How to Store Potatoes and Onions the Right Way

You know that potatoes shouldn’t be kept in the refrigerator. But it’s easy to think that potatoes and onions should be stored together in the pantry. Here’s the truth: storing them together might not be the best idea.

Can you store potatoes and onions together?

Sure, spuds and bulbs are tasty when combined together in meals. But when it comes to storage, they should be kept far away from one another.

Why? Onions produce and emit ethylene gas, which speeds up the ripening process and can cause nearby potatoes to rot and spoil more quickly.

Can you store garlic with onions?

Yes. Garlic, another root bulb, can be safely stored alongside onions with no scary side effects. Here’s how long garlic lasts when it’s stored properly (alongside potatoes or not).

How to Store Potatoes

Potatoes will last up to five weeks when stored in a cool, dark, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Use a storage container that’s well-ventilated, such as a crate, a cardboard box with holes punched in it, or any container that will allow any excess moisture to evaporate. We recommend these potato storage containers.

Keep the container covered to block light and prevent your spuds from sprouting. If some of your potatoes have turned green, it’s likely from sunlight exposure and you should not eat them. If your potatoes have gone soft, wrinkled or have sprouted more than a few centimeters, they’ve likely gone bad.

How to Store Onions

Onions can last up to three months if stored in a ventilated space, such as a countertop. You can keep them in a paper bag or even a wire basket. We recommend these onion storage containers.

It isn’t necessary to store onions in the refrigerator, as the cold temperature will quickly soften their texture. A softened texture and moisture spots are signs the onions have spoiled. Actually, don’t store any of these foods in the fridge, as it makes them go bad more quickly.