The Wirecutter Show

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.

Marilyn Ong, Wirecutter's Kitchen Team editor, and Genevieve Ko, deputy editor at New York Times Cooking, share practical tips to combat food waste. They dive into creative ways to use leftovers, emphasizing innovative recipes that transform scraps into delicious meals. The duo discusses effective grocery shopping strategies and smart kitchen organization to minimize waste. With personal anecdotes and expert advice, they inspire listeners to embrace sustainability while savoring every bite.

Discover how to breathe better with essential tips on improving indoor air quality, especially during wildfire season. Experts share insights on effective air purifiers and DIY solutions. Learn about common indoor pollutants and the role of HEPA filters in reducing allergens. The importance of maintaining cleanliness to combat air contamination is emphasized. Also, get a peek into testing air purifier efficacy and the consumer myths surrounding them. Plus, hear about the latest innovations in air filtration technology.

Andrea Barnes, a Wirecutter staff writer with a knack for laundry and home appliances, shares her expertise on making laundry less of a chore. She debunks common myths about detergents and stain removers, revealing surprising facts like the benefits of white wine for wine stains. Listeners learn about the advantages of using powdered detergents and washing in cold water. Andrea also offers practical tips for treating tough stains, including insights on how to wash delicate fabrics safely and sustainably.

Our new podcast aims to solve your everyday problems, with life-changing tips, tricks and product recommendations from Wirecutter’s best-in-class journalists. Find out more at nytimes.com/wirecutter. We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.