Ten Potato Storage Tips

If you're looking for a way to save money on your grocery bills, it's certainly a good idea to purchase items that you use frequently in fairly large quantities. Buying in bulk allows you to take advantage of sale prices when the items you cook with the most are on sale.

Potatoes, for example, tend to cost much less per pound when purchased in large quantities, especially during seasonal sales and supermarket loss leader specials. If your family likes potatoes and you prepare them frequently, it makes sense for you to stock up when prices are low.

Generally, you can expect to save money if you purchase 25 pound bags (or larger quantities) rather than buying a few potatoes at a time from the loose produce bins in your supermarket.

Of course, if you purchase more potatoes than you can use before they go bad, you're wasting money rather than saving when you buy large quantities. Fortunately, storing potatoes properly for maximum freshness isn't difficult and doesn't have to be time consuming. You just need to know – and use – basic tips for proper potato storage.

Select potatoes that have a firm texture; if potatoes are already beginning to get mushy when you bring them home, shelf life will be reduced.

1. Store potatoes in an area that is well ventilated.
2. Do not wash potatoes prior to storage, as doing so can reduce their shelf life.
3. The best temperature range for storing potatoes is between 45 degrees Fahrenheit and 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Do not store temperatures beside appliances that put off heat.
5. Avoid storing potatoes in damp or humid areas, such as beneath the sink.
6. Choose a dark location for storing potatoes, such as a cabinet, pantry, basement, or root cellar.
7. Avoid storing potatoes where they will not be exposed to direct sunlight or room lighting.
8. Place potatoes in a paper bag or a plastic bag that is perforated for storage.
9. If you choose to store your potatoes in the refrigerator, allow them to warm to room temperature before cooking them.
10. If sprouts appear on potatoes, they can still be used. Simply cut the sprouts away before cooking.

Note: When potatoes become mushy or develop a bad odor, they should be discarded.

Save Money with Proper Food Storage

Learning proper food storage tips – for potatoes and other items that can be purchased in bulk inexpensively -- can certainly help you make the most of your food budget.