Storing Farm Fresh Eggs: Washing, Freshness Tests, and What to Do With Bad Eggs
If you raise chickens or buy eggs directly from a local farm like ours, you know farm fresh eggs don’t follow the same rules as grocery store eggs. From proper storage to whether or not to wash them, knowing how to care for fresh eggs keeps them safe, delicious, and waste-free.
This guide covers everything you need to know about storing farm fresh eggs, how to tell if an egg is still good using the float test, and what to do when eggs have truly gone bad.
How to Store Farm Fresh Eggs Properly
Farm fresh eggs are naturally protected by a thin coating called the bloom (or cuticle). This invisible layer seals the shell’s pores and helps keep bacteria out.
Storing Unwashed Farm Fresh Eggs
Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Or refrigerate for up to 3 months or longer.
Keep eggs unwashed until ready to use.
Store pointy end down to maintain freshness.
Many homesteads safely store clean, unwashed eggs on the counter, especially in cooler months.
Storing Washed Farm Fresh Eggs
Once eggs are washed, the bloom is removed.
Refrigerate immediately.
Store in a sealed container.
Use within 2-3 months.
Never leave washed eggs at room temperature.
Washed eggs must always stay cold.
Should You Wash Farm Fresh Eggs?
This is one of the most common farm egg questions and the answer depends on timing.
When to Wash Eggs
Wash your eggs right before use.
Wash eggs that are visibly dirty only if refrigerating.
Use warm water, not cold (cold water can pull bacteria inside the egg).
When Not to Wash Eggs
Don’t wash eggs you plan to store at room temperature.
Don’t wash eggs and then leave them unrefrigerated.
If eggs are clean, it’s best to leave them unwashed until needed.
How to Tell If Farm Fresh Eggs Are Still Good
The Egg Float Test Explained
The float test is a quick way to check freshness.
Fill a bowl with cold water.
Gently place the egg inside.
Results:
Sinks and lies flat: Very fresh
Sinks but stands upright: Older, but still usable
Floats: Egg is no longer good
Floating eggs have air buildup inside due to age.
Important: The float test shows age, not safety. Always crack eggs into a separate bowl and smell before using.
How Long Do Farm Fresh Eggs Last?
Unwashed, refrigerated: 3-6 months
Washed, refrigerated: 2-3 months
Hard-boiled: 7 days refrigerated
Farm fresh eggs often last significantly longer than store-bought eggs when stored properly.
How to Tell If an Egg Has Gone Bad
Discard eggs if you notice:
A strong sulfur or rotten smell.
Slimy or chalky texture.
Pink, green, or black discolouration.
Mold on the shell or inside
When in doubt, throw it out.
Safe Ways to Use or Dispose of Bad Eggs (Do NOT Eat)
Eggs that have gone bad should never be eaten, even if cooked. However, there are a few non-food, farm-safe uses:
Composting Bad Eggs
Crack eggs deep into an active compost pile
Cover immediately to deter pests
Adds calcium and nutrients to soil
Feeding the Soil (Not Animals)
Bury eggs deep in garden beds (not near roots)
Excellent slow-release nutrients
Disposal Tips
Seal eggs in a bag before trashing if composting isn’t an option
Clean hands and surfaces thoroughly
Do not feed spoiled eggs to humans or animals.
Honouring the Egg From Coop to Kitchen
When eggs come from your own hens or a trusted local farm, proper storage and handling matters. Understanding how to store farm fresh eggs, when to wash them, and how to check freshness helps reduce waste and protect your household.
Simple care keeps good food good, and makes the most of every egg gathered from the coop.
