Storing Eggs: To Wash or Not to Wash?

Eggs are one of nature’s most perfectly packaged foods—but should you mess with that package by washing them? Whether you keep backyard chickens or buy from a local farmer, it’s worth understanding the role of the egg’s protective coating, the differences in commercial vs. home practices, and how proper storage keeps eggs fresher (and safer) for longer.
 

How an Egg Is Made (and Why That Matters for Storage)

Inside the hen, an egg forms over 24–26 hours. First, the yolk forms, followed by layers of albumen (egg white) to cushion it. Then, shell membranes are added, and finally, a calcium shell forms around the egg in the uterus. Just before laying, the hen applies a natural coating called the bloom (also called the cuticle). This is a thin but powerful layer of enzymes and proteins that seals the shell's pores.

It might be invisible, but this coating does a lot of heavy lifting:

• Stops bacteria (like Salmonella and E. coli) from sneaking through the shell

• Prevents moisture loss

• Slows gas exchange, keeping the contents fresher for longer

A 2017 study from the University of Arkansas confirmed that eggs with their bloom intact stayed fresh up to twice as long as washed eggs—especially in cool, stable conditions. Nature knows best.
 

Backyard Eggs vs. Commercial Eggs: What’s the Difference?

Commercial Eggs (Supermarkets)

In Australia, all commercially sold eggs are legally required to be washed. This is done using warm water and approved sanitising agents like chlorine, and sometimes chemicals knows as QACs (quaternary ammonium compounds). These processes reduce surface bacteria and improve shelf appeal—but they also remove the protective bloom.

Without the bloom, eggs are vulnerable to contamination and spoilage. That’s why refrigeration is mandatory for washed eggs, and why supermarket eggs must be stored at or below 5°C. They also go through grading, packaging, transport, and shelf-stocking—which means by the time they land in your trolley, they could be up to three months old.
 

Backyard Eggs (Unwashed)

Backyard chickens, on the other hand, lay eggs that are usually collected daily, handled with care, and left unwashed. Keeping the bloom intact means you can safely store them:

• In a cool pantry (under 20°C) for up to 2 weeks

• In the fridge (under 5°C) for 6+ weeks

If your eggs are dirty and must be washed:

• Use warm water that’s slightly warmer than the egg

• Use only a mild food-safe detergent (or just water)

• Dry immediately and refrigerate straight away

• Use within one week

Daily collection also helps avoid cracks, contamination, and spoilage—especially during warmer months.

Tip: if the egg’s only dusty, skip the wash. A quick wipe with a dry cloth is usually enough.
 

Egg Storage: What the Science (and Common Sense) Says

Whether your eggs are store-bought or fresh from the coop, proper storage makes all the difference.

Handle gently – Cracks are a highway for bacteria. Discard any cracked eggs.

Keep consistent temperature – Avoid temperature swings (like pulling eggs in and out of the fridge), which cause condensation and invite bacteria in.

Float test – Fill a deep container of warm water and pop the egg inside. A fresh egg sinks. A floater? Probably best not to risk it.
 

Storage Recommendations

• Unwashed eggs: Cool room (<20°C) for up to 2 weeks; fridge (<5°C) for longer-term storage

• Washed eggs: Always refrigerate (<5°C) and use within 4 weeks
   

Washing Eggs: Pros, Cons, and When to Do It

There’s a bit of a debate around whether you should wash eggs at all—especially among backyard keepers. Here’s the lowdown:

Pros:

• Removes visible dirt, faeces, or bedding

• Necessary for commercial sale

Cons:

• Removes the protective bloom

• Makes eggs more susceptible to bacteria 

• Shortens shelf life, even with refrigeration

• Increases risk of contamination if washed incorrectly

If you choose to wash at home:

• Never use cold water—it can pull bacteria into the egg

• Use gentle scrubbing tools and food-safe cleaning products

• Store washed eggs in the fridge immediately and use them within 1 week

It’s also worth asking: Have your eggs already been washed? If you're buying from a farmers’ market or backyard seller, ask. It affects how you should store them.
 

Why Storage Matters (More Than You Think)

Storing eggs incorrectly doesn’t just affect freshness—it can affect your health.

Salmonella is a bacteria that can be present inside or outside an egg, especially in commercial farms where many hens are kept in close quarters. Washing eggs helps reduce surface contamination, but it removes the bloom and increases the importance of refrigeration. In backyard flocks, Salmonella risk is generally lower—but good hygiene and safe storage still matter.

Symptoms of Salmonella infection include nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, fever, and vomiting. Children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk.

So even if you're team “unwashed and room temp,” store smart:

• Don’t leave eggs (especially washed ones) in a warm environment

• Collect daily, check for cracks, and rotate your eggs to use older ones first
   

Practical Tips for Egg Safety

• Know the bloom: If your eggs haven’t been washed, they’re protected—don’t mess with them unless you need to.

• Store based on condition: Washed = fridge. Unwashed = cool pantry or fridge.

• Ask your supplier: If you're not sure, find out if the eggs have been washed.

• Handle with care: Cracks are a no-go. Toss them.

• Avoid fridge ping-pong: Consistent cold is best. Skip the back-and-forth.

• Collect every day: Keeps eggs clean and reduces spoilage.
   

Final Thoughts: Don’t Overthink It, Just Store Smart

If you’re buying supermarket eggs, you can be sure they’ve been washed—and they must go straight into the fridge. But if you're lucky enough to enjoy fresh backyard eggs, keeping them unwashed and stored correctly can reward you with unbeatable taste and longer shelf life.

So don’t rush for the sponge. Trust the bloom, stay cool (literally), and enjoy the eggs the way nature intended.