Everything You Need to Know About Lemons by Donna John

How to Store Lemons So They Stay Fresh For Longer

You're probably storing them wrong.

Corey Williams May 04, 2020

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This story originally appeared on myrecipes.com.

These days, when life gives you lemons, you really should keep them fresh for as long as possible. Here’s how to extend your lemons lifespan by at least a few weeks.

How Long Do Lemons Last?

CREDIT: SHAW FONG LIEW / EYEEM/GETTY IMAGES

How long lemons last depends on how they’re stored. At room temperature, they stay good for about a week.

In the fridge, however, their life is lengthened by two to three weeks. That means you can keep store-bought lemons fresh for about one month.

Related: The Best Citrus Juicer for When Life Hands You Lemons

How to Store Lemons

The best way to store lemons is in an airtight container in the fridge.

We know, we know—lemons look absolutely gorgeous displayed in a bowl on your countertop. Unfortunately, though, that’s kind of the worst place to store them.

Instead of allowing them to spoil quickly at room temperature, pop ‘em in a Ziploc bag and stick them in the refrigerator. While it may take a toll on your spring kitchen aesthetic, it’ll keep them juicy and usable for a whole month.

Related: How Much Juice Is In One Lemon?

How to Store Cut Lemons

half of a lemon

CREDIT: IMAGE SOURCE/GETTY IMAGES

What if you’ve already cut the lemon in half or into slices or wedges?

Obviously, it’s even more important to keep cut lemons in the fridge. To maximize their freshness, wrap the cut lemon in plastic wrap or beeswax and then wrap them again in aluminum foil.

If you frequently need lemon halves or wedges on hand (for cooking, baking, or flavoring your tea), you might want to purchase a cheap lemon-saving device that’ll make this process easier and more sustainable.

Buy it! Sur La Table, $5

Stored correctly, cut lemons should last at least four days.

Can You Freeze Whole Lemons?

lemons with leaves

CREDIT: YULIA NAUMENKO/GETTY IMAGES

Yes, you can! In fact, many people find frozen lemons easier to zest.

To freeze whole lemons:

Place lemons in a freezer-safe bag.

Remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Store in the freezer for three to four months.

To thaw, just let them sit in cold water for about 15 minutes OR zap them in the microwave for a few seconds.