Onions can stay fresh for up to six months if stored correctly, and the key is to keep them out of the fridge, according to experts at Wheeldon Brothers.
Onions are a staple in British kitchens, adding flavour to a range of dishes. They form the base of countless meals, contributing depth, sweetness and flavour with little effort. But storing them incorrectly can quickly lead to softness, mould or spoilage.
Why the fridge is the wrong choice
The experts said the “worst” possible place to store onions is the fridge. They explained: “Onions absorb moisture very easily, and storing them in the fridge can cause them to soften, rot, or sprout much more quickly. They’re best kept somewhere cool, dry and well-ventilated.”
While pre-chopped and peeled onions should be kept in the fridge, whole uncut onions should not. Moisture and poor airflow in a fridge drawer can lead to mushiness, mould and early sprouting.
The experts added: “The most common mistake we see is people storing their onions in the vegetable drawer. It’s far too humid. Onions need dry air, not damp conditions.”
Where to store onions properly
For long-term storage, and to keep onions fresh for “six months”, they should be kept in a dark, dry place with plenty of ventilation, such as a cellar, pantry or garage.
The experts said: “Good airflow is essential. A mesh or netted bag works brilliantly as it allows onions to breathe and reduces moisture build-up. You also want to keep them out of direct sunlight, which can cause them to spoil faster.”
Short-term storage on a worktop or in a cupboard is suitable if the onions are being used within a day or two. For anything longer, temperature and air circulation matter.
Avoid storing onions with potatoes
One often overlooked tip is to keep onions well away from potatoes. When stored together, onions release gases and moisture that cause potatoes to sprout and rot more quickly.
The experts noted: “Storing onions next to potatoes is a classic error. They both emit compounds that accelerate the other's spoilage. Garlic, however, makes a good storage neighbour. It thrives in the same environment.”
For best results, store onions in breathable bags and keep them separate from moisture-sensitive produce.
