Emily Johnson
Maintaining a clean mushroom tub is crucial for cultivating healthy mushrooms and preventing contamination. After each harvest, it is essential to remove all spent substrate and disinfect the tub to eliminate pathogens and create a sterile environment for the next batch. While some growers recommend using bleach solutions or isopropyl alcohol for disinfection, others suggest simpler methods like soap and water or dish soap and a sprayer. Proper cleaning and sterilization techniques ensure successful mushroom cultivation by minimizing contamination risks and promoting healthy mushroom growth.
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What You'll Learn
Use a bleach solution
Bleach is a very effective disinfectant for mushroom cultivation. It is a good idea to use a bleach solution to clean mushroom tubs, especially if they have been contaminated with trichoderma spores. Bleach is much more effective than alcohol at killing these spores.
To clean a mushroom tub with bleach, start by cleaning the tub with hot water and dish soap, then rinsing it clean. Next, create a bleach solution using a ratio of 1 tablespoon of bleach to 1 gallon of water. Wipe the tub with this bleach solution, then dry it with a clean towel. Finally, before using the tub again, wipe it out with rubbing alcohol.
It is important to note that bleach solutions only hold their disinfecting properties for 24 hours after being diluted with water, so it is best to make a new solution before cleaning. Additionally, bleach is a caustic substance, so be sure to wear protective gear, such as a mask and gloves, when working with it.
While bleach is an effective disinfectant, some people believe that it is not always necessary to use it. They argue that as long as you have healthy, contaminate-free grain spawn and properly pasteurized substrate, you can simply clean your tubs with soap and water, followed by a wipe-down with 70% isopropyl alcohol.
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Wash with soap and water
When cleaning mushroom tubs, one of the simplest methods is to use soap and water. This is a straightforward and effective way to clean your tubs, and it can be done in several ways.
One approach is to use a shower sprayer attachment to quickly wash the tubs. This method is efficient and easy, requiring only a sponge, rag, soap, and water. It can effectively clean a tub in under a minute. Alternatively, you can take your tubs outside and use a good sprayer with dish soap to wash them down. This is another simple and quick way to clean your mushroom tubs.
For a more thorough cleaning, you can use mild soap and warm water. Remove any trapped debris and scrub the surface gently with a sponge or soft brush. Make sure to rinse the tub thoroughly and let it air dry before using it again. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water helps maintain a clean and odour-free tub.
To further enhance the cleanliness and freshness of your mushroom tub, it is recommended to disinfect it weekly. You can do this by soaking the tub in a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water for about 30 minutes. After soaking, thoroughly rinse the tub under warm water, air dry it, and it will be ready for use again.
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Sterilise with alcohol
Sterilising your mushroom tub with alcohol is an important step in the mushroom-growing process. It ensures your mushroom culture has every advantage to grow and minimises the risk of contamination.
To begin, you'll need 70% isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol. Put some of this alcohol into a spray bottle and sterilise your entire tub, including the lid. Spray your hands, your work surface, and any tools you'll be using, such as scissors. Spray the outside of your spawn bag and your bulk substrate bags, rubbing the alcohol around the entire bag.
You can also use alcohol to sanitise any spoons used to scoop out contaminated grains or patches of bacteria. Additionally, if you're using a still air box, you can use alcohol wipes to sterilise the area.
It's important to note that alcohol is not effective against all types of spores, such as trichoderma. In such cases, a bleach solution is recommended. Always exercise caution and ensure proper ventilation when working with these chemicals.
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Prevent mould with micropore tape
When growing mushrooms, it is essential to maintain a sterile environment to prevent mould and bacterial growth. Micropore tape is a useful tool to achieve this. It is a type of medical tape that allows for gas exchange while acting as a barrier against mould spores and bacteria. Its small pores enable airflow and gas exchange, providing a stable environment for mushrooms to grow healthily.
To prevent mould with micropore tape, follow these steps:
- Ensure your growing containers, such as jars, tubs, or grow bags, are clean and dry. You can use soap and water or a mild bleach solution for cleaning, ensuring no bleach residue remains.
- Sterilise the micropore tape before use. This step is crucial to prevent any contaminants on the tape from entering the container.
- Cut the micropore tape into pieces of appropriate sizes to cover the air holes in your growing containers.
- Apply the tape over the air holes, creating a clean seal. Ensure the tape adheres well to the surface.
- Replace the micropore tape periodically. Over time, moisture and contaminants may build up on the tape, reducing its effectiveness.
By using micropore tape, you provide a protective barrier for your mushroom culture while maintaining the necessary gas exchange for healthy growth. It is a simple, effective, and economical way to prevent mould and create a controlled environment for your mushrooms.
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Clean with peroxide
Cleaning your mushroom tub is important to prevent contamination. Fungi reproduce through spores, which are microscopic cells released from the mushroom and are often dispersed through the air. If you notice any signs of mould or insects, it is important to take immediate action to prevent further contamination.
To clean your mushroom tub with peroxide, follow these steps:
- Use 3% hydrogen peroxide to clean the affected area. Spray the surface until it is covered lightly and evenly.
- Let the peroxide sit for 5-10 minutes. It will naturally turn to water, and any remaining peroxide will not harm your substrate or spawn.
- After the peroxide has had time to work, wipe down the surface with 70% isopropyl alcohol (also known as iso).
- Let the tub dry completely before reusing it.
This method is particularly effective against cobweb mould, which is a common contaminant in mushroom cultivation. Cobweb mould spreads fast and can cause baby mushrooms to abort their growth. It prefers high humidity and stagnant air, so it is important to lower the humidity in your growing environment and improve air circulation to limit the potential for and spread of this type of mould.
While peroxide is effective against mould, it is important to note that it should not be used to clean your growing tubs or jars. Instead, a mild soap and warm water are generally recommended for cleaning mushroom tubs. Bleach is also commonly used to disinfect growing containers and the surrounding environment, such as walls, floors, and ceilings.
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Frequently asked questions
Sterilization is a cornerstone of successful mushroom cultivation. Clean your tub with a disinfectant solution to eliminate any potential pathogens. Bleach is the most effective method, but you can also use 70% isopropyl alcohol.
Cover the holes in your tub with micropore tape or polyfill filters to prevent contamination. Then, line the bottom of the tub with an opaque plastic bag to prevent mushrooms from growing on the sides or bottom of the tub.
Close doors and windows to keep out drafts and outdoor contaminants. Make sure the room you are working in is free from dust and pet hair.
Be on the lookout for any signs of mold or odd colors, which could signal contamination.
Soak everything in a bleach solution for 24 hours. Clean the walls, floors, and ceiling, and sanitize the air in the room.
