Appliances don't last as long as they used to—but not for the reasons you probably think. Senior staff writer Rachel Wharton explains why modern fridges, ovens, and other large appliances often won’t last more than a decade. She also reveals the strategies you can use to invest in new appliances that will last you longer. Additional Reading:Rachel's new article: The Real Reasons Your Appliances Die Young14 Best Refrigerators of 2025The 6 Best Electric Stoves and Ranges of 20257 Tips From Our Microwave Expert
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
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32:09
Are Red Light Masks Worth It?
Red light devices promise a lot—but do they deliver? Wirecutter supervising editor Rory Evans demystifies the science behind them, shares her top picks, and explains who might want to think twice before trying one. Products we recommend:Best red light wand: LightStim for WrinklesBest flexible red light mask: Omnilux MenBest rigid red light mask: Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask Additional reading:The Solawave Wand Costs Half the Price of Other Red-Light Tools. But We Didn’t Love It. The Best Red-Light Device
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
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31:37
You Should Be Traveling with a VPN
If you’re planning on traveling abroad this summer, it might be a good idea to use a VPN when browsing the web. In this bonus episode, staff writer Max Eddy explains what they are, and why they’re beneficial when you’re far from home (and sometimes when you’re not far, too). What we recommend:Top pick: MullvadBest VPN for Travel: IVPNGood free VPNs: ProtonVPN doesn’t limit your data but does limit your locations. TunnelBear limits your data but not your locations.Best password managers: 1Password and Bitwarden. Additional reading:The 3 Best VPN Services of 2025What Is a VPN and What Can It Do?The Best Free VPN of 2025Back Up and Secure Your Digital Life
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
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15:21
Bug Repellents That Work
Mosquito and tick bites aren’t just annoying–they spread dangerous diseases. In this episode, senior staff writer Doug Mahoney shares proven prevention tips and breaks down the differences between various effective repellents. He also explains why you should avoid certain “natural” repellents, like essential oils and citronella candles, and why bug zappers are bad for the environment. Products we recommend:Best DEET-based repellent: Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect RepellentBest picaridin-based repellent: Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect RepellentBest insecticide to spray on clothes and shoes: Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric TreatmentA service to mail in clothing to be treated with permethrin: Insect ShieldBest spacial repellent: Thermacell E90 Rechargeable Mosquito RepellentA good repellent coil: Pic Mosquito Repelling CoilsFestive spatial repellent lights: Tiki BiteFighter LED String LightsAn old-school way to keep mosquitoes at bay: Vornado 630 Medium Air Circulator fanThe best gadget for removing ticks: Tweezerman Point TweezerPlaces to send a tick for testing: Ticknology, TickCheck, TickReport, and Eco LaboratoryDoug loves: this Leatherman multitool and this tea steeper Additional Reading:The 4 Best Bug Repellents and Sprays of 2025Why Essential Oils Make Terrible Bug RepellentsThe Best Mosquito Control Gear for Your Patio or YardWe Hate Ticks, Too. Here’s How to Protect Yourself, Prevent Bites, and Treat Disease.In the War Against Ticks, This Spray Is My Secret Weapon
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
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32:55
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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
The Wirecutter Show is a podcast offering expert advice on everyday products that will make your life better. Each week, co-hosts Christine Cyr Clisset and Caira Blackwell, alongside producer Rosie Guerin, speak with Wirecutter’s best-in-class journalists and other expert guests for actionable advice, surprising life hacks, and delightful product discoveries. From which stand-mixer will last you a lifetime, to the best way to travel with pets, to figuring out if your smart lock is spying on you, The Wirecutter Show gives you straightforward solutions based on years of rigorous and independent product testing by more than 140 Wirecutter journalists.
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