Properly Clean Fresh Produce
- Debbie Marsh
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
How to Properly Clean Fresh Produce: Natural Tips for a Healthier Kitchen
Whether you're shopping organic or conventional, washing your fresh fruits and vegetables is an important step to ensure you're removing dirt, bacteria, pesticides, and other unwanted residues. Even if your produce looks clean, it may still carry contaminants from handling, harvesting, and packaging.
In my plant-based flexitarian kitchen, I rely on natural, non-toxic cleaning methods—and my go-to solution is simple: baking soda and filtered water.
Here’s how to safely and naturally clean your produce, plus some important do’s and don’ts when it comes to washing and storing.
Why Cleaning Produce Matters
Even organic produce is not immune to:
Dirt and grit from soil
Surface bacteria from handling or transport
Natural or organic-approved pesticides
Wax coatings on conventional fruits and veggies
Mold spores that can cause quicker spoilage
A simple cleaning process not only makes your produce safer but also extends its freshness—if done right.
The Best Way to Clean Produce Naturally
🌿 My Baking Soda + Filtered Water Method
What You’ll Need:
A large bowl or clean basin
Filtered or distilled water (chlorine-free is ideal)
Baking soda
A soft brush or clean hands
A strainer or drying towel
Steps:
Fill a basin or bowl with filtered or distilled cold water. Avoid warm or hot water, which can cause certain produce to break down or absorb water.
Add 1–2 tablespoons of baking soda per quart of water. Stir well to dissolve.
Submerge your produce completely. Let it soak:
10–15 minutes for hard or thick-skinned produce (apples, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, bell peppers).
5 minutes for soft-skinned produce (grapes, strawberries, tomatoes).
Gently scrub using your hands or a produce brush if needed.
Rinse thoroughly under clean, cold filtered water to remove any lingering dirt or soda.
Dry fully before storing—use a clean kitchen towel, paper towel, or air dry on a rack.
What About Vinegar?
White vinegar can be added (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) as an optional boost—especially for cleaning bacteria-prone items like leafy greens. However, avoid vinegar on soft berries, as it can affect taste and texture.
When to Wash and When Not To
One of the biggest mistakes people make is washing everything right after they get home from the store. The truth is—it depends on the type of produce and how soon you plan to eat it.
✅ Best to Wash Before Storing:
Leafy greens (if drying properly first)
Herbs (store rolled in a towel or in jars with water)
Berries (only if you plan to eat them within 1–2 days and dry thoroughly)
Grapes, cherries, citrus (store well after washing and drying)
❌ Best to Wash Right Before Eating:
Mushrooms (absorb moisture easily and spoil faster)
Stone fruits like peaches and nectarines
Apples, pears, cucumbers (last longer unwashed)
Unwashed produce lasts longer when stored properly because excess moisture can speed up spoilage and attract mold.
Proper Storage Tips After Cleaning
Once your produce is clean and dry, here’s how to keep it fresh:
Leafy greens: Wrap in a clean towel or paper towels and store in a sealed container or produce bag in the fridge.
Berries: Line a container with paper towels, store loosely covered and consume within 2–3 days.
Root vegetables: Store in a cool, dry place if unwashed. After washing, dry and refrigerate in a breathable bag.
Herbs: Trim stems and place upright in a glass with a bit of water, like a bouquet. Cover loosely with a produce bag.
Apples and citrus: Dry well and store in a cool drawer or countertop (depending on your climate).
A Simple Habit That Goes a Long Way
Taking the time to clean your produce using safe, natural methods helps protect your health and keeps your food fresher, longer. It’s one of those small, mindful steps that can make a big impact—especially when following a flexitarian lifestyle filled with fresh, whole foods.
If you're just getting started on your plant-based flex journey, make this one of your go-to kitchen habits!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or nutritionist before making changes to your diet, health routine, or food preparation methods.
