How long do eggs last in the fridge? (and the float test)
Quick answer: raw eggs in the shell keep 3 to 5 weeks in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below, counted from the day you bring them home. Hard-boiled eggs keep 1 week. Eggs can often still be used a little after the “sell by” date on the carton.
Egg storage chart
| Type of egg | Refrigerator (40°F / 4°C) | Freezer (0°F / -18°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Raw, in shell | 3-5 weeks | Do not freeze in shell |
| Raw whites | 2-4 days | 12 months |
| Raw yolks | 2-4 days | Freeze with a pinch of salt or sugar |
| Raw eggs, beaten | 2-4 days | 12 months |
| Hard-boiled, in or out of shell | 1 week | Not recommended (whites turn rubbery) |
| Egg dishes and casseroles | 3-4 days | 2-3 months |
| Opened liquid egg substitute | 3 days | Do not freeze once opened |
Times follow USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service guidance.
What the carton dates mean
- Sell by / Exp: a date for the store. Eggs are usually still good 3 to 5 weeks after purchase even if this date passes.
- Best by / Use by: a quality date chosen by the packer, not a safety cutoff.
- Pack date: a three-digit number (001 to 365) showing the day of the year the eggs were packed. 001 is January 1.
Why US eggs must be refrigerated
Commercial eggs in the US are washed, which removes the natural coating on the shell. That makes refrigeration necessary to limit Salmonella growth. Once eggs have been chilled, do not leave them out for more than 2 hours, because condensation on a warming shell can help bacteria through it. In many other countries eggs are not washed and are sold unrefrigerated. See how long food can sit out.
Storage tips
- Keep eggs in their carton, which protects them and stops them absorbing odors.
- Store them on a shelf, not in the door, where the temperature swings.
- Do not wash eggs before storing.
Does the float test work?
Place an egg in a bowl of water. A fresh egg sinks and lies flat. An older egg stands on end, and a very old egg floats, because the air cell inside grows as moisture escapes. The float test shows age, not safety: a floating egg is not necessarily unsafe, and a sinking egg can still carry bacteria. When in doubt, crack it into a separate bowl. An unpleasant smell or odd appearance means throw it out.
Cooking eggs safely
Cook eggs until the whites and yolks are firm, and cook egg dishes to 160°F (71°C). For soft, medium and hard results, see how to boil eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Can you eat eggs after the expiration date? Usually yes, within 3 to 5 weeks of purchase if they have been kept cold and look and smell normal.
How long do hard-boiled eggs last? 1 week in the fridge, peeled or unpeeled.
How long can eggs sit out? No more than 2 hours, or 1 hour above 90°F (32°C).