First wine kit can I use 6.5 gallon fermentor?

[BWN]

I am about to start my first wine kit and the directions say to make sure you have a 7.9 gallon fermentor. I was planning on using an ail pail. The directions say to top up to 6 gallons them add grape skins. I am a little worried this will be quite full. The directions also say to sanitize with a K-Meta solution. Is this just because it comes with the kit or is it really necessary. I would rather use starsan because I already have some mixed up. Thanks in advance.

 

[DoctorCAD]

6.5 will be cutting it close, but if you dont put a lid on it, you should be fine.

Starsan is an accectible alternative.

 

[BWN]

Should I cover it. With a towel maybe.

 

[DoctorCAD]

Yes