FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Freshly baked sourdough bread lasts 3 to 5 days at room temperature when stored properly. It stays "fresh" with a soft interior and crisp crust for about 1 to 2 days. After that, the crust softens, and the inside becomes chewier and drier.

To keep your sourdough bread fresh, follow these steps: **Day 1-2: Maintaining Freshness** - **Uncut Loaf:** Store unwrapped on the kitchen counter with the cut side down on a cutting board. - **Breathable Wrapping:** Wrap the cooled loaf in a linen or cotton bread bag or a clean tea towel. A paper bag is also an option. **Day 3-5: Extending Edibility** - **Airtight Storage:** Transfer sliced bread to an airtight plastic bag or a reusable beeswax-lined cotton bag. - **Bread Box:** Use a bread box to regulate moisture and airflow. - **Cut-Side Down:** Continue to store the cut side down on a cutting board if no bag or bread box is available. **Beyond 5 Days: Freezing** - **Whole Loaf:** Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. - **Slices:** Place parchment paper between slices and store in a freezer-safe bag. Toast slices directly from frozen. **Reheating Frozen Sourdough:** Thaw at room temperature, spritz with water, and bake in a preheated oven at 300-350°F (150-175°C) for 10-20 minutes. **Things to Avoid:** - **Refrigerating:** Makes bread go stale faster. - **Wrapping Warm Bread:** Prevents condensation and mold growth. **Signs of Spoilage:** - **Visible Mold:** Discard the entire loaf if mold is present. - **Unpleasant Odor:** Discard if it smells off. - **Bad Taste:** Discard if it tastes off.

Hand-poured goat milk soap can last for many years if stored properly. Here's what to expect: **Shelf Life (Unused Soap):** - **Years:** Properly stored, unused soap can last for many years. Some believe aged soap gets better over time. - **Scent Fading:** Essential oil scents may fade within a year; fragrance oils last longer. - **Appearance Changes:** Natural colors may fade over time. - **Potential for Rancidity:** Natural fats may go rancid eventually, causing an unpleasant odor and orange spots. **Lifespan During Use:** - **Storage Between Uses:** Use a draining soap dish to prevent the soap from dissolving in standing water. - **Usage Habits:** Frequency and method of use affect longevity. Using a washcloth or loofah can extend the bar's life. - **Soap Composition:** Soaps with harder oils and proper curing last longer. A 4-5 oz bar might last around one month with daily use if stored correctly.