6. Apples and Watermelon
Apples and watermelon might both seem like summer favorites, but they shouldn’t share storage space. Apples give off high levels of ethylene, which causes watermelon to become mealy and overly soft. Watermelon is ethylene-sensitive and reacts by losing its crisp bite and developing off flavors. It also breaks down faster when exposed to ethylene, leading to a soggy mess in your fridge. Watermelon should always be stored whole at room temperature until sliced. Once cut, it needs an airtight container in the fridge—but far from ethylene-producing fruits like apples. Apples, on the other hand, prefer cool, dry places where they can continue to ripen at a slow pace. The two fruits need their space to stay at their best. Keeping them apart makes a big difference in taste and texture.