With their vibrant colours and unique shapes, pumpkins are a fun addition to Halloween decor, but they can quickly succumb to decay if not properly maintained.
By taking a few simple steps, you can extend the life of your pumpkins and keep them looking their best throughout the month of October.
What you’ll need
Equipment
- A clean bucket that is large enough to submerge your pumpkin
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spray bottle (a funnel is optional but useful)
Materials
- Clorox disinfecting bleach
- Paper towels
Instructions
Begin by filling the bucket with three gallons of water and adding three teaspoons of bleach. If you prefer, use a funnel to transfer some of the solution into a spray bottle. Adjust the mixture according to the size of your bucket and the number of pumpkins you wish to preserve, maintaining a ratio of one gallon of water to one teaspoon of bleach.
Spray the bleach solution onto the pumpkin’s exterior and allow it to dry completely. This process disinfects the outer surface, reducing bacterial growth and slowing down decay. If you plan to keep the pumpkin uncarved, you can skip to the next step.
Before carving, slice the pumpkin open and remove the insides, then spray the interior with the bleach solution. Let it dry fully before you start carving, and don’t forget to save the seeds for roasting. Immerse the carved pumpkin in the bleach solution for at least two minutes, ensuring to submerge the top as well.
Since uncarved pumpkins tend to float, gently stir them to ensure all surfaces are fully soaked. You can soak it upright for two minutes, then flipping it upside down for another two minutes.
After soaking, take the pumpkin out and let it air dry on paper towels. Dispose of the remaining bleach solution from the bucket down the drain, but keep the solution in your spray bottle for future use.
To maximise freshness, spray your pumpkin daily with the bleach solution. This routine helps prevent it from drying out and inhibits bacterial growth. If your bleach solution runs low, simply mix more by combining a few drops of bleach with water.
