Ripe bananas are nutritious, affordable, and easy to eat. They are especially beneficial for digestion, helping prevent constipation. However, bananas are also notoriously difficult to store. Once ripe, they spoil quickly. If placed directly in the refrigerator, their skins often turn black and the flesh becomes soft and unappetizing.

To keep ripe bananas from becoming mushy or dark, try the following simple but effective methods.

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Hang the Bananas

After buying bananas, wash them thoroughly in water mixed with salt and baking soda (1:1 ratio). Gently rub the peel by hand to remove dirt and residues. Rinse again under clean running water, then dry the bananas completely with a towel. Let them air-dry in a cool, well-ventilated place.

Next, tightly wrap the banana stems with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This part releases the most ethylene gas, which accelerates ripening. Finally, hang the bunch in a suspended position so the bananas are not pressed or bumped by other objects. When you want to eat one, simply cut it off with a knife.

Note: This method does not work for bananas with cracked or damaged peels.

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Use Plastic Wrap or Aluminum Foil

Wash and dry the bananas as described above, then separate them into individual fruits. Wrap each banana tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. This helps extend their freshness while preventing excessive softening and darkening.

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Use Orange or Lemon Juice (for Peeled Bananas)

For ripe bananas that have already been peeled, you can slow down oxidation by using orange or lemon juice. Lightly brush a thin layer of juice over the surface of the banana. If the banana has been cut into pieces, add a few drops of juice and gently mix.

Place the bananas in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Peeled bananas should still be consumed as soon as possible.

Note: This method may slightly alter the flavor due to the citrus juice.

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Freeze for Long-Term Storage

For long-term preservation, freezing is the best option. Frozen bananas are ideal for smoothies or baking.

Peel the bananas and leave them whole or cut them into pieces as desired. Place them in airtight containers or zip-lock bags and store them in the freezer.

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Important Storage Tip

Always keep bananas away from other fruits—especially those that release large amounts of ethylene gas such as avocados, peaches, tomatoes, and apples—as this gas speeds up ripening and spoilage.

With these simple techniques, ripe bananas can stay firm, fresh, and appealing for weeks instead of days.