Few things are more annoying than buying a fresh loaf of bread and finding mold on it just a few days later. The loaf might still look soft and smell fine, but once you spot mold, it’s safest to toss the entire loaf.
Many people put bread in the refrigerator because they think the cold will keep it fresh. While refrigeration can slow mold growth, it also makes bread go stale faster, leaving you with slices that are dry and tough. A few simple storage changes can help your bread last longer while keeping a better texture and flavor.
Store Bread in a Brown Paper Bag
A brown paper bag works well for fresh bread, especially bakery loaves. It allows some moisture to escape while protecting the loaf, which can help reduce the chance of mold.
This method is well-suited to sourdough, French bread, and other crusty loaves. Fold the top of the bag closed and keep it somewhere cool and dry, away from sunlight.
Related: Your Favorite Spot for Storing Bread Might Be the Worst One
Keep Bread in a Cool Cabinet or Drawer
The spot you choose for your bread can make a big difference. A cool, dry cabinet or pantry is usually better than a warm countertop, where heat and humidity can cause bread to spoil sooner.
If your bread comes in a plastic bag and moisture builds up inside, leave the opening slightly loose. Keep the loaf away from the stove and the area above the refrigerator, where temperatures are often warmer.
Use a Bread Box
Bread boxes have stayed popular for generations because they give loaves some protection without sealing them in too tightly. The airflow helps manage moisture while keeping the bread from drying out as quickly.
Place the loaf inside without wrapping it tightly first. Avoid packing several loaves or bags into the same box so air can move around them.
Slice From the Middle Instead of the End
There is a simple old trick that can help a loaf stay fresh longer: slice from the middle rather than from one end. Once you’ve taken a slice, push the two cut sides back together.
This keeps the soft inside of the loaf covered by the crust. With less bread exposed to air, the loaf can stay softer for a little longer.
Related: 16 Simple Tricks to Keep Fresh Produce From Going to Waste
Freeze What You Won’t Eat Right Away
If you know you won’t finish the loaf within a few days, freezing part of it can save it from going to waste. Cut the loaf in half or freeze individual slices so you can take out only what you plan to eat.
Bread holds up well in the freezer and can thaw at room temperature or go straight into a toaster. It’s an easy way to keep bread on hand without worrying about mold taking over before you finish the loaf.
