How long does it take to start a new starter?

A new starter typically takes 7-14 days of consistent feeding to become reliably active. Be patient and keep feeding.

Can I revive an old neglected starter?

Usually yes. Discard all but a tablespoon, feed with fresh flour and water, and maintain consistent feeding. It may take several days.

What temperature is best for starter?

75-80°F is ideal. Cooler temperatures slow activity; warmer speeds it up but can make starter too sour.

Starter Not Rising

Starter

A starter that will not rise lacks the yeast and bacterial activity needed for bread baking. This can happen with new starters or neglected mature ones. With proper care, most starters can be revived.

Try This Right Now

1Feed with equal parts flour and water by weight and place in a warm spot
2Ensure temperature is 75-80°F for optimal activity
3Wait 12-24 hours before checking for activity

Detailed Solutions

Consistent Feeding Schedule

Easy

Regular feeding encourages activity.

Feed every 12 hours at same time
Use 1:1:1 ratio (starter:flour:water)
Keep at 75-80°F
Look for bubbles and rise within a week

Whole Grain Boost

Easy

Whole grains provide more nutrients.

Replace half the flour with whole wheat or rye
These flours have more wild yeast
Feed twice daily
Return to regular flour once active

Why This Happens

Inactive starter results from insufficient yeast population, wrong temperature, irregular feeding, or contamination. Contributing factors include: New starter not yet established, Temperature too cold, Irregular feeding schedule, Chlorinated water affecting microbes, Starter contaminated with mold.

Prevention for Next Time

Feed starter at consistent times—yeast thrives on routine
Keep starter at 75-80°F for optimal activity
Use filtered or bottled water if tap water is heavily chlorinated
Feed with unbleached flour for more nutrients

Related Issues

Having other problems? Check out these related troubleshooting guides.

No Rise Weak Gluten Dense Crumb Starter Too Sour