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Salad is a delightful way to stay cool and healthy during the summer, but many are finding their cucumbers spoiling too quickly due to improper storage.

In the UK, cucumbers typically come wrapped in plastic which, given their high water content, can lead to trapped moisture and a breeding ground for bacteria. This unfortunate situation often results in cucumbers turning slimy, mushy, and even mouldy before they can be enjoyed, leading to wasted food and money.

However, the storage gurus at Mill have revealed a straightforward trick to keep your cucumbers fresh: just a paper towel and a couple of minutes of your time.

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The expert from Mill explained: "Wrapping your washed and dried cucumber(s) in paper towels before placing them in a zip top plastic bag will help absorb any excess moisture and prevent condensation from accumulating on the outside of the cucumber, which can lead to early spoilage."

Since cucumbers release a significant amount of moisture through their skin, maintaining a dry and airy environment is crucial for freshness.

By using a paper towel or even a tea towel to absorb the extra moisture, cucumbers can remain fresh for much longer instead of spoiling within a day or two, reports the Express.

Nonetheless, it's vital to wash cucumbers before refrigerating them, as any surface bacteria can accelerate spoilage.

All you need to do is give your cucumbers a quick rinse under the tap, then pat them dry with a paper towel before popping them away.

Next, swaddle your cucumbers in a paper towel and stash them in an open container or at the bottom of your crisper drawer.

It's also worth noting that cucumbers should never be stored alongside tomatoes. Despite being salad buddies, they can accelerate each other's ripening process.

Tomatoes emit a gas known as ethylene, which enhances fruit flavour as it ripens. However, this same gas can cause certain veggies to spoil prematurely.

By simply wrapping your cucumbers and keeping them well clear of tomatoes in your fridge, you can significantly prolong their freshness, ensuring a crisp salad without the worry of food waste.