Mushrooms go slimy fast. The fridge crisper drawer is where they go to die. But storing mushrooms correctly is simple once you know the one rule that matters: mushrooms need to breathe, not be sealed. This guide covers every storage method, how long each type lasts, and the warning signs that your mushrooms have gone past their best.
Key Takeaways
- Store fresh mushrooms in the original packaging or a paper bag in the fridge – never in sealed plastic.
- Fresh mushrooms last 5-7 days when stored correctly.
- Do not wash mushrooms before storing – moisture accelerates spoilage.
- Dried mushrooms last 12+ months in an airtight container away from light.
- Frozen sauteed mushrooms keep 3-6 months and are the best way to preserve a surplus.
Why Mushrooms Spoil Faster Than Other Vegetables
Mushrooms are about 90% water, and they continue to respire after harvest – taking in oxygen and releasing moisture. Sealed plastic traps this moisture against the cap surface, creating the damp environment where slime bacteria thrive. This is why the original packaging (with breathing holes) or a simple paper bag works better than an airtight container.
The fridge temperature matters too: 1-4 degrees Celsius is ideal. Any warmer and they deteriorate faster; any colder and they freeze and turn mushy on thawing.
The Best Storage Methods
Paper Bag (Best Overall Method)
Place mushrooms in a brown paper bag, fold the top over loosely, and store in the main compartment of the fridge (not the crisper drawer, which can be too humid). The paper absorbs excess moisture while allowing air circulation. This method keeps mushrooms fresh for 5-7 days.
Original Packaging
If the plastic punnet has breathing holes, it is fine to leave mushrooms in it until opened. Once opened, transfer to a paper bag or cover loosely with a damp paper towel inside the fridge.
Damp Cloth Wrap
For mushrooms you will use within 2-3 days, wrapping loosely in a slightly damp (not wet) cloth keeps them plump without trapping excess moisture.
Avoid These Methods
- Sealed plastic bags – trap moisture, accelerate sliminess
- Airtight containers – same problem; mushrooms need airflow
- Washing before storage – mushrooms absorb water like sponges; wash only just before use
- Room temperature – mushrooms deteriorate within hours
- The freezer (raw) – raw mushrooms turn to mush on thawing
How Long Different Mushroom Types Last
| Type | Fresh (fridge) | Cooked (fridge) | Dried (pantry) | Frozen (cooked) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White button | 5-7 days | 3-4 days | 12+ months | 3-6 months |
| Cremini | 5-7 days | 3-4 days | 12+ months | 3-6 months |
| Portobello | 4-5 days | 3-4 days | 12+ months | 3-6 months |
| Shiitake | 7-10 days | 3-4 days | 12+ months | 3-6 months |
| Oyster | 3-5 days | 3-4 days | 12+ months | 3-6 months |
| Enoki | 5-7 days | 3-4 days | 12+ months | 3-6 months |
| Morel (fresh) | 2-3 days | 3-4 days | 12+ months | 3-6 months |
Oyster mushrooms are the most delicate – use within 3-5 days. Shiitakes are the hardiest fresh variety thanks to their lower moisture content.
Freezing Mushrooms the Right Way
You cannot freeze raw mushrooms successfully – they turn to mush on thawing because the water in their cells expands and ruptures the structure. The solution is to cook them first:
Saute-then-Freeze Method (Best Results)
- Slice or tear mushrooms
- Saute in butter or olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and moisture has evaporated (5-10 minutes)
- Cool completely
- Transfer to freezer bags or containers in portion sizes
- Freeze for up to 6 months
Frozen sauteed mushrooms can go directly from freezer to hot pan or soup – no thawing needed.
Blanch-then-Freeze Method
- Steam or blanch whole or sliced mushrooms for 3-4 minutes
- Plunge into ice water to stop cooking
- Drain thoroughly and pat dry
- Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to bags
Blanch-frozen mushrooms are softer than saute-frozen ones but still work well in soups, stews and sauces.
Drying Mushrooms: The Longest Storage Method
Drying concentrates flavour and preserves mushrooms for over a year. Any mushroom can be dried:
- Slice thinly (3-5mm) or dry small varieties whole
- Use a dehydrator at 50-60C for 4-8 hours, OR
- Use an oven at the lowest setting with the door cracked open for 4-8 hours, OR
- Air-dry in a warm, dry, well-ventilated space for 2-3 days (thread onto string for air-drying)
Dried mushrooms are done when they snap cleanly rather than bending. Store in an airtight glass jar away from light.
To rehydrate: soak in hot water for 20-30 minutes. Save the soaking liquid – it is an incredible umami stock for soups, risotto and sauces.
Signs Your Mushrooms Have Gone Bad
Toss mushrooms that show any of these signs:
- Slimy or sticky surface – the clearest sign of bacterial spoilage
- Dark brown or black spots – spreading decay
- Wrinkled and shrivelled – while not dangerous, the texture and flavour are gone
- Sour, ammonia or fishy smell – fresh mushrooms should smell earthy and neutral
- Mould – any visible fuzz means the batch is finished
A slightly dry or wrinkled mushroom is still safe to eat (rehydrate in warm water for 15 minutes to revive it), but once slime starts, the whole batch should go.
FAQ: How to Store Mushrooms
Should I wash mushrooms before storing them?
No – washing adds moisture, which accelerates spoilage. Brush off any visible dirt with a damp cloth or paper towel just before cooking, and store unwashed.
Can I store mushrooms at room temperature?
Only for a few hours. Mushrooms deteriorate rapidly at room temperature and should go in the fridge the same day you buy or harvest them.
How do I store dried mushrooms?
In an airtight glass jar or container, in a cool dark place (a pantry cupboard works). Dried mushrooms last 12+ months stored this way. Check occasionally for any moisture condensation inside the jar.
Can I freeze fresh mushrooms without cooking them first?
Not successfully – the high water content means they turn to mush on thawing. Saute or blanch first, then freeze. The texture after thawing will be soft, but perfect for soups, stews and sauces.
Why do my mushrooms get slimy in the fridge?
Slime indicates excess moisture, usually from sealed storage or washing before storing. Switch to a paper bag, keep them away from the humid crisper drawer, and never wash before storing.