• 22 minutes 52 seconds
    How to Shop for Homeowner's Insurance

    As climate change makes natural disasters more frequent and intense, preparing for emergencies is becoming more important. A vulnerability for many people is their home-owners insurance policy. Without the right coverage, a disaster can bring devastating financial aftershocks.

     

    This episode, Wirecutter writer Gregory Han shares the questions you should ask to make the process less murky. Gregory’s home was severely damaged in California's 2025 Eaton Fire, giving him a firsthand look at why it’s crucial to know exactly what’s in your policy before disaster strikes.

     

    He breaks down how to ensure you have enough coverage to rebuild, how to find discounts on your premiums, and how to safely use AI chatbots to translate confusing insurance jargon. Whether you’re buying a new policy, renewing an old one, or even renting, these tips will help you protect your home and your finances.

     

    To hear more about Gregory’s experience with recovery, don’t miss our three-part series, The True Cost of Recovering from The LA Wildfires (including part 1, part 2 and part 3). 

     

    This episode covers:

    • Misconceptions about coverage: Many people assume their policy will cover them completely after a disaster, but things like water sewage backups or equipment for a home business are frequently excluded from standard policies.
    • The terms to look for: Know the difference between Actual Cash Value (ACV), which factors in depreciation, and Replacement Cost Value (RCV), which pays for a brand new replacement. Renters and homeowners alike also need sufficient Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage to pay for rent if they are displaced.
    • How to ensure you have enough coverage: Real estate values and building costs change. Look at comps on Zillow or Redfin to understand your local market, and consider hiring a professional home appraiser to document unique architectural details and structural elements so your insurer accounts for true rebuilding costs.
    • Ways to lower your premium: Don't be passive—ask your agent for discounts! You can often save money by bundling your home and auto insurance, asking for loyalty discounts, or proving you have made safety improvements to your home.
    • Using AI to translate your policy: You can upload your policy (with personal info stripped out) to an AI chatbot to explain terms in plain language. Just be sure to prompt the AI to include citations, and always verify its answers with your insurance agent.

     

    Additional reading and listening:

     

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    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


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    31 July 2026, 9:00 am
  • 36 minutes 1 second
    Life After PFAS

    You’ve probably seen “forever chemicals” make headlines in the past few years. This class of compounds known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have long been used to make nonstick cookware and high-performance raingear. And they’re being phased out in certain product categories because of their health risks.

     

    This episode, Wirecutter sustainability editor Katie Okamoto explains the potential health risks of everyday exposure to these slippery synthetic compounds. And she breaks down the new wave of PFAS-free cookware, cosmetics, and outdoor gear, revealing which replacements are actually worth buying—and why your most sustainable bet is often to just keep using the gear you already own. 

     

    This episode covers:

    • What PFAS actually are: Developed in the 1940s, these compounds are used to make things slick and waterproof. They’ve been used in nonstick cookware, raingear, and even dental floss.
    • The real health and environmental risks: Because they don't break down and spread easily through the environment, PFAS have contaminated drinking water and soils, and bioaccumulate up the food chain. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health issues, including liver damage, immune system impacts, and certain cancers. But experts say that exposure from using a single frying pan is low.
    • The truth about ceramic cookware: After extensive testing, Wirecutter’s kitchen team doesn’t recommend ceramic pans, which are often marketed as an alternative to Teflon. The ceramic loses its non-stick properties far too quickly to justify the price. Instead, they recommend investing in cast iron, stainless steel, or carbon steel.
    • PFAS in makeup and outdoor gear: The beauty industry is phasing  PFAS out of cosmetics, and makeup is not a primary source of PFAS exposure,. For outdoor gear, brands are switching to new PFAS-free coatings, and some are reviving Ventile, a densely woven, highly water-resistant cotton fabric.
    • Don't toss your old gear: The most sustainable choice you can make is to keep using your older, well-made products—like a rain jacket—until they actually need to be replaced.

     

    Products we recommend: 

     

    Additional reading:

     

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    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


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    28 July 2026, 9:00 am
  • 17 minutes 5 seconds
    Back-to-School Hacks from Wirecutter Parents

    Technically, summer doesn’t end until September, but many kids go back to school as soon as early to mid August. In this episode, we’re celebrating the back-to-school season with practical, real-world advice from Wirecutter parents. 

     

    From clever routines to must-have gear, our editors and writers share their favorite shortcuts for making school mornings run just a little bit smoother. Whether you're packing lunches for elementary schoolers or sending a teenager off to college, these tried-and-true tips will help your family ease back into the routine.

     

    Products we recommend: 

     

    Additional reading:

     

    We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

     

    Wirecutter Social and Website

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    Website: 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


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    24 July 2026, 9:00 am
  • 34 minutes 46 seconds
    Life's Too Short for Bad Olive Oil (Encore)

    This episode, senior kitchen writer Michael Sullivan demystifies all things olive oil. He shares how to navigate the overwhelming olive oil aisle, what “extra virgin” really means, and the best way to store this kitchen staple so it will stay fresh (and won’t go rancid).

     

    Whether you're an olive oil aficionado or just looking to improve your everyday cooking, this episode is packed with essential information to help you select and savor better olive oil. The conversation covers:

    • The enemies of olive oil: Learn the "HALT" acronym – Heat, Air, Light, and Time – and how these factors degrade your oil.
    • What to look for on the label: Understand the crucial difference between a harvest date and a "best by" date, and why it matters. Plus, find out why dark bottles or tins are superior to clear glass.
    • The truth about "extra virgin": Michael explains the standards for extra virgin olive oil and the complexities of international regulations, revealing why the quality on your grocery store shelf might not always match the label.
    • How to identify rancid oil: Learn how to recognize the telltale signs of spoiled olive oil, often described as smelling like "Crayola crayons."
    • Storage secrets: Get actionable tips on where not to store your olive oil at home (including right next to your stove and the refrigerator).
    • Country of origin vs. quality: Michael debunks the myth that certain countries always produce the "best" olive oil and encourages listeners to explore different regions and flavor profiles.
    • The Wirecutter tasting process: Hear about how Michael and the Wirecutter team conduct their rigorous, brand-concealed olive oil taste tests.
    • Michael's top tips for shopping: Discover where to find hidden gems in the grocery store and how transparency from producers can be a sign of quality.

     

    And for the adventurous, stick around for a live olive oil taste test where Christine, Caira, and Rosie bravely "swirl, sniff, slurp, and swallow" to experience the nuances of different oils, from grassy and peppery to fruity and bitter.

     

    Products we recommend:

     

    Additional reading:

     

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    Wirecutter Social and Website

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    Website: 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


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    21 July 2026, 9:00 am
  • 22 minutes
    The App That Transformed My Closet

    Getting dressed every morning can feel like a chore. Maybe you own too many clothes but always wear the same five outfits, or maybe your closet is so crowded that you forget what you already have. That’s where digital wardrobe apps can come in: They let you catalog your clothes, plan outfits, and see your entire closet from your phone.

     

    This episode, Wirecutter style writer Frances Solá-Santiago explains how digital wardrobe apps can help you get more creative with your clothes and shop more intentionally for new pieces. She shares why she recommends Indyx over other wardrobe apps, and why organizing your closet digitally can help you get more out of the clothes you already own. Plus, she shares how she used it to pack for a two-week trip with only a carry-on.

     

    This episode covers: 

    • How a digital wardrobe app can help you stop wearing the same outfits on repeat. Instead of digging through your closet every morning, these apps let you see everything you own in one place, making it easier to rediscover forgotten pieces and experiment with new combinations.
    • Why Indyx stands out from other digital closet apps. While some apps lean heavily on AI-generated outfits and avatars, Indyx focuses on a simpler experience that helps you organize your wardrobe while keeping the decision-making process in your hands.
    • How a digital closet can make packing for a trip easier. Frances shares how she used Indyx’s collections feature to create a capsule wardrobe for a two-week honeymoon in Italy, fitting everything—including winter layers—into one carry-on.
    • How these apps can help you shop smarter. Seeing your wardrobe all together can reveal patterns, like owning many pieces in the same color, and help you decide whether a new purchase will actually fill a gap.
    • Why digital wardrobes aren’t just for fashion lovers. Even people who wear the same thing every day can benefit from documenting their clothes, whether that means rediscovering forgotten T-shirts or simply making a favorite collection easier to access.

     

    Products we recommend: 

    • A sleek digital closet app: Indyx

     

    Additional reading:

     

    We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

     

    Wirecutter Social and Website

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    Website: 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.

    17 July 2026, 9:00 am
  • 31 minutes 2 seconds
    Find Your Perfect Shampoo

    Walking down the shampoo aisle can feel overwhelming. There are formulas for curls, volume, moisture, color-treated hair, sensitive scalps, and everything in between—but how do you know what your hair actually needs?

     

    In this episode, Wirecutter beauty writer Amanda Rosenthal explains how to choose a shampoo based on your hair type, scalp health, and biggest concerns. After testing 92 shampoos and consulting dermatologists, hairstylists, and a trichologist (a hair and scalp specialist), Amanda shares what makes a shampoo effective, which ingredients are worth paying attention to, and why the most expensive bottle on the shelf isn’t necessarily the best one for your hair.

     

    This episode covers: 

    • How to choose a shampoo based on your actual hair type. Determining whether you have fine,  medium, or thick hair, as well as your curl pattern, density, and biggest concerns will help you pick the right shampoo. Consult your hairstylist if you’re not sure. 
    • Why your scalp matters just as much as your hair. Shampoo’s main job is to cleanse your scalp and remove oil, debris, and product buildup—and a healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair.
    • The truth about sulfates. Amanda debunks one of the biggest shampoo myths and explains why sulfates can actually be useful cleansers for many people.
    • How often you should actually wash your hair. There’s no universal rule for shampooing frequency. Your hair type, lifestyle, styling products, and scalp health all play a role.
    • Expensive shampoos aren’t necessarily better. After testing dozens of formulas, Amanda found that a good shampoo doesn’t need to cost a lot—it just needs to address your specific hair and scalp concerns.

     

    Products we recommend: 

     

    Additional reading:

    We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

     

    Wirecutter Social and Website

    Instagram: /wirecutter

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    Website: 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.

    14 July 2026, 9:00 am
  • 23 minutes 22 seconds
    The Best Fake Tans for Every Skin Tone

    If you grew up with self-tanners, you may remember them as an orange, streaky mess. Today's formulas have come a long way, delivering a natural, sun-kissed glow—as long as you know how to apply them correctly.

     

    In this episode, Wirecutter beauty writer Ayanna Redwood-Crawford explains how today's self tanners work better for a range of skin tones. She shares how to choose the right formula for you, avoid the dreaded orange streaks, and find the best self tanner whether you're a first-timer or getting ready for a beach vacation.

     

    This episode covers: 

    • Why self tanners aren't just for light skin. Self tanners work on virtually every skin tone. While lighter skin may develop a deeper tan, darker skin tones can use them to even out uneven pigmentation and add a healthy glow.
    • How they actually work. The active ingredient in self tanners, DHA,  is a sugar-derived ingredient that reacts with the amino acids in the outer layer of your skin to temporarily darken it without any UV exposure.
    • How self tanners differ from spray tans and bronzers. At-home self tanners use the same active ingredient as professional spray tans, while bronzers only provide temporary color. Self tanners are also a much safer alternative to tanning in the sun or a tanning bed.
    • How to apply without streaks or orange patches. Ayanna walks through her step-by-step routine, from exfoliating and moisturizing dry spots to using an application mitt and choosing the right clothing while your tan develops.
    • How to make it last longer. The right maintenance routine preserves an even tan for up to a week. Consider how to shower, when to moisturize, and avoiding exfoliation until you're ready for the color to fade.

     

    Products we recommend: 

     

    Additional reading:

     

    We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

     

    Wirecutter Social and Website

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    Website: 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.

    10 July 2026, 9:00 am
  • 34 minutes 36 seconds
    The Light Switches That Changed My Life

    Buildings generally aren’t designed for people with disabilities—and when your own home poses daily physical barriers, it can be incredibly frustrating. But smart home technology can offer surprisingly simple, life-changing solutions for people with disabilities, those aging in place, or anyone with temporary mobility issues.

     

    This week, Wirecutter accessibility editor Claire Perlman and smart home editor Jon Chase join us to discuss a recent project where they retrofitted Claire's apartment with smart light switches. Because Claire uses a wheelchair and has limited arm mobility, her apartment's light switches were too high for her to easily turn on, leaving her in the dark if a helper wasn't around. Jon and Claire share how they solved this issue using switches that allow Claire to control her overhead lighting using just her voice.

     

    They also break down the learning curve of setting up smart home devices, the frustrating realities of Wi-Fi pairing, and the best devices to start with if you want to make your home more accessible.

     

    This episode covers:

    • The limitations of standard ADA compliance: An "ADA compliant" apartment is designed to meet a wide range of needs, which may not work for every disability.
    • Smart switches vs. smart bulbs: If you want to automate built-in overhead lighting, you don't need to replace your bulbs. Instead, you can replace the physical wall switch with a smart switch that wires directly into your existing setup and can be controlled via an app or a voice assistant like Alexa.
    • The 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi pairing trick: If you are struggling to get a new smart device to connect to your phone during setup, it's likely because your phone is on a 5 GHz Wi-Fi network while most smart devices use a 2.4 GHz network. You can often fix this by temporarily disabling the 5 GHz band on your router until the setup is complete.
    • The best smart devices for accessibility: You don't have to automate your entire home at once. Start small with high-impact devices. Smart plugs can turn any standard lamp into a voice-controlled device. Smart locks allow you to let guests or helpers in without needing to get up. Smart smoke detectors let you silence false alarms from your phone, and automated shades can help control room temperature and glare without physical effort.
    • Why you should stick to name brands: When investing in smart home gear, established companies offer better cloud support, longer software updates, and more reliable compatibility with major ecosystems like Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

     

    Products we recommend:

     

    Additional reading:

    We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

     

    Wirecutter Social and Website

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    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.

    7 July 2026, 9:00 am
  • 14 minutes 51 seconds
    Lawn Games We Love, Beyond Cornhole

    A soccer ball, a football, a tried-and-true set of cornhole are all classic go-to’s for a summer gathering. But there are a lot more outdoor games worth trying. 

    This episode, Wirecutter staff writer and resident games expert James Austin shares his favorite lawn games for every kind of summer hangout, from backyard barbecues to picnics and camping trips. He explains a few under-the-radar picks that might earn a permanent spot in your warm-weather rotation this season.

    Products we recommend: 

    Additional reading:

    We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

     

    Wirecutter Social and Website

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    Website: 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.

    3 July 2026, 9:00 am
  • 36 minutes 4 seconds
    The Secrets to Being Stink-Free

    Finding the right deodorant or antiperspirant can feel weirdly difficult. Maybe your go-to product suddenly stops working, maybe you're tired of pit stains ruining your clothes, or maybe you're still not entirely sure what the difference is between deodorant and antiperspirant in the first place.

     

    In this episode, Wirecutter senior staff writer Abbie Kozolchyk explains why choosing an underarm product is so personal. She breaks down the science behind sweat and body odor, debunks common fears about aluminum, and shares what she learned from testing dozens of products with everyone from teenagers to older adults. 

     

    Plus, we hear about one of the strangest jobs in the personal care industry: a professional armpit sniffer.

     

    This episode covers: 

    • The difference between deodorant and antiperspirant. Deodorant masks odor and antiperspirant reduces sweat. Understanding the difference can make it much easier to find the right product for you.
    • Why finding your perfect deodorant or antiperspirant is mostly trial and error. Everyone's body chemistry is different, which means the product your friend swears by might do absolutely nothing for you.
    • Why aluminum in antiperspirants probably isn't something to fear. Abbie breaks down why scientists aren’t concerned about antiperspirants causing breast cancer or Alzheimer's.
    • How to get better results from the products you already use. From applying antiperspirant at bedtime to giving a new deodorant a full week before judging it, small tweaks can make a big difference.

     

    Products we recommend: 

     

    Additional reading:

     

    We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

     

    Wirecutter Social and Website

    Instagram: /wirecutter

    Threads: /@wirecutter

    Twitter: /wirecutter

    Facebook: /thewirecutter

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    LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

    Website: 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.

    30 June 2026, 9:00 am
  • 16 minutes 55 seconds
    The '90s Are Calling. This Landline for Kids Is Answering.

    If you want to get your kids off screens this summer, you aren't alone. Along with a growing nostalgia for '90s tech like point-and-shoot cameras and MP3 players, parents are increasingly turning to Wi-Fi landlines to avoid smart phones. These Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phones look and feel like old-school corded phones but run over your home internet connection.

     

    This episode, Wirecutter baby and kid editor Rachel Hurn explains why families are embracing these devices. She shares how her own Wi-Fi phone, a Tin Can, has given her eight-year-old independence to set up playdates and created an environment for undistracted conversations.

     

    This episode covers:

    • Why parents are returning to landlines: Phones like the Tin Can delay the need for smartphones and allow kids to have more independence and less distraction.
    • How VoIP phones differ from traditional landlines: Instead of using physical copper wires, VoIP phones make calls using your internet connection.
    • Kid-friendly safety features: These phones feature controlled contact lists to prevent spam calls and allow parents to set quiet hours.
    • Competitors and costs: Although we’ve only tested the Tin Can, other companies (including Ooma, Pinwheel, and Ring Ring Club) sell similar devices. These phones typically cost between $60 and $100, and subscriptions for added features (like a controlled contact list) typically cost around $10 per month..
    • The limits of Wi-Fi: Because these phones rely entirely on your Wi-Fi connection, they won't work during an internet or power outage.

     

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    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.

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    26 June 2026, 9:00 am
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