Storing bread

[zgma]

What's the best way of storing bread? In paper bags or plastic bags, in the fridge or not, etc?? Should I just break down and buy a breadbox - do they work well to keep the bread tasting fresh or not?

[Ray the DJ]

Leave it in its wrapper and store in a fridge. It will last twice as long. The bacteria that cause the mould and stale smell thrives in a warm environment.

[zgma]

Thanks Ray. My current system is that it goes on the counter in a plastic bag for a few days, and then in the fridge so it doesn't mould. What I'd really like are tips to keep it tasting really fresh for more than the first day... I bake it, let it cool, then eat a piece and wrap up the rest. But by the next day, the crust has already gone soft, and the inside is not as soft as I'd like it to be anymore. Any ideas?

[New Forester]

I generally put it straight in the fridge once cool baking -- but it does still lose its freshness somewhat. You can also put it in the freezer when fresh, and get it out as you need it. This keeps it better, though it does still go soft. However, if you pop the thawed bread in a hot oven for a few minutes it should crisp up nicely.

[bowiefan]

i keep all my bread in the freezer and just defrost it when i need it or use it straight from the freezer if im making toast

[hirschhaus]

when bringing fresh bread from the oven spritz with distilled water gives crust a real crunch refrigerate when ready microwave for 7 seconds its as good as fresh

[Elfin]

I saw a programme a few years ago that said that bread goes stale if you keep it in the fridge. It stops mould but actually makes the bread harder (something to do with the starch in it). So if you like your bread soft inside (essential, I reckon), keep it in a plastic bag and just eat it before it goes mouldy.

[Dark Angel]

I second bowiefan's suggestion. I freeze bread and defrost when required.