How Long Do Hard-Boiled Eggs Last?

Hard-boiled eggs may seem like the ultimate convenience food—easy to make, packed with protein, and ready to grab on the go. But, despite their sturdy shells, they don’t last forever. Unlike raw eggs, which can stay fresh for weeks, hard-boiled eggs have a much shorter shelf life, and improper storage can turn a quick snack into a big mistake. The good news? With the right storage methods, you can keep hard-boiled eggs fresh for as long as possible. Whether you’re slicing them into salads, mashing them up for egg salad, or sprinkling them over avocado toast, knowing how to store hard-boiled eggs properly means you’ll always have a quick and delicious snack on hand.

How to Store Hard-Boiled Eggs

Once your hard-boiled eggs are done cooking, allow them to cool before storing them in an airtight food storage container in your refrigerator. Additionally, leave the shells on until you’re ready to eat the eggs. The shells help lock in moisture and keep unwanted fridge odors away. When stored this way, hard-boiled eggs will stay good for up to a week. 

If you’ve already peeled the eggs, put them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out—just be sure to eat them within a day or two for the best taste and texture. And whatever you do, don’t leave them sitting out too long. Hard-boiled eggs are best enjoyed fresh, not forgotten on the counter!

How Long Do Hard-Boiled Eggs Last in the Refrigerator?

Want your hard-boiled eggs to stay fresh for a full week? Simply leave the shells on—they’re like nature’s own food storage container—and store them in the refrigerator in an actual food storage container. If you need to peel your eggs ahead of time for added convenience, just be sure to eat them from the fridge within a day or two.

Can You Freeze Hard-Boiled Eggs?

Believe it or not, frozen hard-boiled eggs can be used in many different garnishes and sauces—well, really just the yolks. The trouble with freezing whole hard-boiled eggs is that the whites don’t hold up well; they become rubbery and release excess moisture, making them watery. 

To freeze hard-boiled egg yolks, just separate them from the whites and place them in an airtight container. Use them at a later date to grate over salads, or add to a dressing or sauce. 

Signs Your Boiled Eggs Have Gone Bad

When it comes to hard-boiled eggs, freshness is key. A strong, sulfur-like smell is the first red flag that indicates an egg is past its prime—if it stinks, it’s no good. Texture matters too; if the egg white feels slimy or the yolk is unusually dry or chalky, it’s best to toss it. 

Discoloration can also be a warning sign of spoilage. While a greenish-gray ring around the yolk is harmless, any strange spots or an off-color sheen is a tell-tale sign that your eggs have gone bad. If you’re unsure, peel the egg and give it a sniff—bad eggs make themselves known pretty quickly. When in doubt, don’t risk it—no one wants to eat a rotten egg.