We’ve all grown up hearing the famous saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples are indeed packed with nutrients like vitamin C, calcium, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants that support digestion, immunity, and overall health. But what many people don’t realize is that the shiny apples we see in markets today often have a hidden layer of wax and pesticide residue — and consuming them without proper cleaning can do more harm than good.

To make apples look fresher and glossier for longer shelf life, sellers often coat them with a layer of synthetic wax. While this coating is meant to preserve the fruit, it can trap pesticides and dust, making it harmful if eaten directly. The wax itself can also be difficult for the stomach to digest, leading to toxin buildup over time.

So, before you take a bite, it’s important to know how to identify and remove that coating properly.

How to check for wax on apples
Gently scrape the apple’s surface with a knife — if you notice a thin white or shiny layer coming off, that’s wax. This means the apple needs to be cleaned thoroughly before eating.

Here are four safe and easy ways to remove wax from apples:

1. Use vinegar water
   Mix one teaspoon of vinegar in a bowl of water and soak the apples for about five minutes. Vinegar’s natural acidity helps dissolve the wax layer and remove bacteria. After soaking, rinse the apples well with plain water to remove any remaining vinegar taste.

2. Use salt water
   In a bowl of water, mix one teaspoon of salt and soak the apples for 10 minutes. Salt water helps break down the wax and kills surface bacteria. Afterward, rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean cloth before eating.

3. Use hot water
   Boil water and let it cool slightly. Dip the apples in the hot water for 2–3 minutes. Then, remove them and wipe with a cloth. This process helps soften and remove the wax layer easily while keeping the fruit’s nutrients intact.

4. Use lemon juice and baking soda
   Fill a bowl with water and add a teaspoon of baking soda and the juice of half a lemon. Soak the apples for 10 minutes, then rinse with clean water and dry. The combination of lemon’s acidity and baking soda’s cleaning properties effectively removes both wax and chemical residues.