Every year when Easter rolls around, I get excited for the arrival of fresh-picked strawberries—bright red, sweet, and bursting with juice. The thought of homemade jam, strawberry pie, tossing them in my morning yogurt, or simply enjoying them by the handful makes my mouth water. It really doesn’t get much better.
But as delicious as strawberries are, they’re also known for the highest pesticide residue of any fruit (or vegetable). They are regularly included on the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Dirty Dozen list–topping the chart as the worst offenders, even after being picked, rinsed in the field, and washed at home.
Their vulnerability isn’t surprising: strawberries grow close to the ground, making them more susceptible to pests, and their porous, delicate skin readily absorbs pesticide residue.
Because of this, if you’re going to spend more on organic produce, strawberries should be at the top of your list. But if you’re on a budget or don’t have access to organic strawberries, the good news is that you can still significantly reduce your risk of pesticide exposure with the right cleaning methods.
🍓How to wash strawberries effectively
What you’ll need
You don’t need fancy tools—just a few basics.
- Baking soda
- Large bowl
- Clean water
- Colander (try the RSVP 5 qt Stainless Steel Colander for a great plastic-free option)
The best way to wash strawberries
Research shows that soaking or rinsing produce in a baking soda solution is the most effective way to reduce pesticide residues. Manually scrubbing under running water is recommended for removing dirt and pathogens.
- In a large bowl, dissolve 2 teaspoons of baking soda into 1 quart (4 cups) of water.
- Add strawberries.
- Swirl them in the water for at least 30 seconds, making sure they remain submerged by at least an inch of water. Soaking for several minutes is another option if you have the time.
- Rinse thoroughly while gently scrubbing under cool running water; use a vegetable brush for less delicate produce.
- Pat dry with a clean towel or allow to air-dry.
This simple, inexpensive method is one of the best ways to make your strawberries—and other produce—safer to eat. And if you’re wondering how to wash strawberries with baking soda without affecting their taste or texture, you have nothing to worry about. I can attest that you won’t notice any difference.
Do not wash strawberries until right before eating or using. Excess water will cause them to spoil quicker.
Cleaning strawberries FAQ
Can you use vinegar instead of baking soda? Soaps or detergents? Bleach?
Vinegar is not as effective as baking soda in removing pesticide residue from produce. It can, however, help reduce some bacteria, but may leave a slight aftertaste. Scrubbing under running water is considered effective enough to remove dirt and microorganisms.
Using soap and household detergents to wash strawberries and other produce is not recommended. These can be absorbed by fruits and vegetables, leave behind their own residues (despite thorough rinsing), and potentially make you sick.
Never use bleach to rinse your food. Not only is it ineffective at removing pesticides, it is unsafe and not advised by the FDA or the CDC.
What about commercial sprays or veggie wash?
Save money and reduce plastic packaging by refraining from purchasing produce wash. The safety of commercial produce washes is not known, and their effectiveness has not been shown to be any more effective than other methods.
Should you wash organic strawberries too?
Yes! Even organic strawberries can have pesticide drift or natural residues from organic-approved sprays (like neem oil or sulfur). And they may still have dirt or microorganisms on the surface that should be cleaned off.
Pro Tip: Wash a Whole Batch and Freeze Them! Save some fresh strawberries for smoothies later by flash freezing them. After washing and allowing them to dry, spread them out on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper or a silicone baking mat. Place in the freezer for several hours until frozen solid, and then store in an airtight container, such as a reusable silicone food storage bag. This method keeps the berries from sticking together as they freeze.
Final thoughts on how to clean strawberries
While purchasing organic strawberries and other produce is the safest way to reduce your exposure to pesticides and pathogens, rinsing with baking soda is the next best option. It may seem like an extra step, but it’s a simple habit that can make a real difference—and it only takes a few minutes.
You’ve cleaned your produce — now clean up your kitchen too with non-toxic, sustainable tools.
