Rinse with Cold Water: Gently rinse berries under cold water to remove dirt and chemicals.
Avoid Soaking: Never soak berries, as they can absorb water and become mushy.
Use a Colander: Place berries in a colander for easy draining and gentle rinsing.
Use a Vinegar Solution: Soak berries in a mix of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water to kill bacteria and remove pesticides.
Pat Dry Gently: Use a paper towel to gently pat berries dry after washing to avoid bruising.
Remove Stems and Leaves: Take off any stems, leaves, or debris before washing to prevent contamination.
Wash Right Before Eating: Only wash berries right before eating to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.