Do You Need to Wash Eggs? Here's What the Experts Say

Eggs are a kitchen staple, appearing in everything from breakfast scrambles to baked goods. But when you crack one open, do you ever wonder if you should have washed it first?

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it depends on where the egg came from. Grocery store eggs and farm-fresh (or backyard) eggs have different handling needs. Understanding these differences ensures that the eggs you use—whether from a supermarket, local farm, or your own coop—are safe to eat, properly stored, and at their best when they hit your plate.

When to Wash Eggs

Lisa Steele, a chicken expert in Maine who has written six books on the subject, explains that cleaning guidelines vary. Here's what you need to know:

Backyard or Farmers Market Eggs: Wash Right Before Use

Eggs laid by backyard chickens or sold at the farmers market have a natural protective coating called a bloom. This layer acts as a barrier, keeping bacteria out and moisture in. Washing removes this layer, which can shorten an egg’s shelf life and increase the risk of contamination.

Since fresh eggs from your own chickens or a farmers market retain their bloom, it allows for room-temperature storage for weeks. You should wash them only when you are about to use them, though—otherwise, bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, or Listeria on the shell could enter the egg when you crack it.

Commercial Eggs: Do Not Wash

Government regulations require that egg processors wash and sanitize USDA-graded eggs, removing their bloom. The USDA says it’s not recommended that you wash eggs once you get them home from the store, because doing so actually increases the risk of contamination (the wash water can permeate the shell). Your only job with commercial eggs is to make sure you keep them refrigerated.

How to Wash Local Eggs Safely

If the eggs from your coop or farmers market have visible dirt, you can use a rough sponge to remove debris, says Steele. Then, just before using the egg, follow these steps:

1. Use warm running water (20°F warmer than the egg) to prevent bacteria from being drawn inside.
   
2. Gently rub with your fingers or a soft sponge.
3. Dry immediately with a clean towel, and use.

Storing Eggs

Commercial eggs and ones from the farmers market or your own chickens can be stored differently. No matter the egg’s source, store it in a carton, pointed end down to maintain freshness and prevent yolk displacement.

• Commercial eggs: Keep them on the main shelves of your refrigerator. Avoid the top shelf or the corners of the fridge, where the cold air might circulate poorly, causing the eggs to freeze and break, and use them within three weeks.
• Backyard or farmers market eggs: Steele says you can safely leave unwashed eggs out on the counter at room temperature for 2 to 3 weeks, or refrigerate them for 6 months or more.