🥖 Why the Fridge Is a Bad Idea

• Refrigeration speeds up staling: Cold temperatures cause starch molecules in bread to crystallize faster, making it dry and tough.

• Humidity issues: Plastic-wrapped bread in the fridge can trap moisture, encouraging mold growth.

✅ Best Ways to Store Bread

1. Room Temperature (Short-Term)

   • Use a bread box: Keeps air circulation balanced and protects from humidity.

   • Wrap in beeswax or cloth: Preserves crust texture and prevents drying.

   • Keep in original packaging: For store-bought bread, the plastic bag works well for a few days.

2. Freezing (Long-Term)

   • Slice before freezing: Makes it easy to grab what you need.

   • Wrap tightly: Use foil or freezer-safe bags to prevent freezer burn.

   • Thaw properly: Let it sit at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.

3. Avoid These Mistakes

   • Don’t store bread on top of the fridge—it’s warm and humid.

   • Don’t leave it exposed to air—it will harden quickly.

   • Don’t refrigerate unless absolutely necessary (e.g., in tropical climates with high humidity).

🍞 Homemade vs Store-Bought

• Homemade bread: Lacks preservatives, so it stales faster. Best stored in breathable wrap or frozen.

• Store-bought bread: Contains preservatives, so it lasts longer in sealed packaging at room temp.