Lettuce often wilts quickly, but a simple storage method using paper towels can keep it green and crisp for up to 10 days, or even two weeks. The key is to remove excess moisture that causes spoilage.
Why lettuce wilts in plastic packaging
Supermarkets wrap lettuce in plastic to trap moisture during transport, but at home this causes rot. Lettuce naturally releases water after harvest; when trapped, it promotes bacterial and mold growth. Karrie Truman, founder of Happy Money Saver, explains: "Moisture creates soggy lettuce. Wrap it in a dishtowel or paper towels before putting it back into a plastic bag."
How to store lettuce with paper towels
To keep lettuce fresh, start by choosing the freshest lettuce at the store. Avoid packages with visible water. Once home, remove the lettuce from its original packaging and wipe off any clinging water with paper towels. Wrap the lettuce in paper towels or a clean tea towel. Return it to the plastic bag, but leave the bag slightly open to let excess moisture escape. Alternatively, store the wrapped lettuce in a container or directly in the fridge.
Benefits and tips for crisp lettuce
The absorbent paper towels soak up excess moisture, keeping the lettuce dry and preventing wilting. Stored this way, lettuce can stay fresh for seven to 10 days, and in some cases up to two weeks. When ready to eat, wash the lettuce in cold water to rehydrate the leaves and make them crisper. Ensure the leaves are completely dry before refrigerating again. This method reduces food waste and saves money on groceries.
