The Best Way to Store Cucumbers, According to an Expert

Normally, I’m not normally a fan of plastic-wrapped produce, especially when it's covering a single baking potato or a few apples. It just doesn’t make sense.

When it comes to cucumbers, you'll see some varieties hanging out in the produce bins, but others, like English cucumbers, are almost always wrapped in plastic. The purpose is to keep moisture in, oxygen out, and protect them from bruising. But once you get these highly perishable, thin-skinned vegetables home—plastic wrap or not—what do you do with them to maintain freshness?

The Best Place to Store Cucumbers So They Last

“Store whole cucumbers in a cool, dry place, or in the refrigerator if you plan to keep them for more than a day or two,” says Jamie Moracci, CEO of Pure Flavor, a North American group of greenhouse vegetable farmers. Inside the fridge, the crisper drawer is best, Moracci says, explaining that's where "humidity levels are higher and temperature is more stable.”

Because cucumbers are sensitive to very cold temperatures, Moracci suggests keeping them toward the front of the drawer to avoid “chilling injury,” which can lead to soft spots or wateryness. Also, it's important to consider that cucumbers are sensitive to ethylene, a naturally occurring gas that makes produce ripen more quickly, so be sure to store them away from other ethylene-producing fruits and vegetables like apples, bananas, and tomatoes.

When stored properly in the fridge, a whole cucumber can stay fresh for up to 10 days, Moracci says, noting that they're best within the first five days.

Should You Keep Cucumbers in Their Plastic Wrap?

If you have a wrapped seedless English cucumber, only unwrap the part of it you plan to eat, and leave the remainder encased in plastic. Additionally, fold the plastic wrap back over the end you’ve cut for extra protection. “When you’re ready for the next serving, slice off a thin piece from the exposed end and discard it before washing and eating the remaining portion,” Moracci suggests. “Keeping cucumbers in their original plastic wrap helps preserve freshness and extend shelf life.”

If your cucumber doesn’t come covered in plastic, wrap it loosely in a clean paper towel, then store it in a plastic storage bag, Moracci says, noting that it helps manage moisture and prevents drying out, while still allowing some airflow. A whole cucumber in an airtight container can lead to mold due to excess moisture that gets trapped.

It’s best to slice a cucumber right before you plan to use it. However, if you end up with leftovers or must slice in advance, Moracci has a few tips. He says to place the sliced cucumber in a paper towel to absorb moisture and then store the pieces refrigerated in an airtight container. “This helps prevent sogginess and keeps them crisp,” Moracci explains. Sliced cucumbers should be used within three days for the best texture and flavor.

How to Choose a Cucumber

A full inspection is key when shopping for cucumbers, so be sure to give them a good look and a soft squeeze. “Choose cucumbers that are firm, smooth, and a vibrant green,” Moracci says. “Avoid any that are yellowing, soft, or wrinkled—signs they’re past their prime.”

Once you've picked the perfect cuke, it's time to put it to use. Luckily, there are a ton of ways to prepare this crisp summer vegetable—from a super-simple salad to Martha Stewart's cooked method—so stock up now while the produce is in its prime.