Watermelon is a refreshing, sweet summertime treat that’s enjoyed by many. But if you buy a whole watermelon and cut it in half, how long will the leftover half stay fresh in the fridge?
Quick Answer
An uncut whole watermelon can last at home for 1-2 weeks stored at room temperature. But once cut, watermelon halves only last 3-5 days when properly stored in the refrigerator.
How Long Does Cut Watermelon Last Refrigerated?
Here are some general guidelines for how long cut watermelon will last in the fridge:
- Watermelon halves: 3-5 days
- Watermelon slices: 3-4 days
- Cubed or balled watermelon: 2-3 days
- Pureed watermelon: 1-2 days
The precise timing depends on a few factors:
1. Storage Method
Proper storage is key for maximizing watermelon’s shelf life. Once cut, be sure to refrigerate watermelon in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
2. Cut Size
The larger the cut pieces of watermelon, the longer they will last. Cutting watermelon into smaller cubes or balls shortens its fridge life. This is because more surface area is exposed to air, accelerating spoilage.
3. Ripeness
Fully ripe, sweet watermelon has a shorter shelf life than unripened watermelon. Overripe cuts may only last 2-3 days.
How to Tell if Cut Watermelon is Bad
Here are signs that refrigerated watermelon has gone bad and should be discarded:
- Appearance is mushy, dry, or moldy
- Smells unpleasant or fermented
- Tastes bitter or off
- Has an odd color like gray, brown, or yellow
Always inspect refrigerated watermelon before eating and throw away any pieces that are past their prime.
How to Store Watermelon to Maximize Freshness
Follow these tips to get the most out of your watermelon and keep it freshest for longer:
Whole Watermelon
- Leave whole and uncut until ready to eat
- Store at room temperature out of direct sunlight
- Wash outer rind just before cutting to limit mold growth
- Use within 1-2 weeks
Cut Watermelon
- Refrigerate cut melon in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic or foil
- Cut into larger slices or pieces rather than small cubes or balls
- Consume within 3-5 days
- Freeze puree for longer storage
Does Watermelon Last Longer in the Fridge or on the Counter?
Whole, uncut watermelon will last significantly longer stored at room temperature rather than refrigerated. The cold temperature of the refrigerator can damage watermelon’s cell structure.
However, once watermelon is cut it will spoil rapidly at room temp. Refrigeration is necessary to slow down spoilage and bacterial growth in sliced watermelon.
Room Temperature
- Whole watermelon: 1-2 weeks
- Cut watermelon: 1-2 days
Refrigerated
- Whole watermelon: 5-7 days
- Cut watermelon: 3-5 days
Can You Freeze Watermelon?
Yes, watermelon can be frozen to extend its shelf life even longer. Here are some freezing tips:
- Wash watermelon, cut into pieces, and remove seeds
- Puree in blender or food processor
- Pour into freezer bags or airtight containers
- Flatten to 1-inch thickness for easy freezing
- Freeze for up to 6 months
You can also freeze watermelon slices or cubes. Just spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze, then transfer to bags once frozen.
How to Use Up Leftover Watermelon
Don’t let leftover watermelon go to waste! Here are creative ways to use up cut watermelon before it spoils:
- Fruit salad – mix with other sliced fruit
- Smoothies – blend with yogurt and juice
- Salsa – mix with tomatoes, onion, cilantro
- Watermelon cake – layer with whipped cream
- Pickles – pickle watermelon rind
- Slushies – blend with ice
Conclusion
When stored properly, cut watermelon halves should last 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Smaller pieces and cubed watermelon may only last 2-3 days. Keep watermelon refrigerated and tightly wrapped to extend its freshness. And enjoy leftover melon before it goes bad by using it in fruit salads, smoothies, salsas, and more.