Vinegar Is The Secret Ingredient You Need For Carved Pumpkins That Really Last

Fall is undoubtedly the season for pumpkins, and carving pumpkins is a fall essential for both kiddos and adults alike. Whether it's for a contest or just for a spooktacular porch decoration, the process is a timeless way to get into the Halloween spirit. And with so many creative carving ideas for your Halloween pumpkins, there's no reason to limit yourself to just one. Many people choose to wait until just before Halloween to carve their pumpkins so they don't show signs of rotting before the big day. However, with a little bit of vinegar, you can make your carved pumpkins last the whole spooky season.

After you've carved your designs into your pumpkin, you'll want to mix up a solution of one part white vinegar to ten parts water. Mix this solution in a container that can hold the pumpkin, such as a bathtub, bucket, or sink, depending on the pumpkin's size. You'll want to soak your pumpkin in the solution for 20 to 30 minutes, using something heavy to keep it fully submerged if needed. After it's done soaking, remove and let air dry — you won't rinse it off, since the vinegar is what will keep mold and bacteria from starting the rotting process. After this initial treatment, you'll need to spray the inside and carved edges of your pumpkin daily to keep the cut surfaces moist, which prevents shriveling. Mix a solution of one part white vinegar to one part water in a spray bottle. Mist until all exposed flesh is coated.

There are some other hacks to keep your fall pumpkins fresh that you can use alongside the vinegar trick. First, during carving, make sure that you thoroughly scoop out all of the pumpkin flesh and seeds from inside, since any remaining strands or moist pulp will speed up microbial growth and decomposition. It's also best to keep your jack-o'-lanterns away from direct sunlight, since any excess heat can also expedite decay. Speaking of heat, skip the real candles when lighting up your spooky decorations at night. Instead, use battery-operated LED lights to safely illuminate your design. If possible, store your creations in the garage or a shaded porch for viewing.

There are other ways to keep your carved pumpkins from rotting with handy products you already own, like using borax or bleach. While these options are also effective for keeping your jack-o'-lantern looking healthy, they are potentially more hazardous than using vinegar, and you should take the proper safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and even eyewear.