I’m a big fan of mushrooms - Lion’s Mane in particular. If sauteed gently with just the right seasoning Lion’s Mane mushrooms taste better than lobster. But given the fact that they cost more than lobster I don’t have them that often. But I also love Shiitake and Oyster mushrooms and have them often.

Here’s an overview of how long each type of mushroom will last and best practices for making them last as long as possible:

How Long Do Mushrooms Last in the Fridge?

Whether you’re sautéing them for pasta, tossing them on pizza, or using them as a meat substitute, mushrooms are a kitchen staple. But they’re also notoriously quick to spoil if not stored properly.

Here’s how long some of the most popular culinary mushrooms typically last in the refrigerator:

White Button Mushrooms: 5–7 days
Cremini (Baby Bella) Mushrooms: 7–10 days
Portobello Mushrooms: 7–10 days
Shiitake Mushrooms: 10–14 days (fresh), up to a year dried
Oyster Mushrooms: 5–7 days
Enoki Mushrooms: 5–7 days
Chanterelles and Morels: 4–6 days
Maitake (Hen of the Woods): 5–7 days
Lion’s Mane: approx 7 days

Now that we know how long they last, let’s explore how to store mushrooms the right way to maximize their freshness and flavor.

1. Use Paper Bags—Not Plastic

Why it works: Paper allows mushrooms to breathe and prevents excess moisture buildup, which causes sliminess and mold.
How to do it: Transfer store-bought mushrooms from plastic packaging to a paper bag. Fold the top down and store them in your refrigerator’s main compartment—not the crisper drawer, which is too humid.

2. Avoid Washing Before Storage

Why it matters: Mushrooms are like sponges—they soak up water and become soggy.
Tip: Only rinse or brush off dirt right before cooking. Use a damp paper towel or a soft brush to gently clean them if needed.

3. Keep Them Cool and Dry

Ideal temperature: 34°F–38°F (1°C–3°C)
Store on a shelf near the middle or back of the fridge where temperature is most stable.
Don’t store mushrooms near strong-smelling foods—they can absorb odors easily.

4. Use Airtight Containers (For Certain Types)

Some delicate mushrooms, like enokis or chanterelles, do better in a vented container lined with paper towels. This gives structure and breathability while avoiding condensation.

5. Freeze Mushrooms—But Only After Cooking

Fresh mushrooms don’t freeze well raw—they turn rubbery and lose flavor.
Instead:

Sauté or steam them first
Let cool
Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag

They’ll last up to 6 months in the freezer this way and are perfect for soups, stews, and stir-fries.

6. Dry or Dehydrate for Long-Term Storage

Drying mushrooms is an excellent option for varieties like shiitake, maitake, and morels.

How to dry mushrooms:

Slice evenly
Use a food dehydrator or bake at a low oven temp (around 150°F / 65°C) for several hours
Store in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place

Dried mushrooms can last up to a year and rehydrate beautifully.

Bonus Tip: Store Dried Mushrooms with a Desiccant

If you’re drying your own mushrooms, consider tossing a small food-safe silica gel pack into the jar to keep moisture out and prevent spoilage.

Storing mushrooms the right way means you’ll waste less, cook more, and enjoy better texture and flavor. Whether you’re a fan of hearty portobellos or delicate chanterelles, these tips will help keep your fungi fresh and fabulous.

Grab my handy guides below - click and then save the images to your camera roll for easy reference.