Put them somewhere to dry? LOL Do you mean lighter in weight or lighter in color? Lighter in weight probably is an indication they are already drying.I don't know how big they are but if they aren't very big you can slip them down inside the cut off legs of old panty hose and hang them somewhere to dry.In a garage,shed or under a carport?? Or sit them somewhere out of the weather to dry,like on a pallet or something so the air can circulate around them. The brown spots may be mold forming,which is natural.Some people clean them with a solution of bleach and water to help keep the mold off,but personally I think what will be underneath the mold when the gourds are completely dried and cleaned is what gives them their unique look........Lillie

where should they go to dry? I live in Maine and it is getting cold here. Do I keep them in a closet or a basement? Should they be out of the sun? I am not sure what to do with them but it is going to be cold tonight so I was thinking of getting them inside.
I think the lighter gourd might have mold or rot on it.. I am not sure how to tell. It is brown.

I live in Central NY zone 5 I dry mine in my kitchen... takes all winter before they dry... good luck.

Good air flow is essential to minimize rotting and mold. If you're not going to leave them in the field, anywhere cold, dry and somewhat protected is optimal. I have found the sun to be helpful in the drying process. Darkness seems to exacerbate heavy mold growth. Good Luck!

I have a pallet here left behind from the roofers. Can I put them on the pallet in the vegie garden and let them dry outside. I'm in zone 4 in the Adirondacks. Our winters are cold, damp, and wet. Thanks for any info.