DAY 5–7: Continue Twice-Daily Feedings
Goal: Establish a reliable feeding rhythm and strengthen yeast.
1. Continue AM & PM feedings using:
• 30g starter
• 30g flour
• 30g water
2. You may notice the starter doubling in volume within 4–8 hours. This is a great sign!
3. When the starter doubles within 4–6 hours consistently, has a pleasantly tangy smell, and a spongy texture, it’s ready to bake with.
Signs Your Starter is Ready to Use
• Doubles in size within 4–6 hours of feeding
• Smells tangy, slightly fruity or like yogurt (not rotten or vinegary)
• Has visible bubbles and a light, airy texture
• Passes the “float test” (optional): a small scoop floats in a glass of water
Tips & Tricks
• Use warm water (75–80°F) to encourage activity if your room is cool.
• Avoid metal utensils or bowls long-term, as acidity can react with metal.
• Stir during the day if separation occurs—this helps oxygenate and prevent hooch buildup.
• Keep your jar clean. Use a new jar every few days to prevent mold or residue buildup.
• Label the jar with date/time of feeding—it helps track rise time and progress.
• If your starter smells like acetone (nail polish), it’s hungry—feed it more frequently or increase the ratio of flour/water.
• Hooch (grey liquid) is harmless; stir it in or pour off before feeding.
Common Cautions
• Mold: Fuzzy, colored growth (pink, green, black) means discard and start over.
• Contaminated water: Chlorine or chloramine in tap water can inhibit yeast. Use filtered water.
• Too cold = too slow. If your house is chilly, place the jar inside the oven with the light on or in a proofing box.
• No rise? Don’t panic! Some starters take 7–10 days to fully come alive. Just keep feeding consistently.