You open the fridge, ready for a crisp salad—but your lettuce is wilted and sad. Don’t toss it just yet. There’s a simple hot water trick that can bring your greens back to life. Lettuce wilts because it loses moisture, often due to poor storage, aging, or quick temperature changes. But a quick dip in warm water can help rehydrate those limp leaves in minutes.

Here’s how it works: heat water to about 120°F–130°F (warm, not boiling), and soak the wilted lettuce for about 30 seconds to a minute. Then transfer it into an ice bath for two to three minutes. Once patted dry and chilled in the fridge for 15–30 minutes, the lettuce becomes crisp and vibrant again. It might sound strange, but this technique uses heat to relax the cell walls and cold to seal in moisture—science in action!

Want to keep lettuce fresher longer? Store it slightly damp in an airtight container with a paper towel. Lettuce types like iceberg last longer than romaine due to their lower water content, so tailor your storage accordingly. Even pre-washed greens benefit from an extra rinse, and don’t worry about a few rusty spots—they’re safe, just not tasty.

Before you give up on those droopy greens, give this hot water trick a try. It’s a fast, eco-friendly fix that saves money and reduces waste. With just a few steps, you can enjoy a crisp salad anytime—no grocery run required.