It might seem like common sense to wash eggs before cooking them, especially if there is dirt or residue on the shell. But for many eggs, washing them before storing them is actually not recommended. Eggs naturally have a thin protective coating called the bloom or cuticle, which helps prevent bacteria from entering through the tiny pores in the shell.

That means washing an egg can remove part of this natural protection. Instead of rinsing eggs as soon as you bring them home, experts generally recommend keeping them refrigerated in their original carton and avoiding unnecessary washing. If an egg has only a small amount of dirt on the shell, gently wiping it with a dry paper towel or brush can be a better option.

Of course, food safety doesn’t end with the shell. Eggs should be stored properly in the refrigerator and cooked thoroughly, especially for young children, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system. Cooking the egg until both the white and yolk are firm significantly reduces the risk of foodborne illness.

So, the next time you’re about to wash your eggs, think twice. Clean-looking eggs aren’t necessarily safer eggs, and removing their natural protective coating may do more harm than good. If an egg is unusually dirty, follow local food-safety guidance for cleaning it immediately before use rather than washing it and then storing it.