Four glass jars labeled “SCOBY” filled with amber kombucha tea and floating SCOBYs, neatly arranged on a wooden shelf with a white tiled background and covered with breathable cloths.

How to Store Your SCOBY Long-Term (Without Killing It)

Whether you’re taking a break from brewing or have more SCOBYs than you know what to do with, knowing how to store your SCOBY long-term is essential. Luckily, it’s easy—if you do it right.

Here’s everything you need to know to build your own SCOBY hotel, keep it healthy, and avoid common mistakes that could damage your culture.

What Is a SCOBY Hotel?

A SCOBY hotel is a simple setup where you store extra or unused SCOBYs in a jar filled with starter tea. Think of it as a little "apartment building" for your cultures to rest and stay alive between brews.

Why You Might Need One

  • You’re pausing your brewing routine

  • You have multiple extra SCOBYs

  • You want backups in case of contamination

  • You plan to gift SCOBYs to friends

How to Build a SCOBY Hotel (Step-by-Step)

🥃 What You Need:

  • A large glass jar

  • SCOBYs (you can stack them!)

  • Starter liquid (strong kombucha from previous brews)

  • Breathable cloth + rubber band

🧠 Instructions:

  1. Place your SCOBYs in the jar

  2. Pour in enough starter tea to cover them fully

  3. Cover with the cloth and secure it

  4. Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight

That’s it! No refrigeration required.

How to Maintain Your SCOBY Hotel

Even though it’s “just resting,” your SCOBY still needs attention every few weeks.

Every 3–4 Weeks:

✅ Add fresh sweet tea or kombucha
✅ Remove any excess layers or liquid if needed
✅ Make sure SCOBYs stay submerged
✅ Check for signs of mold or dryness

Pro Tip: Keep your strongest, healthiest SCOBYs near the top—those are the best candidates for your next brew!

Can You Refrigerate a SCOBY?

❌ No. Refrigeration slows microbial activity but can also shock or kill your SCOBY over time. It’s best to store it at a steady room temperature.

When to Replace a SCOBY

Even a well-stored SCOBY doesn’t last forever. Consider replacing it if:

  • It becomes black or has visible mold

  • It smells off (cheesy, rotten)

  • It has been neglected for more than 3 months without feeding

Final Thoughts

Creating a SCOBY hotel is one of the easiest ways to care for your kombucha cultures long-term. It ensures you always have backups, keeps your brewing flexible, and lets you share the love with fellow fermenters.

👉 Need a strong, fresh SCOBY to start your hotel? Order yours here

Your SCOBY deserves a comfy home too 🏡🧡

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