How to Wash Your Produce (Because a Quick Rinse Isn’t Cutting It)

Let’s be honest—running your produce under the faucet for three seconds isn’t doing much. Between pesticides, dirt, and the germs from every hand that’s picked through that pile of apples, your fruits and veggies need more than a casual splash of water.

And no, buying organic doesn’t give you a free pass either. Even organic produce can carry bacteria and residue.

Here’s how to wash your produce properly—especially if you’re not buying organic:

1. Fill a large bowl or clean sink with cool water.
Enough to fully submerge whatever you’re washing.

2. Choose your cleaning booster.

• Apple Cider Vinegar Soak: Add about 1 cup of apple cider vinegar per gallon of water.

• Baking Soda Soak: Add 1–2 tablespoons of baking soda per gallon of water.

Important: Don’t mix vinegar and baking soda together. They’ll cancel each other out and turn into mostly fizzy water, which won’t help much. Pick one method and stick with it.

3. Soak your produce.
Let firm produce (apples, cucumbers, potatoes) soak for 10–15 minutes. Softer produce (berries, grapes) can soak for about 5 minutes.

4. Gently scrub or swish.
Use a clean produce brush for sturdy items or your hands to agitate softer ones.

5. Rinse thoroughly under fresh running water.
This removes any remaining residue, so you don’t end up tasting vinegar or baking soda later.

6. Dry completely.
Use a clean towel or paper towels to prevent mold and keep things crisp.

Bonus Tip: Even if it says “pre-washed,” always wash again. Trust me—your immune system will thank you.

A little extra effort goes a long way toward making your healthy food actually healthy.