scrubbing primary...

[1990dtgl98]

So, I had cleaned by plastic primary out with some oxyclean and whatnot, then let it out to dry.

Decided to do my second ever batch tomorrow and told SWMBO. She then told me that it smelled earlier, so she scrubbed it out with the kitchen sponge.

So, is it ok, not ok, or possibly ok but buy a new ale pail and not worry about it? Not that I'm mad or anything....

 

[dirt55]

Was it a soft scrub type of sponge? Then you can probably get away with using it but if it's questionable, those plastic pails are nutorious for scratches and there's no point in risking an infection to a batch that you spent quality time and money on. Hey...look on the bright side now you have an opportunity to buy a carboy (glass or better bottle!) and never look back At least she was trying to help.
PS...next time get some PBW and you'll never scrub again!

 

[jbambuti]

If her sponge had a scrubber on it, I wouldn't risk it, as buckets are pretty inexpensive. I had an old ale pail that delivered on off batch and, not sure if it was the bucket, I turned it into my sanitizer bucket.

You might be fine, though. Run your hand all over the inside of the bucket to see if you can feel any scratches. If it were me, I'd cut bait and not risk the possibility of losing a batch, but that's just me.

 

[Nurmey]

Let your SWMBO know that it is common for pails to retain smells and stains from previous batches but it does not affect anything. It was very nice of her to help you out but if she used the scratchy part of the sponge, you probably should buy a new bucket.

 

[1990dtgl98]

Let your SWMBO know that it is common for pails to retain smells and stains from previous batches but it does not effect anything. It was very nice of her to help you out but if she used the scratchy part of the sponge, you probably should buy a new bucket.

Already did that.

The sponge was just a simple kitchen one, without the abrasive side. It has been used to clean pots and pans for the last few weeks though. Guess I might as well run out to the LHBS and get a new one before I start brewing this afternoon.

Also, on a completely different note...I am doing a cream stout and using white labs london ale yeast. I didn't make a starter as I'm still learning about that...should I buy a 2nd vial then to help fermentation start faster, or just pitch the one vial?

 

[skyzo]

I think you'd be fine if it didnt have that abrasive side on it, sponges are pretty soft. I always use the soft side of a sponge to clean out my bottling bucket.
But if your going to get something new to ferment in, get a carboy! much more fun to watch

 

[Bernie Brewer]

I think your bucket will be just fine. As was said, just check for scratches. It doesn't matter what the sponge was used for- that's what sanitizer is for.