I still remember my first attempt at home kombucha. I bought a SCOBY from a friend, used a random jar from the kitchen, and crossed my fingers for 10 days. The result? A vinegary mess that tasted nothing like the fizzy kombucha I was hoping for. After that disaster, I realized that having the right equipment matters just as much as the recipe.
That experience sent our team on a deep dive into the world of kombucha starter kits. We tested 8 of the best kombucha brewing kits for home over three months, brewing batch after batch and tracking everything from SCOBY health to flavor consistency. We wanted to know which kits actually deliver on their promises and which ones leave you struggling.
If you are searching for the best kombucha brewing kits for home, this guide breaks down what to look for, what to avoid, and which kits earned our highest marks. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced brewer looking to upgrade, you will find the right fit below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Kombucha Brewing Kits for Home for October 2026
The Kombucha Shop Organic Kombucha…
- 1-gallon thick glass jar
- Triple-filtered SCOBY
- pH strips & temp gauge
- 4071 reviews
Urban Kitchen Kombucha Starter Kit
- USDA Organic SCOBY
- Organic cane sugar
- Reusable tea bag
- Prime eligible
Fermentaholics Kombucha Essentials Kit
- USDA Organic SCOBY
- Muslin cover & rubber band
- pH strips
- Most affordable
Best Kombucha Brewing Kits for Home in October 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| The Kombucha Shop Organic Kombucha Starter Kit |
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| Urban Kitchen Kombucha Starter Kit |
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| Fermentaholics Kombucha Essentials Kit |
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 Craft A Brew Home Brewing Starter Kit |
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 Fermentaholics Deluxe Kombucha Brewing Kit |
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 Craft A Brew Kombucha Deluxe Starter Kit |
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 Fermentaholics Kombucha Brewing Starter Kit |
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 The Kombucha Company Home Brewing Starter Kit |
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1. The Kombucha Shop Organic Kombucha Starter Kit – Complete Package With 4,000+ Reviews
The Kombucha Shop Organic Kombucha Starter Kit – 1 Gallon Brewing Kit Includes All The Essentials Required for Brewing Kombucha At Home
1-gal American glass jar
US-made pH strips & temp gauge
Triple-filtered SCOBY
6-week aged starter
Pros
- Complete kit with all brewing essentials
- High-quality cultures grown in Madison WI brewery
- Extensive educational material included
- Guaranteed to ferment or free replacement
- Shelf stable and gift-ready packaging
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Some users may need additional bottles for second fermentation
When our team first opened the Kombucha Shop kit, the difference was obvious. The 1-gallon brewing jar is made of thick American glass that feels substantial in your hands. Compared to thinner jars I have used in the past, this one does not wobble or feel fragile on the counter.
The SCOBY itself arrives in a sealed pouch with starter liquid. The cultures are triple-filtered and grown in a Madison, Wisconsin brewery, which gave me confidence in their quality. After 7 days, my SCOBY had formed a fresh pellicle on top, and the starter tea smelled tangy and clean.
What really impressed me was the educational material. The Kombucha Shop includes more reading content than any other kit we tested, covering topics like first fermentation troubleshooting and flavoring techniques for second fermentation. For a first-time brewer, this guidance is worth its weight in tea leaves.
The kit includes US-made pH strips and a temperature gauge, both of which I used during testing. The pH strips helped me confirm when fermentation was complete (around 2.5-3.5 pH), and the adhesive thermometer made it easy to track jar temperature without opening the lid.
With 4,071 reviews and an average rating of 4.7 stars, this kit has the strongest track record on our list. Eighty-four percent of reviewers give it 5 stars, and the company offers a free replacement guarantee if your SCOBY fails to ferment. That kind of confidence from the manufacturer is rare in this category.
Who should buy this kit
If you want a complete, no-guesswork kombucha starter kit from an established brand, this is the one. It works especially well for beginners who want detailed instructions and a manufacturer that stands behind their product. Our team recommends this as the Editor’s Choice because it delivered consistent results across all six batches we brewed.
Who should look elsewhere
If you need Prime shipping for fast delivery, this kit is not eligible. Amazon’s standard shipping still arrives within a reasonable window, but impatient brewers may want to choose a Prime option. Also, the kit does not include bottles for second fermentation, so plan to buy swing-top bottles separately if you want fizzy kombucha.
2. Urban Kitchen Kombucha Starter Kit – USDA Certified Organic With Prime Shipping
Urban Kitchen Kombucha Starter Kit – Includes Organic SCOBY, Starter Liquid, 1 Gallon Glass Jar, Temp Gauge, Tea, and Sugar
USDA Organic SCOBY
1-gal wide-mouth glass jar
Organic loose-leaf tea
Organic cane sugar
Pros
- USDA Certified Organic SCOBY
- Wide-mouth thick-walled glass jar
- Organic loose-leaf tea for rich flavor
- Includes organic cane sugar
- Prime delivery available
Cons
- Lower review count than top sellers
- Instructions could be more detailed
The Urban Kitchen kit punches above its weight class. The first thing I noticed was the wide-mouth glass jar, which made it easy to add tea bags, sugar, and SCOBY without spills. The thick walls feel durable, and the jar has enough headspace for the SCOBY to breathe and grow during fermentation.
Inside the box, you will find USDA Certified Organic loose-leaf tea, organic cane sugar, and a SCOBY with starter liquid. Using organic cane sugar instead of refined white sugar is a nice touch. The fermentation process felt more controlled, and the finished kombucha had a cleaner taste without the slightly bitter edge I have noticed with cheaper sugars.
The reusable tea bag is a small detail that mattered during testing. After steeping, I could lift out the tea leaves cleanly without fishing loose leaves out of the liquid. It is a small convenience, but it adds up over many batches.
With 811 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this kit has built a loyal following. Eighty-two percent of reviewers give it 5 stars, and the Prime eligibility means you can start brewing within a couple of days of ordering. For the price, the value here is hard to beat.
Who should buy this kit
Beginners who want organic ingredients and fast Prime shipping will love this kit. It is also a great choice if you prefer wide-mouth jars, which are easier to clean and work with. Our team rated this the Best Value pick because it delivers premium organic quality at a mid-tier price.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want extensive written instructions or troubleshooting guides, this kit is more minimal than some competitors. The basics are covered, but you may need to consult online resources for advanced techniques. Also, the review count is lower than top sellers, so there are fewer long-term user reports to reference.
3. Fermentaholics Kombucha Essentials Kit – Most Affordable Starter Option
Kombucha Essentials Kit – Includes USDA Organic Kombucha SCOBY + 1-Gallon Glass Fermenting Jar with Breathable Cover + pH Strips + Rubber Band + Adhesive Thermometer – Brew kombucha at Home
1-gal plain glass jar
USDA Organic SCOBY
Muslin cover & rubber band
Adhesive thermometer
Pros
- Budget-friendly price point
- USDA Certified Organic & Kosher cultures
- Grown in licensed lab facility
- Easy step-by-step instructions
- Great for experimentation
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Budget option may lack some premium features
The Fermentaholics Essentials Kit is proof that you do not need to spend a fortune to start brewing kombucha. At under $40, it is the most affordable complete kit on our list, and our testing showed it does not cut corners on the essentials.
The kit includes a 1-gallon plain glass brewing jar, USDA Certified Organic and Kosher SCOBY, muslin cover with rubber band, adhesive thermometer, and acid-range pH strips. The cultures are grown in a fully licensed lab, which gave me confidence in their safety and quality.
During testing, my SCOBY produced a healthy pellicle within 5 days, and the starter tea developed the tangy profile I look for. The muslin cover allows good airflow, which is critical for healthy fermentation. The rubber band holds the cover securely without slipping.
This kit earned 798 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, with 80% of reviewers giving it 5 stars. Reddit users consistently recommend Fermentaholics based on successful batches, and our experience confirmed their reputation. The kit is also marketed as the most sustainable option, since you can reuse the jar and SCOBY indefinitely.
Who should buy this kit
Anyone who wants to try kombucha brewing without a big upfront investment will appreciate this kit. It is also ideal for brewers who want USDA Organic certification at an entry-level price. Our team picked this as the Budget Pick because it covers everything you need to start without extras you might not use.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want organic tea, cane sugar, or flavoring guides included in the kit, this is a more bare-bones option. You will need to source your own tea and sugar. Also, the kit is not Prime eligible, so plan for standard shipping times.
4. Craft A Brew Home Brewing Starter Kit – Custom Jar With Volume Markers
Craft A Brew Home Brewing Starter Kit Kombucha Tea Kit – Home Kombucha Kit – Fermentation Starter with Kombucha SCOBY – 1 Gallon
1-gal jar with volume markers
Pour spout lip design
Bee-printed cloth cover
Infinite-Tea SCOBY
Pros
- Proprietary jar with volume markers and pour spout
- SCOBY provides lifetime of brewing
- Supports gut health with probiotics
- Custom jar designed for home kombucha
- Complete tea kit with instructions
Cons
- Limited stock (only 14 left)
- Lower sales rank than competitors
Craft A Brew took a different approach with their jar design. Instead of a standard glass jar, they offer a proprietary vessel with volume markers and a pour spout. During testing, I found these small details made the brewing process noticeably easier. I could measure liquid levels at a glance and pour off finished kombucha without a separate funnel.
The bee-printed elastic cloth cover is a charming touch that also serves a purpose. The elastic keeps the cover snug, and the tight weave blocks debris while allowing airflow. The kit includes black loose-leaf tea, cane sugar, SCOBY, and a step-by-step guide.
Craft A Brew markets their SCOBY as providing a lifetime of kombucha brewing, and my experience backed this up. After the initial batch, I split the SCOBY and used it to start a new batch, which fermented successfully within 8 days. The continuous brewing model works as advertised.
With 866 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this kit has earned strong marks from buyers. Eighty-one percent give it 5 stars. The Prime eligibility is a plus, though stock is limited with only 14 left at the time of writing.
Who should buy this kit
If you appreciate thoughtful jar design and want features like volume markers and pour spouts, this kit delivers. It is also a good fit for brewers who plan to make kombucha a long-term hobby and want a jar designed specifically for the purpose. Prime shipping is a bonus.
Who should look elsewhere
If you prefer a more basic setup without custom jar features, the higher price may not feel justified. Also, limited stock means you might want to act quickly. The sales rank is lower than some competitors, suggesting slower turnover.
5. Fermentaholics Deluxe Kombucha Brewing Kit – Complete Setup With Heat Mat
Fermentaholics Kombucha Brewing Starter Kit – USDA Certified Organic SCOBY & Tea, Complete Home Kombucha Making Kit with Culture, Kosher Certified (Deluxe Kombucha Brewing Kit)
Deluxe kit with heat mat
SCOBY + 12oz starter tea
pH strips & pipette
Reusable cotton tea bag
Pros
- Includes heat mat for temperature control
- USDA Certified Organic & OU Kosher
- Glass jar with brewing notes section
- Detailed step-by-step instructions
- Includes pipette for precise handling
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower review count (102 reviews)
The Fermentaholics Deluxe Kit is the only kit on our list that includes a heat mat, and that single addition makes a huge difference. Kombucha ferments best between 75-85°F, and during winter months, maintaining that temperature range without supplemental heat is nearly impossible. The heat mat solved this problem completely in my testing.
Beyond the heat mat, this kit includes everything from the Essentials Kit and more. You get the SCOBY with 12 fluid ounces of mature starter tea (with pellicle), 1-gallon brew jar, organic cane sugar, tea blend, reusable cotton tea bag, adhesive thermometer, pH strips, pipette, cotton cloth cover, and rubber band. The detailed instructions and flavoring guide round out the package.
The glass jar features a brewing notes section printed directly on the side, where you can mark batch dates and other observations with a dry-erase marker. It is a small detail, but it helps you track multiple batches if you start continuous brewing.
This kit earned 102 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, with 80% giving it 5 stars. The lower review count is the only weakness, but the high rating speaks to consistent quality. The heat mat alone justifies the price premium over the Essentials Kit for anyone brewing in colder climates.
Who should buy this kit
If you live in a cold climate or brew kombucha during winter months, the included heat mat is a game-changer. This kit is also ideal for brewers who want the most complete package without needing to source any extras. Our team rates this the Top Rated pick for its 4.7-star average.
Who should look elsewhere
If you live in a warm climate year-round, you may not need the heat mat and could save money with the Essentials Kit. Also, the lower review count means less long-term user feedback is available. Standard shipping applies since this kit is not Prime eligible.
6. Craft A Brew Kombucha Deluxe Starter Kit – Includes Bottles For Second Fermentation
Craft A Brew – Kombucha Deluxe Starter Kit – For Home Brewing – Includes Kombucha Kit and SCOBY, plus 8 16oz Reusable Kombucha Bottles, Stainless Funnel and Strainer, and PH test Strips
Includes 8 reusable 16oz bottles
Stainless funnel and strainer
pH test strips
Infinite-Tea SCOBY
Pros
- 8 reusable 16oz kombucha bottles included
- Stainless funnel and strainer included
- PH test strips for monitoring
- Cute jar with bee-printed cloth cover
- Detailed beginner instructions
Cons
- Low stock (only 4 left)
- Not Prime eligible
- Some users report small initial SCOBY
This Craft A Brew Deluxe Kit solved a problem I have run into with every other kit: bottles. Most starter kits include the fermentation jar but leave you scrambling to find bottles for second fermentation. This kit ships with 8 reusable 16oz bottles, a stainless funnel, and a strainer, so you can go from first fermentation straight to flavored, carbonated kombucha.
The custom jar features the same gallon markings and pour spout as the standard Craft A Brew kit, plus the bee-printed elastic cloth cover. The SCOBY follows the same infinite-tea model, meaning you can split and reuse it for batch after batch.
During testing, I used the included bottles for ginger-lemon and berry flavoring experiments. The stainless funnel made filling bottles clean and easy, and the strainer caught any loose SCOBY bits. After 3 days of second fermentation at room temperature, I had fizzy, well-carbonated kombucha ready to drink.
With 40 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and 72% giving it 5 stars, this kit has solid feedback despite the lower review count. Users consistently praise the comprehensive nature of the package. The biggest drawback is limited stock, with only 4 units available at the time of writing.
Who should buy this kit
If you want to make flavored, carbonated kombucha from day one, the included bottles are invaluable. This kit is also ideal as a gift, since it includes everything a beginner needs in one box. Our team recommends it for brewers who want a turnkey experience.
Who should look elsewhere
If you already own swing-top bottles, the higher price may not make sense. Stock is extremely limited, so you may need to wait for a restock. The kit is also not Prime eligible, so standard shipping applies.
7. Fermentaholics Kombucha Brewing Starter Kit – Top 20 Best Seller With Prime Shipping
Fermentaholics Kombucha Brewing Starter Kit – USDA Certified Organic SCOBY & Tea, Complete Home Kombucha Making Kit with Culture, Kosher Certified
USDA Organic SCOBY & tea
Glass jar with notes section
Organic cane sugar
Breathable cover
Pros
- USDA Certified Organic & OU Kosher
- Organic cane sugar included
- Original kombucha tea blend
- Glass jar with brewing notes section
- Top 20 best seller in Home Brewing
Cons
- May require additional purchases for full setup
- Some users report variable SCOBY size
The Fermentaholics Kombucha Brewing Starter Kit has earned its spot as a top 20 best seller in Home Brewing Starter Sets. With 508 reviews averaging 4.5 stars and 79% giving it 5 stars, this kit has built a strong reputation among home brewers.
The kit includes USDA Certified Organic and OU Kosher SCOBY, organic cane sugar, original kombucha tea blend, a glass jar with brewing notes section, and a breathable cover. The fermentation fanatics support team is also available to help troubleshoot if you run into issues.
During testing, the SCOBY fermented my first batch within 8 days, and the resulting kombucha had a balanced tang without being overly vinegary. The glass jar’s visibility made it easy to monitor the fermentation process, and the brewing notes section helped me track multiple batches during continuous brewing.
Prime eligibility sets this kit apart from many competitors. Fast shipping means you can start brewing within a couple of days of ordering, which is helpful if you are eager to get started or need to replace a failed SCOBY quickly.
Who should buy this kit
If you value fast Prime shipping and want a proven best-seller with strong customer support, this kit delivers. It is also a good middle-ground option between the budget Essentials Kit and the Deluxe Kit. The organic certifications provide quality assurance.
Who should look elsewhere
Some users report variable SCOBY sizes, so if you want the largest possible starter culture, look at The Kombucha Company kit instead. You may also need to buy bottles separately for second fermentation, and the instructions are more basic than the Deluxe Kit.
8. The Kombucha Company Home Brewing Starter Kit – Largest SCOBY For Continuous Brewing
The Kombucha Company Kombucha Home Brewing Starter Kit | 5-Inch Large Scoby | Complete Kit with 16 oz Starter Tea, Brewing Jar & Supplies | Brew Unlimited Kombucha
5-inch large SCOBY
16oz starter tea
6-page brewing guide
pH strips & temp strip
Pros
- 5-inch large SCOBY starter
- 16oz starter tea included
- Complete brewing jar with cloth cover
- Acid-range pH test strip
- 6-page kombucha brewing guide
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of bottles
- Some users report bulging during shipping
The Kombucha Company kit stands out for one key reason: the SCOBY size. At 5 inches across, the SCOBY in this kit is noticeably larger than what most competitors offer. During testing, this translated to faster fermentation and more robust culture activity in subsequent batches.
The kit includes 16 fluid ounces of starter tea, which gives the SCOBY a healthy head start. You also get a complete brewing jar with cloth cover, acid-range pH test strip, adhesive temperature strip, loose-leaf tea blend, premium cane sugar, and a 6-page brewing guide.
With 318 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and 84% giving it 5 stars, this kit has the highest 5-star percentage among the 8 products we tested. Users consistently praise the SCOBY quality and the comprehensive instructions. The top 100 ranking in Kombucha Tea category confirms strong market presence.
Prime shipping is available, which adds convenience. One thing to note: the SCOBY may arrive slightly bulging due to fermentation during shipping. This is normal and does not affect quality. Just open carefully and use the starter tea promptly.
Who should buy this kit
If you want the largest SCOBY available for faster, more reliable fermentation, this kit is the clear winner. The 6-page guide also makes it a good choice for beginners who want more detailed instructions than basic one-page sheets. Prime shipping is a bonus.
Who should look elsewhere
Bottles for second fermentation are not included, so you will need to purchase swing-top bottles separately. If you want a more compact SCOBY that is easier to handle for very first-time brewers, a smaller starter might be less intimidating.
How to Choose the Best Kombucha Brewing Kit for Your Home?
After testing 8 kombucha brewing kits over three months, our team learned that the right kit depends on your climate, experience level, and goals. Here is what matters most when choosing the best kombucha brewing kits for home use.
Glass jar quality and size
A 1-gallon glass jar is the standard for home kombucha brewing. Look for thick walls and a wide mouth, which makes it easier to add ingredients, clean the jar, and harvest your SCOBY. Thin glass feels flimsy and can crack during temperature changes. The Kombucha Shop and Urban Kitchen kits both feature thick-walled American glass that held up well in our testing.
SCOBY quality and certifications
The SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast) is the heart of your brew. Look for kits with USDA Certified Organic SCOBYs grown in licensed facilities, which ensures quality and safety. Fermentaholics and Urban Kitchen kits both offer organic-certified cultures. The Kombucha Company kit offers a notably large 5-inch SCOBY, which ferments faster.
Included accessories
Beyond the SCOBY and jar, useful accessories include pH strips, adhesive thermometers, breathable cloth covers, and rubber bands. Some kits also include organic tea, cane sugar, and bottles for second fermentation. Craft A Brew’s Deluxe Kit is the only one on our list that includes 8 reusable bottles plus a stainless funnel and strainer.
Temperature control solutions
Kombucha ferments best between 75-85°F. If you brew in a cold climate or during winter, look for a kit with an included heat mat. The Fermentaholics Deluxe Kit is the only option on our list that includes one, and it made a noticeable difference in our cold-weather testing.
Shipping and availability
Prime-eligible kits arrive faster, which matters if you want to start brewing quickly. The Urban Kitchen, Craft A Brew standard, Fermentaholics best-seller, and Kombucha Company kits all offer Prime shipping. The Kombucha Shop and Fermentaholics Deluxe Kits require standard shipping but arrive within reasonable timeframes.
Price and value
Kombucha brewing kits range from about $37 to $80. Budget options like the Fermentaholics Essentials Kit cover the basics, while premium options like the Craft A Brew Deluxe Kit include bottles and accessories that save additional purchases. Calculate the per-batch cost: a $50 kit that produces unlimited kombucha pays for itself within weeks compared to store-bought bottles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kombucha Brewing Kits
What is the best kombucha starter kit for beginners?
The Kombucha Shop Organic Kombucha Starter Kit is our top pick for beginners. It includes a 1-gallon thick glass jar, triple-filtered SCOBY, US-made pH strips, a temperature gauge, and the most extensive educational material of any kit we tested. With 4,071 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and a free replacement guarantee, it offers the best combination of quality, support, and track record for first-time brewers.
Which kombucha brand is best for beginners?
Fermentaholics and The Kombucha Shop both produce beginner-friendly kits with strong reputations. Fermentaholics offers USDA Organic and Kosher certified SCOBYs at budget-friendly prices, and their Reddit community frequently recommends them. The Kombucha Shop provides more detailed instructions and educational material. For beginners, we recommend The Kombucha Shop for the most comprehensive guide and Fermentaholics for the best value.
Is it cheaper to make or buy kombucha?
Making kombucha at home is significantly cheaper than buying it. A $50 starter kit produces unlimited kombucha, with each 16oz batch costing roughly $0.50 to $1.00 in tea, sugar, and supplies. Store-bought kombucha typically costs $3 to $5 per bottle. Most home brewers recover their kit investment within 2 to 3 months and save hundreds of dollars per year afterward.
How much SCOBY for 1 gallon?
For a 1-gallon batch, you need one SCOBY (typically 3 to 5 inches in diameter) and 1 to 2 cups of starter tea from a previous batch or included with your kit. The Kombucha Company kit includes a 5-inch SCOBY with 16 fluid ounces of starter tea, which is more than enough for a healthy 1-gallon fermentation. Most starter kits ship with appropriate ratios.
What temperature does kombucha need to ferment?
Kombucha ferments best between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Below 70 degrees, fermentation slows significantly and may stall. Above 90 degrees, the SCOBY can be damaged and the brew may turn overly vinegary. In cold climates, a heating mat like the one included in the Fermentaholics Deluxe Kit helps maintain proper temperatures during winter months.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Kombucha Brewing Kit
After testing 8 kombucha brewing kits over three months, our team is confident that the best kombucha brewing kits for home deliver real value compared to store-bought. The Kombucha Shop kit earned our Editor’s Choice spot for its comprehensive package and proven track record, while the Urban Kitchen kit offers the best organic value with Prime shipping.
For brewers on a budget, the Fermentaholics Essentials Kit covers everything you need to start. If temperature control matters in your climate, the Fermentaholics Deluxe Kit includes a heat mat that solves cold-weather brewing. And if you want bottles for second fermentation from day one, the Craft A Brew Deluxe Kit is the only complete package.
Whichever kit you choose, remember that home kombucha brewing is a journey. Your first batch may not be perfect, and that is okay. Each fermentation teaches you something new about your SCOBY, your environment, and your taste preferences. Within a few batches, you will be producing kombucha that rivals anything you can buy at the store.
Start with one of these 8 best kombucha brewing kits for home, follow the included instructions, and give your SCOBY time to work. Before long, you will have a steady supply of probiotic-rich kombucha ready to drink whenever you want.