The Wirecutter Show

The Vibrator Episode (Encore)

Buying a vibrator can be tricky without a great recommendation. This week, we’re reairing our episode on why vibrators are still so taboo—and how to pick one you’ll love. Bianca Alba, Wirecutter’s longtime sex toy writer, talks us through the societal double standards around sexuality and how vibrators can help with sexual health. We cover the different types of vibrators you can choose from, how to decide between the options, and why you shouldn’t give up on one if you don’t love it at first.  We also get to the bottom of whether size really matters, the best lube to use, and whether it’s ever a good idea to buy a vibe for your partner. This episode covers: Vibrators as essential tools for inclusive pleasure: Vibrators are highly effective at closing the "orgasm gap," as roughly 75% of people with vulvas require clitoral stimulation—which vibrators provide efficiently—to reach orgasm.Why investing in quality materials matters: Look for toys made of medical-grade silicone from reputable brands. Cheap "knock-offs" from mass-market retailers often use porous materials that can harbor bacteria or off-gas harmful chemicals.How the Hitachi Magic Wand became the “Gold Standard”: This vibrator comes highly recommended for its power and versatility, despite originally being marketed as a back massager.Practicing patience and exploration: Don’t dismiss a new device after one try; the body often needs time to acclimate to different sensations. Factors like stress and hormonal cycles can also impact how effective a toy feels on a given day.How Wirecutter tests sex toys: Our recommendations are based on diverse testing groups—spanning different ages (20s to 70s) and physical abilities—to ensure the toys work for various sensitivities and life stages. Products we recommend:The Classic Wand style: Magic Wand RechargeableThe Classic Wand style, but corded: Magic Wand PlusAffordable and Versatile: Satisfyer Purple PleasureFor suction and vibration: As of recording, it was the Dame Aer. But we’ve since decided the Satisfyer Pro 2 Generation 3 is a better pick in the same category.For precise stimulation: As of recording, it was the Lelo Dot. But we’ve since decided the Nu Sensuelle XLR8 Vibe Baelii is a better pick in the same category.Bianca loves the Beast Blender for single serve smoothies Additional reading:The Best VibratorsThe 6 Best Personal Lubricants of 2024 How to Clean Sex ToysThe Lube Episode   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.

Our Favorite Boxed Chocolates Will Blow Your Mind

We’re demystifying what separates luxury boxed chocolates from standard supermarket candy. Gabriella Gershenson, Wirecutter’s taste test editor and author of our boxed chocolates guide, explains what ingredients to look for on labels, the textures that separate the great from merely mediocre, and why good chocolates cost so much.  Whether you’re a traditionalist who loves a classic toffee or an adventurous eater seeking mind-bending flavors, this episode serves as a masterclass in how to choose the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day and beyond. This episode covers:Ingredients to look for: High-quality chocolate should consist of cocoa butter and/or cocoa mass, and sugar. Avoid boxes containing vegetable oils or artificial flavorings, which compromise both texture and taste.What makes a great boxed chocolate: The coating should be uniform with a visual sheen and the texture should have a pleasing “snap” (a sign of proper tempering). The filling should accurately match the description in the box's key—if it says "hazelnut," it should taste like an actual hazelnut, not synthetic.Why premium boxed chocolates are expensive: Luxury chocolates are expensive ($50–$90+) due to fluctuating global cacao prices, small-batch production, and the use of skilled manual labor rather than factory automation.What to get if gifting to people with food restrictions: There are now far more options than ever for vegans and people with nut allergies. Our testers even preferred many vegan chocolates (often nut-based) over traditional dairy versions.Gourmet bars make a great budget gift: If you don’t want to spend $50 to $90 on boxed chocolates, high-end artisanal bar chocolates make a great, affordable alternative. Products we recommend:Recchiuti Confections Black Box 16: With perfectly executed flavors and an eye-popping array of shapes and textures, the Recchiuti Black Box chocolates were our tasters’ all-around top choice.Valerie Confections Baby Grand Assortment: The toffees, caramels, and truffles from Valerie Confections are deceptively simple, combining classic fillings with beautiful technique—and some unexpected flavor combinations.Stick With Me Sweets 12 pc Bonbon Box: This New York–based chocolatier harnesses flavors in full force within delicate hand-painted shells. A vegan box and a nut-free box are also available.Ragged Coast Milk & Dark Chocolate Truffles: The Maine-based chocolatier woos with sophisticated fillings, single-origin chocolate, and a focus on local and organic ingredients.Melissa Coppel Bonbons: Melissa Coppel’s marbled bonbons and hand-dipped chocolates are impressively well crafted, with layered fillings that reminded us of a plated dessert.Melissa Coppel Vegan Bonbons 12 Piece: Melissa Coppel’s vegan chocolates are as impressively crafted as the originals, with memorable and dynamic flavor combinations.Richart Initiation: The two-tiered Richart Initiation box offers a chocolate experience that’s as aesthetically pleasing as it is palate-teasing.Dandelion Chocolate Single-Origin Truffle Collection: Dandelion Chocolate’s truffles, crafted by the San Francisco bean-to-bar chocolate maker, demonstrate the subtlety and distinct terroir of excellent single-origin chocolate.Chocolat Moderne Vegan Victory: The selection of filled chocolates from Chocolat Moderne features cordials, marzipans, jellies, caramels, and other festive fillings in dark and vegan milk chocolate shells.La Maison du Chocolat Fruit Naturally Gift Box: The French chocolatier La Maison du Chocolat infuses smooth vegan ganache with vivid fruit flavors in this elegant selection.Amore di Mona Assorted Mignardise Red Gift Box: The Amori di Mona chocolates are elegantly executed, with subtle flavors and complex texture. Vegan and free of common allergens, these are a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Additional reading:13 Best Boxed Chocolates of 2026The 36 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him41 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her of 2026 39 Best Cheap Valentine’s Day Gifts (Mostly) Under $25 of 2026  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.

Send Us Your Worst Smell Scenarios

We’re working on an episode about the worst household smells and we want to hear from you! What smells are you plagued by? What odors have you tried and failed to remove? Tell us about them and our experts will offer their best advice.  Record a voice memo on your smart phone telling us about your smell scenario and email it to us at thewirecuttershow@wirecutter.com. Don’t forget to tell us your name and where you’re calling from. We may answer your question on the show! 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.

How a Good Recovery Routine Can Help You Stick With Your Workouts

Your workout shouldn’t stop after you’ve finished your cardio or weightlifting session. What you do right afterward can make the difference between feeling good for the rest of the day or dragging with soreness and fatigue.  We brought in two experts to break down what recovery really means, why it matters, and how to approach it without overcomplicating things. First, Dr. Leada Malek, a licensed physical therapist, explains what’s happening in your body after a workout, why your nervous system needs time to calm down, and which recovery habits actually help you feel better between sessions.  Next, Seth Berkman, Wirecutter’s fitness gear expert, walks us through the tools he’s tested that can support recovery at home: what’s worth using, what’s optional, and where you can save your money. By the end of the episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how to recover in a way that supports your workouts, fits into your routine, and helps you feel better—not just immediately after exercise, but in the days that follow. This episode covers: What “recovery” actually means—and why it’s not just stretching. Recovery is about giving your body time to come down from the stress of exercise. Dr. Malek explains that after a workout, your heart rate, nervous system, and muscles are still in overdrive. Recovery helps dial all of that back so you feel less sore, less fatigued, and more prepared for your next workout—not just physically, but neurologically too.Why cooling down helps you feel better, even if it doesn’t “prevent” injury. A proper cool down won’t magically stop injuries, but it can make your muscles feel more comfortable after exercise and plays a big role in how you feel 24 to 48 hours later.Static vs. dynamic stretching—and when each one makes sense. Dynamic stretching works better before workouts because it helps warm you up, increase coordination, and boost blood flow. Static stretching—holding a stretch for 30 seconds or more—can be useful after workouts to reduce stiffness and help you feel less sore in the days that follow.How to build a simple recovery toolkit. Seth walks through recovery tools that can help—like mats, foam rollers, massage sticks, and optional gadgets—and explains which ones are actually useful, which are optional, and how to think about cost versus benefit.The truth about massage guns. Tools like the Therabody Theragun have grown in popularity, and they’re not cheap. But research shows the benefits of massage guns may be mostly psychological. Products we recommend: A bargain mat that holds up: Yoga Accessories 1/4″ Extra Thick Deluxe Yoga MatThe best mat for more flexible usage: Lululemon The Mat 5mmThe best softer foam roller: Gaiam Restore Total Body Foam RollerThe best portable foam roller: Tiger Tail OriginalA smaller portable massager: Therabody Theragun Mini 3rd GenerationA more powerful, multi-grip handle massager: Therabody Theragun Prime 4th GenerationA less intense massage gun with lots of attachments: Mebak 3 Massage GunThe best mini-band set: Synergee Mini Loop BandsSeth loves: Nintendo Switch 2 Additional reading:The 3 Best Yoga Mats of 2026The 5 Best Foam Rollers of 2026The 4 Best Massage Guns of 2026Massage Balls Are Better Than Foam Rollers, ActuallyStrength Training Is for Everyone  More from Dr. Leada Malek here. 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.

The Ultimate Guide to Winter Moisturizing

Winter is brutal on skin and most moisturizer advice online is either oversimplified, wildly inconsistent, or driven by marketing. So we brought in Jenn Sullivan, senior editor of Wirecutter’s beauty team, to explain what moisturizers actually do, and how to use them in a way that makes a real difference. Jenn breaks down the ingredients that matter, the mistakes that leave skin feeling drier, and why timing and consistency matter more than price tags or hype.  By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer sense of how to choose a moisturizer—and how to make the one you already own work better for you. This episode covers: What moisturizer actually does. Jenn explains that moisturizers aren’t adding water into your skin so much as helping your skin hold onto the water it already has. Their main job is to support and protect the skin barrier, which naturally loses moisture throughout the day—especially in cold, dry weather or after washing.Why timing matters more than quantity when you apply moisturizer. Moisturizer works best when skin still has some water on it. Jenn explains why applying it shortly after washing—when skin is slightly damp, not dripping—helps lock in hydration more effectively.The real difference between face moisturizer and body lotion. Jenn breaks down how much of the distinction comes down to texture, sensitivity, and marketing. In many cases, a well-formulated body moisturizer can work just fine on the face. But it depends on your skin.Why oils and petroleum jelly don’t hydrate on their own. Jenn explains that oils and petrolatum don’t add moisture—they prevent water loss. Used correctly, they can be helpful; but used alone on dry skin won’t fix the problem.When an expensive moisturizer might make sense—and when it won’t. Higher price tags can reflect formulation, texture, or packaging, but Jenn explains why cost alone doesn’t determine effectiveness—and why many affordable options work just as well. Products we recommend:Our favorite luxe moisturizer: Augustinus Bader The Rich CreamOur favorite reliable moisturizer: The Outset Nourishing Squalane Daily MoisturizerOur favorite simple drugstore moisturizer: Vanicream Daily Facial MoisturizerOur favorite body moisturizer for all around hydration: CeraVe Moisturizing CreamJenn Loves: FitFlops F-MODE Leather Flatform Chelsea Boots Additional reading:The 7 Best Moisturizers of 2026The 8 Best Body Lotions of 2026CeraVe’s Moisturizer Is Under $20. Augustinus Bader’s Costs 10 Times as Much. We Love Both.Repeat After Me: Aquaphor Is Not a Moisturizer. The 6 Best Humidifiers of 2026  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.