Strawberries are nature’s candy—juicy, sweet, and bursting with flavor. But there’s a catch: they’re incredibly delicate and prone to mold and spoilage within just a few days. If you’ve ever bought a pint of strawberries only to find them mushy or moldy the next morning, you’re not alone. The good news? With the right handling and storage, you can extend their freshness and enjoy every last berry.
Here’s how to keep strawberries fresher for longer—no waste, no regrets.
Why Strawberries Spoil So Fast
Strawberries have high water content and a tender surface, making them vulnerable to mold spores and bacteria. Once one berry starts to go bad, the spoilage quickly spreads to the rest.
Tip #1: Skip the Pre-Wash—Until You’re Ready to Eat
Never wash strawberries until you’re ready to eat them. Excess moisture is mold’s best friend. Washing them before storage traps water in crevices, speeding up decay.
Instead, store them dry and unwashed, and only rinse before consumption.
Tip #2: Use a Vinegar Bath to Kill Mold Spores
If you do want to prep strawberries ahead of time, use a vinegar rinse to kill bacteria and mold spores:
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