You grab an egg from the carton and notice a little speck of dirt or straw on the shell. Your first thought: “I should wash it, right?”
Not so fast.
In most cases, it’s actually better not to wash your eggs before using them. If your eggs come straight from a farm or backyard flock, washing can increase the risk of contamination rather than reduce it.
Let’s break down why.
Why Eggs Don’t Need Washing
Eggs come with a natural protective coating called the bloom (or cuticle). This invisible, protein-rich layer:
- Seals the 7,000+ tiny pores in the shell
- Blocks bacteria like Salmonella from getting in
- Keeps the egg from losing moisture
Think of it as nature’s own food-grade seal. Washing eggs—especially with cold water—removes this barrier, creating a “doorway” for bacteria to enter. That’s why unwashed eggs are actually safer than washed ones.
The Risks of Washing Farm-Fresh Eggs
Eggshells are porous. If you remove the bloom too early, water can pull bacteria from the surface directly inside the egg. Experts recommend keeping eggs dry until the moment you’re ready to use them.
Store-Bought vs. Farm-Fresh Eggs
Store-Bought Eggs: Commercial eggs are usually washed and sanitized before reaching stores. The bloom is already gone, so refrigeration is necessary to keep bacteria at bay.
Farm-Fresh Eggs: These still have the protective bloom and can often sit at room temperature for several weeks. Washing them too soon removes this natural defense, so they must be used immediately or refrigerated.
Cleaning Dirty Eggs Safely
If an egg is very dirty:
- Dry cleaning: Gently rub dirt off with fine sandpaper or a dry cloth to keep the bloom intact.
- If using water: Make it warmer than the egg, dry immediately, and use the egg right away.
Cooking with Eggs
Eggs are versatile, whether for baking or breakfast. A few common measurements:
- 1/4 cup egg whites ≈ 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt for an omelet
- 3/4 cup milk for quiche
Final Thoughts
Eggs are one of the few foods where less cleaning is actually safer. Respecting the bloom keeps your eggs fresh, flavorful, and free from harmful bacteria.