How to Make Raw Potatoes Last

Keep your potatoes together and away from light for maximum freshness.

Potatoes have been a staple of diets around the world for generations. After harvest, potatoes continue using carbon dioxide and oxygen for breathing, meaning they must have access to fresh air, according to the University of Idaho Department of Agriculture. Making your raw potatoes last isn't difficult, but it does require proper storage and environment to prevent premature rotting and spoiling.

Things You'll Need

• Perforated cardboard box
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Cut small holes into a cardboard box by twisting scissors into the sides. The holes promote the air circulation necessary for preserving raw potatoes. Stack the potatoes gently on top of each other. Cover the box with a lid to prevent small critters from enjoying your stash. Do not wash or skin the potatoes before storing.

2. Store the box in a cool, dark, humid location such as an unheated attic, a garage or a root cellar. The ideal average temperature is between 42 degrees and 55 degrees Fahrenheit with 80 percent humidity, according to the University of Idaho Department of Agriculture. Do not store your potatoes near onions; both will spoil due to a chemical reaction. Do not place them on the counter or by a window, exposing your potatoes to sunlight will turn them green.

3. Promote air circulation by repositioning the potatoes around the box every few weeks to expose each potato to fresh air--you should be able to store your potatoes for two to three months in the cool, dark and humid location. Wash and skin your stored potatoes before using them for cooking.

Tips & Warnings

• Frozen raw potatoes will become crumbly mush. Only freeze baked or cooked potatoes.

References

• University of Idaho Extension Program: Options for Storing Potatoes at Home
• Still Taste: How to Store Potatoes