How to Store Quince
Quince are fragrant autumn fruits that can be stored for a while before cooking, provided they are harvested carefully. Pick fully coloured, firm fruits on a dry day, retaining the stalk where possible. Their perfume can affect neighbouring produce, so keep them separate from apples, vegetables and other fruits during storage.
Best storage conditions
Keep quince at 0 to 4 degrees C with moderately high humidity, darkness and steady airflow. A cool, frost-free shed, garage, cellar or porch can be suitable if it is dry and does not fluctuate wildly. Arrange fruit in a single layer on slatted apple racks or shallow trays, away from direct sun. Do not let fruits touch, freeze, or sit in condensation.
How long it keeps
Sound quince commonly keep for 4 to 8 weeks, with some late varieties lasting up to 3 months in very good conditions. Check them weekly and use any whose scent becomes especially strong or whose skin begins to soften. Bruised fruit should be cooked immediately, as it is unlikely to store successfully.
Storage methods
Handle quince gently, as bruises may not become obvious until later. Do not wash them before storage; instead, brush away dry dirt and leave the natural downy bloom intact. Put each fruit separately on slatted apple racks, paper-lined trays or in single layers in shallow boxes, in a cool frost-free shed, garage, cellar or porch. Turn fruit occasionally and keep air moving around it. Avoid net bags or deep containers, which encourage bruising. Store only dry, unblemished quince, and remove any with mould, soft patches or rot before they affect neighbouring fruit.
Preserving
Quince are excellent for jelly, membrillo, poached fruit, chutney and spiced preserves. Cooked quince purée or sliced, poached quince can be frozen in portions for winter baking and desserts. Drying thin slices is another option once they are fully dry. Follow a trusted recipe for jelly, membrillo, chutney or any bottled preserve, and label all stored batches clearly.
Tips
Quince release a powerful aroma, so give them their own shelf or tray. Do not wait for them to become soft before using them; firm fruits are normal and cook beautifully. Pick before hard frost where possible. Check the fruit regularly, as one bruised quince can develop mould and spoil the tightly stored fruit around it.
Storing Quince: frequently asked questions
How do I store quince?
Handle quince gently, as bruises may not become obvious until later.
How long does quince keep in storage?
Sound quince commonly keep for 4 to 8 weeks, with some late varieties lasting up to 3 months in very good conditions.
What are the best conditions for storing quince?
Keep quince at 0 to 4 degrees C with moderately high humidity, darkness and steady airflow.
Store only sound, dry produce and check regularly. For bottling and preserving, follow a trusted recipe. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.