How to Clean Berries Before Eating

Sharing how to clean berries before eating. Everything you need to know about washing your berries with a mix of just water and kosher salt OR baking soda.

For years I have been rinsing my berries under cold water and calling it a day. And while yes, that is an easy option and I will probably do that from time to time when I am rushing – there is an even better way to clean your berries.

The best way to clean berries is by soaking them in water and salt for a few minutes. I just use 1 tablespoon of kosher salt or baking soda per cup of water and soak my berries for 5 minutes or so then rinse under cold water for 1 minute. And no – I know what you’re thinking. These do not taste salty after I promise. You rinse them off and it isn’t sitting it in enough to absorb. Salt is used to help clean the berries instead.

There are many other ways to clean berries and produce before eating. Many love using baking soda or white vinegar as well. I personally recommend use either. Some recommend salt more than the others because they don’t absorb into the fruit as much and it is easier to wash off. So your flavor and juiciness of the berries isn’t compromised. For my family, we go through fruit SO fast so I just wash the whole container. But before I put back washed berries, I always dry them off *fully*.

What you will need to clean your berries:

• Water
• Kosher salt or baking soda
• Strawberries, blueberries or blackberries

How to properly clean berries before eating:

1. Add water to a bowl with salt then add in berries (for every cup of water you need, add 1 tablespoon kosher salt or baking soda)
2. Allow the berries to soak for 5 minutes
3. Strain and rinse under cold water for 1 minute
4. Add berries to a clean dish towel and fully dry
5. Store in containers like these in fridge for up to a week!

Here’s why it’s a good idea:

Washing berries in baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a great natural method for cleaning them more effectively than just rinsing with water.

1. Removes Pesticide Residue

Baking soda helps break down and neutralize many pesticides that may be present on the surface of conventionally grown berries. A 2017 study from the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that a baking soda solution was more effective at removing pesticide residues from apples than bleach or plain water.

2. Lifts Dirt and Wax

Berries can carry dirt, debris, or natural waxes that protect them during transport. Baking soda helps dislodge these substances, giving you a cleaner fruit.

3. Reduces Bacteria and Mold Spores

Baking soda has mild antibacterial and antifungal properties. While it won’t sterilize your berries, it can help reduce surface bacteria and mold spores, which may help your berries last a bit longer in the fridge.

4. Safe and Non-Toxic

Unlike commercial produce washes, baking soda is a safe, inexpensive, and food-safe option you probably already have in your kitchen.

What to make with strawberries this season:

Gluten-free Strawberry Banana Bread

Easy Gluten-free Strawberry Cookies

The *Best* Healthy Berry Cobbler Recipe! (vegan + gluten-free)