Refrigerate Freshly Washed Eggs Promptly

At Eggspress Yourself, we know there's more than one way to care for fresh eggs. Some backyard chicken keepers never wash eggs before storing them, while others prefer to wash them soon after collecting. Whichever approach you choose, there's one important rule to remember:

If you wash your fresh eggs, refrigerate them promptly.

Freshly laid eggs have a natural protective coating called the bloom (or cuticle). This invisible layer helps protect the egg by reducing the movement of bacteria and moisture through the shell.

When eggs are washed, much of that natural bloom is reduced or removed. Without it, the eggs should be refrigerated right away to help slow bacterial growth and maintain freshness.

Our Tip

🥚 If you choose to wash your eggs, place them in the refrigerator as soon as they're dry.

For best results:

• Wash eggs with clean water that is warmer than the egg itself.
• Dry eggs completely before placing them in the refrigerator.
• Store eggs in their carton to help protect them from bumps and refrigerator odors.
• Keep your refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) for optimal storage.

Whether you leave the bloom intact or choose to wash your eggs, proper handling goes a long way toward preserving freshness. At Eggspress Yourself, we're passionate about helping backyard chicken keepers care for their eggs with practical, easy-to-follow advice. Be sure to check back for more Daily Egg Tips to help you make the most of every dozen.