So, I'm a first time home-brewer. About to brew for the first time here in a couple weeks. Getting stuff ready.
That being said, I bought some of my equipment off of Craigslist. I got a deal. A steal really. Everything I bought seems like it is in awesome condition, with the exception of the primary fermentation 6 gallon bucket.
I recently heard on a podcast, that it's only good to keep a plastic bucket for anywhere from 10 to 20 fermentations, and then it should be replaced. Not like glass carboys where they can be used potentially forever, but replaced after extended use. This was new to me, but it makes sense.
So... about my used craigslist bucket....
It is stained, it does have a smell. Not necessarily a bad smell, but it is not odor free. I was going to use it because when I bought it, I figured it was probably fine. But the more I learn, the more I expect from my equipment.
Is it normal for buckets to get stained, or was this neglect on the previous owner's part? Is it normal for buckets to retain a beer/wort smell? Should I be concerned? Should I think nothing of it? Should I replace it?
Thanks.
Seth