Check if an egg is fresh with a glass of water

Fresh eggs sink and lie flat. Older eggs stand up or float.

KitchenTakes 30 secondsFree

Updated October 24, 2026

How to do it

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1Fill a tall glass or bowl with cold water.
2Gently lower the egg in.
3If it sinks and lies on its side, it's fresh.
4If it sinks but stands on its end, it's older. Use it soon, ideally hard-boiled or baked.
5If it floats, it's old. Crack it into a separate bowl and smell it. If it smells bad or looks off, throw it out.

Good to knowThis tells you how old an egg is. A bad smell or odd look means it's spoiled, whatever the test shows.

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