How to Clean Broccoli Thoroughly (and Why You Need To)

If it's a staple in your coleslaws, stir fries, and side dishes, knowing how to clean broccoli is key. But between its bulky shape and numerous tiny buds, this cruciferous vegetable can be a tricky item to clean properly, especially compared to vegetables like carrots or potatoes. To ensure your broccoli is ready and safe for your meals, follow these expert-approved tips on when and how to wash broccoli, whether you're using whole heads or florets.

Why Clean Broccoli?

Broccoli has many hiding spots for dirt and bugs, says Shannon Stover, MS, RD, food safety educator at Michigan State University Extension. This is due to the irregular texture of broccoli heads, where particles and unwanted guests can easily become stuck. It's always a good idea to properly wash broccoli before using it, even if it looks clean.

Cleaning Whole Heads of Broccoli

When washing whole, uncut heads of broccoli, follow these steps provided by Kimberly Baker, PhD, RD, LD, food systems and safety program team director at Clemson University Cooperative Extension:

1. Hold the stem with the broccoli head pointing down.
2. Place the head under cool running water until every part is fully flushed. It's important to use running water, as the movement of the water will remove dirt, says Baker.
3. Pat the broccoli dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Cleaning Florets

The steps for washing diced broccoli or florets are similar. According to Baker, the process involves the following steps:

1. Place the broccoli in a colander.
2. Run the colander under cool running water, making sure all of the broccoli comes in contact with water.
3. Spread the broccoli on a clean cloth or paper towel and pat dry.

Soaking Is Not Recommended

Another way to clean broccoli is to submerge it in water, though it's not the recommended method, says Baker. The reason? "If one head or floret of broccoli is contaminated and soaked with other broccoli, the contamination can spread," explains Baker.

That said, if you absolutely must soak broccoli in water, it's imperative to use clean drinking water and a clean bowl or sink, says Stover. This is due to the possibility of water (and potential pathogens in the water) entering the produce through cuts, bruises, or natural pores of the plant, says Baker. This typically occurs when the broccoli is warmer than the soaking water and it’s soaked for a long time. "So, if soaking broccoli, ensure the water is clean, the broccoli is cooler than the wash water, and the broccoli is not soaked for an extended period," advises Baker.

Note that if you do soak broccoli it's recommended you rinse it after soaking. This will help remove any contamination remaining on the surface, says Baker.

Tips for Cleaning Broccoli

Cut Into Florets First

While it's possible to thoroughly clean whole broccoli, cutting the vegetable into florets first will make the process simpler. The smaller pieces will make it easier to detect insects, excess dirt, or parts of the broccoli that have gone bad, says Weintraub.

Skip Special Produce Washes

Avoid washing produce, including broccoli, with commercial produce washes, detergent, or soap, says Stover. For starters, these cleaners aren't approved by the FDA to be used with foods. Produce is also extremely porous, so it can absorb residue from these products. Moreover, produce washes haven't been proven to be more effective in cleaning produce than cool running water, says Baker—so it's best to stick with water and skip the fancy washes.

Rub Broccoli While Washing

While washing broccoli, rub the heads to ensure they're free of pests or dirt, says Weintraub. You can also use a veggie brush, which is particularly helpful for broccoli from your garden, which will take longer to clean than store-bought, says Stover. She recommends being gentle if you use a bristle brush so the florets aren't damaged.

Only Wash Broccoli Right Before Using

When it comes to washing broccoli, it's best to wait until you're ready to eat or cook it, says Stover. Avoid washing it before storing it in the refrigerator, as the excess moisture will speed up spoilage and cause mold growth.

Use Clean Towels for Drying

Always use a clean cloth or new paper towel when drying broccoli, advises Weintraub. This will help avoid introducing new germs to the broccoli, keeping it clean. Additionally, clean materials will better absorb excess water from the washed broccoli.