Are you washing your fruits and vegetables the wrong way? Experts reveal the safest method to remove pesticides

Keeping fruits and vegetables clean is an essential part of a healthy diet, especially during summer when fresh produce is abundant. While many people turn to viral cleaning methods promoted on social media, experts from food safety and medical fields agree that plain running tap water remains the safest and most effective way to remove dirt, germs, and much of the pesticide residue found on produce.

Experts Say Running Water Beats Vinegar, Baking Soda, and Produce Washes

Pesticides have been associated with a variety of potential health concerns, including neurological effects, hormonal disruption, reproductive issues, and certain cancers. However, researchers note that the health risks depend on the specific chemical, the amount consumed, and the duration of exposure. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the levels of pesticide residue found on properly regulated produce are generally considered too low to pose a significant health risk for most consumers.

Although many people purchase commercial produce washes or soak fruits in vinegar or baking soda, health authorities do not recommend these practices. Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advise washing fruits and vegetables under clean running water without using soap, detergents, or commercial cleaning products. Because produce is naturally porous, soaps and detergents may be absorbed and could potentially cause digestive problems.

Experts also discourage soaking fruits and vegetables in bowls of water. While soaking may seem like a deeper cleaning method, it can actually spread bacteria from one item to another through the standing water. In addition, placing freshly washed produce directly into a dirty sink may reintroduce harmful microorganisms, making proper sink hygiene equally important.

Certain fruits and vegetables require extra attention during washing. Leafy greens should be separated and rinsed leaf by leaf, berries should be washed gently to avoid damaging their delicate texture, and rough-skinned produce such as melons or cauliflower benefits from gentle scrubbing with a clean produce brush under running water. After rinsing, drying produce with a clean towel or paper towel can further reduce surface contamination.

The bottom line is that protecting your health doesn't require expensive specialty products or complicated cleaning routines. Fresh running water, careful handling, and proper food hygiene remain the gold standard for cleaning fruits and vegetables while preserving their nutritional value and reducing exposure to dirt, bacteria, and pesticide residues.