Drilling the Hole

[Hill Crest Maple]

I have heard spraying the hole with a solution of bleach and water before you tap helps.
Does it?

[BoarsNest]

Everything that I've read is to not put anything in the hole except for the tap.

[Hill Crest Maple]

Thanks. That is what I've always done but I've heard it a bit.
I only tap 100.

[adk1]

No, do not spray anything or use any chemical

[jmayerl]

Dont spray in the hole, but if you are concerned about sanitizing things, you can spray the bit with food grade alcohol( vodka). I do this every 25 or so taps.

[red maples]

I was thinking about this just this morning. not sure if my holes would be very good after taking a shot of vodka every few taps. but its a good idea though.

[Cake O' Maple]

Brad, he said "spray the bit" not "take a hit" every 25 taps or so....

[SeanD]

I knew not to blow the hole clear after tapping because of contamination, so now I spray my mouth with food grade vodka then blow the hole clear.

Sean

[HyeOnMaple]

Actually, I believe Crown Royal Maple has been certified as a suitable agent for the task.

[Hill Crest Maple]

I kind of figured after the vodka comment it would take this direction.
But really, I have talked to several tappers that have done this with the
bleach and water. They swear by it. I have only tapped for 5 years. Never
have done this but I take care on the sanitation part. Interesting.