Remove the pits from the dates if they haven't been pitted already. This is important as the pits can be a choking hazard.

Place the dates in a bowl or container and cover them with water. The water should be at room temperature or slightly warm.

Allow the dates to soak for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. The longer they soak, the softer and more tender they will become.

Drain the water from the dates and rinse them thoroughly.

The soaked dates can now be eaten as is or used in recipes.