How to Keep Your Jack-O’-Lantern Fresh for Longer
Here's how to slow the rot and enjoy your decoration throughout Halloween.1. Select a Healthy Pumpkin
Choosing a pumpkin that’s firm, evenly colored, and free of soft spots or bruises is the first step. Any pre-existing damage will speed up the decay process, so inspect it carefully before purchasing.2. Thoroughly Clean Your Pumpkin
After carving, rinse the pumpkin’s interior and exterior with water to remove dirt and stringy bits. Then, wipe it with a diluted bleach solution (1 tablespoon bleach to 1 quart of water) to kill bacteria and mold spores.3. Use Petroleum Jelly or Vegetable Oil
Coating the carved edges and interior of the pumpkin with petroleum jelly or vegetable oil creates a moisture barrier. This step helps to slow down the drying and shriveling process, keeping the pumpkin plump and fresh longer.4. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Keep your Jack-O’-Lantern out of direct sunlight and away from heating sources. Store it in a cool, dry place or even refrigerate it overnight to extend its life. Pumpkins decay faster in hot or humid environments.5. Try a Pumpkin Preserving Spray
Specialty sprays designed to preserve pumpkins can help inhibit mold growth. Alternatively, a mixture of vinegar and water can also act as a natural preservative when applied regularly.6. Minimize Handling and Damage
Avoid moving the pumpkin frequently, as this can weaken the structure and create soft spots. Handle it carefully, especially after carving, to prevent bruising or breakage.7. Soak It in Ice Water
If your pumpkin starts to shrivel, try soaking it in ice water for a couple of hours. This will rehydrate it and restore some of its original shape and firmness.8. Use LED Lights Instead of Candles
Heat from candles can speed up decomposition. Using LED lights or battery-operated candles is a safer option and helps maintain the pumpkin’s integrity.
Here's how to slow the rot and enjoy your decoration throughout Halloween.1. Select a Healthy Pumpkin
Choosing a pumpkin that’s firm, evenly colored, and free of soft spots or bruises is the first step. Any pre-existing damage will speed up the decay process, so inspect it carefully before purchasing.2. Thoroughly Clean Your Pumpkin
After carving, rinse the pumpkin’s interior and exterior with water to remove dirt and stringy bits. Then, wipe it with a diluted bleach solution (1 tablespoon bleach to 1 quart of water) to kill bacteria and mold spores.3. Use Petroleum Jelly or Vegetable Oil
Coating the carved edges and interior of the pumpkin with petroleum jelly or vegetable oil creates a moisture barrier. This step helps to slow down the drying and shriveling process, keeping the pumpkin plump and fresh longer.4. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Keep your Jack-O’-Lantern out of direct sunlight and away from heating sources. Store it in a cool, dry place or even refrigerate it overnight to extend its life. Pumpkins decay faster in hot or humid environments.5. Try a Pumpkin Preserving Spray
Specialty sprays designed to preserve pumpkins can help inhibit mold growth. Alternatively, a mixture of vinegar and water can also act as a natural preservative when applied regularly.6. Minimize Handling and Damage
Avoid moving the pumpkin frequently, as this can weaken the structure and create soft spots. Handle it carefully, especially after carving, to prevent bruising or breakage.7. Soak It in Ice Water
If your pumpkin starts to shrivel, try soaking it in ice water for a couple of hours. This will rehydrate it and restore some of its original shape and firmness.8. Use LED Lights Instead of Candles
Heat from candles can speed up decomposition. Using LED lights or battery-operated candles is a safer option and helps maintain the pumpkin’s integrity.