Eggs that have been refrigerated should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. This is because bacteria can multiply quickly on eggs once they warm up, and condensation on the shell can facilitate bacterial penetration

. For hard-boiled eggs, the same 2-hour rule applies—they should be refrigerated within 2 hours after cooking to prevent spoilage, and they can last about a week in the fridge

. However, there is a key difference depending on how eggs are treated and where you are:

• In the United States (and Canada), eggs are washed and sanitized, which removes their natural protective coating. This makes refrigeration necessary and limits safe room temperature exposure to about 2 hours

• In countries like the U.K. and much of Europe, eggs are not washed and the natural coating remains intact. These eggs can be safely stored unrefrigerated in a cool, dry place for 2 to 3 weeks

Freshly laid eggs from backyard flocks or farms (unwashed) can sit out at room temperature for up to about 5 days if kept in a clean, dry, and cool environment, but this is less common for store-bought eggs in the U.S.

In summary:

• Store-bought refrigerated eggs (U.S.): Maximum 2 hours out at room temperature.
• Hard-boiled eggs: Refrigerate within 2 hours.
• Unwashed eggs (U.K./Europe or farm-fresh): Can sit out for 2–3 weeks in cool conditions.
• Freshly laid farm eggs: Up to 5 days at room temperature if conditions are ideal.

To minimize risk, always refrigerate eggs promptly after purchase and avoid leaving them out longer than 2 hours if they have been refrigerated