Do These 11 Things While Cleaning Strawberries

Summer’s just around the corner, and that means one thing: strawberry season! These juicy little gems are perfect for snacking, baking, or adding sweetness to salads. But before you can dig in, one crucial step is cleaning them properly to dodge a soggy, flavorless mess. Swipe through for the know-how.

Only Wash What You’ll Eat (Freshness First!)

It’s best to wash strawberries right before enjoying them. These delicate fruits absorb water like little sponges. Washing them in advance shortens their shelf life and can make them mushy. So, resist the urge to rinse the whole bunch—wash only the amount you plan to devour for maximum freshness.

Gather Your Supplies

Here’s what you’ll need for a successful strawberry cleaning session: a colander, a large bowl, and cold water to keep the berries firm and crisp. Add a vinegar splash to the party if you’re concerned about pesticides (especially on non-organic berries). But more on that later!

Hulls or No Hulls? (The Choice is Yours)

Some folks like to remove the green leafy caps (hulls) before washing. It is totally up to you! If you prefer a cleaner look, use your fingers or a gentle knife to detach the hulls. Just be careful not to dig into the strawberry’s flesh.

Single Layer is Key (Gentle Does It)

Let’s get to the fun part; maybe not so much fun, but necessary. Gently place your strawberries in a single layer at the bottom of your colander. Don’t overcrowd them, or you won’t get a good rinse. Remember, delicate is the name of the game!

Let the Cold Water Flow

Turn on your faucet and set it to a gentle stream. Run the cold water over your strawberries for about 20 seconds, rotating the colander so all sides get rinsed. Don’t blast them with high pressure—you don’t want to bruise the fruit.

Second Rinse (Optional)

If you’re concerned about dirt or debris, give your strawberries a quick second rinse. Fill the colander again with cold water and gently swish the berries for a few seconds. Drain thoroughly again.

The Vinegar Trick (Optional)

Worried about pesticide residue? Vinegar helps! Mix 2 cups cold water and 1/2 cup white/apple cider vinegar. Soak strawberries for 10 minutes. Rinse with cold water. Vinegar removes chemicals without affecting taste—a simple, effective way to clean produce.

Drain and Pat Dry (Lightly!)

Once you’ve rinsed your strawberries, gently transfer them back to the colander and let them drain for a few minutes. Dry them with a clean paper towel, but be super gentle – remember, they’re delicate!

Store Like a Pro (Freshness for Later)

Now that your strawberries are sparkling clean, it’s time to store them properly. The best way? Spread them out in a single layer on a paper towel-lined container in the refrigerator. Doing this allows for air circulation and prevents them from getting mushy. They’ll stay fresh and ready to enjoy for a few days.

Enjoy the Sweet Rewards

With your perfectly cleaned and stored strawberries, you’re ready to indulge. Snack on them plain, add them to yogurt or cereal, or whip up a delightful summer dessert. The possibilities are endless!

Bonus Tip: Freeze for Later

Want to extend your strawberry enjoyment? Spread out your washed and dried strawberries on a baking sheet and freeze for a few hours. Once frozen, keep them in a freezer-safe container and enjoy them all summer.