how to clean and store berries

my fave tips for how to clean and store berries!

SO excited to share my fave tips for how to clean and store berries – you probably have a lot right now!

It’s officially summer – which means the berries (blue, straw, rasp, black) are coming fast and furiously into my kitchen.

As does the “berry stress”.

You know what I mean – do I rinse them right away, or as needed? Do I leave them in the original package or transfer? Store them covered or open?

And I’ve tried it all, you guys – only to (way too often) wind up with the inevitable moldy few that have to be tossed.

But no longer.

Here are my tried-and-true fave berry “hacks” to get you through the summer – and beyond – with those precious berries fresh, unmoldy and ready for all of your recipes!

First up? How to clean.

Within a day of getting your berries home, give them a dunk in a vinegar-water bath. This will remove any and all traces (visible or not) of mold and bacteria, and extend the shelf-life of your berries considerably.

Simply place the berries in a bowl filled with 1:3 parts white vinegar and water (I usually do 2 cups : 6 cups). Rinse well under cold water and place the berries in your salad spinner, which has been lined with paper towels to create a cushion. Spin for about 30 seconds and transfer the berries to a paper towel-lined baking sheet till completely dry.

Next? How to store.

Store the berries in individual containers that are lined with paper towels. Loosely cover and keep refrigerated. You will be pleasantly surprised at how much longer your fruit stays fresh!

Need to freeze for longer storage? Read this post on the best way to freeze berries!

What are some of your favorite “berry” tips?

Need some inspiration? Click away!

Raspberry Swirl Mini Cheesecakes
Blueberry Popovers
Lemon Blueberry Ice Cream Sandwiches
Raspberry Turnovers
Crisp Wontons with Strawberries and Ice Cream
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies
Strawberry Fool
Strawberry Apple Fruit Leather
Mixed Berry Compote
Berries and Cream Tart

About the author

Sheri Silver

Sheri Silver is a New York-based food photographer and recipe developer who has been cooking and baking for over 30 years. She works with brands, authors and restaurants to create recipes that are as beautiful as they are foolproof - and every recipe on this blog has been made, tweaked and eaten in her own kitchen.

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