Homebrewers Guide to Perfect Bottle Capping

Have you ever struggled with the final step of homebrewing—securing bottle caps? Leaky seals or loose caps can ruin all your hard work. With the right technique, you can achieve perfect seals every time. Follow this step-by-step guide to master your bottle capper and ensure your homemade beer stays fresh and carbonated.

Begin by lifting the capper's lever vertically to create space for operation. This initial positioning is crucial for smooth subsequent steps.

Attach the bottle cap (crown) to the magnet on the capper's piston. Pro tip: Invert the capper and place the cap onto the magnet from above for easier handling.

Place the beer bottle on a sturdy, flat surface like a table or floor. Ensure complete stability to prevent movement during capping.

Align the capper with the bottle neck. Grasp both levers and press down steadily. When the levers form an inverted "V" shape, the cap has begun sealing. Avoid rushing this step to prevent damage.

Continue pressing until the levers reach horizontal position (or slightly below). Note: For wider bottle necks (like 350ml bottles), initial capper wobble is normal—simply maintain steady pressure. Never use excessive force.

Lift the capper and examine the seal. The cap should sit flush with no gaps. If needed, repeat the process for adjustment.

With these six steps mastered, you'll consistently achieve professional-quality seals for your homebrewed beer—preserving flavor and carbonation exactly as intended.