Wine making kits let you in on all of the wine making fun. However, it goes without saying that sanitizing your kit is a must. Anything that comes in contact with your wine, including your hands, must be thoroughly cleaned. Even if you follow the instructions to the letter, your batch of wine could be ruined due to equipment that is not cleaned properly. Doing a simple wash is not sufficient and can leave you prone to harmful bacteria that will truly affect the taste of your wine.
Cleaning and sanitizing your wine making kit is not difficult and the peace of mind is well worth the time it takes to ensure that all potential germs are killed. The key to remember: Wash all equipment when job is completed. This will prevent any residue from drying to the equipment.
The rule of thumb for wine making kits is to sanitize the following: stoppers or bungs, airlocks, carboys, bottles, tubing, thermometer, fermenting buckets, wine thiefs, sample jars, hydrometers, bottling wands, racking canes, siphoning equipment, measuring cups, spoons and stirring paddles. Remember, thoroughly clean prior to sanitizing and NEVER rinse after sanitizing unless specifically instructed.
With so many products and cleaning equipment available to the home winemaker, it is important to determine what is actually necessary. Being organized and diligent while following these cleaning methods will make the wine making experience more enjoyable.
Boiling:
While not the most creative method, it certainly is the most basic and cost effective way to sanitize your wine kit. No chemicals are needed, just hot water, scrub brush, a large pot and tongs. Make sure the water is a consistent 170 degrees for at least 15 minutes before dropping all of your equipment into the pot for ten minutes. On a clean surface, spread paper towels and remove equipment after slightly cooled. Allow to air dry.
Chlorine:
Take note: Many suggest that you NOT use any form of household bleach when cleaning your wine kit as it contributes to corked wines, a very unappealing smell and taste that will ruin your wine.
If you prefer to use some sort of chemicals to further confirm that your wine making kit is absolutely free of any harmful bacteria, there are several methods that are worth trying:
B-Brite
This is a powder made for the winemaking industry. It contains zero chlorine, which can contribute to corked wines, and removes any fermentation residues. It’s a simple procedure. Mix one-tablespoon powder to one gallon of water.
Campden Tablets:
Tiny tablets not only clean, but also sanitizes. No need to rinse once cleaning process is complete though tablets must be crushed and a bit more expensive than other methods.
Iodine:
While this is an economical way to clean and sanitize, this can be toxic if directions are not carefully followed.
Potassium Metabisulfite Powder:
Another cost effective method to clean your wine making kit but again, beware. Special care is needed and because it is a sulfite, you need to be aware of allergies. No rinsing is required.
While these are proven methods to ensuring your wine kit is safely cleaned as long as all instructions are closely followed, it is also important to be organized and efficient with your wine making kit cleaning methods. Store all equipment and cleaning materials in their proper place. Keep records of your sanitizing regime including writing down all measurements of any cleaning agent you used. This will ensure that when you begin your next wine project, you won’t discover a piece of equipment that is encrusted with any leftovers of your previous batch.
