It's normal to be nervous when you're first getting started with sourdough, Laci, but rest assured that it's much more resilient than you think and that maintenance gets easier with time. We recommend storing in a ceramic, glass or food safe plastic container with a loose fitting lid, regardless of where you store your starter. You don't want something airtight because you need to allow for the exchange of gases. Your other questions are answered at least preliminarily in the "Maintaining your starter in the refrigerator" and "Getting ready to bake" sections of this article. If we can help explain the processes in more detail, please feel encouraged to give our Baker's Hotline a call at 855-371-BAKE. Our bakers are here seven days a week and happy to help! Mollie@KAF

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