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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/chick-wash-water-warmer

If you do wash a fresh egg, how warm should the water be?

At least 20°F warmer than the egg, and at least 90°F.

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  1. At least 20°F warmer than the egg ✔
  2. Ice cold, to kill germs
  3. Room temperature, whatever comes out

Why: Cold water makes the inside of the egg shrink, which pulls water and germs in through the shell. Warmer water pushes the other way.

Huh, didn't know that: Penn State says to agitate, but not submerge, one egg at a time.

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How do comedians like their eggs? Funny side up.
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References

Answer: At least 20°F warmer than the egg. Cold water makes the inside of the egg shrink, which pulls water and germs in through the shell. Warmer water pushes the other way.

  1. How to Safely Handle and Store Eggs from Your Home Flock, Penn State Extension extension.psu.edu/how-to-safely-handle-and-store-eggs-from-your-home-flock
    at least 20°F higher than the internal temperature of the egg, and a minimum of 90°F.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Backyard Poultry, CDC Healthy Pets, Healthy People www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/about/backyard-poultry.html
    Don't wash warm, fresh eggs because colder water can pull bacteria into the egg.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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