Depending on their ripeness when purchased, bananas will last on your countertop for anywhere from two to six days. If you always have bananas around, it's worth investing in a holder with a hook. Hanging the fruits eliminates the potential for bruising, which happens when bananas are lying on top of each other. You should also aim to keep the fruits away from direct sunlight, as the heat from the sun can cause them to ripen rapidly.

As with many fruits, refrigerating and freezing can extend the lives of bananas. However, if things get out of hand and you come home to a bunch of blackened bananas on your countertop, there's always one answer: banana bread.