Cork Problem

Systems, Gear, & DIY
1

Okay so apparently I had the cork and airlock soaking in the sanitizer too long and it got a bit water logged.

When I pushed it into the top of my carboy to begin fermentation, the cork slid all the way in…past the neck. I was able to pull the airlock out but now the cork is floating in the beer.

I assume there is nothing to do now but 1. It should effect the beer right? And 2. Any ideas how to get it out?

Obviously I want to do it without breaking the glass. Any idea how to break the cork in the carboy or am I just screwed? And “ship in a bottle” builders out there?

2

I’ve done this plenty of times. When done fermenting use the end of a dry cleaner hanger (under the cardboard tube) to get it out.

I switched to the universal stoppers for this reason. They are more rigid an have a lip that keeps them from going all the way in.

3

I find the easiest way to get them out is by putting some water in (after you rack out obviously) and throwing a rag or something like that… I use a shamwow lol.  Then if you flip it upside down the cork will get wrapped in the towel and you can pull it out with the towel.

4

Try calling Rick Moranis. Honey I shrunk the homebrewer. Bring a tiny chainsaw with you

5

If you’re going that route I would suggest shrinking the cork.  Cutting up the cork all day with a mini chainsaw sure seems like a lot of wasted work :wink:

6

Or increase the size of the carboy, stick your hand in to get the cork out and use the bigger carboy to make more beer in the future.

7

Finally a way to get my girlfriend to stop complaining about the homebrew equipment taking up all the basement space!

8

Then next time do like I do and just put tinfoil over the neck.i haven’t used an airlock in years.