The Best Way to Clean Produce: DIY Natural Fruit & Veggie Wash

strawberries in white strainer

‘Tis the season for farmers markets, fresh fruits, and all the yumminess of enjoying food from the garden. I’m all about getting my kids to eat the freshest of fresh produce once spring hits. Organic or not, produce tends to accumulate…stuff…on it. Whether it be dust, manure, chemicals, or just the general junk that results from being handled, one thing’s for sure—I do NOT want my kids putting that stuff in their mouths until they’ve had a thorough wash.

Even worse, buying commercial fruit/veggie washes can often add even more chemicals to the mix. The FDA goes so far to say that washing produce with a commercial produce wash is not recommended. Yet, there have been studies that indicate that washing with water alone isn’t the most effective way to rid produce of contaminants either. So what’s the real answer? Nothing more than this simple vinegar solution.

The best way to clean produce is with this DIY natural fruit and veggie wash you can easily make at home. It’s been tested as better than water for removing bacteria from food, and it’s natural and effective.

RELATED: 11 Easy-to-Grow Fruits & Vegetables That Are Impossible to Kill

strawberries pink spray bottle mason jar

Supplies:

  • 1 cup of water
  • 5 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
  • spray bottle for mixing

Instructions:

strawberries pink spray bottle

Step 1: Start by filling a clean spray bottle with fresh, filtered water.

pink spray bottle measuring spoons

Step 2: Add in the apple cider vinegar and shake well to combine.

Step 3: Spray onto the fruits and veggies, and gently move around with your hands to release the chemicals.

Step 4: Rinse the produce with water.

The apple cider vinegar adds a natural antiseptic to the spray, allowing it to break down the chemicals that may be residually hiding on your fresh produce. It works much better than water and doesn’t leave a bad taste. Use the spray on all your veggies and fruits to ensure a season of great tasting and healthy chemical-free eats.

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