The Wirecutter Show

It’s Dry January—but non-alcoholic cocktails needn’t be sad. We’re discussing the health risks of alcohol and how to build out a delicious buzz-free bar cart.   Guests: NYT reporter Dana G. Smith and Wirecutter editor Marguerite Preston    Products we recommend:  * A gin-like alternative: Pentire Adrift [https://wrctr.co/4iODtD6] * St. Agrestis Non-Alcoholic Phony Negroni [https://wrctr.co/49RIwyA] * A bitter Amaro-like favorite: The Pathfinder [https://wrctr.co/4iOocSz] * Rosie enjoys mixing this with Pathfinder: Uncle Waithley’s Vincy Brew [https://wrctr.co/49O0MIR] * Less bitter options: Curious No. 2   [https://wrctr.co/3VP4YlY]and Casamara Superclasico [https://wrctr.co/4245AIz] * Great for your NA Bar Cart: Bitter Queens Essential Bitters Variety Pack [https://wrctr.co/3VRmnKS] and Luxardo Original Maraschino Cherries [https://wrctr.co/406sv4c] * Marguerite loves: Onyx Coffee Lab Instant Coffee Advent Calendar [https://wrctr.co/3Bv87k5]   Additional Reading  * 14 Best Nonalcoholic Drinks of 2024 [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-non-alcoholic-drinks/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_21] * Even a Little Alcohol Can Harm Your Health [https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/13/well/mind/alcohol-health-effects.html] by Dana G. Smith * What, Exactly, Is ‘Moderate Drinking’? [https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/10/well/eat/moderate-alcohol-drinking-definition.html]by Dana G. Smith * What to Know About Non-Alcoholic Beverages [https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/17/well/eat/nonalcoholic-beverages-health-benefits.html]by Dana G. Smith * Hop Water Isn’t Trying to Be Beer. That’s Why We Like It. [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-hop-water/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_21] * The 8 Best Nonalcoholic Wines of 2024 [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-nonalcoholic-wines/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_21] * The Best Instant Coffee [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-instant-coffee/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_21]   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/about/]   Follow us on instagram @wirecutter [https://www.instagram.com/wirecutter/?hl=en]   Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/the-wirecutter-show-podcast/]

From a space heater that saves a marriage to sunscreen that saves a surfer’s skin, Wirecutter’s staff opens up about the best things they bought in 2024.   Guests: We heard voicemails from Wirecutter staffers including Mel Plaut, Ingela Amundson, Annemarie Conte, Jackie Reeve, Brent Butterworth, Katie Okamoto, Zoe Vanderweide, Liam McCabe, Elissa Sanci, Alex Aciman, Kathleen Squires, Julia Bush, Claire Wilcox,  Jon Chase,  Lauren Dragan, and Dorie Chevlan.    Products We Recommend:  * Mel Plaut likes: Vornado AVH10 space heater [https://wrctr.co/41FMpEn] * Ingela Amundson likes: Sterilite Stacking Laundry Basket [https://wrctr.co/403D205] * Annemarie Conte likes: Garmin Forerunner 165 watch [https://wrctr.co/4iIY3o9] * Jackie Reeve likes: Donner DUC-1 Concert Ukulele [https://wrctr.co/49OB6fc] * Brent Butterworth likes: JBL Go 4 [https://wrctr.co/3ZW20yt]Bluetooth Speaker * Katie Okamoto likes: HAY Matin Table Lamp  [https://wrctr.co/3VTsy0X] * Zoe Vanderweide likes: Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette [https://wrctr.co/4glaLbg] * Liam McCabe likes: Gordon 20-in-1 Multi-Tool [https://wrctr.co/49TJmKR] * Elissa Sanci likes: Trtl Pillow [https://wrctr.co/3DmcHl3] * Alex Aciman likes: Comfort Colors 1717 Adult Heavyweight Tee [https://wrctr.co/3ZXYcgd] * Kathleen Squires likes: The New York Times Premium Birthday Edition book [https://wrctr.co/4gCReCS] * Julia Bush likes: Adizero Adios Pro 3 super shoes [https://wrctr.co/4gPhPwJ] * Claire Wilcox likes: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ [https://wrctr.co/4grvaeH] * Jon Chase likes: Channel Master FLATenna [https://wrctr.co/3ZANgUc] * Lauren Dragon likes: WhiteBark Workwear Full Cross-Back Apron [https://wrctr.co/41M4LDL] * Dorie Chevlen likes: Cuisinart Round Flip Belgian Waffle Maker WAF-F30 [https://wrctr.co/3DhmGbi] * Christine Cyr Clisset likes: Technivorm Moccamaster KBT coffee maker [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/out/link/8704/25088/4/205264?merchant=Amazon] * Caira Blackwell likes: Lilysilk 25 Momme Oxford Envelope Luxury Pillowcase [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/out/link/43447/169237/4/169257?merchant=Lilysilk] * Rosie Guerin likes: ViscoSoft 3 inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/out/link/62052/202795/4/186256?merchant=Walmart]   Additional Reading:  * The Best T-Shirt I Ever Bought Came From a Midwest Strip Mall. I Tracked It Down on Amazon. [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/comfort-colors-t-shirt-review/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_20] * I Test Bras for a Living. The Harper Wilde Triangle Bralette Is the Only One I Actually Wear.  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/harper-wilde-bliss-triangle-bralette-review/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_20] * Super Shoes Aren’t Just for Olympians. But Do Casual Runners Really Need Them? [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/carbon-plate-running-shoes/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_20] * The Silly-Looking Trtl Travel Pillow Is the Only Way I Can Sleep on Flights [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/trtl-travel-pillow-review/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_20]     We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/about/]   Follow us on instagram @wirecutter [https://www.instagram.com/wirecutter/?hl=en]   Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/the-wirecutter-show-podcast/]

Homes burn crazy fast these days. Are you prepared? We’re covering everything you need, from the newest smoke alarms to the right fire extinguishers.    Guests: Wirecutter senior staff writer Doug Mahoney and senior editor for smart home coverage Jon Chase    Additional reading:  * The 4 Best Basic Smoke Alarms of 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-basic-smoke-alarm/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_19] * The 2 Best Smart Smoke Alarms of 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-smart-smoke-alarm/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_19] * The Best Fire Extinguisher [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-fire-extinguisher/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_19] * The Best Fire Escape Ladder  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-fire-escape-ladder/] * UL video of room burning test: New Comparison of Natural and Synthetic Home Furnishings [https://fsri.org/research/new-comparison-natural-and-synthetic-home-furnishings/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_19]   Products we recommend:  * The best smoke alarm: First Alert SM500V Interconnected Battery-Operated Smoke Alarm with Voice Alerts [https://wrctr.co/4iC9EFE] * The best smart smoke alarm: Google Nest Protect [https://wrctr.co/3DfI1C1] * The best fire extinguisher: First Alert Pro5 [https://wrctr.co/41V99kf] * The best fire ladder: X-It 2-Story Emergency Escape Ladder [https://wrctr.co/4ge1O3p] * Doug recommends: Veto Pro Pac XL Extra Large Compact Tool Bag [https://wrctr.co/3ZTntYO]   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/about/]   Follow us on instagram @wirecutter [https://www.instagram.com/wirecutter/?hl=en]   Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/the-wirecutter-show-podcast/]

We’re fielding listener questions with pro tips for delighting picky friends, impossible relatives, and other challenging recipients on your holiday list. Guest:  Staff writer Samantha Schoech   Products we recommend: Beautiful Utilitarian Upgrades: * Brushed Stainless Steel French Press [https://wrctr.co/41rgGXq] * Rough Linen Robe [https://wrctr.co/4felsen] Personalized Gifts:  * Handwriting Cuff bracelet [https://wrctr.co/49zX8Cj] * Personalized retro view finder [https://wrctr.co/4g6sGlJ] * Customizable drinking straw  [https://wrctr.co/4gv2NM7] Experiential Gifts:  * Teas to try together [https://wrctr.co/49Aiwr5] * Bokksu Japanese Snack Box [https://wrctr.co/4g88Oi3] Great for Dads:  * Yeti Cooler [https://wrctr.co/3Zvrlhj] * LL Bean Wicked Good Slippers [https://wrctr.co/3VAXcfl] Digital gifts that don’t clutter:  * MasterClass subscription [https://wrctr.co/4f8MpzX] * Libro FM  audiobook subscription [https://wrctr.co/4itHTyU] * Met Opera subscription [https://wrctr.co/3OMVqUv] * BritBox British movies and TV subscription [https://wrctr.co/3VwbEW7] For a brother who buys himself what we wants:  * Williams Sonoma Monogrammed Steak Brand [https://wrctr.co/4gw3SUh] * The best growler [https://wrctr.co/49D5gSM] * The best home brewing kit [https://wrctr.co/41n0x5u] * Happy Tooned Print [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/out/link/64507/205869/4/197136?merchant=Happy%20Tooned] For people you don’t know that well:  * Fast Growing Trees Citrus Trees [https://wrctr.co/4iIEc8T] Sam loves: * Italian loafers [https://wrctr.co/49u9Pyy]   Additional Reading:  * Most Gift Baskets Are Terrible. These Are Great. [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-gift-baskets/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_18] * 36 Gifts for People Who Have Everything 2024 [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/gifts-for-people-who-have-everything/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_18] * 28 Best Personalized Gifts of 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/personalized/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_18] * 15 Aesthetic Gift Picks (for Those With Impeccable Taste)  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/aesthetic-gift-picks/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_18] * The 48 Best Gifts for Dads 2024 [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-gifts-for-dad/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_18]   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/about/]   Follow us on instagram @wirecutter [https://www.instagram.com/wirecutter/?hl=en]   Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/the-wirecutter-show-podcast/]

This week, we dive into our gift team’s best-in-class tips for finding awesome affordable gifts for everyone on your list.   Guest: Wirecutter editor Hannah Morrill   Additional Reading * The 45 Best Gifts for Teens in 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-gifts-for-teens/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17] * 43 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers of 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-gifts-for-travelers/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17] * 25 Best Gifts for Plant Lovers of 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-plant-gifts/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17] * The 39 Absolute Best White Elephant Gifts Under $25 [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/white-elephant-ideas/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17] * 31 Best Secret Santa Gifts of 2024  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/best-secret-santa-gifts/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17] * 50 Wirecutter-Approved Stocking Stuffers for Adults [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/stocking-stuffers/?utm_source=wirecutter_podcast&utm_medium=episode_number_17]   Products We Recommend Great value: * Baggu Small Cloud Carry-On [https://wrctr.co/3CHl0aL]   Playing with shape & size: * Bonilla a La Vista Potato Chips [https://wrctr.co/3Vd3odg] * Maldon Sea Salt Flakes (3 pounds) [https://wrctr.co/3OxMF0s] * World's smallest Uno  [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/out/link/47742/177838/4/194636?merchant=Amazon]   Novelty: * Lazy Duck, Lying Flat LED Duck Lamp [https://wrctr.co/3Owr1K1] * Puebco Empty Book [https://wrctr.co/4gaSqNF] * Kikkerland Solar-Powered Rainbow Maker [https://wrctr.co/41d3ZPZ] * Emile Henry Salt Pig [https://wrctr.co/3Zs27Bw] * GurglePot Fish Pitcher [https://wrctr.co/4eNOam9]   Utilitarian upgrades: * TravelCard Plus [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/out/link/54313/187584/4/205151/?merchant=TravelCard] * MoMA Self-Watering Wet Pot Planter [https://wrctr.co/3ZoDBkW] * Heirloom Art Co. Larissa White Nightgowns [https://wrctr.co/419M6BO]   Tech ideas: * Epicka Universal Travel Adapter [https://wrctr.co/3Z5VGCW] * Google Chromecast with Google TV [https://wrctr.co/4icLgu4]   Cooking ideas: * The New York Times Cooking Page-A-Day Calendar 2025 [https://wrctr.co/4g0RCL8] * Mosser Glass Jade 3 Piece Mixing Bowl Set [https://wrctr.co/3Z5VPGu]   Beauty/Luxe ideas * Dr. Singha’s Mustard Bath Salts [https://wrctr.co/3Zs4Z1j] * Senteurs d’Orient Fleurs d’Oasis L’Huile [https://wrctr.co/3Bg07TH]   Secret Santa or White Elephant: * 101 Pooping Puppies Jigsaw Puzzle [https://wrctr.co/3VebEda] * LEGO Cherry Blossom [https://wrctr.co/3OA7gBe] * Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When [https://wrctr.co/3V9gYOH] * Retro Point & Shoot Camera Phone Converter [https://wrctr.co/3Ovna04]   Hannah recommends: * Dorsey Kate Riviere in Silver [https://wrctr.co/4fMY74t]   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/about/]   Follow us on instagram @wirecutter [https://www.instagram.com/wirecutter/?hl=en]   Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast [https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/the-wirecutter-show-podcast/]