No wonder blueberries are a popular pick during berry season—they’re sweet and packed with nutrients. But once you bring them home, knowing how to store them becomes important if you want them to last.

A lot of people toss the carton into the fridge without thinking, or move the berries into an airtight container or the crisper drawer. These might seem like good options, but they often lead to mold and mush. To keep blueberries fresh, you need the right spot and a few simple handling steps. Let’s go over them.

How to store blueberries properly

The key to keeping these fruits fresh is controlling moisture and air flow. Blueberries spoil quickly when exposed to excess moisture, which encourages mold and rot. That’s why it’s best to avoid airtight containers that trap moisture inside. Instead, a container that lets some air circulate is ideal.

Right after you bring blueberries home, sort through them and remove any that are soft, damaged, or moldy. These can cause others to spoil faster. Then, place the unwashed berries in a shallow container lined with a dry paper towel. This absorbs extra moisture and helps keep the berries dry.

Arrange the blueberries in a single layer or avoid piling them up too tightly. Crowded berries bruise easily and can develop mold spots. Cover the container loosely or use a container with ventilation holes to allow air flow. This slows down moisture buildup and helps keep the berries firm.

The best place to store this container is on a middle or upper shelf in your refrigerator, not the crisper drawer. The crisper is designed to keep humidity high for leafy vegetables, but blueberries need good air circulation and a more consistent, cooler temperature. Keeping them on a main shelf avoids trapped humidity and temperature swings that speed spoilage.

Another important tip is to avoid washing them before storing, as this adds moisture that encourages mold. Instead, wash them just before eating or freezing.

More tips for picking, storing, and preserving blueberries

Proper storage starts with choosing good berries and handling them the right way. Here are a few simple tips to help them last longer.

Look for firm, plump blueberries with a deep color and a powdery, natural coating called bloom. Avoid those that look shriveled or have soft spots.
Keep your storage containers clean. Even a small amount of leftover dirt or residue can contaminate fresh berries. Wash containers with warm, soapy water before use and make sure they’re completely dry.
Rotate your blueberries every few days. Gently shake or stir them to redistribute moisture. Replace the paper towel if it becomes damp, and remove any berries that show early signs of mold or softness.
For longer storage, freeze blueberries. Rinse and dry them well before freezing. Spread berries in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to airtight freezer bags.

With these tips, you can enjoy fresh blueberries longer and reduce waste. The right container and fridge spot make a big difference in keeping them tasty and juicy.