComfortGrande Advanced Gel Memory Foam MattressHybrid mattress we like: Leesa Sapira Hybrid MattressA favorite innerspring mattress: Stearns & Foster Estate PT Firm MattressAn innerspring mattress we like (that’s kind of a hybrid): WinkBed (Luxury Firm)A $75,000 mattress: Hastens 2000TA great cheap mattress: Zinus Cooling Comfort Support Hybrid Mattress Additional reading links:Pillows: The 5 Best Bed Pillows of 2025 Mattress Toppers: The 4 Best Mattress Toppers of 2025 Mattresses: How to Choose a Mattress for 2025The 24 Best Mattresses of 2025 The 4 Best Cheap Mattresses (Under $500) of 2025 The 3 Best Memory Foam Mattresses You Can Buy Online in 2025The 5 Best Innerspring Mattresses of 2025 The 4 Best Hybrid Mattresses for 2025The 4 Best Mattress and Pillow Encasements of 2025  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 

02-12

38:05

Skip predictable chocolates and roses this Valentine's Day. Our gift expert shares luxurious ways to delight loved ones—and pamper yourself. Guest: Staff writer Samantha Schoech Products we recommend:Sparkly Socks: Calzedonia Soft SoxSilk hair accessories: Lilysilk Perfect Silk Beauty Set For HairA simple gold chain: Laura Lombardi Mini Omega ChainFancy chocolates Recchiuti XOXO Box 16pcFlowers: UrbanStemsFancy cookies: Eugénie cookiesPaper flower bouquet: Unwilted Single Stems Additional ReadingThe 33 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her 202532 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him in 2025 24 Best Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts of 2025The Best Online Flower Delivery Service of 202524 Best Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts of 202537 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Kids of 202515 Exclusive Valentine’s Day Deals Just for Wirecutter Readers38 Best Cheap Valentine’s Day Gifts (Mostly) Under $25 of 2025Sign up for  The Gift Newsletter  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 

02-10

15:35

We are working on a new episode about laundry—specifically, those stains that never seem to come out—and we need your help!  Record a voice memo on your phone and tell us about the most irritating stain you’ve battled. How did you get it? What was the culprit? What did it stain? And what did you use to try and get it out?Try and keep it under two minutes and don’t forget to tell us your first name and where you’re calling from!Email your voice memo to thewirecuttershow@wirecutter.com and you might be featured on the show with advice from our laundry expert (aka stain doctor Andrea Barnes). Thanks!   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 

02-06

01:26

Personal lubricants make sex more fun–but not all of them are created equal. We’re covering how to find ones you’ll love and the ingredients to avoid. Guest: Wirecutter writer Bianca Alba  Products we recommend: Best water-based lube:  Aloe Cadabra Natural AloeBest thinner water-based lube: Coconu Water BasedBest silicone lube: ÜberlubeBest hybrid lube: Sliquid SilkBest oil-based lube: Coconu Oil BasedBianca recommends: Vuvla-shaped candle mold Additional reading :The 6 Best Personal Lubricants of 2025The 5 Best Vibrators of 2025 The Best Anal Toys How to Clean Sex Toys   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 

02-05

28:57

The right luggage can make traveling easier. We share expert tips for choosing between hard and soft shells, carry-on or checked bags, plus pro packing hacks. Guest: Wirecutter senior staff writer Kit Dillon Products we recommend: The best soft-sided carry-on bag: Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On SpinnerThe best hard-sided carry-on bag: Away The Carry-OnThe upgrade pick carry-on: Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable SpinnerA travel backpack we love: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack Del DiaThe best duffel bag:  Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70LThe best packing cubes: Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube SetKit recommends: Pat Rawson Surfoards Additional Reading: The 6 Best Carry-On Luggage of 2025The Best Suitcases for CheckingThe 6 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for 2025The 9 Best Duffle Bags of 2025The 4 Best Packing Cubes of 2025  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 

01-29

36:50

Strength training might seem intimidating, but it’s also key for living a long, healthy life. We cover how to start and the simple at-home gear that’ll help. Guests: Wirecutter supervising editor Ingrid Skjong and Wirecutter fitness writer Seth Berkman Products we recommend: Best yoga mat: JadeYoga Harmony MatBest kettlebell: Rep Fitness KettlebellBest adjustable dumbbell set: Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell SetBest pull-up bar: Ultimate Body Press Elevated XL Doorway Pull-Up BarBest resistance bands: Bodylastics Stackable Tube Resistance Bands (5 Bands Pro Series Set) and Serious Steel Assisted Pull-Up, Resistance, and Stretch BandsSeth loves: KSY Jump Rope Additional Reading: The 4 Best Resistance Bands of 2025 The 3 Best Yoga Mats of 2025 The 3 Best Pull-Up Bars of 2025 The 2 Best Kettlebells of 2025 The 3 Best Adjustable Dumbbells of 2025The 5 Best Jump Ropes of 2025   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 

01-22

42:36

Dishwashers make life easier—but most people don’t use them quite right. This episode, we’re diving deep into how you can get yours to wash dishes even better.  Guest: Wirecutter staff writer Andrea Barnes Products we recommend:The best dishwasher detergent: Cascade Free & Clear ActionPacsWhat to use to clean your dishwasher: Affresh or citric acidRinse aids to consider: Ecover or Finish Jet DryThe best dishwasher: Miele G5008Andrea loves: The League of Kitchens Cookbook Additional reading:The 4 Best Dishwasher Detergents of 2024 How to Clean Your Dishwasher Why You Should Clean Your Dishwasher Filter How to Use Your Dishwasher BetterWe Smeared Hundreds of Dishes With Peanut Butter, Egg Yolk, Red Sauce, and Lipstick to Test Dishwashers in 2024Is It You, or Is Your Dishwasher Just Lousy? Here’s How to Tell.  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 

Most printers suck. This week we crack the code on how to buy one you might actually like, and reveal the secrets to saving cash on ink and toner.  Guest: Wirecutter supervising editor Ben Keough  Products we recommend:Basic B&W laser printer we recommend: Brother Wireless HL-L2460DWOnline photo printing we recommend: Nations Photo LabBen’s new/used camera: Nikon F3 Additional Reading:Why All Printers Suck (Even the Best Ones)The 4 Best Home Printers of 2024The 4 Best All-in-One Printers of 2024The 3 Best Photo Printers of 2024The 4 Best Mobile Scanning Apps of 2024The Best Online Photo Printing Service of 2024  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