What You’ll Learn
- What 1:1:1 means by weight.
- Example feed quantities.
- When the ratio is useful.
- Why it usually peaks faster than larger feeds.
- When a larger ratio may be better.
Quick Answer
A 1:1:1 feeding ratio means equal weights of starter, flour and water. For example: 25g starter + 25g flour + 25g water. It usually ferments relatively quickly, making it useful when you want to refresh a starter and observe activity over a shorter period.
This lesson is part of our Sourdough Starters section: “Learn how to care for the heart of every loaf.”
What Does 1:1:1 Mean?
The three numbers represent starter, flour and water in that order. The ratio is always based on weight, not volume.
Simple Examples
10g starter + 10g flour + 10g water gives 30g total. 25g + 25g + 25g gives 75g total. 50g + 50g + 50g gives 150g total.
When to Use 1:1:1
It is useful when refreshing an already active starter, learning its peak time, or when you need a relatively quick build.
How Fast Will It Peak?
Peak time depends on temperature and starter strength. Because the amount of fresh food equals the starter weight, 1:1:1 generally ferments faster than 1:2:2 or 1:3:3.
Is 1:1:1 Good for Daily Feeding?
It can be, especially in a cool room. In a warm kitchen, it may peak too quickly for a once-daily schedule.
Does 1:1:1 Create More Acidity?
A culture left long after a small feed may become quite acidic before its next refresh. If you need a longer interval, a larger ratio can help.
From Our Workshop
We use 1:1:1 as a useful reference point because it quickly shows whether a starter is lively. But it is not a rule you must use forever.
Bake Slower Tip
Keep the starter amount small. You can learn exactly the same thing from 10g + 10g + 10g as from a much larger feed.
Common Mistake
Do not read 1:1:1 as cups or spoonfuls. Starter, flour and water have different densities, so the ratio should be weighed.
Today You Learned
- 1:1:1 means equal weights of starter, flour and water.
- It is a relatively fast feed.
- Small quantities reduce waste.
- Temperature still controls peak time.
- Use larger ratios when you need a longer fermentation window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 1:1:1 the best feeding ratio?
No single ratio is best. It depends on your schedule and starter.
Can I use 20g starter?
Yes: feed it 20g flour and 20g water.
How long does 1:1:1 take?
Often a few hours in warm conditions, but timing varies.
Can I use 1:1:1 overnight?
Possibly in a cool room; in warmth it may peak too early.
Should I discard before a 1:1:1 feed?
Usually keep only the amount of starter you want to feed, then remove or use the rest.
Need the Right Starter Setup?
A clear jar and accurate scales are all you really need to make feeding ratios simple.
Continue Learning
Next lesson: The 1:2:2 Sourdough Feeding Ratio
A simple starter check
Keep one variable stable while you diagnose the starter. Record the flour, feeding ratio, room temperature and approximate rise after each feed. A short three-feed record is usually more useful than changing flour, ratio and temperature all at once.
