Wait Until Just Before Eating or Cooking Wash blueberries only when you’re ready to eat or use them. Washing them too early can cause them to absorb water, leading to quicker spoilage.
Use Cool Running Water Place the blueberries in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cool running water. Gently move them around with your hands to ensure all surfaces are cleaned.
Avoid Soaking Do not soak blueberries in water for extended periods, as they can absorb water, losing flavor and becoming mushy. A quick rinse is sufficient.
Optional: Use a Vinegar Solution For a deeper clean, prepare a mixture of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water. Soak the blueberries for 1-2 minutes, then rinse them thoroughly under cool water to remove any vinegar taste.
Pat Dry Gently Spread the washed blueberries on a clean towel or paper towel. Gently pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent mold growth.
Inspect for Stems or Debris While washing, remove any lingering stems, leaves, or damaged berries. Discard any soft, shriveled, or moldy ones to keep the batch fresh.
Store Properly After Washing If you wash more blueberries than needed, store the leftovers in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Keep them in the refrigerator to extend freshness.