Potatoes and onions have a fair amount in common: They’re infrequently the star of a dish, but play stellar supportive roles in everything from pot roasts to casseroles. Onion bulbs and potato tubers both flourish underground, meaning that the vegetables require similar storage conditions—cool, dark, and ventilated environments—and they fare much better on a counter than in the fridge.

However, just because onions and potatoes prefer the same conditions doesn’t mean they make good neighbors. In fact, storing the vegetables together will shorten both of their shelf lives.

Can You Store Potatoes and Onions Together? 

Storing potatoes and onions together isn’t the best idea. Onions produce a high level of ethylene gas, which will cause potatoes to ripen—and go bad—before you’re ready to use them. However, those spuds aren’t completely innocent, either: Potatoes’ high moisture content can cause onions to liquefy and leak. Keep onions and potatoes apart for both vegetables’ sakes.

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