Sanitizing your equipment is an important step in making mead, as it helps prevent contamination from unwanted microorganisms that could spoil your batch. Here is a step-by-step guide for sanitizing your equipment with Star San:

1. Gather all the equipment you will need for making mead, including your hydrometer, fermenting vessel, airlock and stopper, stirring spoon, siphon, tubing, and any other tools you may be using. Make sure that all of your equipment is clean and free of any visible debris.

2. Mix a solution of Star San in a clean bucket or spray bottle according to the instructions on the bottle. Generally, you will need to use one ounce of Star San per five gallons of water.

3. Put on gloves to protect your hands, and use a funnel to pour the Star San solution into your fermenting vessel. Swirl the solution around to coat the interior of the vessel, making sure to cover all surfaces.

4. Allow the Star San solution to sit in the fermenting vessel for the recommended contact time, usually between one and five minutes.

5. While the Star San solution is sitting in the fermenting vessel, dip items into the sanitization bucket or use a spray bottle or a clean cloth to sanitize your other equipment. Spray or wipe down all surfaces with the Star San solution, making sure to cover all areas.

6. Once the contact time has elapsed, dump the Star San solution out of the fermenting vessel. Do not rinse the vessel with water, as the residual Star San will continue to sanitize the interior.

7. Assemble your equipment, making sure to handle everything with clean hands or gloves to prevent contamination.

That’s it! With these steps, you should have successfully sanitized all of your mead making equipment with Star San. Remember to always follow safe food handling practices when making mead, including washing your hands frequently and using clean, sanitized equipment.