How to Store Garlic - Should You Refrigerate

Garlic is one of the most essential ingredients in the kitchen — and one of the most misunderstood when it comes to storage. Should you refrigerate it or not? The answer depends on the form of garlic and how soon you plan to use it. Here's the complete guide.

Should You Refrigerate Garlic?

For whole, unpeeled garlic bulbs — no. Whole garlic stores best at room temperature in a cool, dry, well-ventilated spot. Refrigerating whole garlic can cause it to sprout prematurely and develop a rubbery texture. The ideal storage temperature is 60–65°F (15–18°C).

Exceptions where refrigeration is appropriate:

• Peeled garlic cloves
• Minced or chopped garlic
• Roasted garlic
• Garlic that has already been cut into

How to Store Whole Garlic Bulbs (Room Temperature)

1. Store in a cool, dry, dark spot — A pantry, cupboard, or countertop away from direct sunlight and heat sources is ideal.
2. Use a mesh bag or open container — Garlic needs airflow. Store in a mesh bag, wire basket, or open bowl. Never store in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature — trapped moisture causes mold.
3. Keep away from onions — Both emit gases that can accelerate each other's deterioration. Store separately.

How to Store Peeled Garlic Cloves

1. Place peeled cloves in a ComSaf Glass Jar with Airtight Lid.
2. Optionally cover with olive oil — this preserves the cloves and creates garlic-infused oil. Important: always refrigerate garlic stored in oil and use within 1 week to prevent botulism risk.
3. Refrigerate and use within 1–2 weeks.

How to Store Minced or Chopped Garlic

1. Place in a small ComSaf Airtight Container or glass jar.
2. Cover with a thin layer of olive oil to slow oxidation.
3. Refrigerate and use within 1 week.

How Long Does Garlic Last?

• Whole bulb (room temperature): 3–6 months
• Separated unpeeled cloves (room temperature): 1–2 months
• Peeled cloves (fridge): 1–2 weeks
• Minced garlic (fridge): up to 1 week
• Frozen minced garlic: up to 12 months

How to Freeze Garlic

Peel and mince garlic, then freeze in ice cube trays with a little olive oil. Transfer frozen cubes to a SPLF Reusable Freezer Bag. Drop directly into cooking from frozen. Lasts up to 12 months.

Signs Garlic Has Gone Bad

• Green sprouts growing from cloves (still edible but more bitter — remove the sprout)
• Soft, mushy cloves
• Mold on the skin or cloves
• Foul smell beyond normal garlic aroma
• Brown or black discoloration inside

Quick Tips Summary

• ✅ Store whole bulbs at room temperature in a mesh bag with airflow
• ✅ Refrigerate peeled cloves in a glass jar for up to 2 weeks
• ✅ Freeze minced garlic in olive oil ice cubes for up to 12 months
• ✅ Keep away from onions — store separately
• ❌ Don't refrigerate whole unpeeled bulbs — causes sprouting and rubbery texture
• ❌ Don't store in sealed plastic at room temperature — causes mold