The Best Way to Clean Your Still for Maximum Efficiency (Not Just Gstill).
Proper maintenance of your still is crucial for producing high-quality spirits and ensuring long-term performance. Residue buildup, mineral deposits, and leftover organic matter can negatively impact flavour, reduce efficiency, and even cause equipment malfunctions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best way to clean your still for optimal performance.
Why Cleaning Your Still Matters
Over time, oils, proteins, and other residues from previous runs can accumulate inside your still. If not properly cleaned, these contaminants can:
Alter the taste of your spirits.
Reduce heat transfer efficiency.
Cause clogs or blockages in pipes and condensers.
Lead to bacterial growth and contamination.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
1. Rinse Immediately After Each Run
Once you've finished distilling, rinse your still thoroughly with warm water to remove any leftover residues before they harden.
2. Use a Citric Acid Wash for Copper Stills
Copper stills are prone to oxidation, which can lead to unwanted compounds in your next run. To clean a copper still:
Mix 1 tablespoon of citric acid per litre of warm water.
Pour the solution into the still and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
3. Deep Clean with Sodium Percarbonate
For stainless steel and copper stills, a deep clean with sodium percarbonate (a key ingredient in oxygen-based cleaners) helps break down stubborn deposits:
Fill your still with a solution of sodium percarbonate and warm water.
Let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
Scrub any remaining residues with a soft brush or cloth.
4. Clean Condensers & Pipes
Blocked condensers can lead to inefficient cooling and off-flavors. To clean:
Run a solution of warm water and vinegar through the pipes.
Use a pipe brush to remove any hidden buildup.
Flush with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning agents.
5. Remove and Inspect Seals & Gaskets
Check seals and gaskets for any wear or buildup that could cause leaks. Wipe them down with a mild soapy solution, rinse thoroughly, and let them dry completely before reassembly.
6. Final Rinse & Drying
After cleaning, rinse all components with fresh water to remove any traces of cleaning agents. Allow your still to dry completely before storing to prevent corrosion or bacterial growth.
Pro Tips for Keeping Your Still in Top Shape
✔ Schedule a deep clean every 5-10 runs to maintain efficiency.
✔ Avoid harsh abrasives that can scratch metal surfaces - especially 316L steel.
✔ Use only food-safe cleaning agents to prevent contamination, message for more details on them.
Final Thoughts
Regular cleaning ensures that your still operates at peak efficiency while preserving the quality of your spirits. By following these best practices, you’ll extend the life of your equipment and maintain consistent distillation results.
For more distillation tips and product updates, follow our blog or reach out to us at GSTILL!