The Importance of Sanitisation in Homebrewing
When it comes to brewing great beer, one of the most important (yet often overlooked) steps is sanitisation. Whether you're a first-time homebrewer or a seasoned pro, keeping your equipment clean and free from contaminants is the key to crafting a consistently delicious brew.
Why Is Sanitisation So Important?
During the brewing process, yeast isn’t the only microorganism that would love to feast on your wort. Bacteria, wild yeasts, and other contaminants can easily sneak into your brew and cause off-flavours, unwanted sourness, or even a completely ruined batch. Proper sanitisation ensures that the only fermentation happening is the one you planned!
Cleaning vs. Sanitising: What’s the Difference?
Many new brewers think that washing with soap and water is enough—but cleaning and sanitising are two different steps:
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Cleaning removes visible dirt, grime, and residue from your brewing equipment.
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Sanitising eliminates unseen bacteria, wild yeasts, and other microbes that could spoil your beer.
To properly protect your brew, always clean first, then sanitise.
What Equipment Needs to Be Sanitised?
A general rule of thumb: Anything that touches your brew must be sanitised. This includes:
✅ Fermenters & lids
✅ Airlocks & stoppers
✅ Siphons & tubing
✅ Bottles & caps
✅ Kegs & taps
✅ Thermometers & hydrometers
✅ Brewing spoons & paddles
✅ Hands! (Always wash up before handling your equipment.)
Choosing the Right Sanitiser
There are many great no-rinse sanitisers available for homebrewers. Here are a few of our most popular options: (Click the title to be taken to the product page)
🔹 Star San – A popular foaming, no-rinse, acid-based sanitiser that’s fast-acting and easy to use. The foam wont harm your beer.
🔹 Sanitize - Our liquid sanitiser contains hydrogen peroxide, silver ions, stabiliser and distilled water. Simply mix 30mL in 1L of water. Perfect in a spray bottle to sanitise quickly, easily, and whilst working. No need to rinse.
🔹 No-Rinse Sanitiser - Contains sodium percarbonate. An effective, eco-friendly cleaner often found in oxygen-based sanitisers and soakers. It breaks down into water, oxygen and soda ash.
🔹 Pink Cleaner & Sanitiser - Contains chlorinated trisodium phosphate (sometimes referred to as PSR). This works as a disinfectant and bleach, and is a popular soaker. When added to water it makes chlorine. Ideal for removing stains from both plastic and glass. Use 1 level teaspoon per 5 litres of warm water. Soak for 30 minutes or 2 - 6 hours for very dirty equipment. Use in a well ventilated space. Rinse well with cold water.
🔹 Sodium Metabisulphite - suitable for rinsing and sanitising. When added to hot water vapours given off ensure your equipment is clean and ready for use. For best results use just one hour prior to commencing your brew then rinse off in cold water. Skin irritant, do not inhale. DO NOT USE ON STAINLESS STEEL.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dilution and contact time!
Tips for a Spotless Brew
✔ Plan ahead – Set up a sanitisation station before starting your brew day.
✔ Don’t cut corners – Even a tiny bit of contamination can lead to a spoiled batch.
✔ Store clean equipment properly – Avoid dust and debris settling on sanitised gear.
✔ Replace worn-out tools – Old tubing, scratched plastic fermenters, and dirty sponges can harbour bacteria.
Keep It Clean & Brew with Confidence!
A little extra time spent on sanitisation can save you from the heartbreak of a ruined batch. Sanitise well, and your beer will thank you for it! 🍻
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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Sanitise Your Brewing Equipment
1️⃣ Clean First – Wash all equipment with warm water and a brewing-safe cleaner to remove dirt and residue.
2️⃣ Prepare Your Sanitiser – Mix your chosen sanitiser according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3️⃣ Soak or Spray – Immerse items in the sanitising solution or use a spray bottle for quick coverage.
4️⃣ Contact Time Matters – Let the sanitiser sit for the required time (typically 30 seconds to a few minutes).
5️⃣ No Need to Rinse – Most no-rinse sanitisers don’t need to be washed off—just let your equipment air dry.
6️⃣ Brew with Confidence – Now your gear is sanitised and ready to go!
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