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You can keep mushrooms in the refrigerator for about 7 to 10 days when stored properly.
That’s the honest answer, but the real question is whether they’ll still be worth cooking with by day ten.
The shelf life of mushrooms in the refrigerator depends on several factors like how fresh they were when you bought them, how you store them, and the type of mushroom you’re dealing with.
In this post, we’ll dig into how long you can keep mushrooms in the refrigerator, the best storage methods to extend their life, and how to tell when they’ve officially gone bad.
Let’s get into it.
How Long Can You Keep Mushrooms in the Refrigerator? The Straight Answer
Most common varieties like white button, cremini, and portobello will last about 7 to 10 days in the refrigerator.
If you’re wondering how long you can keep mushrooms in the refrigerator for maximum freshness, the trick is all in how you store them from day one.
Mushrooms stored in their original plastic packaging tend to get slimy faster because moisture gets trapped inside.
When you keep mushrooms in the refrigerator in a paper bag or a breathable container, you can often push that window to the full 10 days or even a bit longer.
Let’s break down the specific timelines for different mushroom types.
1. White Button and Cremini Mushrooms
These are the most common mushrooms you’ll find at the grocery store.
When you keep white button or cremini mushrooms in the refrigerator, expect them to stay fresh for about 7 to 10 days.
They have a higher moisture content, so they’re more prone to getting slimy if left in a sealed plastic bag.
Storing them in a paper bag with the top folded down will help absorb excess moisture and keep them firmer for longer.
2. Portobello Mushrooms
Portobellos are basically mature cremini mushrooms, and they’re a bit heartier.
You can keep portobello mushrooms in the refrigerator for about 7 to 10 days as well.
Because they’re larger and denser, they tend to hold up a little better than their smaller cousins.
Just make sure to wipe off any visible dirt before storing them, but never wash them until you’re ready to cook.
3. Shiitake and Other Specialty Mushrooms
Shiitake, oyster, and enoki mushrooms are more delicate and have a shorter shelf life.
You can keep shiitake mushrooms in the refrigerator for about 5 to 7 days before they start to dry out or turn slimy.
Oyster mushrooms are even more fragile and might only last 4 to 5 days.
If you’re buying specialty mushrooms, plan to use them sooner rather than later.
4. Sliced vs. Whole Mushrooms
Sliced mushrooms don’t last as long as whole ones.
When you keep sliced mushrooms in the refrigerator, they typically last only 3 to 5 days.
Slicing exposes more surface area to air and moisture, which accelerates spoilage.
Whole mushrooms with their stems intact will always outlast pre-sliced ones.
How to Keep Mushrooms in the Refrigerator for Maximum Freshness
If you want to know how long you can keep mushrooms in the refrigerator and actually reach that 10-day mark, you need to store them right.
The goal is to keep them dry while still allowing some airflow.
Here are the best methods to keep mushrooms in the refrigerator so they stay fresh.
1. Use a Paper Bag Instead of Plastic
Plastic traps moisture, and moisture is the enemy of fresh mushrooms.
When you keep mushrooms in the refrigerator, transfer them out of the plastic container they came in.
Place them in a brown paper bag and fold the top closed loosely.
The paper absorbs excess moisture while still letting the mushrooms breathe.
This simple switch can add a few extra days to their life.
2. Line the Crisper Drawer with a Paper Towel
Your refrigerator’s crisper drawer is the best place for mushrooms.
Line the bottom of the drawer with a dry paper towel.
Spread the mushrooms out in a single layer on top of the towel.
The paper towel will soak up any condensation that forms, keeping the mushrooms dry.
Check the towel every couple of days and swap it out if it feels damp.
3. Don’t Wash Until You’re Ready to Cook
Mushrooms act like sponges, and washing them adds moisture that speeds up spoilage.
When you keep mushrooms in the refrigerator, skip the rinse.
Instead, wipe off dirt with a dry paper towel or a soft brush right before cooking.
If you absolutely must rinse them, do it right before you cook and pat them very dry.
4. Keep Them Away from Strong-Smelling Foods
Mushrooms absorb odors easily, and nobody wants onion-flavored mushrooms.
Store mushrooms in the refrigerator away from pungent items like onions, garlic, and strong cheeses.
The crisper drawer is usually a safe, neutral spot.
5. Freeze Them If You Can’t Use Them in Time
If you realize you’re not going to use them within that 7 to 10 day window, freeze them.
You can keep mushrooms in the refrigerator for a week, but freezing extends their life for months.
Sauté them first in a little butter or oil, then let them cool and freeze in a zip-top bag.
Frozen sautéed mushrooms are perfect for adding to soups, stews, and pasta later.
How to Tell If Mushrooms Have Gone Bad
No matter how well you store them, mushrooms will eventually spoil.
Knowing the signs of spoilage will save you from cooking with bad mushrooms.
1. Slimy or Sticky Surface
The first sign that mushrooms are past their prime is a slimy or sticky coating.
If you keep mushrooms in the refrigerator for too long, they’ll develop this film.
Once they feel slimy, it’s time to toss them.
Washing won’t fix it because the slime is a sign of bacterial growth.
2. Wrinkled and Shriveled Appearance
Mushrooms that have dried out will look wrinkled and shriveled.
This happens when they’ve lost too much moisture.
They’re not unsafe to eat, but they’ll have a tough, chewy texture.
If they’re just slightly wrinkled, you can rehydrate them in a little broth or butter.
If they look like little raisins, they’re probably too far gone.
3. Dark Spots or Bruising
Some discoloration is normal, especially on older mushrooms.
But large, soft, dark spots or oozing areas are a sign of rot.
When you keep mushrooms in the refrigerator and notice these spots, cut around them if the rest looks fine.
If the entire mushroom feels mushy, throw it away.
4. Off or Sour Smell
Fresh mushrooms have a mild, earthy smell.
Bad mushrooms smell sour, ammonia-like, or just generally unpleasant.
Your nose will know right away.
If the smell is off, don’t risk it.
So, How Long Can You Keep Mushrooms in the Refrigerator?
You can keep mushrooms in the refrigerator for about 7 to 10 days for most common varieties, as long as you store them properly.
The key is keeping them dry and giving them airflow.
Specialty mushrooms like shiitake and oyster last a shorter time, around 4 to 7 days.
And remember, sliced mushrooms will only last 3 to 5 days, so buy whole when you can.
Always trust your senses: if they look slimy, smell sour, or feel mushy, they’re past their prime.
Now you know exactly how long you can keep mushrooms in the refrigerator, so you can stop wasting them and start cooking with confidence.
Enjoy your mushrooms while they’re fresh, and happy cooking!