Potatoes are a staple in most kitchens—cheap, filling, and endlessly versatile. But if you’ve ever reached into your pantry only to find soft, sprouting, or smelly spuds, you’re not alone. Here’s a simple, surprisingly powerful trick to keep your potatoes fresh for up to six months. And the best part? You probably already have everything you need.
The Everyday Item That Extends Potato Shelf Life
So, what’s the secret? It’s newspaper. Yes, really. That pile of yesterday’s news could be the key to keeping your potatoes fresh, dry, and sprout-free for months on end.
According to food experts, storing potatoes with newspaper creates the perfect environment to slow down spoilage. It helps cure the spuds by drawing out excess moisture, preventing mold and rot. Plus, unlike plastic bags, newspaper allows the potatoes to breathe.
Why Potatoes Spoil So Quickly
Potatoes may seem hearty, but they’re actually quite sensitive to moisture. Since they’re made up of around 80% water, storing them in the wrong conditions—like a plastic bag or in a warm kitchen corner—can lead to one thing: rot.
Here’s what happens:
- Trapped moisture builds up inside plastic bags.
- There’s no airflow, meaning water can’t evaporate.
- That moisture turns into mold, causing your potatoes to spoil fast.
How Newspaper Solves the Problem
Newspaper is breathable, which means it allows air to circulate around the potatoes. That’s essential for keeping them dry and preventing mold from forming.
Even better, it does three important things:
- Allows moisture to escape
- Separates the potatoes, preventing bruises
- Keeps light out, helping prevent sprouting
Step-by-Step: Storing Potatoes With Newspaper
This method is simple and takes just a few minutes. Here’s how to do it:
- Step 1: Find a cool, dark storage space—like a pantry, cupboard, or drawer.
- Step 2: Line the bottom with a sheet of newspaper.
- Step 3: Place potatoes separately—make sure they’re not touching.
- Step 4: Optionally, layer more newspaper on top or store them in a basket to keep them out of the way.
Be sure to check on them regularly. As long as they stay cool and dry, they’ll stay firm for months.
What Actually Happens During “Curing”
Right after harvesting or buying, many potatoes have tiny cuts or bruises that can let rot in. Storing them properly with newspaper gives them time to “cure”—a natural process where the skins toughen up and moisture evens out inside.
Once cured in this dry, breathable environment, they’ll last up to six months without going mushy or growing shoots.
Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Spuds
- Never wash before storing. Moisture speeds up spoilage.
- Keep them away from onions. Onions release gas that makes potatoes sprout faster.
- Cut off sprouts early. They’re a sign of aging, but removing them promptly can extend life.
Save Money and Waste Less
This one simple trick can stretch a single grocery trip into months of home-cooked, hearty meals. Instead of tossing soft or moldy potatoes, you’ll get to use each one exactly when you need it—no waste, no rush.
So the next time you unpack your groceries, grab some newspaper and give your potatoes the home they deserve. It’s a low-effort move that’ll make a real difference—especially during busy seasons or tighter budgets.
