A soft brush with thin bristles can be used to brush off dirt and clean in-between the gills of your mushrooms. Alternatively, washing the mushroom under running water does the job but avoid prolong soaking. Pat dry with paper towel. Cleaning or washing of mushrooms should only be done when they are about to be cooked.

If the mushroom stem is tough, trim it before using. For shiitakes, stems can be removed before use. For portobello, gills may be removed base on individual preference. Most people prefer to keep the gills intact for more flavor.