Watermelons are a delicious and refreshing fruit that are perfect for summer. But if you buy a whole watermelon, how long will it last without going bad? Here is a guide to how long watermelons last and how to store them to maximize freshness.
Quick Answers
Whole uncut watermelons will last:
- 1-2 weeks at room temperature
- 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator
Cut watermelons will last:
- 5-7 days in the refrigerator
How Long Do Whole Watermelons Last at Room Temperature?
An uncut watermelon will typically last 1-2 weeks at room temperature. The exact timeframe can vary based on a few factors:
- Freshness when purchased – A very fresh watermelon will last longer than one that was picked a while ago.
- Temperature – Warm temperatures will speed up spoilage.
- Damage – Any nicks, cuts or damage to the rind will cause it to deteriorate faster.
Here are some signs that a whole watermelon is going bad and needs to be used soon:
- Soft or mushy spots on the rind
- Wilting or shriveling
- Moldy patches
- Unpleasant sour smell
If your watermelon shows any of these signs, it’s best to cut it open and use it right away. Once cut, watermelons only last around 5-7 days in the fridge.
How to Store Whole Watermelons
To maximize how long your watermelon will stay fresh, follow these tips for proper whole watermelon storage:
- Store at room temperature – Keep whole watermelons at normal room temperature. Do not refrigerate them.
- Look for damage – Avoid melons with any cuts, dents or soft spots which will shorten shelf life.
- Place on counter – Set your watermelon on the kitchen counter or table. Don’t store directly on the floor.
- Keep stem on – Leave the stem on until you are ready to cut it. The stem protects the inside and keeps it fresh.
- Wash before cutting – Rinse the rind well just before slicing to prevent bacteria from spreading to the flesh.
How Long Do Whole Watermelons Last in the Fridge?
While whole watermelons will last 1-2 weeks at room temp, you can nearly double their shelf life by storing them in the refrigerator. Refrigeration slows down ripening and decay.
An uncut watermelon will typically stay fresh for 2-3 weeks in the fridge. To maximize how long it lasts:
- Store whole melons by themselves and avoid stacking produce on top, which can cause bruising.
- Place melons in a plastic bag or container to help retain moisture.
- Keep refrigerator temperature between 35-40°F for optimal freshness.
Check your fridge’s temperature and adjust as needed. The colder the better for whole watermelons.
How to Tell if a Whole Watermelon is Bad
Here are some signs that indicate your watermelon has gone bad and should be discarded:
- Moldy, fuzzy spots or unusual colors on rind
- Very soft, mushy, or sunken rind
- Cracks, punctures or holes in rind
- Unpleasant sour odor
- Liquid oozing out
- Dull, faded color
If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t risk eating the watermelon. Safely discard it in the compost or garbage.
How Long Does a Cut Watermelon Last in the Fridge?
Once you slice into a watermelon, it will only last 5-7 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Follow these tips for storing cut watermelon:
- Cut the watermelon into wedges, cubes or balls.
- Place in an airtight container.
- If storing chunks, separate into smaller containers to minimize air exposure.
- Keep refrigerated at all times.
Cut watermelon has high water content, so it’s important to limit air exposure and refrigerate promptly after cutting. Allowing cut melons to sit at room temperature will drastically reduce its fridge life.
How to Tell if Cut Watermelon Is Bad
Check for these signs that refrigerated watermelon has spoiled and should not be eaten:
- Mold orfuzzy growth
- Soft, mushy texture
- Slimy, sticky surface
- Unpleasant sour or alcoholic odor
- Dry, brown edges
When in doubt, remember the old adage “When in doubt, throw it out.” Don’t risk eating spoiled watermelon.
Does Freezing Extend Watermelon Shelf Life?
Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of watermelon, allowing it to stay fresh for 4-6 months in the freezer.
Follow these steps for freezing watermelon properly:
- Cut watermelon into cubes, balls or chunks, removing seeds.
- Spread pieces in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Freeze until completely solid, about 2-3 hours.
- Transfer to zip-top freezer bags or airtight containers.
- Squeeze out excess air and seal.
- Label with date and return to freezer.
For best quality and texture, use frozen watermelon within 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before eating.
How to Ripen an Unripe Watermelon
If unripe at time of purchase, watermelons can sometimes be ripened to perfection at home. Here are some tips to ripen watermelons:
- Store at room temperature – Keep on the counter out of direct sunlight.
- Allow 1-2 weeks to fully ripen – Check frequently for signs of ripening.
- Look for yellow underside – A creamy yellow belly indicates ripeness.
- Listen for a hollow thud – Ripened melons sound hollow when thumped.
Patience is key, as watermelons won’t ripen overnight. Allow at least 1-2 weeks to fully ripen. Watermelons are done ripening when the rind turns deep green and the underside is yellow.
Can You Refrigerate Watermelons to Ripen Them?
Refrigeration is not an effective method for ripening watermelons. Cold temperatures will actually halt the ripening process. Watermelons should be left at room temperature to ripen.
Signs that a refrigerated melon is not yet ripe:
- Hard, pale green rind
- White underside
- Hard interior flesh
- Unripe, bland taste
The ideal ripening temperature for watermelons is around 70-80°F. Temperatures below 55°F will prevent ripening. Leave unripe melons out on the counter until ready to eat.
Storing Ripened Watermelons
Once ripened to perfection, watermelons should be stored in the refrigerator to preserve freshness and prevent over-ripening.
- Refrigerate whole melons, uncut.
- Use within 5-7 days of refrigeration.
- Check frequently for signs of spoilage.
- Discard if moldy, very soft or odor develops.
Ripe, ready-to-eat watermelons have limited fridge life. Enjoy chilled watermelon as soon as possible after refrigerating.
Freezing Ripened Watermelons
Freezing is a great option for preserving ripe watermelons for 4-6 months. Here’s how to freeze ripe watermelon:
- Wash watermelon well.
- Cut into 1-2 inch cubes or balls.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Freeze solid, about 2-3 hours.
- Transfer to freezer bags.
- Squeeze out air, seal and label.
- Store in freezer up to 6 months.
Frozen watermelon will retain its flavor and texture for excellent use in smoothies, watermelon margaritas, fruit salads and more.
Picking a Perfect Watermelon
Selecting a flavorful, juicy watermelon can be a challenge. Here are some tips for picking the perfect watermelon:
- Lift it up – Heavy for its size with no dents.
- Look it over – Rind should be firm with bright green color.
- Turn it over – Underside should be creamy yellow, not white.
- Tap it – Sound should be hollow, not flat.
- Sniff it – Fresh fruity aroma on the ends.
Always inspect watermelons closely before purchasing. Avoid melons with cracks, dents, bruises or discoloration.
Cutting a Watermelon
Follow these simple steps for cutting a watermelon cleanly and safely:
- Wash watermelon thoroughly before cutting.
- Place on a clean cutting board or counter.
- Slice off about 1-2 inches from the ends.
- Stand melon upright and slice down the center.
- Lay each half flat side down.
- Slice the halves into wedges, cubes or balls.
- Remove seeds as desired with a fork.
Use a large sharp knife to slice easily through the watermelon rind. Be sure to remove all seeds before serving or storing.
Eating Watermelon Safely
Enjoyrefreshing watermelon safely with these food safety guidelines:
- Wash rind well before slicing – Rinse under running water.
- Use clean knife and cutting board.
- Wash hands before handling.
- Refrigerate cut melons within 2 hours.
- Store at 40°F or below.
- Discard if slimy, moldy or odors develop.
Cut melons can harbor harmful bacteria if not properly refrigerated. Store cut watermelon promptly and use within 5-7 days.
Enjoying Watermelon
Watermelon is delicious and versatile. Here are tips for serving and using watermelon:
- Eat plain or add a squeeze of lime.
- Toss with feta and mint in a salad.
- Blend into smoothies and juices.
- Make refreshing watermelon agua fresca.
- Skewer watermelon chunks into kebabs.
- Chill cubes in sangria or cocktails.
Watermelon pairs well with salty flavors like olive oil, feta, prosciutto, and balsamic vinegar. It adds natural sweetness and moisture to drinks, desserts, salsas, and more.
Common Questions
How can you tell if a watermelon is ripe?
A ripe watermelon has a creamy yellow or white underside rind. The surface color changes to a deep green and the melon will feel heavy for its size. Knocking on it should produce a hollow thud sound.
Can you ripen a watermelon after cutting it?
No, watermelons do not continue ripening after being sliced into. Only whole, intact watermelons will ripen properly at room temperature.
Do watermelons ripen faster in the sun?
Watermelons should never be left in direct sunlight to ripen. Direct sun exposure can overheat and rot the rind. Indirect natural light at room temperature is ideal.
How do you pick a good seedless watermelon?
Look for a symmetrical oval shape with bright green rind and yellow underside. Lift it up and choose a melon that feels heavy for its size. Tap it gently – ripe seedless melons have a deep hollow thud.
Can you eat watermelon that has white spots?
White spots or other discoloration on the rind indicates mold and decay. Do not eat watermelons with white spots, wet spots, or soft mushy spots.
Conclusion
With proper storage and handling, whole watermelons can stay fresh for 1-3 weeks without being cut. Signs of spoilage like mold, bad odors or very soft texture mean it’s time to discard the melon. Once sliced, watermelon should be refrigerated and eaten within 5-7 days. Freezing can extend shelf life for 4-6 months. Follow these tips for selecting, storing, and enjoying watermelon!
