How Long Does Lettuce Last?

Fresh lettuce, stored unwashed, dry, and sealed loosely in the crisper drawer, typically lasts 1-2 weeks depending on the variety — a sturdier type like romaine generally outlasts a more delicate one like butter lettuce, given differences in leaf structure and water content between varieties.

Wilted, limp leaves that no longer hold their shape are an early sign of decline rather than outright spoilage, and a head in that state can sometimes be revived somewhat by soaking it briefly in ice water. Slimy leaves, a sour or fermented smell, and dark, wet-looking patches spreading across the leaves are the clearer signs it's actually spoiled and should be discarded rather than salvaged.

A head of lettuce with its core still intact, rather than pre-cored or pre-chopped, generally lasts longer in the fridge, since removing the core exposes cut surfaces that brown and decline faster than the lettuce would if left whole — coring only right before use, rather than at the time of purchase, extends usable life.

Butter lettuce and other loose-leaf varieties generally decline faster than a denser head like iceberg or romaine, given their more delicate, thinner leaf structure — worth factoring in when deciding how much of a delicate variety to buy relative to how quickly it'll actually be eaten.

A head stored with a dry paper towel tucked inside its bag absorbs excess condensation, a simple trick that measurably slows the wilting that ends its window.

See Lettuce's full storage & shelf-life guide (with spoilage signs) →