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Spring/Summer is the time for eggs, and when laying starts the chooks generally stop pooing in their nesting boxes, which is great - clean egg shells and less cleaning to do.
If you do have grotty eggs, clean them with a damp nail brush or cloth then immediately wipe dry. Never wash eggs as this can cause bacteria to leach through the (very porous) eggshell and contaminate the egg.
Opinions differ on whether eggs should be refrigerated. I refrigerate them, but always in an egg carton to reduce drying out. I feel this is important because if contamination of the egg contents has occurred refrigeration will prevent the bacteria from multiplying and keep it safe for consumption.
To ensure you are following a first laid, first consumed procedure it's a good idea to mark the egg carton or write the laying date on the egg with pencil. This is a particularly good idea if you are giving your eggs to friends. It wouldn't do to offer a sub standard product!
Heather Evershed