Tomatoes give off ethylene gas, so keep them away from other fruits on the counter to avoid over-ripening.
Storing them vine/stem side down will ensure that the delicate bases of the tomatoes do not get squished or bruised. Once fully ripe, place tomatoes in a bag and store them in the refrigerator to prolong shelf life. For the best flavor, bring tomatoes back to room temperature before serving.
The same rules apply to cherry tomatoes. Keep them on the counter in a bowl if possible. If your cherry tomatoes are very ripe or your kitchen is very warm, move them into the fridge. But, as with all tomatoes, let them come to room temperature again before freezing for the best flavor and texture.
To speed up the ripening process, store tomatoes in a paper bag with an apple.
Learn easy techniques to preserve seasonal tomato bounty.
