Question about Late Pitching

[BigDog007]

Hi All!

I have plans to brew my first 5-gallon batch on Friday and have a question about my yeast starter.

I was late ordering a flask and do not have a stir plate yet. I was wondering if it's ok to make a starter in something other than a flask. I have some PET bottles from my Mr. Beer Kit that I am no longer using or I have some 22 oz amber glass bottles. Would it be ok to make my starter in one of those? Any other containers that would be better that I likely have on hand?

Also - the 100mL flask I ordered will be here sometime Thursday, should I just wait to have the flask and would it be ok to put the cooled wort in my fermenting bucket and wait to pitch the yeast Saturday or Sunday? I have friends that are coming over to help and watch so they can get into the hobby with me (beer in numbers).

Last question - Any suggestions on where I can purchase a stir plate for $40-$50? I read quite a few places that these exist but haven't been able to find the website for that price.

Thanks!

RP

 

[dude3516]

I brew 5-gallons and only ever use a starter if I'm making something with a high OG. Otherwise, I just use slap packs and pitch after about 12 hours of the yeast starting up. Normally no later than a few hours after I've chilled my wort.

As far as leaving your wort, you could but that raises the chance of infection.

 

[RM-MN]

I made a few starters in a quart mason jar.
Flasks are nice but not necessary. To sanitize my jar I put the water and DME in and set it in the microwave and brought it to a boil. With a flask I could have done that on the stovetop. I think it is easier to clean the inside of the microwave than the stovetop and the quart jar is less likely to boil over in the first place.

 

[Cyclman]

Look for a Stirstarter. They have a deal on them on homebrewfinds, I believe, right now.

 

[BigDog007]

Thanks all. Bought a stir plate but will just pitch from the wyeast pack for this batch. Starter on the next one.