Fresh bread can go stale within two to three days, while store-bought bread lasts a maximum of one week.

This can make it difficult to use it up in time, but Tesco has recommended freezing bread.

According to the experts, freezing bread is “cost-effective” and “simple”.

As well as helping to save money, storing bread in the freezer helps to keep it crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.

Tesco said: “All bread can be frozen, but some kinds require a little more prep than others.

“The plastic wrap will prevent bread from drying out, and from absorbing other odours and flavours.

“If your loaf of bread is from an in-store bakery, or you’ve made a wholemeal or white load with our own hands, it requires a little more TLC.”

When the bread has completely cooled down, wrap it tightly in a plastic wrap or an airtight freezer bag.

It’ll last even longer if you then add a layer of foil on top of the plastic to lock all the freshness in and prevent freezer burn.

Tesco added: “You can keep it there for up to one month if it’s wrapped in a single layer. If you’ve done the double wrap, the bread will keep for as long as six months.

“Defrosting bread couldn’t be simpler. All you need to do is take it out of the freezer, remove any plastic wrap and leave it to thaw on your kitchen counter.”

The bread will return to its soft self in no time, but make sure to never freeze the loaf again.

Whole loaves can be defrosted in the oven by sprinkling a little water on it and heating at 160C for 20 to 30 minutes.

If you don’t want to freeze your homemade bread, make sure to store it in paper wrapping to allow just enough air to circulate.

Tesco noted: “Don’t underestimate the power of your humble bread bin or bread box either.

“A large bread bin helps to balance humidity with just the right amount of air circulation, preventing your bread from drying out without making it damp.

“As tempting as it is to store everything in your bread bin, it’s best to avoid over-stuffing it, as that prevents proper air circulation.”