can I use starsan?
 

Hi:

Question (short story)
Can I use StarSan successfully and safely instead of Physan to sanitize/disinfect equipment, and clean up new orchids?

Background (long story)
I am new to active care for orchids; thus far, I simply have watered the ones in my house, and I guess I got lucky since they have rewarded me with some amazing blooms and aromas over the last couple years. I'm ready to start expanding my collection, and go beyond simply watering the plants. :)

The research has taught me many things I had no clue about, such as making sure my equipment is sanitized, as well as cleaning orchids, the media, etc.

I see Physan recommended a lot. Before I go and buy some, I just wanted to see if I could use StarSan in its place, since I am slowly working through a big jug of it for my other hobbies and it will take me years to do so. I'd prefer to use what I have on hand, instead of getting yet another thing. It's not a question of $, just space.

In case you are not aware, StarSan is some concoction of phosphoric acid, and can be used to sanitize and disinfect kitchen counters, bottles and equipment for brewing, etc.

I had links to msds and tech sheets for all three in first draft of this post, but the forum is preventing me from posting as a security precaution. I'm not sure how to provide links for you to make comparisons easier, sorry :(

In reviewing the data sheets, they are very different products (e.g. acidic vs neutral alkaline, ethanol vs iso propyl alcohol, etc), but both do serve the same purpose, which is why I might as well ask. Of course, for safety to the plants, it would be best to stick with what's known so I will likely make shelf space.

Thank you for your time :)

It might be fine for disinfecting tools and hard surfaces, but I would avoid its use on plants.

For the record, I have no first-hand knowledge of the product, but the acidic composition has me a bit concerned.

Okay, thank you! I'll just purchase new. The StarSan will likely outlive me :biggrin:

You use an ounce or two per gallon of water to sanitize equipment and countertops, I'm still on my first gallon of spray solution after 4 years.