Apples are a popular and delicious fruit enjoyed by people of all ages. However, like any fresh produce, they can be exposed to various contaminants such as pesticides, dirt, and wax.

It is essential to clean your apples thoroughly before consuming them to ensure they are safe to eat. In this article, we will discuss some safe and simple tips to clean your apples effectively.

1. Wash Your Hands

Before you begin the apple cleaning process, it is essential to wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap. This step helps ensure that you do not transfer any dirt or bacteria from your hands onto the fruit’s surface.

2. Rinse the Apples

Start by rinsing the apples under cool running water. Gently rub the surface of each apple with your hands to remove any loose dirt or debris present on the skin.

3. Use a Vegetable Brush

To effectively clean the apples, use a clean vegetable brush. Gently scrub the surface of the apple, including its stem and bottom, to remove any stubborn dirt or wax. Be careful not to scrub too vigorously to avoid damaging the skin.

4. Soak in Vinegar Solution

Fill a large bowl with a mixture of one part vinegar and three parts water. Place the apples in the solution and let them soak for about 15 minutes. Vinegar helps remove any pesticide residues or wax present on the fruit’s surface.

5. Rinse Thoroughly

After soaking, remove the apples from the vinegar solution and rinse them under cool running water. Ensure all the vinegar residue is washed off. You can also use a colander to rinse multiple apples simultaneously.

6. Remove Wax with Baking Soda

If you notice any wax residue on the apples after rinsing, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with water to create a paste. Gently rub the paste onto the apple’s surface, focusing on the waxed areas.

Rinse the apple thoroughly to remove any excess baking soda.

7. Dry the Apples

After rinsing, gently pat the apples dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. It is important to dry the apples adequately to prevent any residual moisture from promoting bacterial growth.

8. Store Properly

Once your apples are clean and dry, store them appropriately. Ideally, store them in a cool and dry place, such as a refrigerator, to maintain their freshness and quality.

9. Consider Peeling

If you prefer not to consume the apple’s skin, consider peeling it before eating or cooking. Peeling the apple can remove any remaining dirt or wax and give you added peace of mind.

10. Organic Apples

If possible, opt for organic apples. Organic apples are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or waxes, reducing the need for extensive cleaning.

However, it is still a good practice to rinse organic apples before consumption to remove any dirt or debris.