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There's nothing better than snacking on oranges, especially when it's warm out. These delicious citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, and taste amazing either on their own or blended into a juice.

However, because they're so juicy, they're notorious for going bad quickly. There's nothing worse than cutting into an orange to find a rotten mess, and the way you're storing them could be the culprit. That's according to waste experts at Wheeldon Brothers, who have shared some vital info on how to keep your oranges as fresh as possible.

While many people instinctively reach for the fruit drawer in the fridge or seal them in a bag, this can actually do more harm than good.

According to the experts, trapping too much moisture around oranges is a major cause of premature spoilage. This moisture creates a breeding ground for mould, particularly when oranges are washed too early or stored in airtight containers.

A spokesperson from Wheeldon Brothers said: "We often see people doing all the right things in terms of selecting fresh produce, but then making avoidable storage mistakes once they get home.

"With oranges, the biggest issue is moisture - and storing them in sealed bags or containers can trap condensation, which speeds up mould growth and leads to food being thrown away unnecessarily."

They added: "Oranges have a naturally protective skin, so they don't need to be overprotected with plastic or sealed boxes. In fact, these methods often do more harm than good. Instead, we recommend using mesh bags or breathable containers that allow air circulation and keep moisture levels balanced."

Washing oranges before storing them is also a common mistake. That added moisture sits on the skin and can accelerate spoilage, especially in warm kitchens or sealed packaging - so until you're ready to eat them before rinsing.

As one of the UK's most commonly purchased fruits, oranges often end up in the bin due to mouldy spots or moisture damage - much of which can be prevented.

"When you add up how often people throw away one or two spoiled oranges each week, it quickly becomes a major contributor to household food waste," the Wheeldon Brothers spokesperson said.

"Simple changes - like avoiding excess moisture, washing only before eating, and allowing air to circulate - can make a big difference. These small adjustments not only help your fruit last longer, but also reduce waste and save money over time."