Clean the inside walls of the container

To prevent dried bits forming on the surface, compact the Levain in the bottom of the container. Scrape any mixture from the walls of the container, too. The easiest tool to use is your fingers dipped in fresh water.

As a final touch, dip your fingers in water and pat down the surface of the Levain, smoothing it. The water prevents a surface skin from forming while the Levain ferments.