How to Store Limes: Fridge, Counter and Freezer

Quick Answer: Whole limes keep up to 1 week at room temperature, out of direct sun, and up to 4 weeks in the refrigerator, better in a plastic bag, per Utah State University Extension. Whole limes can be frozen for up to 4 months, but they turn mushy when thawed, so use them for juice, not garnish. Rinse limes before cutting them.

Limes are the second stock a bar holds in whole fruit, after lemons, and they behave differently. This guide covers the counter, the refrigerator and the freezer, and the question of whole limes against juice. It is the lime companion to our lemon storage guide. Once a lime is cut, the rules in the lime wedge guide apply instead.

How should you store whole limes?

Counter for a week, refrigerator for up to four, freezer for juice. The figures below are from Utah State University Extension (checked September 2026).

Should limes go on the counter or in the fridge?

The counter gives more juice, and the refrigerator gives more time. Utah State says to store limes at room temperature, out of the sun, for up to 1 week to yield more juice, and in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. For a bar, that points to a split: keep the reserve bagged in the refrigerator and keep a small working supply out for squeezing. Keep that supply out of direct sun, which Utah State says causes limes to shrivel and discolor. That split is an inference from the two figures, not advice the source gives.

Can you freeze limes?

Yes, for juice. Utah State says whole limes can be frozen in freezer bags, that they are mushy when thawed, and that they can still be used for juice. It gives up to 4 months in the freezer. The source does not say whether a thawed lime works as a wedge. Mushy fruit is a poor wedge, which is an inference, so plan frozen limes for squeezing.

Is it better to keep whole limes or lime juice?

Whole limes, for a bar that follows classic specs. IBA (checked September 2026) calls for freshly squeezed lime juice in its Margarita, and for fresh lime juice in its Daiquiri and Mojito. That is a reason to store the fruit and squeeze it at service. No source checked for this guide gives a storage time for lime juice, so none is stated here.

When should you throw a lime out?

When it is soft, slimy, moldy or browning. Utah State says large blemishes or soft spots indicate a damaged lime, and to avoid limes with yellowish skin or ones that are browning or hard to the touch. Small brown areas on the skin should not affect flavor. Penn State Extension says to discard produce stored beyond its shelf life or that is shriveled or slimy, and the FDA says the safest practice is to discard moldy food.

Utah State also says to gently rinse limes with water before cutting or peeling, even if you only want the juice.

When is refrigerating limes the wrong choice?

When you will use them within the week. Room temperature suits a small delivery that turns over fast, and it gives more juice. The refrigerator earns its space when stock has to last past 1 week. Freezing suits limes you know you will juice, not limes for wedges.

Where the Esatto Black Condiment Holder 6 - 1 Pint Inserts fits

The holder is for cut limes on the bar, not whole limes in storage. Esatto makes and sells the Black Condiment Holder 6 - 1 Pint Inserts with 12 Pourers & 12 Pourer Covers & 1 Muddler. It is our own product, not an independent pick. Its page lists six 1 pint inserts, 473 ml (16 fl oz) each, and describes 1 inch of space under the holder to keep ice under the fresh fruits and berries. That gives lime wedges one compartment and lemons another.

For bigger compartments, see the Black Condiment Holder 3 - 1 Quart Inserts, and the products page for the rest.

Frequently asked questions

How do you store limes?

At room temperature, out of direct sun, for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks, per Utah State University Extension. The refrigerator works better in a plastic bag.

What is the best way to store limes?

For the longest time, a plastic bag in the refrigerator, up to 4 weeks. For more juice, room temperature out of the sun, up to 1 week.

Do limes need to be refrigerated?

No, but they keep longer there. Utah State University Extension gives up to 1 week at room temperature and up to 4 weeks in the refrigerator.

Can you freeze limes whole?

Yes, in freezer bags, for up to 4 months. They are mushy when thawed but usable for juice, per Utah State University Extension.

Should you wash limes before cutting them?

Yes. Utah State University Extension says to gently rinse limes with water before cutting or peeling, even if you only want the juice.

How long can cut limes sit out?

Up to two hours at room temperature, or one hour above 90°F (32°C), per Penn State Extension and the FDA. After that, refrigerate or discard them.