Drying herbs is one of the best ways to preserve their flavor and aroma, and doing it in a paper bag adds an extra layer of protection. Whether you’re drying basil, rosemary, mint, or thyme, using a paper bag helps keep herbs clean, mold-free, and flavorful — especially if you don’t have a dedicated drying rack or space.
In this article, you’ll learn step by step how to dry herbs in a paper bag, why it works so well, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Why Use a Paper Bag to Dry Herbs?
Drying herbs in a paper bag is a method that:
- Keeps dust and insects away
- Protects herbs from light exposure
- Reduces the chance of mold by promoting airflow
- Prevents leaves from falling all over your home
This method is ideal for people drying herbs in apartments, kitchens, or any shared indoor space. It’s cheap, accessible, and doesn’t require any special equipment.
What You’ll Need
- Fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary, mint, oregano, thyme)
- Brown paper lunch bags (one per bundle)
- String, twine, or rubber bands
- Hole puncher, scissors, or knife
- Marker or label
- Clothespins or tape (optional for hanging)
Avoid using plastic bags — they trap moisture and encourage mold, not drying.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Dry Herbs in a Paper Bag
Step 1: Harvest Herbs at the Right Time
- Pick herbs in the morning after dew has dried
- Choose healthy, undamaged leaves
- Harvest before flowers appear for best flavor
Step 2: Clean and Dry the Herbs
- Rinse gently under cool running water
- Shake off excess water
- Pat herbs dry with a towel
- Let air dry fully for 1–2 hours before bundling
This step is crucial — herbs must not be damp when placed inside the bag.
Step 3: Prepare the Paper Bag
- Use a standard brown lunch bag
- Punch or cut 6–10 small holes around the sides and bottom of the bag to allow for airflow
- Label the bag with the herb name and date
Tip: Use a hole punch, fork, or scissors to create clean air vents.
Step 4: Bundle and Insert the Herbs
- Gather 4–6 stems of herbs into a small bundle
- Tie the ends securely with string or a rubber band
- Slide the herb bundle upside down into the paper bag
- The leaves should hang freely inside the bag, with the stems sticking out the top
Don’t overcrowd the bag. If the bundle is too large, it won’t dry evenly.
Step 5: Close and Hang the Bag
- Gather the top of the bag around the stems
- Secure with a rubber band or clip
- Hang the bag upside down in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area — closets, pantries, or shaded porches work well
Make sure the bag hangs freely without touching walls or other bags. Airflow is essential.
How Long Does It Take?
Drying herbs in a paper bag typically takes:
- 7–14 days, depending on the herb type and humidity
- Woody herbs (rosemary, thyme) dry faster
- Leafy herbs (mint, basil) take a bit longer
Check after the first week. Herbs are ready when:
- Leaves crumble easily
- Stems snap cleanly
- No moisture is felt when touched
Advantages of Using a Paper Bag
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Dust protection | Keeps herbs clean during drying |
| Insect barrier | No risk of bugs on your herbs |
| Light shielding | Helps preserve color and flavor |
| Leaf catcher | Prevents mess if leaves fall |
| Enhanced airflow | Reduces mold risk when holes are added |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the holes: Without ventilation, moisture builds up and causes mold
- Putting wet herbs in the bag: Always pat dry and air dry before inserting
- Overfilling: Too many herbs in one bag slows down drying and may cause spoilage
- Hanging in humid areas: Bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms are not ideal
- Not labeling: Once dried, herbs often look similar — always label the bag
How to Store Herbs After Drying
Once herbs are fully dry:
- Remove the leaves from stems
- Store whole (not crushed) in airtight glass jars or tins
- Keep in a cool, dark place
- Label with herb name and drying date
Avoid plastic containers or clear jars left in sunlight — they degrade flavor and shorten shelf life.
FAQs
Can I dry any herb in a paper bag?
Yes. Most herbs — including basil, thyme, sage, parsley, and mint — dry well in paper bags, though leafy herbs need more airflow.
How do I know if herbs are dry enough?
They should crumble easily, with no moisture or flexibility. Stems should snap rather than bend.
Can I dry mixed herbs in the same bag?
No. Different herbs dry at different speeds. Dry each herb separately to avoid uneven drying and flavor mixing.
Do paper bags grow mold inside?
If herbs are inserted damp or the bag lacks holes, moisture can cause mold. Always ensure air circulation and use dry herbs only.
Is this method better than using a dehydrator?
Not necessarily better — just different. Paper bag drying is slower but more natural and doesn’t require electricity.
Final Thoughts
Drying herbs in a paper bag is a simple, reliable, and space-saving technique. It’s especially useful for indoor drying where pests, dust, or light may be an issue. With the right airflow and patience, you’ll end up with flavorful, aromatic herbs ready for use all year long.
Just remember: dry herbs gently, keep them dry inside the bag, and store them properly once finished. You’ll be amazed at the quality and taste you can preserve — naturally.