Storing hatching eggs correctly before incubation is crucial to ensure a high hatch rate and healthy chicks. Improper storage can lead to embryo death, weak chicks, and failed hatches. Many poultry farmers and backyard breeders overlook proper egg handling, which results in poor fertility and low success rates.
In this detailed guide, we will cover:
✅ Ideal storage conditions (temperature, humidity, and positioning)
✅ How long you can store eggs before incubation
✅ Best containers for egg storage
✅ How to prevent contamination and embryo death
✅ Common mistakes and how to avoid them
✅ How to prepare eggs for incubation after storage
By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge to store hatching eggs correctly and increase hatch rates up to 95%.
How Long Can Hatching Eggs Be Stored?
Freshly laid fertile eggs are highly sensitive to storage conditions. The longer you store them, the lower the hatchability.
Ideal Storage Duration for Maximum Hatchability:
| Storage Duration | Expected Hatch Rate |
|---|---|
| 1-3 days | 95-100% (Best hatch rates) |
| 4-7 days | 85-95% (Still very good) |
| 8-10 days | 70-85% (Slight decline) |
| 11-14 days | 50-70% (Not recommended) |
| 15+ days | Below 50% (High embryo mortality) |
⚠ Best Practice: Try to incubate eggs within 7 days for the highest hatch rate. If storing beyond 10 days, fertility starts dropping sharply.
Optimal Temperature & Humidity for Storing Hatching Eggs
1. Temperature Control
The ideal storage temperature is 55-65°F (13-18°C).
✅ Why is this temperature best?
- Prevents the embryo from developing too soon
- Slows down deterioration but doesn’t kill fertility
- Reduces bacterial growth inside the shell
🚫 Avoid These Temperature Mistakes:
❌ Below 50°F (10°C) – Too cold! Can cause embryo death.
❌ Above 75°F (24°C) – Too warm! The embryo may start developing too soon, leading to weak chicks.
❌ Refrigerator Storage – Most household fridges are too cold (35-40°F), which kills the embryo.
2. Humidity Control
The ideal humidity for storing eggs is 70-80%.
💧 Why is humidity important?
- Too low (below 50%) – Eggs lose too much moisture, making chicks dehydrated and weak.
- Too high (above 85%) – Can cause condensation, blocking oxygen flow and increasing bacterial contamination.
🔹 Pro Tip: Use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels in the storage area.
How to Store Hatching Eggs Correctly for Best Results
1. Always Store Eggs Pointed-End Down
📌 Why? The air cell (at the round end) needs to stay on top so the embryo develops properly.
🚫 Never store eggs on their sides for long periods! This can cause the embryo to stick to the shell, reducing hatchability.
2. Turn the Eggs at Least Twice a Day
📌 Why? Turning prevents the yolk from sticking to the shell, ensuring proper embryo development.
✅ How to Turn the Eggs Properly:
- Rotate eggs at least twice a day (morning & evening).
- A 30-45° tilt is ideal (mimicking a broody hen’s movement).
🚫 What Happens If You Don’t Turn the Eggs?
❌ The embryo sticks to the shell and may not develop properly.
❌ Higher risk of deformities in chicks.
❌ Lower hatch rate due to improper positioning.
3. Avoid Direct Sunlight or Heat Exposure
- Too much heat can start embryo development too early, leading to weak chicks.
- Direct sunlight can overheat the eggs, causing premature death.
🚫 Do NOT place eggs near:
❌ Windows or heat vents
❌ Radiators or ovens
❌ Areas with frequent temperature fluctuations
Best Containers for Storing Hatching Eggs
The right storage container protects eggs from damage, contamination, and moisture loss.
✅ Best Storage Options:
✔ Egg Trays (Plastic or Foam) – Keep eggs pointed-end down with airflow.
✔ Wooden or Plastic Baskets – Allow natural ventilation.
✔ Cool & Dark Cabinets or Shelves – Maintains a stable environment.
🚫 Avoid These Storage Methods:
❌ Sealed Plastic Bags – Traps moisture, leading to bacterial growth.
❌ Eggs Stacked on Top of Each Other – Increases risk of cracks.
❌ Placing in Damp Areas – Leads to mold growth on eggshells.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Hatching Eggs
🚫 Mistake #1: Storing Eggs in the Refrigerator
- The cold temperature (35-40°F) kills the embryo.
- Humidity is too low, drying out the eggs.
🚫 Mistake #2: Not Turning the Eggs
- Leads to embryo sticking to the shell.
- Can cause deformities or early embryo death.
🚫 Mistake #3: Washing Eggs Before Storage
- Washing removes the protective bloom that prevents bacteria from entering.
- If eggs are dirty, gently wipe them with a dry cloth.
🚫 Mistake #4: Storing Eggs Too Long Before Incubation
- Fertility drops significantly after 10 days.
- Older eggs have weaker embryos and higher mortality rates.
🚫 Mistake #5: Sudden Temperature Changes
- Rapid warming or cooling causes condensation.
- Moisture on the shell lets bacteria enter, killing the embryo.
How to Prepare Eggs for Incubation After Storage
Before incubation, follow these steps to ensure maximum hatchability:
1. Gradually Warm the Eggs to Room Temperature
- Let eggs sit at 70-75°F for 6-12 hours before incubation.
- This prevents thermal shock and condensation.
2. Candle the Eggs to Check for Cracks
- Use a bright flashlight or egg candler to look for:
✅ Healthy air cells – Indicate good fertility
❌ Cracks – Risk of bacterial infection
❌ Detached Air Cells – Indicates improper storage
3. Maintain Proper Incubation Conditions
- Temperature: 99.5°F (37.5°C)
- Humidity: 50-55% (before lockdown), 65-75% (during hatching)
- Turn eggs regularly until day 18
Final Thoughts – Best Practices for Storing Hatching Eggs
To ensure a high hatch rate, remember these key points:
✔ Store eggs pointed-end down at 55-65°F
✔ Maintain 70-80% humidity to prevent dehydration
✔ Turn the eggs twice daily to keep embryos healthy
✔ Store eggs in egg trays or ventilated baskets
✔ Avoid refrigeration, washing, or stacking eggs
✔ Incubate eggs within 7 days for best results
Following these steps will increase your hatch rate, ensuring strong, healthy chicks.