Strawberries are a beloved fruit, especially during the warmer months, thanks to their sweet and juicy flavor. However, their delicate nature makes them prone to spoiling quickly—often within just a couple of days. Thankfully, with a few simple steps, you can extend their shelf life and enjoy them for longer. This guide outlines how to properly store strawberries from the moment you bring them home until you savor the last one, ensuring minimal waste and maximum freshness.

To start, gather your materials: unwashed fresh strawberries, white vinegar, water, paper towels or a clean dish towel, an airtight or ventilated produce container, and a colander or large bowl. First, inspect the berries and remove any that are moldy or overly soft. Prepare a vinegar bath by combining one part white vinegar to three parts water in a bowl. Soak the strawberries in this solution for 2–3 minutes to kill mold spores and bacteria without altering their taste. After soaking, rinse them thoroughly, dry them gently with a towel, and store them in a well-ventilated container lined with paper towels.