Totally Effective DIY Cleaning Solution For Produce

Cleaning your produce after bringing it home from the grocery store or farmer's market is so important. Normally you might be concerned about pesticides or just basic hygiene — however in this current climate (read: the COVID-19 pandemic), you might also find yourself wondering how you should be cleaning your produce specifically right now. This totally effective DIY solution will help get your fruits and vegetables clean so you can feel good about eating them and feeding them to your family.

Mix 1 cup of distilled water and 1 teaspoon of liquid Castile soap together in a clean spray bottle and shake well.

Step 1

Shake your produce spray well before each use. Spray your produce liberally with the wash.

Step 2

Work the wash into the skin of your produce. For thin-skinned vegetables and fruits, like zucchinis and peaches, take a soft cloth and gently work the wash into the skin.

For tougher-skinned produce like potatoes and apples, use a scrub brush to work the wash into the skin.

Step 3

Rinse your produce well under cold water.

Step 4

Allow your produce to air dry or wipe clean with a clean cloth.

Berries are more delicate and need to be soaked instead of washed. Soaking your berries in this solution will clean them and help kill mold-causing fungus so your berries will last longer.

Step 1

Mix cold water and distilled white vinegar together in a bowl.

Step 2

Pour your berries into the vinegar mixture.

Step 3

Let soak for five to 10 minutes.

Step 4

Rinse with cold water.

Step 5

Let the berries dry as much as possible on a towel or in a colander.

If possible, store berries in an open or vented container to keep them from getting soggy. If you plan on storing them in an airtight container, add a folded paper towel to the bottom to absorb excess moisture.