How to Keep Your Jack-o’-Lanterns Fresher for Longer

Halloween is just around the corner, and if you’ve already carved your pumpkins, you might be wondering how to keep them from turning into a mushy mess before the big night! Experts are sharing eight simple tricks to help your jack-o’-lanterns stay fresh and festive a little longer.

1. Choose a Healthy Pumpkin: Start with a firm pumpkin that has no bruises, cracks, or soft spots. A healthy pumpkin is less likely to rot quickly, and carved pumpkins typically last about five to ten days.

2. Clean Before Carving: Wash the outside of your pumpkin with mild soap and water before carving to remove dirt and bacteria that could cause decay.

3. Disinfect After Carving: Experts recommend soaking your carved pumpkin for about 10 minutes in a diluted disinfectant solution, such as one tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water, to help prevent mold and bacteria.

4. Seal the Cut Edges: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or vegetable oil to the freshly carved edges. This helps lock in moisture and prevents your pumpkin from drying out too quickly.

5. Use a Protective Spray: Specialty pumpkin-preserving sprays can help prevent moisture loss and mold. Some experts also suggest clear polyurethane spray, although it isn’t food-safe.

6. Skip the Candles: Traditional candles generate heat that can dry out your pumpkin and speed up rotting. Battery-operated LED lights are a better option for keeping that spooky glow.

7. Keep Pumpkins in the Shade: Direct sunlight and warm temperatures can cause pumpkins to shrivel faster. Display them on a shaded porch or somewhere cool and protected.

8. Bring Them Inside When Necessary: If temperatures get too hot during the day or freezing weather is expected overnight, bring your pumpkins indoors. You can even refrigerate them to help extend their lifespan!