We all want to eat clean—but what about the actual cleaning of our food?

Whether you're buying conventional or organic, it's important to wash your fruits and vegetables before eating. Not only does this reduce pesticide residues, but it also helps remove dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants that may have come in contact with your food during harvesting, packing, or transport.

As a Functional Medicine provider, I always encourage small, practical steps that support long-term health—and proper produce washing is a habit that’s often overlooked, but very worthwhile.

Let’s break down some easy, effective ways to wash your produce at home using simple ingredients like water, vinegar, or baking soda—no need for fancy sprays or harsh soaps.

Why Washing Matters (Yes, Even for Organic)

Washing produce isn’t just about getting rid of dirt—it’s about reducing your exposure to unwanted substances like:

• Pesticide residues
• Wax coatings
• Soil-based bacteria
• Mold spores
• Industrial contaminants from shipping or storage

Even organic produce can carry surface bacteria or natural pesticides, so cleaning is a must for everyone.

4 Easy Produce-Washing Methods (That Actually Work)

Research has shown that different washing methods can reduce—but not always completely eliminate—pesticide residues. Here's how to make your produce safer and cleaner with simple tools at home:

1. Rinsing with Tap Water

• Hold produce under cold, running water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use your hands to gently rub the surface.
• For firm items like carrots or potatoes, a clean produce brush works great.

This is the quickest method and still reduces surface residues and dirt.

2. Soaking in Tap Water

• Fill a clean bowl or sink with cold water.
• Soak fruits or veggies for 10–15 minutes.
• Gently swirl occasionally, then lift produce out (don’t pour the water out—let the dirt settle to the bottom).
• Rinse under clean running water afterward.

Great for leafy greens and fragile items like berries.

3. Baking Soda Soak

• Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda per 1 cup of water in a large bowl.
• Soak produce for 5–10 minutes.
• Remove produce and rinse well under running water.

Baking soda may help break down certain pesticides better than water alone.

4. Vinegar Soak

• Combine 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water in a bowl.
• Soak produce for 5–10 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly afterward to remove any vinegar taste or residue.

Vinegar has mild antimicrobial properties and can reduce bacteria and some pesticide levels.

What to Avoid

• Don’t use soap, bleach, or household cleaners. These can leave behind toxic residues and are not safe for consumption.
• Skip store-bought “produce washes.” Many aren’t proven to be more effective than water or natural methods.

Produce-Specific Tips

• Berries & soft fruit: Soak briefly, then rinse gently. Avoid rubbing to prevent bruising.
• Root vegetables: Scrub well under running water using a clean brush.
• Leafy greens: Soak in a bowl, swirl, then rinse to reach hidden crevices.
• Items with inedible skin (like avocados or melons): Wash the outer layer before cutting to avoid transferring contaminants inside.

Pro Tip: Dry Before Storing or Eating

After washing, use a clean towel or salad spinner to dry your produce. This helps prevent mold growth and keeps your fruits and veggies fresher, longer.

Final Thoughts

Perfect washing doesn’t exist—but any effort is better than none. Don’t let fear of pesticides stop you from eating fruits and vegetables. The benefits of a produce-rich diet far outweigh the risks, especially when you clean them properly.

Taking a few extra minutes to soak or rinse your food is one more way to nourish your body, reduce toxic load, and support your health—one bite at a time.