How to Store Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a warm storage crop and should not be treated like Irish potatoes. They need curing first and then continued storage at temperatures well above refrigerator range.
Best storage conditions
Store sweet potatoes at about 55 to 60 F. They prefer fairly high humidity, around 85 to 90 percent, with ventilation. Do not refrigerate raw sweet potatoes because chilling injury and poor flavor can result. A cool room, not a cold room, is best.
How long it keeps
Properly cured roots often keep 3 to 5 months. In warmer household conditions, sprouting and shriveling usually start sooner.
Storage methods
Cure sweet potatoes for about 4 to 7 days near 80 to 85 F with high humidity if possible so skins set and wounds heal. After curing, move them to a warm cellar, insulated pantry, or similar area around 55 to 60 F. Do not use the refrigerator for raw roots. Store them in boxes or baskets with air circulation.
Freezing & preserving
Sweet potatoes freeze well after cooking and can also be canned or dried in tested forms. Use current USDA or NCHFP guidance for canning methods and pack styles.
Tips
Handle gently because skinned or bruised roots decay faster. Do not wash before storage unless you plan to use them soon.
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.