Clean chicken eggs - Ask Extension
My backyard chickens have just begun laying eggs. What is the best way to clean them? I will store them in the fridge.
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Clean chicken eggs #892633
Asked February 13, 2025, 2:00 PM EST
My backyard chickens have just begun laying eggs. What is the best way to clean them? I will store them in the fridge.
Geauga County Ohio
Expert Response
Hello Annie,
When collecting fresh chicken eggs, it is generally recommended, unless it is absolutely necessary, avoid washing eggs. Instead, wait until right before using them and only wash if they are visibly dirty. A freshly laid egg is coated with a moist outer membrane. This coating dries right away, forming a barrier that retards moisture loss & prevents
bacteria from entering the egg. If you must wash them, you remove that coating on the eggshell, which can shorten their shelf life and allow bacteria to enter if not stored properly in the refrigerator. Always wash with warm water and dry thoroughly before storing in the refrigerator.
Key points about washing fresh eggs:
When collecting fresh chicken eggs, it is generally recommended, unless it is absolutely necessary, avoid washing eggs. Instead, wait until right before using them and only wash if they are visibly dirty. A freshly laid egg is coated with a moist outer membrane. This coating dries right away, forming a barrier that retards moisture loss & prevents
bacteria from entering the egg. If you must wash them, you remove that coating on the eggshell, which can shorten their shelf life and allow bacteria to enter if not stored properly in the refrigerator. Always wash with warm water and dry thoroughly before storing in the refrigerator.
Key points about washing fresh eggs:
- Only wash when necessary: If the eggs are clean with minimal debris, simply wipe them with a dry cloth.
- Use warm water: Wash eggs with warm water (around 100°F) to help push bacteria out through the pores.
- Do not soak: Rinse eggs under running water instead of soaking them in a bowl.
- Gentle cleaning: Use a soft brush or sponge to clean the eggs, avoiding scrubbing too hard which can damage the shell.
- Dry completely: After washing, thoroughly dry the eggs with a clean towel before storing.
- Refrigerate promptly: Once washed, store eggs in the refrigerator to ensure proper food safety.
Thanks again Eric!
So best practice is not to wash an egg unless necessary, i.e. visibly soiled. Just clean it gently with a soft cloth, refrigerate, then use, without ever washing?
Thanks for the clarification,
and all the help you provide through the extension,
Annie
On Friday, February 14, 2025, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
>
So best practice is not to wash an egg unless necessary, i.e. visibly soiled. Just clean it gently with a soft cloth, refrigerate, then use, without ever washing?
Thanks for the clarification,
and all the help you provide through the extension,
Annie
On Friday, February 14, 2025, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
>
Hello Again Annie!
Yes, you are correct with your statement of "So best practice is not to wash an egg unless necessary, i.e. visibly soiled. Just clean it gently with a soft cloth, refrigerate, then use, without ever washing?" That is correct and that is the common approach with people who raise free-range chickens; however, if you are uncomfortable with that approach, you can wash them and keep them the refrigerator.
I found this detailed fact sheet from Iowa State on how to correctly clean eggs. https://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/Assets/tipsheet-cd-eggs.pdf
If you have ANY questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Yes, you are correct with your statement of "So best practice is not to wash an egg unless necessary, i.e. visibly soiled. Just clean it gently with a soft cloth, refrigerate, then use, without ever washing?" That is correct and that is the common approach with people who raise free-range chickens; however, if you are uncomfortable with that approach, you can wash them and keep them the refrigerator.
I found this detailed fact sheet from Iowa State on how to correctly clean eggs. https://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/Assets/tipsheet-cd-eggs.pdf
If you have ANY questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
