To choose cucumbers that will store well, look for firm, unwrinkled vegetables with deep green skin. Avoid cucumbers with soft spots, discoloration, or a heavy, waterlogged feel, as these are signs they are already starting to spoil.

After bringing them home, rinse cucumbers in cool water and dry them thoroughly. Moisture speeds up decay, so it’s important they are completely dry before storage. For best results, wrap each cucumber in a paper towel and place it in a zip-top bag to balance humidity and prevent dehydration.

Store cucumbers in the warmest part of your refrigerator, such as the door or upper shelf. The crisper drawer can be too cold, which may damage their texture and cause them to become mushy. If kept properly, whole cucumbers can stay crisp for several days.

For sliced cucumbers, use an airtight container filled with water to maintain crunchiness. Keep them refrigerated and change the water every two to three days. While cucumbers can sit at room temperature briefly, refrigeration is the best way to preserve freshness and prevent spoilage.