Sourdough Starter Troubleshooting: Why Isn’t Mine Rising?

(And What You Can Do to Fix It)

If you’ve just started your sourdough journey and your starter isn’t bubbling or rising like those picture-perfect ones on Instagram or TikTok—don’t panic. You’re not alone, and it doesn’t mean you’ve failed.

As a baker (and mom!) who’s been in your shoes, I know how frustrating those first few days can be. Let’s walk through the most common reasons your starter isn’t rising—and how to get it back on track.

1. It Needs More Time

If you’re using a dehydrated starter, like our Mother & Crumb Starter Kit, it typically takes 5–7 days to fully rehydrate and become active. In those early days, you might not see much movement—and that’s completely normal. Give it time, and keep feeding consistently.

💡 Pro tip: Keep it in a warm spot (around 75–78°F). Starters love warmth!

2. Your Flour Might Be Too Bleached or Processed

Starters feed on the natural sugars in flour, especially the bran and germ in whole wheat and unbleached varieties. If you’re using bleached all-purpose flour or something overly processed, your starter might be missing key nutrients.

Fix: Try switching to organic, unbleached all-purpose or even whole wheat flour for a few feedings to kickstart activity.

3. Chlorinated Water Can Slow It Down

Tap water with chlorine or other additives can inhibit the wild yeast and bacteria in your starter.

Fix: Use filtered or bottled water (room temp) when feeding your starter.

4. It’s Too Cold

Starters slow down significantly in cool temperatures. If your kitchen dips below 70°F, your starter may appear inactive.

Fix: Try placing it in your oven with just the light on, or near a sunny window (not in direct sunlight). Aim for that cozy 75–78°F range.

5. It’s Hungry

Sometimes your starter is doing okay but just needs more frequent feeding to get strong.

Fix: Try feeding every 12 hours (instead of every 24) for a day or two. Keep the jar loosely covered and use a clean spoon for stirring.

Don’t Give Up—It’s All Part of the Process

Every starter is different, and even the bubbly ones on social media had a slow, quiet beginning. Stick with it, trust the process, and keep feeding.

Want a reliable starter that actually works? Check out our Mother & Crumb Dehydrated Starter Kit—designed to be beginner-friendly, shelf-stable, and ready to rise in 5–7 days.

👉 Shop the Starter Kit Now