Does anybody else use a butter bell? Have you had any problems?

[sinkingfeeling]

[hlthe2b]

1. I've thought about it--my grandmother did many years ago...

But she went through it far more quickly than I ever would, so I am reluctant. The airtight seal with a change of water does extend the safety outside the refrigerator for several days and even longer at cooler room temps (considerably cooler than 80F) so, I think many would be able to use it effectively and safely.

If you use non-butter spreads, the safety is less clear using a butter bell since the water content is different for these spreads and a differing spoilage profile is present. Since I use Earth Balance most often, I haven't tried one. As to the latter, I will say leaving these spreads out at room temperature quickly becomes a mold issue--even if you are careful never to reuse a knife or spreader in it. So, I do think the plant-based spreads go in the refrigerator regardless.

[sinkingfeeling]

2. I've had mine in use for over 2 weeks and everything seems good. I change the water every third day.

[hlthe2b]

3. Yes. I think that is how she used hers. She also had a very shaded enclosed side porch

where she could put things like this that remained much cooler than the rest of the house...

I do like the concept..

[2naSalit]

4. I have one...

A nice earthenware unit made by a potter friend years ago. I haven't used in since a few moves ago but when I find it, I'll probably go back to using it because of the ambient environment I live in now.

I usually make sure the water is of good quality, that matters. But other than changing the water every few days, should be good for a long time.

The water also helps to keep the temperature stable and a little cooler than ambient temps. I like the texture of the butter at the temperature maintained in the bell.

[JackintheGreen]

5. I've used one for years

Most of my married life, so nearly 30 years. Just use salted butter and, as everyone else has pointed out, change the water regularly.

[mama]

6. I recently got a new butter bell.

I had used one for years then broke it. I really missed having soft spreadable butter. I change the water twice a day to keep it very cold, and don't have any problems unless I forget to change it for a few days.