Do you use Star San as per the instructions?

[kelper]

The instructions say,

Homebrew use: Thoroughly wash all surfaces with detergent or a compatible cleaner, followed by a potable water rinse before application of sanitizing solution. Prepare a use solution of 1 oz. of Star San per 5 gallons of tap water. Apply on surfaces with a cloth mop, sponge, spray or by a 5-minute immersion. For spray applications, use a coarse mist, with pump or trigger spray. Spray 6 to 8 inches from surface; rub with a brush, cloth or sponge. With spray, cover or remove all food products. For all applications, allow to air dry, however, surfaces must remain wet for at least one minute. Do not rinse after Star San application.

(my emphasis)

 

[Bigjas]

I've been using Star San for a couple of years, excellent stuff. I make it up in a spray bottle and just spray everything that comes into contact with post boil wort. I don't use a cloth or anything and I don't wait for it to dry. Never had any issues so far.

 

[kelper]

I've been using Star San for a couple of years, excellent stuff. I make it up in a spray bottle and just spray everything that comes into contact with post boil wort. I don't use a cloth or anything and I don't wait for it to dry. Never had any issues so far.

can you vote, please?

 

[LeeH]

Done.

I’ve listened to many a pod cast by the manufacturer stating that it takes seconds to work and you don’t have to leave it dry. And is beneficial to the yeast too.

I’ve never had an infection in all my brewing years using it this way.

 

[kelper]

duplicate

 

[kelper]

If you spray but don't wipe, how do you know you have 100% coverage?

 

[SteveH]

I don't spray, only use it via immersion/shaking, and I've never waited for it to dry.

 

[LeeH]

If you spray but don't wipe, how do you know you have 100% coverage?

Spray liberally.

 

[Bigjas]

can you vote, please?

I did vote

 

[kelper]

Sorry, I don't have Star San yet and didn't vote - so I couldn't see the results!

 

[kelper]

The consensus is that just spraying is all you need to do. I do wonder if we all over-sanitise? Clean, dry steel is unlikely to harbour any bacteria and even airborne pathogens can probably me removed enough with detergent and hot water. I can see the need to sanitise fabric and plastic or anything with an absorbent or rough surface. Thanks to all who have voted.