Crumbwise

Guides

How to feed a sourdough starter: ratios and schedule

Feeding is simple: keep some starter, add flour and water, wait. The ratio controls how fast it peaks.

Common ratios (starter : flour : water)

1:1:1 peaks in about 4 hours in a warm kitchen. 1:2:2 in about 6 hours. 1:5:5 in about 8–10 hours — handy for overnight feeds.

How often

On the counter: every 12–24 hours. In the fridge: once a week, then take it out and feed 1–2 times before baking.

Which flour

Unbleached bread or all-purpose flour works; a bit of whole wheat or rye makes it livelier.

Track it

Log feedings and when it peaked. Crumbwise uses your log to remind you when it's time and to spot trends.

Crumbwise is an AI bread coach: photo checks for starters, dough and loaves, a baking planner and reminders.