How Long Does Cheese Last After Opening? A Shelf Life Guide by Type

Cheese is one of life's greatest joys, but nothing spoils that joy faster than opening your fridge and discovering your favorite wedge has gone moldy. Whether you’re building a show-stopping charcuterie board or savoring slices straight from the block, knowing how long cheese lasts after opening (and how to store cheese properly) can make all the difference in preserving flavor and quality.

In this guide, we’ll break down the shelf life of cheese by type, share tips on how to best store cheese once you’ve opened it, and help you avoid common mistakes that can cut your cheese’s life short.

Soft Cheeses (1–2 Weeks)

Examples: Brie, Camembert, cream cheese, ricotta

Soft cheeses have high moisture content, which makes them deliciously spreadable, but also more perishable. Typically, these cheeses last about 1 to 2 weeks once opened. Always store soft cheeses in their original container or in airtight glassware in the fridge.

Pro Tip: Want to know how to store cheese in the fridge to prevent spoilage? Keep soft cheeses on the middle shelf, not in the door, to avoid temperature fluctuations. Also, keep them away from pungent foods, as soft cheeses can easily absorb surrounding odors.

Semi-Soft Cheeses (2–3 Weeks After Opening)

Examples: Havarti, Fontina, Muenster, Monterey Jack

These cheeses strike a balance between creamy and firm. When it comes to how to preserve cheese in this category once you’ve cracked it open, wrapping it in wax paper or parchment and then placing it in a loosely sealed plastic bag is ideal. This allows the cheese to breathe while still being protected from drying out.

For even better results, place the wrapped cheese in a designated cheese drawer or storage box within your refrigerator to maintain optimal humidity and reduce exposure to fluctuating temperatures.

Hard Cheeses (3–6 Weeks After Opening)

Examples: Cheddar, Swiss, Gouda, Gruyère

Hard cheeses last much longer due to lower moisture levels. Once opened, they typically stay good for 3 to 6 weeks if stored properly. If you’re wondering how to store cheese like cheddar or Swiss, the trick is wrapping it in cheese paper or wax paper and then loosely in foil. Avoid plastic wrap, which traps moisture and can encourage mold.

If mold appears on the surface of hard cheese, don’t panic. According to the FDA, it’s generally safe to cut away the mold (at least 1 inch around and below) and continue enjoying the rest.

Very Hard & Aged Cheeses (Up to 6 Months After Opening)

Examples: Parmesan, Asiago, Pecorino Romano

These cheeses are tough—literally and figuratively. Aged and low in moisture, they can last for months after being opened when stored correctly. How do you store cheese like Parmesan? Keep it in the fridge in a breathable wrap (cheese paper or wax paper) and avoid pre-grating until you're ready to use it to extend shelf life.

Whole blocks will last longer than shredded varieties. If you prefer grated cheese, consider grating only what you need at a time and storing the block separately to maintain freshness.

Fresh Cheeses (5–7 Days)

Examples: Mozzarella, queso fresco, feta (in brine)

These cheeses are best eaten quickly. If packed in brine (like feta), they may last a bit longer—up to 10 days. When thinking about how to preserve cheese like mozzarella, store it submerged in liquid and in an airtight container. For cheeses without brine, tightly cover and eat promptly.

Use clean utensils when handling fresh cheeses to avoid introducing bacteria that could shorten their shelf life.

Mold or Magic? When to Toss It

Not all mold is bad—after all, blue cheese is basically fancy mold. But if you spot fuzzy, green, or black mold on non-blue cheeses, it’s time to say goodbye. The FDA recommends discarding soft cheeses with mold, while hard cheeses may be salvageable by cutting away the affected area (at least 1 inch around and below).

Quick Reference: Cheese Shelf Life Chart

• Soft cheeses: 1–2 weeks after opening
• Semi-soft cheeses: 2–3 weeks after opening
• Hard cheeses: 3–6 weeks after opening
• Very hard/aged cheeses: Up to 6 months after opening
• Fresh cheeses: 5–7 days after opening

Tips for How to Best Store Cheese

• Store cheese in the coldest and darkest part of the fridge.
• Use breathable wraps like cheese paper, parchment, or wax paper—avoid plastic wrap when possible.
• Don’t pre-slice cheese unless necessary—it exposes more surface area to air and bacteria.
• Use a designated cheese box or container to maintain humidity and prevent odors from mingling.
• Check out our full guide: Cheese Storage 101: A Guide for Superior Freshness

With a little care—and the right knowledge on how to store cheese—you’ll keep your wedges, wheels, and blocks fresher for longer after you’ve opened them. Your cheese (and your taste buds) will thank you.