There’s nothing quite like the sweet burst of a perfectly ripe blackberry. Whether you’re layering them on pancakes, blending them into smoothies, or sneaking a few straight from the carton, blackberries are a beloved treat for berry lovers of all ages. But before you dive into that juicy handful, there’s one important step that often gets overlooked: washing them the right way. It might seem simple (just rinse and go, right?), but giving blackberries a proper clean can make all the difference in taste, texture, and even shelf life. 

Why Properly Washing Blackberries Matters

While the blackberries you purchase from your local market are harvested under rigorous quality standards, all fresh produce, regardless of origin, can encounter dirt, dust, and microorganisms on its journey from the field to your fruit bowl. Since their soft, seedy structure makes them more fragile than some of their berry cousins, it means they’re also more susceptible to damage and mold. Taking a moment to thoroughly wash your berries helps reduce the bacteria that may be present on the surface of the fruit, significantly decreasing your risk of foodborne illness. 

Because blackberries grow low to the ground and don’t have a thick peel for protection, they may also come into contact with soil, bugs, or other natural debris. Whether grown conventionally or organically, they might carry pesticide residues, and washing can help reduce exposure. While berries are full of nutrients, they often land on the list of fruits with higher pesticide levels, making proper rinsing especially important. 

When to Wash Blackberries

This one might be the most common mistakes that even the most dedicated berry lovers make!

The golden rule with blackberries? Don’t wash them until you’re ready to eat. 

While it might seem smart to rinse your container as soon as you get home, pre-washing can actually shorten their shelf life. Blackberries absorb moisture easily and are highly perishable. Washing them too early or storing them while damp can speed up spoilage and lead to mold before you even have a chance to enjoy them. 

If you’ve brought home a pint of fresh blackberries, the best thing to do is store them unwashed in the fridge, ideally in their original packaging or a breathable container lined with a paper towel. Then, when snack time calls or your recipe is ready, give them a proper rinse and then you’re good to go. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Blackberries

Washing blackberries might feel as easy as a quick splash under the faucet, but these delicate berries deserve a gentler touch. Here’s a simple, safe method to follow:

Step 1: Wait to wash until you’re ready to eat. The goal is to remove surface contaminants without bruising the fruit or allowing them to soak up excess water.

Step 2: Place them in a colander or mesh strainer. Avoid dumping them straight into the sink. A strainer will protect the berries from damage and keep everything contained. 

Step 3: Rinse gently with cold water. Let a gentle stream of cool water run over the berries. Use your hands to carefully move them around, making sure all sides get a rinse.

Step 4: Inspect as you go. Keep an eye out for any mushy, moldy, or overly soft berries and remove them to prevent spoilage from spreading. 

Step 5: Drain and dry. After rinsing, give the colander a few gentle shakes to remove any excess water. Then, spread the berries on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to air dry. Pat them lightly if needed but remember to not crush them.

Step 6: Store with care. If you’re not eating them right away, make sure they’re completely dry before storing. Moisture leads to mold, so a paper towel-lined container with a slightly cracked lid is best for short-term storage. 

Differences in Washing Wild Blackberries

Picking wild blackberries is a delightful outdoor adventure, especially during late summer and early fall. But these berries come with a bit more baggage…literally. Wild blackberries are often more exposed to the elements and may be covered in dust, insects, or even tiny larvae that hide in the crevices. Don’t let that scare you off, though. Just be prepared to give them a little extra love when cleaning. 

Start with the same rinse-in-a-colander method, but take it a step further by giving them a short soak. Food safety experts suggest soaking wild berries in cold water with a splash of vinegar or salt to help dislodge any tiny critters or debris. Let them soak for just a minute or two, then drain and rinse again thoroughly with clean cold water. 

Dry them with care and they’ll be ready to enjoy or preserve. Remember, wild blackberries tend to have a slightly different flavor profile than cultivated ones: more tart, more earthy, and just as tasty.

Bring Home the Berry Best

Now that you’re an expert in how to wash blackberries the right way, you’re ready to make the most of every bite. At Berry Fresh, we grow blackberries that are bursting with flavor, harvested at peak ripeness, and packed with care. They’re sweet, sun-ripened, and ready for all of your favorite kitchen moments. Find Berry Fresh blackberries at a store near you and taste the difference.