How to Dry Mushrooms Without Electricity (Perfect for Off-Grid or SHTF)

How to Dry Mushrooms Without Electricity (Perfect for Off-Grid or SHTF)

Drying mushrooms is one of the best ways to preserve them long-term — especially when refrigeration or freezing isn’t an option. But what if the power goes out? Or you’re off-grid entirely? Whether you're homesteading, preparing for emergencies, or just experimenting with traditional methods, learning how to dry mushrooms without electricity is a skill worth having.

In this post, I’ll walk you through multiple low-tech ways to dry mushrooms using only natural heat, airflow, or simple home setups.

1. Air Drying on a Mesh Screen

If you're in a warm, dry climate with good airflow, you can air-dry mushrooms on a mesh screen or a homemade rack.

What you’ll need:

• A mesh screen (like a clean window screen or dehydrator tray)

• A dry, shaded spot with steady airflow (outdoor patio, shed, etc.)

• A fan (optional if electricity is available)

Steps:

1. Slice mushrooms thinly to speed up drying.

2. Lay them out in a single layer — not touching.

3. Elevate the screen on bricks or cans to allow air circulation underneath.

4. Let them dry for several days, turning occasionally.

Pro Tip: Cover with cheesecloth to keep bugs off.

2. String and Hang Drying

Perfect for mushrooms with firm stems like shiitake or oyster caps.

How:

• Use a needle and thread to string mushrooms through their stems.

• Hang them in a well-ventilated, shaded area.

• Avoid direct sun, which can degrade nutrients and flavor.

• Drying time: 3–7 days depending on conditions.

3. Solar Dehydrators

If you want a faster and more protected setup, you can build or buy a solar dehydrator.

Why it works:

• Uses passive solar heat with good airflow.

• Can be homemade from a cardboard box, black paint, clear plastic, and wire racks.

Tip: YouTube has tons of DIY solar dehydrator builds if you want to go all in.

4. Wood Stove Drying (For Winter)

If you have a wood stove going, take advantage of the ambient heat:

• Place a drying rack near (not directly on) the stove.

• Turn mushrooms every 6–12 hours.

• Use screens or baking racks with airflow on all sides.

Caution: Don't place mushrooms where they can cook or overheat. You want to dehydrate, not bake them.

5. Drying in a Car (Bonus Hack)

Believe it or not, a parked car in the sun acts like a mini greenhouse:

• Place mushrooms on a tray or rack inside your car.

• Crack windows slightly for airflow.

• Make sure they’re not in direct sunlight to avoid overheating or mold.

Note: This works surprisingly well in hot climates and is free to try.

How to Tell When Mushrooms Are Fully Dried

• They should snap when bent — not bend.

• No soft spots or moisture.

• Store in airtight jars or vacuum bags with a desiccant pack if available.

Final Thoughts: Why This Matters

In a power outage or SHTF event, preserving food without modern tools becomes essential. Knowing how to dry mushrooms the old-school way could mean the difference between having a shelf-stable food source or losing a harvest.

This is also one reason I’m working on a no-electricity mushroom growing guide. If you want to grow and preserve mushrooms when resources are limited, stick around — that guide is coming soon.

📘 Want to Start Growing Your Own Mushrooms?
Check out my current ebook on substrate, liquid culture, and agar recipes — or stay tuned for the upcoming SHTF Mushroom Growing Guide built for survival growers.