Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter

Overusing paper towels is a tough habit to break: Messes are inevitable, and there’s no such thing as a perfect paper towel replacement. But there is a reusable alternative that can help you sop up the occasional spill: Swedish dishcloths. These ridged, sponge-like sheets are less expensive and more sustainable than paper towels—if you use them long enough.

To find the best ones, we tested seven Swedish dishcloths. We doused them in ketchup, and poured water on them—tablespoon by tablespoon—to test absorbency. And we washed them repeatedly to confirm that they could withstand wear and tear.

The best, most absorbent Swedish dishcloth→

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

A reusable swap for single-use baggies These multipurpose, durable bags seal securely and can hold everything from snacks to prepped ingredients to leftovers→

Microplastics are everywhere. Here’s how to avoid eating them. 12 tips to reduce your exposure→

Kitchen compost bins we love Our favorite kitchen compost bins are affordable (or free) and easy to clean→

12 ways to break up with single-use plastics Reduce your overall plastic use, and make a difference in the global plastic pollution problem→

The least bad plastic-free toothpaste tablets we tried They weren’t the eco-friendly game changer we were hoping for→

Image: New York Times

Traveling by car? As cute as it is to see a fuzzy head poking out the window and ears flapping in the wind, your dog (or cat!) should always be restrained in a kennel or carrier while riding in a moving vehicle.

On this week’s episode of The Wirecutter Show, senior staff writer Mel Plaut shares tips for keeping your pet safe and calm while traveling—and how to navigate the confusing world of getting your pet through the airport and on a plane.

Listen now on: Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Michael Hession/NYT Wirecutter

Whether you’re sipping chilled white wine or an icy mocktail, you’ll eventually be left with the same dilemma: Your once-cold drink will most likely be lukewarm before you’ve had a chance to finish it. But if you sip from an insulated wine tumbler, you’ll find that each swig remains as refreshing as the first, even hours after the drink has been poured.

One of our favorites, the Corkcicle Classic Stemless, comes in some 50 colors and patterns—the most of all the wine tumblers we tested. We love its flat, easy-to-hold sides and anti-slip bottom. And it’s on sale right now exclusively for Wirecutter readers.

Why we love this on-sale (giftable!) wine tumbler→

Boo! A spooky little black cat named Atlas peeking out from his cardboard haunted house.  Photo: Isoke Samuel

Thanks for reading.

You can reach the Wirecutter Newsletters team at newsletters@wirecutter.com. We can’t always respond, but we do love to hear from you.

Was this email kindly forwarded to you? Sign up here to get this newsletter in your inbox.

Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for The Recommendation from The New York Times. To stop receiving The Recommendation, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request.

Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app

Connect with us on:

Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices

The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018