How long do apples last in the fridge?
Quick answer
- In the fridge
- 4–6 weeks
- In the freezer
- Cooked or prepared: up to 8 months
- In the pantry
- About 3 weeks
Sources: USDA FoodKeeper · Last reviewed October 1, 2026
Whole apples last about 3 weeks on the counter and 4–6 weeks in the fridge crisper, thanks to a thick skin and natural waxes that slow moisture loss. The fridge is ideal for long storage; rooms warmer than 20°C ripen apples 4× faster. Cut or sliced apples brown quickly from oxidation — a squeeze of lemon juice slows it. The variety matters: Honeycrisp and Fuji keep longest; McIntosh softens fastest. Apples produce ethylene gas, so they ripen sensitive neighbors fast.
How to store apples
Store apples in the crisper drawer of the fridge, ideally in a perforated bag to balance humidity. Keep them away from ethylene-sensitive produce like lettuce, carrots, and broccoli — the gas they emit accelerates wilting. Counter storage is fine for about 3 weeks if you eat them quickly. Don't wash until just before eating; surface moisture promotes mold. Bruised apples spread softness to neighbors, so remove damaged fruit promptly. Sliced apples keep 3–4 days in a sealed container in the fridge.
- Crisper drawer in a perforated bag
- Away from leafy greens, carrots, broccoli
- Counter for 1–2 weeks max
- Don't wash until just before eating
- Remove bruised fruit promptly
Signs it has gone bad
- Wrinkled, dehydrated skin
- Soft, mushy spots that don't bounce back
- Visible mold or dark brown patches
- Fermented or alcoholic smell
Frequently asked questions
How long do apples last?
Whole apples last about 3 weeks at room temperature, 4–6 weeks in the crisper drawer of the fridge.
Should apples be refrigerated?
Yes for long storage — fridge slows ripening 4× compared to room temperature. Counter storage is fine for about 3 weeks if you eat them quickly.
Why do cut apples turn brown?
Oxidation. A squeeze of lemon juice or a brine soak slows it. The browning is harmless — flavor and texture stay fine for a day or two.