How to Store Strawberries
Strawberries are very delicate and highly perishable, so the goal is to cool them fast and use them soon. Even excellent storage only buys a short amount of time.
Best storage conditions
Store strawberries at about 32 F. High humidity, roughly 90 to 95 percent, helps reduce shriveling, but berries should also stay dry on the surface. Refrigeration is essential for home storage. Do not leave ripe berries at room temperature except briefly for serving.
How long it keeps
Fresh strawberries often keep only 3 to 7 days, sometimes less if they were picked very ripe or handled roughly. Storage life drops quickly when berries are warm, wet, or bruised.
Storage methods
Refrigerate berries promptly in a shallow container so they are not crushed. Do not wash until just before use, and remove any moldy berries right away. Root cellar or pantry storage is not suitable. No curing is involved.
Freezing & preserving
Strawberries freeze very well whole or sliced and can also be made into jams, sauces, or dried products. For shelf stable jam or other canned products, use current USDA or NCHFP recipes.
Tips
Pick only fully colored, sound berries for storage. Keep caps on until use because hulled berries lose moisture and spoil faster.
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.