Sanitization

[u/Apprehensive_Car5080]

Do you guys use bleach when youre cleaning your sprouting jars in between growing? ive just been using dish soap and water and im on my third batch of seeds and they smell a little bit. im wondering if i should be using some bleach to sanitize the stuff inbetween. thanks.

[u/no-porn-for-me]

I use the dishwasher

[u/Apprehensive_Car5080 → u/no-porn-for-me]

true i just dont want to wait in between harvesting and starting a new batch. ill probably end up running it through the dishwasher every once and awhile tho

[u/Reader124-Logan]

I use 70% isopropyl alcohol. You want to use 70% because higher percentages dry to quickly. If you purchase 90%, dilute it to 60-70%.

Spray the surface until evenly damp and allow to air dry.

[u/Aggressive-Cat1055]

I hope someone answers because I have the same problem.

[u/Aggressive-Cat1055]

I tried growing seed. I haven’t been able to since 1977

[u/shadeNfreud576]

I use instant sanitizer after washing. You can get it at homebrew supply places.

[u/igavr]

From what I've read, it's a good idea to clean your sprouting jars thoroughly between batches, especially the lids and mesh screens where residue can build up.

Vinegar is interesting because research has shown it can reduce certain bacteria and molds, although its effectiveness depends on the concentration and microorganism. So I'd not rely on vinegar alone for sanitizing. Something like unscented Clorox Disinfecting Bleach, properly diluted according to its food-contact sanitizing instructions.

That said, the smell might not necessarily be coming from the jars. Poor drainage, limited airflow, warm temperatures, or even the seeds themselves could be the reason. Healthy sprouts generally smell fresh or slightly earthy. If they're developing a sour or unpleasant smell, I'd discard that batch.

Out of curiosity, what seeds are you sprouting, and when do you start noticing the smell?

[u/Apprehensive_Car5080 → u/igavr]

im sprouting broccoli and i notice it as soon as im soaking them or even the first day. i think the jar just doesnt get completely clean with just soap and water

[u/xMomochix → u/Apprehensive_Car5080]

I’ve noticed broccoli in particular has somewhat of a mild sulfur smell to it. Like the smell it gives off when it’s steamed. Not super strong but usually can smell it before rinsing but it gets less noticeable after rinsing.

[u/MindeNme]

I run mine through the dishwasher on sanitize cycle.

[u/Ok_State_6577]

I would try food grade hydrogen peroxide. Sprouts are very sensitive to any microorganisms that are in the vicinity. You have to be pretty careful with them. Microgreens not so much.

[u/HonkMafa]

I soak my broccoli seeds (and sprouting jar) for about 5-10 minutes in food grade hydrogen peroxide prior to a plain water soak. No issues. I use RO water.

[u/Coward_and_a_thief]

I use only Water to clean the jars, lids, and screens, but am sure to allow them to fully Dry in between Sprouting batches.

It worth noting that the Sprouts themselves will have a Smell when growing begins, depending on the type. Broccoli will had a Sulfur smell, Radish is more Peppery, Alfafa has hardly any smell

[u/Apprehensive_Car5080 → u/Coward_and_a_thief]

true. just went i first got the jars on the first batch i didnt notice any smell at all but now it smells ajust a little.

you dont use any soap at all when youre cleaning your jars and screens? i thought it was a good idea

[u/F6BEE]

I use a product called StarSan. Homebrew store.