Storing Homemade Bread

• Homemade bread can be stored unwrapped in a bread box for about two days before it begins to go stale. In humid environments, 24 hours is the limit. It may also be stored in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days without incident. If the loaf will not be consumed within this time period, it can be frozen. Storing in the refrigerator will prevent molding, but also causes bread to go stale much more quickly. Freezing is a better option, but make sure the bread has cooled for at least 5 hours before placing in the freezer. If the bread isn't properly cooled when frozen, it will become mushy when defrosted.

Storing Pre-Made Bread

• Bread from the supermarket or bakery will typically include preservatives, which means it has an innately longer shelf life than homemade bread. It can be stored in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature for up to 10 days. However, if mold is ever spotted on the loaf, it should be discarded immediately. Pre-made bread may also be frozen if it won't be consumed within 10 days.

  If you're concerned about insects or mice finding their way into the bread bag, you can store loaves in a wooden bread box or a plastic container. If using plastic, never wash the container with soap, as the odor can transfer to the bread and affect the taste. Instead, wash the container at least every 2 weeks with a solution made from baking soda and water.

Freezing Bread

• To store bread in the freezer, it should be wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or placed in freezer bags. Frozen bread needs at least 2 mil thickness to properly protect it from freezer burn. Freezer bags with a zipper-lock, which can be purchased from your local supermarket, are already designed with 2 mil thickness. Place the loaf inside the bag and then squeeze out any remaining air. Use a straw to suck out as much air as possible, or use a vacuum sealer. If freezer bags aren't available, you may wrap the bread tightly with plastic wrap and then wrap again with aluminum foil for similar results. Frozen bread will keep for up to 3 months.

Storing Other Types of Bread

• Brown-and-serve breads such as dinner rolls and English muffins are best stored in the refrigerator and used within 3 to 4 days. These breads have high moisture content and tend to become stale more quickly at room temperature. French bread and other breads with hard crust are best stored at room temperature and used within 48 hours of baking. They are prone to drying out quickly because they contain very little moisture.