How to Store Potatoes

Checking your potato

First things first, you need to separate your potatoes so you know what you can use in the short and long term. If you spy any bruising or broken skin, use them up sooner and leave the unscathed potatoes for later on. Be sure not to wash your spuds before storing, the exposure to moisture invites rotting and greening to spread and will ultimately shorten the storage life.

Where should I store them?

You need to keep your potatoes in a dry, dark place. Exposure to light or moisture can bring on rotting in the skin. You’ll also need to allow your spuds to be well-ventilated so avoid any airtight containers or spots – a netted bag or wicker basket should do the trick. Be sure your potatoes are kept in cool conditions as it increases storage length.  Keeping your potatoes in your fridge is not recommended. Kitchen cupboards or cellars are the ideal locations as they tend to tick most of these boxes.

How long will they last?

Storing your potatoes in the correct way should see them lasting for several months, be sure to keep checking up on them as any rotting can spread if they are close in contact with each other.  If you do spot any signs of rotting, turning green or sprouting then it is best to dispose of them.  There are several ways to further elongate the lifetime of your spud! If you place your potatoes in a dark place on top of newspaper at a slightly warmer temperature the skin will thicken making it less prone to bruising and rotting.

Always be sure to rinse your spuds before cooking up!