Halloween Hack

Make Your Jack-o’-Lantern Last Longer

Nothing is sadder than carving the perfect pumpkin only to watch it shrivel into a spooky little raisin a few days later.

After carving your pumpkin, give the cut surfaces a quick clean with a mixture of 1 tablespoon unscented castile soap and 1 quart of water. Pat it dry, then let it air-dry completely.

Next, rub a very thin layer of petroleum jelly over the exposed cut edges. This helps seal in moisture and slows down that dreaded shriveling.

Bonus tip: Keep your jack-o’-lantern somewhere cool and out of direct sunlight during the day. If you have room, you can even pop it in the refrigerator overnight to help extend its spooky little life.

More haunting. Less rotting.