How To Wash Cherries To Remove Dirt and Pesticides, According to an Expert

When we buy fresh cherries in season, it’s so tempting to start snacking on them immediately because they just look so good. But we know to at least rinse them in the sink before eating them.

No matter how tasty they look, don’t eat cherries without washing them, says Changmou Xu, PhD, assistant professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and member of the Institute of Food Technologists’ Fruit & Vegetable Products Division.

“Washing cherries is crucial for food safety and quality, as it removes dirt, pesticide residue, bacteria, and chemical contaminants,” Xu says. “During transport, cherries can accumulate dust and debris. Even organic cherries may have natural residues or approved pesticides, making rinsing necessary.”

Washing, he points out, also reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses from bacteria like E. coli and salmonella.

Rinse Cherries Well

Fortunately, cherries are easy to clean. The easiest way to wash them is to rinse them under cold, running water. Just pop them into a colander and gently swish them with your hands as you rinse.

“Avoid soaking cherries for too long, as they can absorb water and become mushy,” Xu says. “A quick rinse is usually enough to make them safe to eat, but these extra steps help ensure they remain as clean and fresh as possible.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends against using produce sprays, soaps, or detergents, as they could be unsafe if you swallow some residue. If you want to remove more residue, you can soak them in a solution of one teaspoon of baking soda per two cups of water. But a quick water rinse is just as effective and more practical, Xu says.

Don’t Wash Cherries Right Away

Wait to wash cherries until you’re ready to use them. “Washing too early introduces moisture, which can create an environment for mold growth and lead to faster spoilage,” Xu says. “Keeping them dry and unwashed in the refrigerator helps maintain their freshness for a longer period.”

But if you do wash them ahead of time, be sure to dry them thoroughly. Use a salad spinner lined with paper towels or pat them dry with paper towels to remove moisture which will keep them fresher longer.

Store cherries in the refrigerator in a breathable container or loosely covered with a paper towel, Xu suggests. Skip airtight containers because they can trap moisture, which can encourage the growth of mold. Keeping the stems attached can help them stay fresher longer.

What To Do With Extra Cherries

If you have more cherries than you know what to do with, consider freezing them. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.

“Cherries can be frozen, either whole or pitted, making them perfect for smoothies, baking, or jams,” Xu says. “Drying cherries or turning them into preserves, syrups, or compotes are excellent ways to extend their usability while reducing food waste.”

If you forgot a bunch of cherries in the crisper drawer, make sure they pass the touch and smell test before eating them. “Cherries that have gone bad will have a soft, mushy, or shriveled texture. Mold or white fuzz on the skin is a clear indication of spoilage,” Xu says. “If cherries start leaking juice or develop a sour, fermented smell, they are no longer safe to eat.”