Why You Should Always Wash Fruits and Vegetables

Let’s be real—at one point or another, we’ve all popped a grape straight from the store bag into our mouth and called it a day. But if 2020 taught us anything (other than how to hoard toilet paper), it’s that germs are gross—and they’re literally everywhere. So yes, it’s time we have THE conversation: why you need to wash fruits and vegetables.

What’s Really on Your Produce?

Here’s the truth bomb: your produce travels more than you do. From fields and farms to trucks, warehouses, grocery shelves, and then into your hands—it gets around. Along the way, it collects dirt, bacteria, pesticides, bugs, and fingerprints from who-knows-how-many people. Not exactly the healthy snack you envisioned, right?

My Wake-Up Call

I used to be the queen of the 'it builds your immune system' club. Then COVID hit and I turned into the 'let’s Lysol the cereal box' kind of person. I started soaking produce in vinegar water and was traumatized by what came off. We're talking dirt, film, and the occasional uninvited fruit fly. The worst part? I had been EATING all of that before.

Benefits of Washing Fruits and Vegetables

You Remove Pesticides and Wax

Even organic produce can be sprayed with organic-approved pesticides. Washing helps minimize exposure.

You Reduce Bacteria and Germs

Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria are NOT party guests you want. A simple rinse can save you a lot of regret.

Your Produce Lasts Longer

Once I started washing everything as soon as I got home, my fruit lasted days (sometimes *weeks*) longer. It’s like a mini spa day for your strawberries.

How to Properly Wash Your Produce

The Soak & Swirl Method

Fill a clean sink or bowl with cool water and add a splash of white vinegar (about 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water). Let your produce soak for 20–30 minutes. Swirl occasionally, then rinse and dry.

Quick Rinse Method

For those grab-and-go moments, a good rinse under running water and a quick scrub with a produce brush will do the trick. Just don’t skip it entirely.

Things to Avoid

Don’t use soap or bleach. This isn’t a crime scene cleanup—it’s food prep. Stick with water and vinegar, and use a clean towel to dry everything off.

Still Not Convinced?

Let me ask you this—would you lick a shopping cart handle? Didn’t think so. Unwashed produce is basically the same thing.

Start Small, Stay Consistent

You don’t need to go full hazmat suit. Just rinse, soak, and maybe treat your apples to a little bubble bath. Once it becomes a habit, you’ll wonder how you ever skipped it.