How should you store potatoes at home?

Store potatoes in a cool, dark place at 7-10°C (45-50°F) with good ventilation and 90-95% humidity for best results.

Based on USDA and FAO storage research, home storage should balance preventing sprouting while avoiding the problems that occur at very cold temperatures. Storing potatoes below 6°C causes "cold sweetening" — the conversion of starch to reducing sugars (glucose and fructose), which creates bitter flavors and dark colors when cooking.

Key home storage guidelines:

Keep potatoes in a dark location since light exposure causes greening and solanine production (toxic compound). A basement, pantry, or cool closet works well. Maintain good air circulation — avoid sealed plastic bags which trap moisture and promote rot. Instead, use paper bags, mesh bags, or open containers.

Don't store potatoes in the refrigerator. According to USDA research, temperatures below 6°C trigger sugar accumulation that makes potatoes taste bitter and turn dark brown when fried. Similarly, don't store them in warm areas above 15°C, which accelerates sprouting and weight loss.

Storage duration expectations:

Under proper home conditions (7-10°C, dark, well-ventilated), potatoes typically last 2-4 weeks. Check regularly and remove any sprouted, green, or soft potatoes to prevent spoilage from spreading. If potatoes do develop small sprouts, you can still use them — just remove the sprouts and eyes before cooking.

For households wanting longer storage, consider the curing process used commercially: keep newly purchased potatoes at 12-18°C for 1-2 weeks initially to help heal any skin damage, then move to cooler storage.