Eggs are a staple in most kitchens, but many people wonder: How long do eggs last in the fridge? Whether you buy eggs from the store or have farm-fresh ones, proper storage is key to keeping them safe, fresh, and flavorful.
In this guide, we’ll explore how long eggs last, the best way to store them, and how to tell if they’ve gone bad. Plus, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about egg freshness and storage.
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Why Proper Egg Storage Matters: Safety & Freshness
Eggs may seem like a simple ingredient, but they require proper handling to maintain freshness and prevent foodborne illnesses like salmonella. Storing eggs incorrectly or keeping them too long can lead to bacterial growth and loss of quality.
Here’s why proper egg storage matters:
✅ Prevents Spoilage: Eggs can last for weeks when stored correctly. Improper storage, however, shortens their lifespan.
✅ Retains Flavor & Texture: Fresh eggs cook better and taste better. Old eggs may become watery and lose their structure.
✅ Reduces Food Waste: By knowing how long eggs last, you’ll waste fewer ingredients and save money.
Now, let’s break down exactly how long eggs stay fresh in the fridge and what factors affect their shelf life.
If you’re using eggs in homemade dishes like Grandma’s Chicken Soup, ensuring they’re fresh can make all the difference in flavor and texture.
How Long Do Eggs Last in the Fridge? Understanding Expiration Dates
The shelf life of eggs depends on whether they’re fresh, store-bought, or separated (egg whites/yolks). Here’s a breakdown of how long each type lasts in the refrigerator:
| Type of Egg | Refrigerated Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Store-bought eggs (in-shell) | 4-5 weeks past sell-by date |
| Farm-fresh eggs (unwashed) | Up to 3 months |
| Egg whites (separated) | 2-4 days |
| Egg yolks (separated) | 1-2 days |
| Hard-boiled eggs (in-shell) | 7 days |
| Hard-boiled eggs (peeled) | 5 days |
| Scrambled eggs (cooked, stored in fridge) | 3-4 days |
Pro Tip: Always check the “sell-by” or “expiration date” on store-bought eggs, but remember—eggs often stay fresh beyond this date if stored properly.
Can You Keep Eggs for 6 Months?
Technically, yes, but it depends on how they’re stored. Store-bought eggs will not stay fresh for 6 months in the fridge, but you can extend their shelf life by:
✅ Freezing eggs (crack them into an airtight container before freezing).
✅ Using mineral oil to coat farm-fresh eggs (this helps seal them and prevents air from getting inside).
✅ Storing unwashed, farm-fresh eggs in a cool place.
However, for best quality, use eggs within 3 months. Anything longer than that risks loss of flavor and texture.
How Long Do Egg Whites Last in the Fridge?
If you’ve separated your eggs, the egg whites don’t last as long as whole eggs. In the fridge, egg whites last about 2-4 days.
To extend their shelf life, you can:
🥶 Freeze them in an ice cube tray for up to 12 months.
🧊 Store them in an airtight container to prevent odors from absorbing.
Pro Tip: If egg whites become watery or develop a funky smell, discard them immediately.
How Long Do Fresh Eggs Last in the Fridge?
If you’re using farm-fresh eggs, their storage time depends on whether they’ve been washed:
🟢 Unwashed fresh eggs: Can last up to 3 months in the fridge because their natural bloom protects them.
🔴 Washed fresh eggs: Should be used within 4-5 weeks, just like store-bought eggs.
Want longer storage? Freeze fresh eggs by cracking them into a container and whisking lightly before freezing.
How to Tell If Your Eggs Are Still Fresh
Even if your eggs look fine, they may not be as fresh as you think. Luckily, there are a few easy ways to check if your eggs are still good before using them.
1. The Float Test (Most Reliable Method)
The float test is a simple way to check if your eggs are fresh. Here’s how to do it:
1️⃣ Fill a bowl with cold water.
2️⃣ Gently place the egg into the water.
3️⃣ Observe what happens:
- Fresh eggs sink to the bottom and rest flat.
- Slightly older eggs will stand upright but still touch the bottom.
- Bad eggs will float to the top—discard immediately!
Why does this work? Over time, eggshells become porous, allowing air to enter. More air inside the egg means it’s older and likely spoiled.
2. The Smell Test
Rotten eggs have a strong sulfur-like smell. To check:
✔️ Crack the egg onto a plate.
✔️ If it smells bad, throw it away immediately.
✔️ A fresh egg will have little to no odor.
Tip: If an egg is slightly old but doesn’t smell, you can still use it for baking or boiling.
3. The Shake Test
Hold the egg near your ear and shake it lightly.
✔️ If you hear sloshing sounds, the egg is bad (the yolk has broken down).
✔️ If there’s no sound, the egg is fresh and safe to eat.
The Best Way to Store Eggs for Maximum Freshness
Proper storage extends the shelf life of eggs and keeps them safe to eat. Follow these tips to keep your eggs fresh:
✅ Always store eggs in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below.
✅ Keep eggs in their original carton to prevent moisture loss and odor absorption.
✅ Don’t store eggs in the fridge door—this area is exposed to temperature fluctuations when the door opens.
✅ Wash only before use (if using farm-fresh eggs) to maintain their natural protective coating.
✅ Freeze eggs if you need to store them for longer than a few months (crack, whisk, and freeze in an airtight container).
Did you know? Eggs stored properly in the fridge can last 4-5 weeks beyond their sell-by date without any issues!
Just like eggs, dairy products such as Greek yogurt need proper storage to maintain their freshness and prevent spoilage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Eggs
Even though eggs are fairly easy to store, small mistakes can shorten their shelf life or make them unsafe to eat. Here are the most common egg storage mistakes and how to avoid them:
🚫 1. Storing Eggs in the Fridge Door
Many refrigerators have egg compartments in the door, but this is the worst place to store eggs. The temperature fluctuates every time you open the fridge, which reduces their freshness.
✅ Solution: Store eggs on a middle shelf in their original carton where the temperature stays stable.
🚫 2. Washing Farm-Fresh Eggs Too Soon
If you get farm-fresh eggs, they have a natural protective coating (bloom) that keeps bacteria out. Washing them removes this protection, making them spoil faster.
✅ Solution: Only wash fresh eggs right before using them. If you must wash them early, store them in the fridge immediately.
🚫 3. Storing Eggs in Open Containers
Eggs absorb odors from strong-smelling foods like onions and garlic. Keeping them uncovered can affect their taste and quality.
✅ Solution: Keep eggs in their carton or a sealed container to prevent odor absorption.
🚫 4. Using Cracked or Dirty Eggs
A cracked shell exposes eggs to bacteria, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. If an egg is cracked or has dirt on it, it’s best to discard it.
✅ Solution: Always check for cracks before storing and never use visibly dirty eggs unless properly washed before cooking.
🚫 5. Not Checking Expiration Dates
While eggs often last beyond their sell-by date, keeping track of how long they’ve been stored helps prevent eating spoiled eggs.
✅ Solution: Use the float test or write down the purchase date to ensure freshness.
Check the Expiration Date
While eggs can often last beyond their “sell by” or “expiration” dates, it’s a good starting point. Properly refrigerated eggs can remain fresh for 3–5 weeks past the pack date. check out this resource that dives deeper into the topic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Egg Storage
Can you eat eggs 2 months in the fridge?
Yes, if they’ve been properly stored in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below. Perform the float test to check freshness before using.
Are 3-month-old eggs safe to eat?
Possibly. Unwashed, farm-fresh eggs can last up to 3 months in the fridge, but store-bought eggs should be used within 4-5 weeks. If unsure, do the smell or float test before eating.
How do you know when refrigerated eggs go bad?
The best ways to tell if an egg is bad:
- It floats in water (indicating too much air inside).
- It smells like sulfur when cracked.
- It has a watery or discolored yolk.
How long do scrambled eggs last in the fridge?
Scrambled eggs last 3-4 days in an airtight container. Always reheat them thoroughly before eating.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Eggs Fresh for Longer
Eggs are a nutritious and versatile food, but storing them properly is key to keeping them fresh and safe to eat. Follow these simple tips:
✔️ Store eggs in their carton on a fridge shelf (not the door).
✔️ Use the float test if you’re unsure about freshness.
✔️ Keep farm-fresh eggs unwashed until ready to use.
✔️ Eat cooked eggs within a few days for best quality.
By following these guidelines, you’ll always have safe, fresh eggs ready to use for all your favorite recipes!