The Death of Durable Appliances

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

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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.

• No. of episodes: 56
• Latest episode: 2025-06-11
• Education Society & Culture How To

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