how to store onions and potatoes
Charlotte Adams
Updated on August 07, 2026
Keep storage onions in a cool, dark, and dry place. Moisture and light lead to mold (ew) and sprouting (annoying, though not a deal-breaker), so stow your storage onions (red, yellow, and white as well as shallots and the diminutive pearl and cippoline) in a dry, well-ventilated basket, bin, or large bowl.
Can you store potato and onion together?
It’s also important not to store potatoes and onions together. Though they seem like two peas in a pod as they’re often both called for in the exact same recipes. However, storing them both together actually does more harm than good.
What is the best container to store potatoes and onions?
Use a storage container that is 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. Keep the container covered to block light and prevent your spuds from spouting.
What is the best way to store potatoes at home?
Potatoes need airflow to prevent the accumulation of moisture, which can lead to spoilage. The best way to allow free circulation of air is to store them in an open bowl or paper bag. Do not store them in a sealed container without ventilation, such as a zipped plastic bag or lidded glassware.
How do you keep onions from sprouting?
Keep them in a mesh bag, old nylons or open basket in a dry place. If you have high humidity, it’ll be tricky to keep onions for a long time. If you do choose to store them in the refrigerator, keep them in a crisper with low humidity and keep them out of plastic bags which can trap moisture. Dark.
How do you increase the shelf life of an onion?
Whole onions – the best way to increase the shelf life and keep onions fresh is to store them whole. Place them in a well ventilated cool dark place: between 40-50f (4-10c). Onions will start to sprout and rot if exposed to too much moisture and light.
Should onions be refrigerated?
Refrigeration is only necessary when trying to extend the shelf life of sweet or mild onion varieties with high water content, but be sure to use a low humidity setting; they must be kept dry. Refrigerate whole peeled onions after purchasing. Store cut onions in a sealed container for up to 7 days.
Can you store onions in a cabinet?
Place the container in a dry, dark spot, like in the back of your pantry or inside a cabinet. Sunlight can affect temperature and humidity, causing onions to go bad. Properly stored whole onions will stay fresh for 6 to 8 weeks.
How do you keep potatoes from sprouting?
Store potatoes with an apple to avoid early sprouting. Keep them away from onions and in a cool, dark place. The ethylene gas given off by an apple will prevent potatoes from sprouting, while keeping onions nearby will actually cause them to sprout.
Can you store onions in a paper bag?
Store filled bags in cool, dark place, so that air can circulate between the bags. This punched paper bag method should extend the life of onions, garlic, and shallots in most situations. However, their specific life may vary depending on the temperature, humidity, and light conditions where the bags are stored.
Can you store onions in a wicker basket?
Store onions separate from other vegetables (not in the same bin) in a basket or mesh produce bag. Just like storing potatoes, make sure they are stored in a low-light, low-temperature environment. Onion and potato storage baskets are wicker baskets with a lid and a dispensing hole at the bottom of the basket.
Which kind of storage container is best for storing potatoes?
2. A basket, bowl, or paper bag is better than a plastic bag. A paper bag, basket, or large bowl are ideal for storing a pile of potatoes since they allow for plenty of air circulation. If you carried potatoes home from the store in a plastic bag, it’s best to remove them for longer-term storage.
Is it okay to eat potatoes that have sprouted?
Sprouted potatoes that are still firm, have relatively small sprouts, and don’t show any wrinkles or shriveling are okay to eat, as long as you cut off the sprouted parts and soft spots. However, there’s still a chance you could get sick. If your potato is sprouted and shriveled up, then it’s too far gone.
Can you store potatoes in an airtight container?
Don’t Store Potatoes in a Sealed Container
Avoid closed containers, like resealable plastic bags or airtight storage containers—they’ll trap moisture and will cause the potatoes to mold and spoil faster. The best place to store potatoes is in a paper bag or in an open bowl or basket.
Do onions last longer in the fridge or on the counter?
The Bottom Line
Whole onions and shallots are best stored in a cool, dry, dark and well-ventilated room. Ideal places include the pantry, cellar, basement or garage. Peeled onions can be stored in the fridge for 10–14 days, while sliced or cut onions can be refrigerated for 7–10 days.
How do you store onions over the winter?
Onions should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated space out of direct sunlight. A garage or unheated room in the house is ideal. Don’t store any thick-necked or soft bulbs; use these up as soon as possible instead. Individual onions can be placed – carefully – into net bags.
How long do onions last on the counter?
That said, if you lack fridge space and storing onions at room temperature is your only option, whole, raw onions will last two to four weeks at room temperature. When storing onions, whether at room temperature or cooler, be sure to provide proper ventilation to prevent mold.