Do I need to use Launchpad to activate my starter if my room is already warm?
While not strictly necessary if your room is above 23°C, Launchpad significantly speeds up the activation time. Our tests show it can activate your starter up to three times faster, even in a warm environment.
Can I re-use Launchpad after I activate my starter the first time?
Yes! Launchpad warms up when exposed to oxygen, and cools down again when it is returned to its sealed pouch. After initial activation, you can use it again to warm your starter, ensuring it's active and bubbly before baking. This is particularly useful if your room is chilly or your starter has been kept in the fridge.
How long does Launchpad take to reach maximum heat?
Launchpad typically reaches its maximum heat within 10-15 minutes of being exposed to oxygen outside its pouch.
Do I need to use Launchpad to warm up my starter before each time I bake?
No, your starter will work just fine without it, even if your room temperature is lower than the 23°C. Launchpad simply helps your starter to be at its most bubbly and active, which ensures maximum carbon dioxide production for optimal rise and a good crumb structure, leading to consistent and flavourful bread.
How does Launchpad work?
Launchpad works through a natural oxidation process. Its main ingredients — iron powder, water, salt, activated charcoal, and vermiculite — react with oxygen once the ziplock seal is opened and the bags are exposed to air. This reaction causes the iron to oxidize, releasing heat. Activated charcoal helps regulate the reaction, and vermiculite manages water content, ensuring a steady, even warmth.
How long does Launchpad last?
Each Launchpad typically provides 5-10 hours of total warmth, depending on how long it's left exposed between uses. To maximize its lifespan, always return it to its bag and properly reseal the ziplock immediately after each use.
Regardless of usage, Launchpad typically stops working about one month after its initial opening.
Using Launchpad safely
Launchpad is safe to handle, but it can reach temperatures of up to 70°C so it is best to avoid prolonged direct contact with your skin. If the bag is broken, immediately dispose of it. Do not allow the internal contents to get in your eyes or mouth, as the iron powder can be harmful if swallowed. Keep out of reach of young children or pets.
Disposal
Once your Launchpad no longer warms up, you can dispose of it responsibly by opening the packet and mixing the contents into soil. This acts as a natural conditioner, returning the materials to nature in an eco-friendly way.
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