How to Store Pears
Pears are usually harvested mature but not fully ripe, then finished later for eating. That makes cold storage especially useful for home gardeners who want to spread out the harvest.
Best storage conditions
Store pears at about 30 to 32 F if possible. High humidity, around 90 percent, helps prevent shriveling. Refrigeration is recommended for most home storage. Keep pears separate from odor absorbing foods and from very ethylene sensitive produce.
How long it keeps
Most pears keep about 1 to 3 months in good cold storage, though exact life varies by variety. Once brought to room temperature to ripen, they should be used within a few days.
Storage methods
Store unwashed pears in ventilated boxes or perforated bags in the refrigerator or a cold cellar just above freezing. Handle them gently because bruises show up later as internal breakdown. Pantry storage is mainly for final ripening, not long holding. No curing is needed.
Freezing & preserving
Pears freeze, dry, and can well for later use. Follow USDA or NCHFP directions for syrup packs, pear halves, sauces, and other canned products.
Tips
Check pears often because sound fruit can move from firm to ripe quickly once warmed. Remove damaged fruit right away so it does not shorten the life of the rest.
General home-storage guidance. For home canning and preserving safety, follow USDA and National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP) guidelines. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.