Best Practices for Storing Eggs Before Incubation and Ideal Temperature for Setting

[CoopBuilder]

As far as storing eggs before incubation goes, I recommend storing them no longer than 7 days, and they should be kept at a cool room temperature (around 55°F). Be sure to turn them regularly to maintain their viability. If you're going to incubate the eggs, allow them to warm to room temperature before placing them in the incubator. This ensures that the temperature change from cool to warm doesn't shock the embryos inside.

[Eggnigma]

For optimal hatch rates, eggs should not be stored for more than a week, and they should be kept in a cool place (ideally around 55°F). They should also be turned a few times daily to maintain the embryos' viability. When ready to set the eggs, make sure they reach room temperature before placing them in the incubator. If the eggs are too cold when you set them, it can shock the embryos. Avoid incubating eggs that have been stored in extreme temperatures for prolonged periods.

[CrowingMystic]

You can store eggs for a maximum of 7 days before putting them in the incubator, although shorter storage times are generally better. Keep them in a cool room (50-60°F) and turn them gently once or twice a day. Do not refrigerate eggs unless necessary, as it can affect hatch rates. Before placing them in the incubator, allow them to reach room temperature (68-72°F) to prevent temperature shock. This ensures that the embryos develop consistently.

[IreneIncubator]

Hi everyone,

I have a few eggs I want to incubate, but Im not sure about the best way to store them before setting them in the incubator. How long can you leave the eggs out at room temperature before putting them in the incubator? And when setting the eggs, what temperature should they be at? Should I let them come to room temperature if they were stored in a cooler place?

I want to make sure Im giving them the best chance for a successful hatch, so any advice on the timing and conditions for storing eggs before incubation would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

The best practice is to incubate eggs as soon as possible after collection. However, if you need to store them, keep them at around 50-60°F for up to 7 days. Eggs should not be refrigerated, as the cold can affect hatchability. When it's time to set the eggs, allow them to warm to room temperature before placing them in the incubator. This helps avoid thermal shock. If eggs are stored too long or at fluctuating temperatures, the embryos may not develop properly.

[BackyardBanter]

From my experience, I store eggs for no more than 7 days before incubating them. If they need to be stored for longer, I try to keep them at a cool temperature, around 50°F, and turn them daily. I wouldn't recommend refrigerating eggs, as it can reduce hatchability. Once you're ready to incubate, let the eggs come to room temperature before setting them in the incubator to ensure they don't experience any temperature shock. That's worked well for me in the past.