Whole unripe avocados keep 4–7 days on the counter while they ripen. Once ripe, refrigeration buys another 3–4 days. A cut avocado lasts 1–2 days in the fridge, and mashed avocado freezes for about 4 months.
Fridge
3–4 days (ripe, whole) · 1–2 days (cut)
Freezer
About 4 months, mashed with a squeeze of lemon
Counter / pantry
4–7 days while ripening
Store it right
Ripen on the counter, then move to the fridge to pause ripening.
Keep the pit in the unused half and press plastic wrap onto the flesh.
Freeze mashed, not sliced — the texture holds up far better.
Signs it has gone off
Flesh is stringy, grey-brown throughout rather than at the surface only
Sour or fermented smell
Mould on the skin or around the stem
Rescue ideas
Blend over-soft avocado into a smoothie or chocolate mousse.
Mash with lemon, garlic and olive oil for a same-day dip.
Freeze the purée in an ice-cube tray for future toast.