Mould in cubes

[rossbaker]

Hi guys, so I have two grain and grape FWK cubes that have been siting around for several weeks since I brewed them and I never got around to cleaning or rinsing them. Have just noticed some globs of mould in them and I was wondering if they can be salvaged for no chill/fermenting or if they need to get chucked. Thoughts?

 

[crowmanz]

I reckon they should be right after a good deep clean and sanitise

 

[manticle]

I reckon I wouldn't bother. Could be maybe might be ok.
Might not. $15 -20 for a new cube vs 15 -20+ worth of ingredients, 4-6 hrs brewing, 1 week+ fermentation time and concern all the way to the first taste.

It's recyclable plastic so you don't even have to worry about that.

 

[slcmorro]

They'll be fine mate. Hot (boiling if you can) water with PBW and swish it around for a while. It'll dislodge the mould. Rinse thoroughly several times and sanitize with starsan. If you can, fill them right up and let the starsan sit in them overnight.

Remember, when no chilling you're usually sanitizing beforehand and then pasteurizing afterwards - adding 90c+ wort to a cube. Not much if anything will survive, should you prepare right.

 

[adryargument]

Use them. I have had green cubes that shined up new.
Heck, if I had to throw out everything that got mouldy I would be onto at least my 7th marriage.

 

[RdeVjun]

A thorough soak with Nappisan (or any low- scent sodium percarbonate- based laundry powder) works wonders- fill with hot water and generously dose with it, leave to soak for at least a day and most of those organic residues such as globs of mould will be history. Alternatively, partial fill and an even stronger dosing along with regular turning over a few days to treat all interior surfaces should get you there.
Rinse well, usually four or more rinses required, then sanitise and you're in business.
As others relate, the No Chill method will also help to eliminate lingering bugs.
HTH!

 

[dblunn]

Bleach will clean up the mould well also, just needs extra rinsing.

 

[mje1980]

I don't take any chances with mould. I'd ditch em. Makes no logical sense, as I've got some pretty awesome cleaning and sanitising products, but in my head I just can't do it.