How to store Lettuce
In the fridge: 5 days
Store lettuce in the crisper drawer with humidity set to high. Whole heads keep best wrapped in a clean dry tea towel inside a perforated bag — the towel absorbs excess moisture that would otherwise rot the leaves. Don't wash until ready to eat. Pre-washed bagged salads need their bag re-sealed tightly after each use. Keep away from ethylene producers (apples, bananas, tomatoes) — they accelerate wilting. Tear leaves rather than cutting; cut edges brown faster.
How to store it
- Crisper drawer with high humidity
- Whole heads wrapped in a dry towel in perforated bag
- Don't wash until ready to eat
- Reseal bagged salads tightly
- Tear leaves rather than cut to slow browning
Signs it has gone bad
- Slimy or wet leaves
- Dark brown or black patches
- Sour or rotten smell
- Wilted beyond recovery — limp and dark
Signs it has gone bad
How long does lettuce last in the fridge?
Whole heads of romaine or iceberg last 7–10 days; tender leaves and bagged salads 3–5 days.
Can you revive wilted lettuce?
Yes — soak the leaves in ice water for 20–30 minutes. They re-crisp through osmosis. Doesn't work on slimy or rotten lettuce.
Can you freeze lettuce?
No — cell walls burst, texture turns to mush. Lettuce is meant to be fresh.