Grapes spoil fast when stored the wrong way—and most people are doing it wrong. Similar to other fruits like cherries, leaving grapes on the counter shortens their shelf life, and sealing them in airtight containers can make them go moldy. The method that keeps grapes fresh the longest involves using your fridge, but there’s more to it.
Here, we’ll break down how to store grapes in your fridge so they stay crisp, juicy, and mold-free for up to two weeks or more. We’ll also share a few practical tips on how to pick, wash, and handle grapes so they last longer from the start. The best method involves a quick vinegar rinse and an airtight jar—but only after grapes are completely dry.
The best spot in your fridge and how to store grapes right
Grapes stay freshest in the crisper drawer of your fridge. That space keeps the humidity and temperature more stable than the shelves and helps protect the fruit from strong-smelling foods, which grapes tend to absorb. But where you put them is only part of the equation.
Most experts recommend storing grapes unwashed and rinsing them only right before eating, as moisture left on the skin can cause mold and shriveling. That said, there is one exception: a vinegar wash. A quick soak in a solution of 1 part vinegar to 3 or 4 parts water can help kill bacteria and spores that lead to spoilage. Just make sure the grapes are completely dry before refrigerating.
Once dry, store the grapes in a ventilated container, like a perforated plastic bag or a produce box with holes. This setup allows airflow and prevents excess moisture from building up.
Smart tips for choosing, washing, and storing grapes
How you store grapes matters—but so does everything leading up to that moment. A few simple steps can help you make the most of every bunch.
- Pick the right bunch: Look for grapes that are firm, plump, and firmly attached to the stems. Avoid grapes that are falling off or have wrinkled skins. Green grapes should be light yellow-green, not hard or pale. Red grapes should look full, not dull.
- Don’t wash right away: Only wash grapes when you’re ready to store them with the vinegar method, or just before eating if you’re keeping them in the original packaging.
- Use the vinegar soak: Soaking grapes in a mix of water and white vinegar helps clean off bacteria and mold spores. Swish gently for two minutes, then rinse with clean water.
- Dry completely: Spread grapes on clean towels to air dry. Pat them dry with another towel to remove all moisture. This step makes or breaks the storage method.
- Keep them separate: Don’t store grapes near ethylene-producing fruits like apples, bananas, or avocados. Ethylene speeds up ripening and can cause grapes to spoil faster.
Done right, grapes can last up to two weeks or more with barely any spoilage. This small change can save you money and help you enjoy your grapes at their best.