NYT Wirecutter

NYT Wirecutter

5/27/2025, 2:34:07 PM

Command strips require a bit more forethought and patience than you’d think. More often than not, these items fail as a result of user error. But with just a bit of prep and patience, they’ll work (almost) as well as a nail or screw. Learn more here: https://nyti.ms/3ZEh6rN

NYT Wirecutter

5/28/2025, 8:01:14 PM

During writer Maria Adelmann's years in Copenhagen, Kubb — also known as the king’s game — quickly became a warm-weather staple. “On a nice day after work, desperate to get out of our 500-square-foot apartment, my partner and I hit the park, spread out a picnic blanket, popped open two beers, and started counting paces to set up the field,” she recalls. Growing up, she'd never been much of a yard game gal. But Kubb was different. "It’s relatively portable. It’s just complex enough to hold your attention but simple enough that you can socialize. It takes skill and strategy but not necessarily athleticism — you can eke out a win over a seemingly more adept opponent," Maria writes. Read more about her favorite lawn game: https://nyti.ms/4dzs9s1

NYT Wirecutter

6/5/2025, 9:19:54 PM

Eight times a week, Tony-nominated actor Tom Francis performs on one of the buzziest stages in the world — Broadway’s Sunset Boulevard. He spends the two-and-a-half-hour show singing, dancing, and moving nearly nonstop. “Someone’s worked out how many miles I’ve done,” Francis told writer Hannah Rimm. “It’s like two marathons.” Hannah couldn’t help but wonder: How in the world does this man go to sleep after that performance? So she went straight to Francis to find out. Tap the link to learn more about his pre- and post-show routines: https://nyti.ms/4dVOUa2

NYT Wirecutter

5/22/2025, 7:30:12 PM

A hardworking gas grill is bound to develop some buildup. While many parts of a grill need frequent cleaning, the grease trap and drip trays need a bit of extra TLC. An overflowing grease trap can attract animals and insects, but most importantly keeping grease buildup to a minimum is essential in preventing grease fires. Here's how: https://nyti.ms/43tyYXB Photo by Maki Yazawa

NYT Wirecutter

5/29/2025, 7:58:48 PM

When you find ants in your home, your instinct may be to smush them (we don't blame you), but that's the last thing you'll want to do. "Those dudes emit a pheromone that will tell on you, and their friends will come in droves looking for their fallen comrades" writes Ask Wirecutter columnist Annemarie Conte. At the link, Annemarie gives our poor reader a step-by-step plan to tackle their ant-filled nightmare: https://nyti.ms/43j3sg5

NYT Wirecutter

6/4/2025, 7:02:30 PM

The world of used and vintage sewing machines is vast, and for the adventurous sewist, thrilling. And while it's possible to find a fantastic used sewing machine that will serve you for years, it's important to consider the pros and cons that come with it. We gathered expert tips for buying a vintage sewing machine — including who should try it, where to look, what to look for, and what to spend. Tap the link to learn more: https://nyti.ms/4krihmR

NYT Wirecutter

6/9/2025, 6:35:28 PM

We've been testing bedding for over a decade. It’s safe to say we know a thing or two about folding and organizing a fitted sheet. Click here for more tips on organizing your linen closet: https://nyti.ms/4hpPBt6

NYT Wirecutter

6/6/2025, 8:54:09 PM

Rose Eveleth has reviewed menstrual cups for Wirecutter since 2016. Across nearly a decade of reporting on this topic, they’ve gathered quite a few tips and tricks for people who are totally new to cups and discs or have not had success using reusable period products in the past. Here’s everything to know about using menstrual cups and discs — and maybe even a few things you didn’t think to ask about. Tap the link to read more: https://nyti.ms/3Ht0nlc

NYT Wirecutter

6/2/2025, 10:27:24 PM

National Park Service rangers have seen everything that the public lands in the United States have to offer — sweeping vistas, jaw-dropping geology, and insect encounters of horrifying, biblical proportions. For those who spend a majority of the workday outdoors, insect encounters are inevitable. And few people know how to handle them better than the National Park Service rangers who clock in to work at these landscapes every day. We spoke with two rangers to learn how the pros stay bite-free. For more on what you should stash in your pack before you head into bug country, tap the link: https://nyti.ms/4kKdsVk

NYT Wirecutter

5/23/2025, 1:49:29 PM

Though there is no robust scientific literature on the effect of stuffed animals on adult sleep, several studies have shown that plush companions can help grown-ups self-soothe. Psychologist Jade Wu began snuggling with her older child’s stuffed alligator during pregnancy. It soothed her after vivid nightmares and made side-sleeping with a growing belly more comfortable, she said. Read more about why adults are cozying up with their plush friends — and some of the possible benefits of adopting the habit. https://nyti.ms/3UJOpIg