Effective Techniques for Cleaning Dirt Off Root Vegetables

Since root vegetables grow underground, they often carry traces of soil or even significant amounts of sand. (Leeks, we’re talking about you!) However, cleaning root vegetables such as beets, carrots, potatoes, and onions is far from impossible. By using a produce brush and some thorough scrubbing, you can ensure your vegetables are spotless and prepped for chopping, roasting, or baking.

Discover all the essential steps to prepare your root vegetables for use in your most-loved vegetable dishes.

How Dirty Are Root Vegetables?

Root vegetables grow entirely underground, which means they often accumulate dirt and can absorb contaminants such as pesticides, harmful bacteria like Listeria and Salmonella, heavy metals, and even microplastics. Beyond these, the soil itself can leave them gritty and unpleasant to consume.

However, root vegetables aren’t the dirtiest produce available. In fact, carrots, sweet potatoes, and onions frequently appear on the Environmental Working Group's "Clean Fifteen" list, as they typically have lower pesticide residues compared to other produce like berries and leafy greens.

How to Wash Root Vegetables

Fortunately, cleaning root vegetables doesn’t require special cleaners, vinegar, or elaborate methods. Simply using cool running water and a scrub brush is sufficient. The FDA explicitly advises against using soap or detergents, as these can be absorbed and potentially contaminate your vegetables. Even commercial produce washes, designed to be edible, haven’t proven to clean more effectively than plain water—and water is far more economical!

Wash your hands before you start

Before handling your vegetables, thoroughly clean your hands with soap and water to prevent transferring any contaminants from your hands to the produce.

Run cool water over the vegetables for 10 seconds

Cool water is ideal for rinsing vegetables, as it prevents microbes from penetrating the skin, while the flow of water effectively removes dirt and harmful bacteria.

Use a produce brush to scrub off visible dirt

A produce brush is perfect for dislodging stubborn dirt from the surface. Continue rinsing the vegetable under cold water as you scrub to wash away the loosened grime.

Rinse off with additional cool water

After your root vegetable appears clean, give it one last rinse to ensure no leftover residue remains.

Dry with a clean towel

You can either let your vegetables air dry or pat them dry using a clean paper towel.

Do You Still Need to Wash Your Root Vegetables If You're Peeling Them?

In short: Absolutely. Even when peeling root vegetables, a thorough wash is essential. The peeler or knife touches the skin, which can transfer contaminants like dirt and microbes to the edible part. Always clean your root vegetables as described above before peeling and preparing them.