How to Clean Blueberries

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Things You'll Need

  • Colander or strainer

  • Paper towels

Leave some room in the strainer or colander to swirl the blueberries.
Image Credit: Rosemary Buffoni/Hemera/Getty Images

Before you start washing all the blueberries you have, understand that washing them removes their natural protective wax, which may lead to mold. So, only wash what you're going to eat the same day. Keep the rest of the blueberries in the refrigerator until you're ready to use them. Also bear in mind that blueberries stain anything they touch, including clothing, so be careful with them or wear an apron. Start with cold blueberries because they're less likely to break apart when you rinse them.

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Step 1

Place the blueberries in a colander or strainer. While you can wash blueberries in the container they came in, it's better to move them to a separate strainer.

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Step 2

Rinse the blueberries under cool, running water. Use your hands to move the blueberries around in the strainer to ensure every portion of each berry is rinsed.

Step 3

Pat the cleaned blueberries with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Allow them to fully dry in the colander or spread them on paper towels.

Tip

Be gentle as you clean the blueberries. If you rub them harshly, you may break the skin.

Warning

Do not soak the blueberries in water.

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