Sourdough Starter Calculator
Calculate feeding amounts and plan your starter schedule for baking day.
Calculate Feeding Amounts
Include extra for waste (usually 20-50g more than recipe calls for)
Feed your starter with:
40g
Starter
80g
Flour
80g
Water
Total: 200g of mature starter
Understanding Feeding Ratios
Feeding ratios are expressed as starter : flour : water. For example, a 1:5:5 ratio means for every 1 part of starter, add 5 parts flour and 5 parts water by weight.
- 1:1:1 - Fast fermentation (4-6 hours at room temp). Good for frequent baking.
- 1:2:2 - Moderate pace (6-8 hours). Common for daily feeding.
- 1:5:5 - Slower fermentation (8-12 hours). Less waste, good for less frequent baking.
- 1:10:10 - Very slow (12-24 hours). Ideal for overnight levain builds.
Tips for a Healthy Starter
- •Feed your starter when it has peaked and starts to fall - usually when it has doubled in size.
- •Use a consistent flour for predictable results. Whole grain flours ferment faster than white flour.
- •Temperature affects fermentation speed. Warmer = faster, cooler = slower.
- •Use filtered or bottled water if your tap water is heavily chlorinated.
- •Store unused starter in the fridge and feed once a week if not baking regularly.