Top products from r/Kombucha

Kombucha is fairly forgiving, but the following might help:

• The biggest thing you can do to improve your kombucha is to use filtered water. Buy it filtered in bulk or install an inline filter.
  
• I find it easier to buy loose-leaf tea and a kitchen scale to measure our tea than to count tea bags, but YMMV. The loose leaf can go into a nylon mesh bag like a giant tea bag.
  
• Keep an eye on the temperature of the water that you use to brew your sweet tea - it should be well below boiling to avoid burning the tea leaves. With the 80/20 mix of green/black tea, I try to steep it at 170F for 10 minutes.
  
• Start 1F with a lot of kombucha starter - almost 1 gallon for the 5 gallon batch is a good place to start to make sure the scoby is nice and active. At a minimum, you should be using a half gallon of starter for that size batch.
  
• I like keeping track of the progress of my batches over time (pH, brix, and total acidity). If you feel similarly, get a pH meter, brix refractometer, and a total acidity titration testing kit (I just use some NaOH solution and the pH meter). I'm still trying to figure out a convenient setup for testing that provides a reasonable estimate of alcohol...
  
• Depending on the temperature in your brewing area, you may want to invest in a heating mat and thermostat that can keep the 1F at a consistent temperature. If you use one, wrap it around the sides of the bucket to make sure that both the yeast (which tends to sink) and the bacteria (which tends to float) benefit from its effects. Placing the bucket on top of the heating mat may lead to a kombucha batch that tastes heavily of yeast.
  
• When it comes time for 2F, there are a few options for moving your batch:
  
  • Pour it out: simple, but potentially messy
    
  • Ladle it out: simple, but time-consuming
    
  • Install a bottling spigot: very useful, but it creates the potential for leaks and it can get plugged up with yeast
    
  • Use gravity and an auto-siphon: a little difficult to understand the first time, but after that it's the best solution
    
    I hope that helps :)

Depends a lot on where you are, I think. But no matter where you are, start super local.

Keep giving as much as you can to family, friends, and acquaintances...get a grass roots fever going so you'll have an almost automatic fan-base when you do decide to expand. Encourage them to pass along bottles to their friends; maybe even host a fun cocktail night sometime where folks can come try all your different flavors and make kombucha cocktails.

Start looking into local farmers markets. If there's someone at your market that already sells kombucha or something similar, visit often and pick their brains. Make connections with the other vendors, and talk to them about their experience selling at markets like this, even if they're not peddling the same type of product as you. Knowledge is power!

Inquire about regulations, requirements, and restrictions in your state/county. Look into renting a commercial kitchen space, perhaps. Read everything you can about your favorite kombucha brands and their founders' stories--their various successes and failures will inspire and inform you on your own journey.

There's also a really helpful section on expanding your brewing into the commercial realm in my favorite buch book, [The Big Book of Kombucha](The Big Book of Kombucha: Brewing, Flavoring, anhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/161212433X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_4JJiybXCP5CF1). It's written by the woman who started Kombucha Kamp, which is kind of the ultimate resource for all things Buch, be it info or actual products. That website has been invaluable to me over the years.

Most of all, have fun and good luck! Keep us all posted on your endeavors :)

I paid a tile/stone installer to drill my crock with his specialized equipment (diamond bit and a water cooling spray tank) so I could install a stainless steel spigot: http://imgur.com/a/LTlPv

Came out nice, works great, and no leaks: http://imgur.com/PpPneYC

It's an excellent quality spigot: http://imgur.com/QqnhXad at a great great price: http://amazon.com/gp/product/B00RPBQBQ4/

Solid valve, good flow control: http://imgur.com/Hbs7P0x

Nice finish and build: http://imgur.com/sb1XEeT

The diamond tile bit which worked fine on the stoneware didn't work so well on my 2.5 gallon glass jar: http://imgur.com/J8WRDTh Whoops! Almost made it through. Oh, well.

So I’m a newbie (and had some explosion issues) but here goes with what I did!

1.) I did 2F for 5 days at room temperature. Longer than the 2 days people sometimes recommend, because I had tried one bottle after 3 days and it was too sweet. (I also bottled 1F at sweeter than I would drink because I wanted to ensure carbonation.)

2.) I used chunks of strawberry, minced ginger, and lime juice. (Also made one with pineapple purée but that exploded!) ((Also made raspberry-lime not featured with mashed raspberry and that worked the best out of the three flavors.))

3.) About 1/4 cup fruit per 16 oz kombucha bottle. (For the featured Strawberry-Lime-Ginger: 1/4 cup finely chopped strawberry, 1 tsp minced ginger, 2 tsp lime juice.)

4.) These https://www.amazon.com/Swing-Top-Glass-Bottles-Chalkboard/dp/B01LB1862A?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_1

Going forward thing I’m going to try different are:

-Juice over plant matter like someone suggested (except raspberry which worked great!)

• Allowing 1F to get a tad more acidic so I can open at 3 to 4 days without sweetness issue (it had enough carbonation.)
  
  -And I’m going to try to use herbs and perhaps chia seeds in one batch!
  
  Happy Brewing!
  
  
  
  

I can't say anything as to the strength of the swing tops. But they certainly look good and are perfect for bottling. However, you'll have to make/drink a lot of mocktails before you have enough bottles. I bought these on Amazon and they work great: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0064ODUDK

Quicker way to the bottles. Unless you were going to buy a bunch of those mocktail things anyway. :-)

I would recommend starting with a jar like this;

https://www.amazon.com/1-gallon-USDA-Fermentation-Glass-Jar/dp/B006ZRBGSC/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1524584912&sr=8-8&keywords=kombucha+1+gallon+jar

You won't need the top; however, it's nice to store for later use of the jar.

Add to that a standard coffee filter and an elastic to keep it on the jar.

It has a 1 gallon volume so you can follow the subreddits suggestion for a master recipe;

https://www.reddit.com/r/Kombucha/comments/5b1ztm/reddit_master_kombucha_recipe/

If it tends to be cold where you are < 75 F ambient temperature you may want to consider also snagging one of these;

https://www.amazon.com/VIVOSUN-Waterproof-Hydroponic-Fermentation-Germination/dp/B073PTZCJ4/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1524584986&sr=8-4&keywords=kombucha+heater

If you are sourcing something used, please be sure to know what was in it before and clean it appropriately and then rinse it to insure no antibacterial or other cleaner residues reside, which could hinder the yeast and or bacteria from thriving.

Many folks prefer to have more surface area for the pelical to grow and find that it speeds up the over all process along with having appropriate temperatures.

Good luck!

There is a pretty thick SCOBY in there but it doesn't show up in the photo I will post a photo of the scobies on my next go round.

Someone on here posted a link to this and I think I might go and buy one soon. But note that if you buy one of these with a plastic spigot you will want to be sure you purchase a replacement stainless steel spigot to swap them out.
Jar
https://www.walmart.com/ip/35588833
Spigot
https://www.amazon.com/Beverage-Dispenser-Replacement-Stainless-Polished/dp/B00RPBQBQ4/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1484377655&sr=8-5&keywords=stainless+steel+spigot

I bought mine at a department store and I replaced the spigot and it works like a champ now. =)

Had similar problems early on. Went from 7 day 1F to 10 day solved that for me. I also keep my house in the high 70's-low 80's which i know some people find unbearable (comfortable temp for me).

Also I don't add sugar to 2F, but usually just let them sit for 4 days before refrigerating (though i might go back to 3 since my latest batches have had too much carbonation).

Finally, i started to use these bottles instead and they're honestly amazing. Best seal of the 3 brands I've bought and I'll be sticking with them.

Anchor Hocking Heritage Hill Glass Beverage Dispenser with Spigot, 2 Gallon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BWC0E42/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_f4uhAbF8X8STT

1 X Organic Kombucha Scoby - Live Culture by Scoby Kombucha https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009ZW8RP4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.5uhAb83TMN5D

Unbleached Cheesecloth 9 Sq ft 100% Cotton Reusable-Great Filter or Strainer for Cheese/Kombucha scoby/Glass jar/Wine making https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M612PJU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_j7uhAbFHCHX7S

Adhesive Temperature Strip https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0079JZLP4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i9uhAbJBGF75D

Red Baron Bottle Capper https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001D6KGTK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_xbvhAbFY4CJN3

Beer Bottle Crown Caps - Oxygen Absorbing for Homebrew (Gold) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZSEH8VW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_YcvhAbCE0836F

Bottles Free: Just start saving old beer bottles (not the twist on style bottle) submerge them in hot water for 5 min, labels peel right off.

Sanitizer: White Vinegar, I prefer Star san.

Prince of Peace Tea, Black, 100 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AP70BKC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_divhAbY9D73AP

With these products, you will be good to go and your volume is 2 gallons, so by the time your upgrading after your first batch. For me a 1 gallon container never cut it. With the capper you don’t have to worry about giving your friends a bottle of your Kombucha and never seeing your $4 swing cap bottle again. Just save old beer bottles or ask your friends for them.

To answer your question, the temps you listed are to low. For all brewing temperatures are very important. You want to keep your fermentation in the 70s. Here’s how you fix the problem without keeping your home heater on 24/7.

Round Kombucha Heater Kit for Continuous Brew Crocks & Dispensers. 10" Brewing & Fermentation Heat Mat, Works with any Ceramic, Glass, Stone or Porcelain Containers (10"-120VAC 7-Watts) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072S6XBQJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_1tvhAb04PYXBK

Enjoy... In the long run you will spend less by starting off with the right equipment.

Thanks! I love them too. All credit goes to LootCaveCo. He's the one who originally made this post of his brewing station and I asked him where he bought his stuff. So i'll just show what he told me:



"Here is my list of stuff

Jars (the valves that come with them are apparently flimsy so he recommended replacement valves):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07W21D2B6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

Stainless valve
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RPBQBQ4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Brewing cap
https://store.kombuchakamp.com/Brewer-Cap-3-pack.html

"

​

​

hope this helps! :)

A great book is: "The Big Book of Kombucha".
https://www.amazon.com/Big-Book-Kombucha-Flavoring-Fermented/dp/161212433X

It's a great book and a great present.

Amazon!

Swing Top Glass Bottles - Flip Top Brewing Bottles For Kombucha, Kefir, Beer - Clear Color - 16oz Size - Set of 6 - Leak Proof Easy Caps, Bonus Gaskets, Chalkboard Labels and Pen - Fast Clean Design https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LB1862A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4J.MDbCKXHADR

I recently switched from using recycled GT bottles to swing tops. It made a world of difference! Honestly, the carbonation increased by 50%.

These are the ones I bought off of Amazon...Swing Top Bottles

Get two of [these(https://www.amazon.com/Anchor-Hocking-Heritage-Beverage-Dispenser/dp/B00BWC0E42/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1505181882&sr=8-3&keywords=2+gallon+glass+jar+with+spigot)] jars.

Get two gallon stock pot to brew your tea with sugar. Fill a jar with the sweet tea almost full leaving room for the gallon you are adding.
Wait about 7-10 days and then brew another two gallons of sweet tea. Pour half of the first ferment jar into the second empty glass jar and then split the two gallons of sweet tea between the two glass jars..
The first jar is your continuous brew jar. The second jar you may sweeten with whatever juices. I been doing Honeydew Jalapeño with great results. Bottle the second jar for a few days. I use growlers and honey jars and recycled beer bottles with a bottle capper.
In another 7-10 days you can repeat the process.

Swing Top Glass Bottles - Flip Top Brewing Bottles For Kombucha, Kefir, Beer - Clear Color - 16oz Size - Set of 6 - Leak Proof Easy Caps, Bonus Gaskets, Chalkboard Labels and Pen - Fast Clean Design https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LB1862A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_P6dxDb9CYMEXP

We've had really good luck with these ones. Beautiful booch by the way!
Epica 18-Oz. Glass Beverage Bottles, Set of 6 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I0YNYSI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_YbtzDbYTHT6FZ

Here is my list of stuff

Jars:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07W21D2B6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

Stainless valve
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RPBQBQ4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bottles (not a great option for cost effectiveness)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I0YNYSI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Brewing cap
https://store.kombuchakamp.com/Brewer-Cap-3-pack.html


I would recommend bottles form here https://www.containerandpackaging.com/catalog/glass-containers/glass-bottles?gclid=CjwKCAjw1rnqBRAAEiwAr29II0Oe4vUh5C7rvnfqRKQaHJOFxO4fFJWvYcxibwmRDP_hJKp2GNsOBBoCiPgQAvD_BwE&capacity=12%20oz&sort=products&page=1 or HDPE bottles like naglene as the high density poly ethylene is so chemical resistant it wont leach into your booch.

I am as well, Old Gt Bottles with a cap like this(cheaper at your local homebrew store) Have been working. however I use(and recommend because one growler takes up less space then 3 or so gt bottles) a Big growler with this cap for 2F and then strain into gt bottles that go straight to the fridge.

From amazon! https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B078JYNSCR?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t2
I buy replacement tops though because the ones they come with don’t provide a great seal. I got these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01M31XE0W?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

I’ve been using these [seedling heating pads](VIVOSUN Durable Waterproof Seedling Heat Mat Warm Hydroponic Heating Pad 3'' x 20" for Kombucha Tea & Beer Brewing, Fermentation, Seedlings & Plant Germination https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073PTZCJ4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Lfn8AbDNHSQ89 ) with great success the last 4 months. I wrap them around my 1F jars

I use this [temperature controller with sensor](VIVOSUN Digital Seedling Heat Mat Thermostat Controller 68-108℉ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015F4VFGI?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf) to control them

This depends primarily on how much you want to brew and what style (batch vs continuous). The easiest first step would be to go with a glass gallon jug. If you want to go a little bigger, get a 2 gallon with a non metal spigot (plastic and stainless steel are ok). Spigots make it way easier to pour for 2F. Not sure it’s worth it for a 1 gallon jug but for sure for 2+ G.

Pakkon Wide Mouth Glass Mason Jar with PlasticLid/Ferment & Store Kombucha Tea or Kefir/Use for Canning, Storing, Pickling & Preserving Dishwasher Safe, Airtight Liner Seal, 1 gallon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012BAWVU8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_sjiIAbZAY63RN

Anchor Hocking Heritage Hill Glass Beverage Dispenser with Spigot, 2 Gallon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BWC0E42?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I switched out the regular growler tops for these

38mm Poly Seal Screw Caps (fits most 1/2 & 1 gallon jugs) [Bag of 12] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0064OFP88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_dnBDyb93PHGC3

Work awesome and fit any 64 oz growler I've tried them on.

[This book is pretty comprehensive](http://www.The.com/ Big Book of Kombucha: Brewing, Flavoring, and Enjoying the Health Benefits of Fermented Tea https://www.amazon.com/dp/161212433X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_sbI1AbSTPR4NM)

A little whimsical at times about the "miracle benefits" of the stuff, but tons of practical info on every aspect of brewing, taking it to the next level, troubleshooting, and so on

Thanks for your detailed reply! By the way, what do you consider a "carbonation safe bottle"? My first inclination was to use the flip-top style that I use for beer like these. Would these be appropriate for carbonating and storing for a month or two?

These are the ones I bought and they’re perfect - Bellemain Swing Top Grolsch Glass Bottles 16oz - CLEAR - For Brewing Kombucha Kefir Beer (6 Set) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078JYNSCR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_N9Q1CbK58REDZ

I bought a kit initially just to get past any worry that I would miss something....it got me started anyways. If I would do it over I would just buy a gallon glass jar (wide mouth), some black tea, a starter scoby with liquid, some sugar, a flexy funnel (for bottling), and some flip top bottles. The kit added about 15 extra bucks to the cost if I had bought everything by itself. I also bought a few large glass pyrex jars for scoby hotels and/or to hold the scoby if I don't re-make a fresh batch that day. I also bought fresh cutting boards, saucepan and wooden spoons so I can keep that separate and really clean away from any other cooking I do.
Kit: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LW7OR4A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Bottles: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011SGS8U8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

For the cover I have been using a coffee filter with a rubber band and it's been working super.

I've had no issue with mold or worrisome stuff happening to my kombucha. Each time it works perfectly and forms a nice healthy pellicle/scoby for the next batch. I think a few things you can do to make sure it doesn't 'go bad' is to remember to get all liquids to room temperature before dumping it in, don't use metal on it, wash your hands well before touching, don't use antibacterial cleaning products near it, and clean utensils with white vinegar before using. That being said, it appears to be sort of hard to kill it so it's a pretty beginner-friendly hobby.

This is the kit I recently purchased, and my first batch turned out great. I'm certain you could buy the individual components for cheaper, but this kit was pretty convenient.

This is what I use for 1F:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006ZRBGSC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is what I use for 2F:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CUJQTPI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

When I bottle for 2F, I pour all of the kombucha into a different bowl and clean out the 1 gallon jar after each brew so the yeast doesn't gather on the bottom. I am on my 5th batch, everything has been great so far.

Amazon! There are plenty of options but this is the one I purchased: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BWC0E42/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awd_rIJxwbSZFN1VY



Very happy with it so far

okay, so there's another culprit here. Temperature swing can definitely cause some things. You have one of those heat mats? I use a setup like this. My jar is down in a 5kg keg I got from some chemicals for my lab. [Flavor chemicals]

https://www.amazon.com/VIVOSUN-Seedling-Digital-Thermostat-Standard/dp/B016MKY7C8/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=heat+mat+and+thermostat&qid=1572988692&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExSUY5U0hYMTBUM0ZCJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjQwNTgxMThVVVI1Q1NTNEc1SiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNTU1NTY1MVZCSFUxSkVRTFBSJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E58AU2Q/ref=dp_cerb_1

and the upgraded spigot

https://www.amazon.com/Stainless-Works-SSS010-Dispenser-Replacement/dp/B00IX87W1Q/ref=pd_bxgy_79_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00IX87W1Q&pd_rd_r=PHD3PQHTJ8DCN27WQFT4&pd_rd_w=jvTjE&pd_rd_wg=JrLUy&psc=1&refRID=PHD3PQHTJ8DCN27WQFT4

i signed up for the free trial of prime to get free shipping

Grab a Kombucha heating pad off of Amazon, they're really cheap!

I use this for my window plants to keep them warm, it is the perfect size for my Kombucha jar too: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B073PTZCJ4?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t1

Call me paranoid but that seems like a little bit of a fire hazard. I use this and it works wonderfully.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01ETRWSFE/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1520176210&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=Propagate+Pro&dpPl=1&dpID=51x-gV-R9VL&ref=plSrch

As was already stated, definitely use glass as plastic and metal will both have adverse effects on your brew. The only thing I have to add is a recommendation for one to buy. Good luck!

Bought it separately. Here's the link the to the one I got, but there is a pretty decent selection on Amazon.

1 X Stainless WorksTM Stainless Steel Beverage Dispenser Replacement Spigot(Polished Finish) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IX87W1Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_uBiUYY3aaLXgU

I use a 2 gallon glass jar, like this, fill it with sweet tea, and add kombucha. A scoby will form in week or so. Leave it alone for a couple of weeks, and that's really all there is to it for the first ferment. For the second ferment, I put it in 2 liter soda bottles and add what ever I'm using for flavor- really like raspberries. It will be nice and fizzy in a week or so.

During the winter mine takes about 3 weeks too so I noticed if I put about a foot or so away from my wall heater output with a towel covering it. It goes faster by about a week, but make sure to check every few days and dunk the pellicle or stir so it doesn't dry out out top and check for dry spots or mold. Many have recommended heating strips or mats but didnt want to spend the extra money at this time for my 2 gallon brew.

Here is one suggested by others on here:

https://www.amazon.com/Kombucha-Fermentation-Windowsill-Seedlings-Germination/dp/B01ETRWSFE/ref=pd_sim_79_17?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01ETRWSFE&pd_rd_r=CX80D1RT7SZ264JAJTNE&pd_rd_w=UkcnN&pd_rd_wg=8yHD0&psc=1&refRID=CX80D1RT7SZ264JAJTNE

You can get replacement tops for the GT bottles. They are not too expensive at Amazon.

I purchased the Big Book of Kombucha, it has a ton of info. I actually rented it from my public library first.

The Big Book of Kombucha: Brewing, Flavoring, and Enjoying the Health Benefits of Fermented Tea https://www.amazon.com/dp/161212433X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_TY6PAb6MYSWXQ

Mason jars are made to withstand vacuum, not internal pressure. so you're more likely to have an explosion with those than a bottle made to have internal pressure. The Grolsh style beer bottles work great. I also like using 1/2 gallon growlers (get the ploy caps).

Listen to this guy OP, he's the only one that actually answered your question. Those canning jars can't take too much pressure and are not usually perfectly cylindrical, this puts even more pressure on the corners.

They would probably work if you did a short 2F but then you'd have the same problem as you did with the growler, not enough carbonation, plus the added risk of a glassy, liquidy mess.

I'd just order a pack or dedicated swingtop bottles from amazon. If you wanted you buy a couple of 4-packs or Grolsh lager for the same price, and get the added bonus of 2 exta bottles and all of that delicious beery goodness.

The Kombucha Shop Kombucha Brewing Kit with 1 Gallon Glass Brew Jar, Kombucha SCOBY and Starter Pouch, Temperature Gauge, pH Strips, Loose Leaf Tea and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LW7OR4A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_VylKDbCSV34PS

I am on my 5th brew - this kit was awesome. I also have their heatpad because I like to keep my apartment an ice box!

These are the bottles I use for second fermentation.

This is the heating pad I use. It's pricey but you have complete control over the exact temperature you want and if it's a hobby you plan on continuing, it's well worth it.

I use heaters in the winter. Here's what I use specifically (link), one of the cheaper options and it works great!

Yup, I have the same one as u/Kom_bu_cha, this same model is offered under a variety of names, probably all made in the same factory in Asia lol. I'm happy with it, I have no leakings at all.


For example this one is the same: https://www.amazon.com/Stainless-Works-SSS010-Beverage-Dispenser/dp/B00IX87W1Q


The model I have is this one: Amazon germany

I use an auto siphon and one of these guys but it's impossible to set down without making a mess. The clamp would help with that.

Get one of those 2-3 gallon jar/beverage dispensers with a spigot (make sure spigot is not metal, many look metal but aren't). It makes bottling so much easier. Also, a funnel. And some type of bottle with lid like this

It's a VIVOSUN 10in x 20in seedling heating pad I bought on Amazon. I paid $8.73 USD for it with free two day shipping. It's currently going for 11.99. you can find it here

This is my favorite book on Kombucha, lots of brewing tips, history, and health notes.

I've been brewing and drinking the stuff for about a year now. I like it because it induces a good solid bowel movement out of me every time. Digestively...definitely some changes down there but I don't want to be too gross. Can't say it has cured cancer or AIDs or even a cold.

I keep up the habit because I do like to dabble in historical eating. People used to consume a lot more active yeast and bacteria via beer and I am open to the notion that this played a key role in digestion. I combine my kombucha habit with fasting to help with digestive issues and I'm mostly cleared up these days.

Consider replacing the plastic spigot with something like this like I did with my similar setup.

More Durable Beverage Dispenser Replacement Spigot,Stainless Steel Polished Finished, Water Dispenser Replacement Faucet, fits Berkey and other Gravity Filter systems as well https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RPBQBQ4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_yul7Cb2BVPTW8

These have worked well for me: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011SGS8U8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ZGtEAbFW4725R

I also found something similar at IKEA that would work just as well

Sounds like its too cold. Why dont you get one of these heater bands for $11 on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/VIVOSUN-Waterproof-Hydroponic-Fermentation-Germination/dp/B073PTZCJ4/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

I think the reason champagne uses different corks than wine is due to the carbonation. The champagne type are more secure I imagine due to higher pressure inside. The issue with mason jar lids is that in canning, the contents are at a negative pressure and actually pulls the seals tighter. If you put carbonation in the jar then you have positive pressure pushing the seal apart and therefore the CO2 tends to escape. I would try small plastic bottles or someone here was going to try beer bottles with caps. You can get caps and a crimper and reuse old bottles. Not sure how it will work, the jury is out ;-)

When you check it are you shaking it or moving it around? The scoby can sink if you do that. I recommend getting this book and actually using it. It will save you a lot of time and help you avoid a lot of mistakes.

https://www.amazon.com/Big-Book-Kombucha-Flavoring-Fermented/dp/161212433X/ref=nodl_

I completely understand what you are saying. I was looking into a reptile heating pad or a

seedling heating mat (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P7U259C/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2PQGFJXAT8J9K) and

temp control setup (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P7U259C/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2PQGFJXAT8J9K not comfortable soldering something up that connects to a wall socket)

but was curious if there was something else out there.

I'm guessing you got this? How do you like it?

Amazon has grolsch type bottles for homebrewing.

This is an example. If you search "homebrewing bottles" you should find several different types.

http://www.amazon.com/CASE-12-Beer-Bottles-AMBER/dp/B005CIFIDO/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1449637437&sr=8-7&keywords=homebrewing+bottles

If there is a homebrewing supply store near you they probably have them as well.

I use a seed mat heater lightly placed around the vessel. I bought one with a regulator on amazon. This one works well for my 2 gallon vessel. VIVOSUN 10"x20" Seedling Heat Mat and Digital Thermostat Combo Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016MKY7C8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_HEelybCXF3F8D

Thanks everybody, sounds easier than I thought. Can you please look at these products and let me know if I'm missing anything

Glass jar
https://www.amazon.com/1-gallon-USDA-Fermentation-Glass-Jar/dp/B006ZRBGSC/ref=sr_1_3_m?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1481986875&sr=1-3&keywords=gallon+glass+jar

Scoby
https://www.amazon.com/Poseymom-Kombucha-Scoby-Cup-Starter/dp/B00J3U9RMK/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1481988107&sr=8-4&keywords=kombucha+scoby

Some bottles for transport https://www.amazon.com/Chefs-Star-CASE-Bottles-CLEAR/dp/B011SGS8U8/ref=pd_sim_79_5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=8GX2CTXPKCQN47F3H629

Is it really this easy, I've brewed beer before and the materials and process were significantly more difficult. Anything I'm missing?

This is what I've been using. Weird, though, because it sounds like what you recommended.

You need something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Ferrari-1170-Baron-Bottle-Capper/dp/B001D6KGTK

And a bag of caps. They are single use.

What I do is bottle at least one bottle of Kombucha in a plastic 20 oz soda bottle, and the rest in glass. Once the soda bottle is very firm to the squeeze, I put them all in the fridge.

Like these?
https://www.amazon.com/38mm-Poly-Seal-Screw-gallon/dp/B0064OFP88/ref=asc_df_B0064OFP88/

For the 2F I am using the glass swing top bottles that I've purchased from amazon.


https://www.amazon.com/Chefs-Star-CASE-Bottles-CLEAR/dp/B011SGS8U8/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1487950546&sr=8-6&keywords=glass+swing+top+bottles

I just got this one, and it's working out well so far. With a few spacers, it's holding at +5 degrees F over ambient.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01ETRWSFE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I just got one of these: Seed Mat
The booch is at 80' F. Fairly cheap solution.

I got a wrap around heating pad for mine!

I keep my house cooler at night so I wanted something to keep it warm 24x7. I turn it off during the day and wrap a towel around the container.

I bought this... and this

It ended up following around in the middle the first time and formed a second on the top so now I have two.

I havent run into this issue yet. I use a high output stainless steel spigot.

[Updated] More Durable Beverage Dispenser Replacement Spigot,Stainless Steel Polished Finished, Water Dispenser Replacement Faucet, fits Berkey and other Gravity Filter systems as well https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RPBQBQ4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_f-SPAbCA9WFKH

Amazon! They came with the bottles.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LB1862A?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Mine came from my local grocery store. I replaced the plastic spigot with a stainless steel one from Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RPBQBQ4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_xiFJBbF2YB9QQ

Walmart for the jars, Amazon for the 304 stainless steel spigot. This is the one I use

Local brew shop. They're ez-cap bottles: https://www.amazon.com/CASE-12-Beer-Bottles-CLEAR/dp/B0064ODUDK

http://www.amazon.com/1-gallon-Glass-Jar-fermenting-Kombucha/dp/B006ZRBGSC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1397529260&sr=8-2&keywords=gallon+glass+jar

Anchor Hocking Heritage Hill Glass Beverage Dispenser with Spigot, 2 Gallon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BWC0E42/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_siO5AbTBD97N9

I replaced the spigot with this guy:
Beverage Dispenser Replacement Spigot,Oak Leaf Stainless Steel Polished Finished, Dispenser Replacement Faucet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013FWX4HA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OjO5AbW7CJM7M

Also, can I do the second ferment in the same container as the first? https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BWC0E42/ref=ya_aw_oh_bia_dp?ie=UTF8&psc=1 this is what I bought, per the advice of some kombucha website online.

Epica 18-Oz. Glass Beverage... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I0YNYSI?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IX87W1Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_uBiUYY3aaLXgU

I'm using this. No regulator, but my brews are staying right between 74-76°. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P7U259C/ref=oh_aui_bia_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

These are the bottles - found them on Amazon

get an all stainless spigot - this is the one i use:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013FWX4HA/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Why use that over this? https://www.amazon.com/Kombucha-Fermentation-Windowsill-Seedlings-Germination/dp/B01ETRWSFE/

It's this guy. It's been working well--I check on it a couple of times a day and adjust the towel as needed to keep it right at 76.

Amazon link

I bought these and they've worked out well so far. I've only used the for 3 batches. No explosions and my strawberry second ferment was on the verge of being too carbonated.

https://www.amazon.com/Chefs-Star-CASE-Bottles-CLEAR/dp/B011SGS8U8/ref=pd_sim_sbs_79_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=51vunCRbh9L&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=ZYCKXHCPJPRABD169RBJ

These are the ones I originally found but i live in Canada and didnt want to deal with cross border shipping on a little mom an pop shop, so I found basically the same thing on amazon

I got this one and reading the questions, says it only takes about 7 watts. I leave it on all the time and haven't noticed any significant change in my electric bill.

I have not. Sounds like a good idea though. Something like this maybe? (Edit: I looked a little deeper, and there seem to be multiple options, many at lower price. I think I'll get this one

I bought these off Amazon and have had no issues whatsoever with them: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078JYNSCR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I recommend bottles that are rounded. I've had a couple bottles explode in the past, but they were the type pictured, the ones with corners. I think those create weak points, perhaps? My kombucha is extrememly bubbly, but it never breaks the rounded bottles!

http://www.amazon.com/CASE-12-Beer-Bottles-AMBER/dp/B005CIFIDO?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage

I recently got one of these, no foam from pouring into bottles
Spring Loaded Beer Bottle Filler https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000E66A4U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_DNWb6NyYyNjOT

It was from this starter kit came with the handy thermometer.

Kombucha Brewing Kit with Organic Kombucha Scoby. Includes Glass Brew Jar, Organic Kombucha Loose Leaf Tea, Temperature Gauge, Organic Sugar and More! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LW7OR4A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_mD157rctqOHua

Don't do your 2F in plastic bottles! The plastic will leech into your brew, leaving a nasty after-taste. Instead, try reusing kombucha bottles you buy in-store, they're rated to hold carbonation and won't leech anything into your brew.

I'd recommend buying some swing-top bottles if you're planning on brewing into the future - they make a big difference!

When I brew in bulk, I do like the beer homebrew folk do and use an auto-siphon with a bottle filler attachment. The siphon goes into the bucket, held just above the bottom to avoid the dead yeast, and stays far enough below the surface to (mostly) avoid the yeast strands, everything staying still and not mixed around. When a strand does sneak through, it gets caught in the bottle filler tip and can be easily wiggled out if problematic. It makes filling bottles extremely clean and simple. But unless you're brewing 3+ gallons in a single container, it's probably not worth the effort and I end up just using strainer + funnel.