A sourdough starter needs consistent care, and beginners struggle to know when it is ready and why a loaf flopped. These 8 field-tested tips cut straight to what makes the biggest difference for home bakers and sourdough beginners — and at the end you will find a free app that makes following them effortless.
1. Feed at the same time daily while establishing a starter.
2. Use the float test — a ready starter floats in water.
3. Keep it warm (24–27°C) to speed activity.
4. Discard before feeding to control acidity and size.
5. Use the same flour for predictable behaviour.
6. Watch the rise, not the clock — peak is when it is ready.
7. Refrigerate to slow it down once established.
8. Log every bake to learn your kitchen’s rhythm.
Put These Tips on Autopilot
Knowing the tips is half the battle — doing them consistently is the other half. Sourdough Starter Coach keeps the routine, does the calculations and reminds you what is next, so good habits stick.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to make a starter from scratch?
Usually 5–10 days of daily feeding before it is reliably active.
Why isn’t my starter rising?
Too cold, underfed or too young — keep it warm and feed consistently.
What hydration should I use?
100% (equal flour and water) is the easy default; the app calculates other ratios.
Can I keep it in the fridge?
Yes — once established, refrigerate and feed weekly.
Does it work offline?
Yes — schedules, reminders and logs work without a signal.
Is the app free?
Yes — tracking and calculators are free, with an optional ad-free Pro upgrade.