Hi Nat, it sounds like your starter could use a little warmer spot for rising, but it doesn't need to be warmer than 80ºF, and the low 70's will actually work just fine. Being consistent with the temperature is helpful to your starter, and will make it easier for you to gauge it's readiness and rising ability, but I don't think you've done any permanent harm with the fluctuations. You might want to consider using your microwave as a makeshift proof box by boiling some water on the stove and placing it in a pyrex cup in your microwave. This should warm up the small space and keep your starter cozy for a while. If it gets too cool in there you can always add a new cup of boiling water. Usually the first few hours after feeding are pretty uneventful as far as rising goes, so try to check on your starter during the daytime about 6-8 hours after feeding and see how it's progressed. I hope this helps! Let us know how it goes.
April 2, 2020 at 3:58pm
In reply to Hi Barb! I started my… by Nat (not verified)
Hi Nat, it sounds like your starter could use a little warmer spot for rising, but it doesn't need to be warmer than 80ºF, and the low 70's will actually work just fine. Being consistent with the temperature is helpful to your starter, and will make it easier for you to gauge it's readiness and rising ability, but I don't think you've done any permanent harm with the fluctuations. You might want to consider using your microwave as a makeshift proof box by boiling some water on the stove and placing it in a pyrex cup in your microwave. This should warm up the small space and keep your starter cozy for a while. If it gets too cool in there you can always add a new cup of boiling water. Usually the first few hours after feeding are pretty uneventful as far as rising goes, so try to check on your starter during the daytime about 6-8 hours after feeding and see how it's progressed. I hope this helps! Let us know how it goes.
Barb