How To Wash Cucumbers To Remove Dirt and Pesticides, According to Experts

Most vegetables at our house are rinsed under running water. Cucumbers, whether sliced for a salad or a sandwich, don’t receive any special treatment.

Running water is definitely an easy and effective way to remove dirt and pesticides on a cucumber, says registered dietitian Debbie Petitpain, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. But make sure it’s a substantial rinse.

“Hold the cucumber under running water for at least one minute,” Petitpain says. “Use your hands to rub the surface gently, which helps remove visible dirt and some residues. If this is all you have time to do, you can feel confident your cucumber is ready to eat!”

If you want to improve your cucumber cleaning skills, she suggests trying a produce brush or a soaking solution. Petitpain suggests using a soft-bristled vegetable brush to scrub the skin on conventionally grown cucumbers. “This is especially important because cucumbers often have a waxy coating that traps pesticides,” she says. “Pay extra attention to the ends, where dirt tends to accumulate.”

If you dislike the waxing coating, you can always peel the cucumber. “However, remember that the skin contains fiber and nutrients,” says Petitpain.

Use Baking Soda

If you have the time and really want to make sure your cucumber is clean, soak it in a baking soda solution. Fill a bowl with water, adding about a teaspoon of baking soda for every cup of water. Soak the cucumber for about 10 to 15 minutes. Baking soda, Petitpain points out, has been shown to help break down some pesticide residue.

After soaking, rinse the cucumber under running water to make sure to wash away any baking soda and dirt.

Dry the Cucumbers Well

It’s best to wait to wash cucumbers until right before you’re ready to use them. If you leave them damp, then moisture can make it easier for bacteria to grow.

“Adding moisture to fresh vegetables increases the possibility of mold formation,” says Don Schaffner, Ph.D., professor at Rutgers University and member of the Institute of Food Technologists’ Food Microbiology Division.

When you’ve rinsed, use a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel to pat your cucumber dry.

How To Buy and Store Cucumbers

“Keeping cucumbers fresh starts in the grocery store,” says Schaffner. “Be sure to pick out a cucumber that does not have any visible damage or soft spots.”

When you bring them home, store cucumbers in your refrigerator. The ideal temperature is  41°F or less. But don’t set the thermostat too low, says Schaffner. “Make sure that your refrigerator doesn't get too cold because this can cause freezing which will damage the cucumber and cause it to spoil faster.”