Check the color: darker skin often means riper, but color varies by variety
Gently squeeze the avocado in your palm
Choose one that yields slightly to pressure without feeling mushy
Avoid avocados that feel very hard if you want to eat them soon
Avoid avocados with soft spots, dents, or squishy areas
Look for a stem cap that is intact and easy to remove
If the stem cap comes off and the area underneath is green, it is likely ripe
If the stem cap comes off and the area underneath is brown, it may be overripe
Pick firmer avocados for ripening at home
Pick softer avocados for immediate use
Check for even shape and smooth skin
Avoid avocados with large cuts, cracks, or mold
Buy multiple ripeness levels if you need them over several days