If the dirt is stubborn or crusted on, you can cut it off with a knife. A clean and dry toothbrush also works well for this purpose. [4] X Research source
Soaking mushrooms is really only a good option for mushrooms collected in the wild, such as morels or chanterelles. [8] X Research source The vast majority of crimini mushrooms are raised commercially, and do not require soaking.
Fresh mushrooms are dry, light, and smell earthy (like mushrooms). If they smell at all bad, then they are.
