How about mason jars for starters?

[Kungpaodog]

Since I don't have any other good equipment for it, I want to use a half gallon mason jar to make a starter in. I got six of then to use when washing yeast, to store priming sugar, and DME for starters. They work great! I feel like the jar lid would seal better than foil, but still allow CO2 to escape. Would it be alright to just place the lid on top of the jar, or would it be better to use foil?

 

[Bach7210]

I wouldn't crank that sucker down, might end up with starter juice and glass all over your kitchen. I'd just use a piece of foil if it were me, but lightly putting on the lid will be fine if you want to go that route.

Keep in mind that as the CO2 builds up and escapes, it is going to create a buffer (along with the lid or the foil) that will prevent any nasties from getting into your starter.

 

[camiller]

I used one for my last starter with a piece of plastic wrap and just pushed the band over it without screwing it down. When I went to shake it periodically you could hear the CO2 blowing out under the rim. I'm hoping that the bottom is flat enough that it will work on a stirplate (hopefully I'll get that built over the holidays).