Review: Sparkel Beverage Carbonator (with no CO2 canister)

UPDATE 9/3: The video incorrectly refers to the baking soda and citric acid measurements as 'two tablespoons' - which was supposed to be 'two teaspoons' (which is about 3/4 tablespoon). The link to the measuring spoons was correct - they are two teaspoon sized - so if you bought them you are ok.
DISCLAIMER 3/10/21: The Sparkel folks have reached out and warned against DIY carbonation using the Sparkel device citing potential safety and longevity issues. They have published an article detailing why they recommend against DIY carbonation here: help.sparkel.c.... If it wasn't obvious from the context of the video DIY carbonation is done at your own risk and, obviously, is strongly discouraged by Sparkel.
The Sparkel Drink System does what a normal drink carbonator (like a SodaStream) only it doesn't require the cumbersome compressed CO2 canisters and with no restriction on what liquids you can carbonate. Instead it uses science to produce carbon dioxide from common chemicals to create a similarly fizzy drink. There are some drawbacks to the approach and whether the benefits out weight the drawbacks is a decision you'll have to make for yourself.
Sparkel drink system: amzn.to/3JgG7Qz
Sparkel refill packs: amzn.to/3SeP698
Sparkel spare bottles: amzn.to/3oFfJX4
Bulk Baking Soda: amzn.to/3OHb8y1
Bulk Citric Acid: amzn.to/3cTegKa
2tsp Measuring Spoons: amzn.to/3vtJMox
While I purchased all of the items used in this video I do receive financial benefit if you buy through these links. I appreciate purchasing though the links but please feel no obligation to do so. Better yet, donate to a good cause:
Remember, if you go the bulk chemical route, it's 2 teaspoons of Citric Acid and just a little less, 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 teaspoons of Baking Soda for each Sparkel cycle.

[@tpapictures]

Just had to tell you this is literally one of the best reviews I've seen on KZbin in over 15 years. Nicely done.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Wow, thanks! I have a comparison review with the Drinkmate in the works :)

[@narxic]

You’re assessment is spot on. Lots of information and personal insights. Even answered some questions I didn’t know I had. Also, knowing the cleaning situation of the bottom tray is missed on every other video watched too.

[@matthewslife1]

😊😢😢😢🎉🎉😅,😮😮😮 🎉🎉😂🎉😮😢😢😮😮🎉😮😢

[@elliotflorida3469]

Your comments about the cleaning issue below the bottom valve was a concern for me. Sparkel has a video posted on KZbin for 'deep cleaning' the machine and they do address that issue in addition to other cleaning tips. It is NOT necessary to disassemble the bottom to the Sparkel to clean under the valve by removing the screws as you did. They show a simple way to clean that area that is fast and extremely easy to do, no disassembly required.

[@daylinhunter8792]

The best review of Sparkel I’ve found on KZbin. Looking forward to his 1 on 1 comparison with SodaStream.

[@daylinhunter8792]

Mikey, do you think some of the (lots of) complaints about the bottle bottom leaking are due to condensation?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Hello Daylin. I have not found any evidence of leakage in any of my three bottles. There is always some liquid that escapes through the bottom valve when you release the bottle and you have to clean/dry the pin but apart from that my bottle seals have been perfect. There is definitely a condensation issue and water collects in the ridge where the bottom screws onto the bottle and that will drip every time you tilt the bottle if you're not careful.

[@GoingFar77]

I'm from the future and I have some bad news, he never did the Sodastream comparison video.

[@evshrug]

@@GoingFar77 Guess that says something about the “need” to compare.

[@CRAMDVoiceLessons]

Thanks for the review! Finally somebody who says how long it takes, and the disassembly tips were nice too. Oh damn, and you even did the stoichiometric price comparison as I wrote this! My hero! In exchange, here's a fun fact: The difference in effervescence between champagne/seltzer/this and commercial soda is most likely due to gum arabic and other thickeners. These increase the surface tension of the liquid which allows larger bubbles to form before they burst.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Hey CRAMD, I'm glad you enjoyed the review and thanks for the heads up on gum arabic! I suspect both the sparkel and the sodastream-style devices would have a similar carbonation effect give the same flavor chemistry then.

[@CRAMDVoiceLessons]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans ended up with the sparkel! Yeah, not as sure about flavor, but for bubbles, it's viscosity that seems to be the key. I haven't tried gum arabic yet, but even dissolving a bit of sweetener to get a juice like consistency has gotten more of a soda foam effect out of the fizz.

[@kimsharabba5386]

The bubbles here are SO much smaller than with the soda stream....and they don't last as long

[@Adam.P]

@@kimsharabba5386 exactly.

[@evshrug]

@@kimsharabba5386 Kinda like a micro-brew, craft soda that costs even more than the big two canned soda brands.

[@Jhud69]

I know it's been 3 years but hey, amazing review! The one that sounds least like an ad and actually talks about everything that matters. For example the different feel of bubbles is something I have never seen mentioned about this machine before and could be important to some people.

[@patrickmott8912]

A few years into my machine and it still works great. The few times it has had issues it just required a good cleaning. They actually suggest that you unplug it and rinse the bottom area with hot but not boiling water to clean out any spilled or dried materials. No need to unscrew anything like this video suggests.

[@PaulLemars01]

As a newly diagnosed diabetic I'm evaluating everything in my life and I've sworn off beer, wine and store soda so I'm seriously examining home made soda and I definitely like the look of this device. Thank you so much for an excellent unbiased in-depth review, It was much appreciated.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Hey Paul, sorry to hear about the diagnosis. Even the non-diet versions of the SodaStream flavors have quite a bit less sugar then the retail canned counter parts and, even better, you can just throw some sugar-free flavor drops or a squirt of lime juice.

[@the_retag]

Yeah, home made is only really worth it if it's sugar free or low sugar, i often just drink fizzy water, its way nicer than plain in my opinion so i drink more

[@pjaypender1009]

I am a type 1 diabetic and I flavor using the water flavoring packets like Crystal light and others. One or two packets per bottle. You can even get them in A&W or Hires root beer or Crush soda flavors from Amazon, all with no sugar,

[@ministroni]

Colder water can dissolve more carbonation, which is why the ice helps. It's the same as how warmer water can dissolve more sugar.

[@janicegibson2042]

We've had our Sparkel for about 2 months and just love it. Still, your video gave us some very useful information

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Glad it was helpful! Enjoy your Sparkel!

[@Qishqildaq]

A lot of people complain that it starts to leak after 3-4 months , and the motor died after 6-10 months. Did you had such problems ?

[@janicegibson2042]

@@Qishqildaq Any leaking is probably the result of the base not fastened tightly enough. We have had our unit almost a year and have had no issues with the motor. We simply LOVE our Sparkel!!😍

[@Qishqildaq]

@@janicegibson2042 thank you for your answer!!! Didn't think that choosing the soda maker is hard )))

[@JonnyEsports]

Thanks for the in-depth review, I'm considering getting one myself.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Hey Jonny. It's a good device especially if you don't want to deal with CO2 canisters and by far the cheapest solution if you use your own chemicals - however I do see that they 'invalidate' your warranty for doing so. Given the time it takes to carbonate and the inability to clean under the drip tray it's definitely not a slam dunk, though. Good luck with whatever device you choose. I definitely prefer making my own drinks a liter at a time to stocking up on bottles and cans of mostly pre-sweetened water :)

[@pjaypender1009]

The "one liter" Sodastream bottle is also only 3/4 liter. Bear that in mind. I have owned several different CO2 carbonation systems and all of the bottles labeled one liter actually can only be filled to 3/4 liters to carbonate. It's true of the systems that use tanks and it's true of the ones that take the little 8gm carts. 3/4 liter is what you can carbonate in a one liter bottle. If you fill them above the 3/4 line, they will not carbonate and will spew water everywhere.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Good to know! I have the Sparkel, DrinkMate, and a Quarbo and they are all 750-800ml fill capacity so that checks out.

[@heatherlx8824]

Really great video! Love the concept of this machine; I already have a giant bag of citric acid in the pantry, too - but I'm looking at my kitchen and wondering where the heck I'd put this! Thanks for doing the cost comparison, that was incredibly helpful!

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks Heather! It's not a bad little machine, perhaps a little larger than other similar devices. If you don't mind my asking, what are you using citric acid for regularly? Looking for a reason to grab 4lb bags instead of 2lb bags :)

[@katysdone]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans Just my two cents worth - I use citric acid as an additive to my home made sour dough bread. I also add it to sauerkraut to make it a bit tangier. Be careful not to use too much or you will definitely pucker!

[@conenose1]

We purchased a Sparkel a few months ago and only used the sachets, never anything else. We empty the tray after every use and top up the rear reservoir to the fill line. After only a very few bottles, the machine would start to do strange things such as excessive drainage of the rear reservoir and fast filling of the tray. The bottle itself would lose much of the volume of what it was filled to prior to agitation. Frequent cleaning was required to rectify this. Eventually, water must have seeped into the electronics board and the machine was ruined. Sparkel was very good at sending a replacement unit. However, only using the machine a few times, the machine started to exhibit the behavior of the original Sparkel and addition, a puddle of water on our counter. I found an online video from Sparkel on doing a deep clean using warm water and vinegar but I question why I would have to do this after such little usage. I'll give it a go but right now I'm giving this a big thumbs down.

[@marymhamer1254]

Great information!!! I just opened mine yesterday and your demonstration and explanations helped so much!!!!

[@Roqjoru]

Thank you for your review. 2 on the way. Thxs again

[@Volfas]

I would love to see the comparison, your review was very professional 👌

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Coming soon! When I reach the bottom of my current bags of Baking Soda and Citric Acid I'm picking up a DrinkMate.

[@yadibuckety]

Thank you so much for your careful in-depth review! This is excellent!

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Glad it was helpful!

[@yadibuckety]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans I bought one and have had it for 5 days or so. I really like it.

[@user-sz4hz1lj5u]

Best review, as in most thorough and most informative! Awesome work, thank you! Have subscribed and will look to you first before buying anything!

[@kimsharabba5386]

I liked this review aLOT. Thank you. My husband just bought me a Sparkel. I've used the same Soda Stream for 10 years. I've loved it for 10 years. I have had it "blow up" on me a couple times when I was in a hurry removing a bottle, etc., but I've loved it. I find that these bubbles are more 'condensed' ... I have no idea if that's the right word. They're MUCH smaller bubbles than the soda stream. I also find that the soda stream liquids stay much more bubble for a longer period of time. I'm excited to try the Sparkel with alcohol. So - there's a plus.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks for the info Kim! I still have not tried a real SodaStream yet but I was telling my wife I was going to pick one up after I'm through my last bags of chemicals - although I'm considering a DrinkMate since you can carbonate anything due to the washable infusion thingy. The wait time of the Sparkel is kind of a bummer but I really like not having to deal with canisters.

[@paulaajohnson2597]

This is the best online review of Sparkel so far. I was sure I wanted one before seeing this. Now I'm uncertain because high-maintenance Sparkel is quirky and it has obvious durability issues. It's unlikely that Sodastream will take Sparkel's innovations lying down. The question now is what they'll come up with next, and at what cost. Sodastream has never been cost-effective. There are also the new non-electric DrinkMate carbonator plus consumer reviews to track, so I'm not rushing into Sparkel unless it proves its worth and ease of use. I have no complaints about the totally reliable commercial beverages I've bought forever. They deliver the high carbonation level demanded.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks Paula. If your main concern is the safety of having compressed CO2 around the house the Sparkel is a good alternative - or if you are very concerned about cost per bottle and intend to buy chemicals in bulk. If you are comfortable with the canisters then I would suggest going with a traditional carbonator.

[@dianapennepacker6854]

Soda Streams needs to be cheaper for one. Secondly using the valves like Drinkmate which allows you to carbonate any drink to your little hearts content. Also I never understood why those systems don't use a hose to inject from the top or valve on the bottom side. Feel like just shooting carbonation at is not the most efficient way but could be wrong. I'm going to try this at home today. PS: You can get citric acid under sour salt to try it. Curious on what he meant on the bubbles though. Seems like softer finer bubbles are all the rage with these Nitro drinks.

[@leahdavis9434]

​@@dianapennepacker6854there's an $83 sodastream. Much cheaper and out wouldn't have the ability to be a reliable appliance. Luxury appliances cost money

[@vipnetworker]

I have a soda stream. I learned how to refill it with CO2 myself using dry ice. My cost per liter doing it that way is about $0.08 per liter. Very informative video. Thank you.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

I'm on a DrinkMate now and going through my first set of exchanges so I can experience the process before putting up a review. Assuming there is no major headache with the exchange process I think pre-compressed is the way to go for me. Once I get through that process I plan on switching to a home refill kit using a larger tank however I haven't done much research on the dry ice approach. Can you buy dry ice in small enough quantities to do just a couple fills or do you need a bunch of empties to make it worthwhile?

[@vipnetworker]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans I buy 6 pounds of dry ice to fill 4 canisters. It only takes like 15 oz to fill a canister, but you lose quite a bit to evaporation on the drive home and blending it to crush it. There are grocery stores near me that sell dry ice in smaller amounts. They say 6 pounds is the minimum, but the blocks evaporate in their coolers, so I used to be able to buy 2 pounds at a time occasionally. If they just got a shipment in, there was no way to buy less than 6 pounds. That’s why I bought 3 extra canisters for a total of 4. It’s much better refilling 4 at once every 3 months or so than filling 1-2 at a time more often. Plus I can use all 6 pounds. I would lose less to evaporation if I did smaller batches, but I don’t mind losing 2 pounds for the convenience of only filling 4 times a year. I found a place near me that only charges $1.50 per pound, so that’s not bad. Everywhere else was $3-$5 per pound.

[@enosfruit]

perfect review. this level of detail and information is what I need on all videos. Thank you!!!

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Glad it was helpful! I should have a review of the DrinkMate carbonator up in a few days :)

[@doogee6385]

simple direct, great advice and tricks, read the brand comment and they just don't want you to over pressure the device whit too much soda and acid ,💪💪

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks Doo! I've actually dumped two of the sachets in on accident. There's no way to clean it out so I just let it go :) No major adverse effects but I do believe there was a lot of bubbling and churning the waste tank. Of course if you go bonkers with the chemicals or get too far off in the mix I could see it sticking inside the mixing tank and throwing things off.

[@Andy766702]

Good honest review. I didn't even want a sparkle, I was just curious as to how they compare to a SodaStream. Definitely don't want a sparkle, what a faff. You certainly captured my interest. Thank you.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks Andy. I've moved on to a DrinkMate and I don't think I could ever go back to waiting 3 minutes to carbonate a bottle. I'll do a comparison at some point. Enjoy your Sodastream!

[@humanperson5134]

- Great review, thanks.. I bought one. However - I measured the contents of the Sparkel sachets. Each was exactly one tablespoon. I'm using one tablespoon of the Millard Citric Acid and one tablespoon of the Milliard Baking Soda. Identical results to the Sachets. Please correct your instructions above. - The handle design indicates one hand is to be used and the result makes you think it's bad engineering. But, if you use one hand on each side of the handle it seems to work gracefully enough.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Wow, Human Person, you are the first to point out the incorrect measurement! It was supposed to be two teaspoons - which is 3/4 tbsp and close to the 1tbsp you're using. I've updated the description. Unfortunately KZbin is pretty restrictive on modifications so the video itself can't be easily changed. Yeah, that handle should've been a bit beefier. It's easy enough to close it carefully but I'm surprised mine has lasted. I've recently moved to a DrinkMate and will be comparing the two soon but the simplicity of the device is a welcome change from the Sparkel.

[@humanperson5134]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans Hint: - Use a shovel-like tablespoon. - Use a piece of Kleenex to clear ingredients from machine after tablespooning. - Use that same Kleenex immediately after removing the bottle to clean the upper and lower nozzle areas and leave the Kleenex in the base to pick up drips. - Use little 3x3 or 4x4 Rubbermaid or Glad style food containers for the ingredients so you can buy the largest cheapest bags without having to spoon it from those bags. - Keep 3 two liter bottles of cold water in the fridge for your next round of "20 Cent Plain"

[@yz125ryder]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans you should PIN this comment

[@Fredengle]

HI Human just got the sparkel today so would your advice to me since everything is more zeros now be buy bulk baking soda and citric acid and in the end it will be more cost effective? ( i mean both as bulk is going to save me money is that correct does it still work fine ?) thoughts please thank you.

[@ucanoe]

Thank you, very honest and thorough review.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Glad it was helpful!

[@eurodelano]

Excellent review. Very detailed oriented and helped me make my decision to buy a Sparkle.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Great to hear! Enjoy the Sparkel!

[@eurodelano]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans I bought it and I love it!!

[@garrettmineo]

Great review, but the Sparkel system is way more complex and messy than Soda Stream. I have concerns about all the wetted parts and good hygiene. The fact that you are dumping waste from the packets, liquid waste from the machine and paper towels for clean up is not too impressive. SodaStream cylinders are way too expensive (a refill should cost a buck or less), I use a special hose that adapts a normal 25 pound CO2 tank to the SodaStream we drink at least 4 bottles a day and the tank lasts a year. The biggest difficulty is where to put this stuff. We remodeled a few years ago and I put a countertop in the pantry with a hole and storage below for the cylinder, nice and neat and easy. Before that I was refilling cylinders from a 25 pound tank, but that takes a special hose and valve setup and special valves on the SodaStream cylinders…it is also potentially dangerous, so you need to know what you are doing and wear the proper PPE while refilling…gloves and goggles.

[@laurelkennedy6252]

Very informative + very well presented-covered everything!!

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks Laurel, glad it was helpful!

[@julianweiser9985]

That seems like a really good solution for people who dont want a pressure tank with odorless CO2 in their living room. However, there is no such product on the european market unfortunately. Then again, refills for those 60L gas canisters only run you somewhere around 7$ here. That drops the cost to around 14 cents per litre. The average price of bottled water is somewhere at 0,30/L here.

[@CakesnHays]

I have both. The issue for me was getting and returning the canisters for the Soda Stream. Huge inconvenience. Sparkle wins in my book. GREAT review!

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks Indie! I'm using a Drinkmate now and quickly approaching exchange time. I got the package with three tanks and a two-tank exchange box pre-labelled and ready to go but we'll see how it goes.

[@moja247]

You really helped me make my decision to buy this product

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Glad to hear! Hope it's working out for you, moja247.

[@normanrandle2376]

What a great review , would like this more than buying a bunch of CO2 cartilages

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Then I know what you're getting for father's day :)

[@bougieproletariat]

You can just open the CO2 cylinders with some adjustable pliers, place it on a scale and with a funnel add 410 gr of dry ice for $2.50 a bag

[@katim2644]

Wanna be jealous? I just bought one of these for 9$ at my local 2nd hand store. The bottle wasn't with it; but, I kept looking and sure enough, it was with all the other plastic glasses 3 aisles over (for 3$)...Canadian money even, so that's like 5$ American!

[@ronaldwong6092]

I never DYI with my Sparkel. The Waste water of the 2 packs started filling up from under the bottle and yuck. Trying the new Ninja Thirsti instead.

[@eveadam648]

This was great and included all of the information that I needed to make my choices. I just had one other question. Why do you have to drink it from that bottle? Can you not pour it into any other type of drinking container?

[@mikeschell5096]

I have only used SodaStream and the only issue I have with it is the actual CO2 absorption that it produces. I drink Diet Pepsi and was happy to see that SodaStream now offers the Diet Pepsi syrup (they should, Pepsico bought them out.) Anyway, back to my absorption issue. I drink from the smaller 1/2 liter SodaStream bottles (which is the same amount as the 16.9 oz Diet Pepsi's in the store.) I like to sip on my drink over a 30-45 minute time frame. My SodaStream Diet Pepsi has plenty of fizz right off the machine but about 20-30 minutes in, and 3/4 of it gone, it basically runs flat regardless of how many "pumps" of CO2 I gave on the machine at the start. So for my tastes, the carbonation decreases way too quickly. In contrast, if I am drinking a similar size store-bought Diet Pepsi, I can drink 3/4 of it, put it in the fridge (even uncapped)...and 6-8 hours later there is still be plenty of carbonation to satisfy my tastes. A long way around the question I would like to ask but here it is: Would the carbonation in a Sparkle drink last for 30-45 minutes? In other words, does the CO2 produced by baking soda/citrus acid allow for better absorption into the water over CO2 cylinder gas? (which I assume is produced using dry ice? Thanks! Looking forward to any advice or input!

[@jean-marieodom5620]

Question - why do we need to buy the $10 2lb bag of baking soda you recommended - is that different from the $3 4lb bag of arm & hammer baking soda we can get at Walmart? Is it like a finer powder that works better with the machine?

[@leahdavis9434]

Will note that you're not meant to shake sodastream bottles. The directions say to gently rotate and never shake

[@oliverhawkins3098]

With 5lb bags of powder the cost is $0.21 per Liter

[@pmmac2382]

Really thorough review, thank you

[@elliotflorida3469]

Just found and viewed your review thankfully. I was about to purchase a canister system but decided to go with this one. Thank you for an excellent review! Just curious. Since you first published this review a while ago, do you still use it and is it still working well? Do you still mix your own baking soda and citric acid? Thank you.

[@maxcarter3413]

Sparkle is great for Hawaii becuse you can't ship co2 cartridges here. Costco has the best buy for baking soda.

[@DoctorRevers]

Thanks. Been looking at these. It doesn't look like the best designed product though. Hopefully they'll stick with the same functionality and come out with an updated more structurally sound and attractive device.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

I agree. If they would've had a $150 target or so it would probably have been a much more appropriate build given the complexity of the device - but that would've priced them way over most of the soda stream style devices. I hope this style of carbonation catches on and either Sparkel or a competitor continues to iterate on the design.

[@vickiegger2126]

I have both machines...As I live in assisted living situation, it is not convenient to take a cartridge for the exchange and savings on the new one.. when I saw the Sparkle, that was the best substitution for my problem.. I do make my own supply and it works great.. mush less expensive than buying the pre made packets.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Interesting use case! I would guess that storing and managing a collection of tanks would be a lot more effort than the 'two scoops' approach of the Sparkel in such a facility. Would be interested in how your Sparkel is holding up under a more industrial workload? I don't get the impression they were made to last a lifetime.

[@vickiegger2126]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans I'm laughing at the "last a lifetime"..as I am almost 79, I'm guessing it will last long enough for me!.. liking it great so far! ve

[@Fredengle]

Hi Vicki here is my question for you based on now everything having more zeros are you going to tell me I will have more Luck buying a bulk baking soda and citric acid and while it is not recommeded you think in the end it will save money? P.s I think I heard some one say a tablespoon of each one should be mixed at one time ? thoughts please thank you!

[@jamesditsworth3845]

Great review with a lot of interesting comments. What I'd still like to know is: what sort of drinks do you make? How do they taste? Can you transfer the carbonated beverage to another bottle and make a six-pack and store it in the fridge - and do they keep for a day or two? Or do you only make one drink at a time and consume it?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Hello James. I generally make one drink at a time and consume it. At worst I'm putting a half finished drink in the fridge for a day. I don't see why you couldn't pre-carbonate a bunch of bottles though. Most of the time I'm using sodastream flavorings. Their zero-calorie fruit flavors are my most frequently bought pack (amzn.to/3KBI4JR) however I also keep some root beer or other soda around as well.

[@tha7225]

I'm definitely getting this thing I wonder if I want extra fizz if I can just put it back in after level five put it back on level two or so on

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Not sure if you'll get extra fizz or it'll just release out the excess. I suspect you're pretty much at the safety limit on level 5 but it's worth a shot!

[@Audios81]

Firstly it's Sodium Bicarbonate, NaHCO3. Not just carbonate. Secondly, "Tums" are made using Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3. Two different compounds. Just saying, people will take this as complete fact; they will order Calcium Carbonate and use that instead.

[@AWanderingEye]

Will you please do a follow up video now that you've used this for 1+ year? Thanks!

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

I'm working on it now. I've run about 300 bottles through both the Sparkel and more recently ~300 through a DrinkMate so definitely a long-term review :)

[@MrEverlast316]

oh man , I dissemble the triangle part like you did , put it back and now its not working properly , did you screw it tight or If I recall it was a bit loose ? thanks

[@thedudeabides3167]

Is the system including packets more environmentally friendly than buying single serving cans or bottles?

[@Alex-un5tl]

you are correct about the ice :)

[@DanielJSchwarzhoff]

The chalky taste of TUMS is not baking soda. It's calcium. Baking soda is not an ingredient in OTC antacids like TUMS or Rolaids. The main ingredient is calcium carbonate.

[@kronos5385]

Sparkle has taken down the page that warns you against DIY carbonation. Anyone know why?

[@janedoe-fd9pd]

Could you run this with the bottom unattached? Or drill holes?

[@no-bw5uf]

I was thinking of getting a Sparkel until you mentioned all the cleaning.

[@priMARYlove1]

Really good tip to have ice (I'm going to use frozen fruit) in the bottle to keep the liquid cool and how to clean the bottom. I didn't realize it takes so long to carbonate. I just received my Sparkel earlier this week so I'm excited to start making drinks.

[@priMARYlove1]

BTW - I had a SodaStream but bought the Sparkel so I can carbonate almost any liquid.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Yeah, being able to carbonate anything might not be useful for every bottle but I definitely find myself re-carbonating drinks and such. It's good to not be limited to only pure water.

[@Fredengle]

HI MIke my question to you should I just go ahead and save zeros buy buying bulk baking soda and citric acid ps thoughts some one said to use one table spoon of each thoughts please thank you

[@Fredengle]

so do you think its possible to only use one teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of acid thoughts please thank you ps if my ice maker does not work well and I use room temperature water any ideas please thank you!

[@marcuszuniga2989]

Didn't even take a sip at the end?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

I'll put that on my onlyfans! (j/k in case anyone takes me seriously)

[@scott3282]

This is very thorough review. Thank you for sharing. Now I want one

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks for watching!

[@jjyemg2397]

CO2 is not suspended...it's entrained /infused/dissolved into the water

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks JJY, will try to be more accurate in my talky-talky in the future :)

[@glennlewman4186]

I like strong carbonation. Can you charge it twice in a row? Can you add a little more chemicals for a stringer fizz?

[@vibolth488]

Really well put together

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks!

[@debrabremmer9541]

good information

[@alfredharrison597]

I think its awesome that they are doing a canister-less system, but its far from perfect due to the reasons you alluded to in the video. I think sodastream is good, but between this unit, sodastream, and drinkmate - I think drinkmate is the best. I wish we could use baking soda and citric acid or vinegar in a sodastream canister to generate CO2 OURSELVES without having to use the trade in system or mess with dry ice. Since there is a supposed "omfg Co2 shortage" (which I think is total BS), we need better ways to make Co2 ourselves. But still a cool concept

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Same boat. I'm really liking my DrinkMate so far. I know folks use dry ice to refill their CO2 canisters. I wonder how much or how complicated it would be to use baking soda and citric acid to drive a refill process? :) There's a new carbonator on the market, the Twenty39 Quarbo, that uses a similar carbonation cap that I'd like to get my hands on. It looks like it might solve my biggest complaint with the DrinkMake - the small bottle hole makes it hard to get ice in.

[@SarahKate365]

I'm sold! I'm buying one!

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Hey Sarah! Hope you're enjoying it!

[@Cynna1065]

Excellent review. I came here because my new Sodastream Fizzi loses gas pressure during carbonation. What I'm left with is a drink that is much flatter than I expected (after spending nearly ninety dollars). No matter how much I press the button, the result isn't much different. Perhaps my machine is defective? I don't know. What I do know is that I wish that I'd seen your review before I decided to go with the Sodastream.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Luckily the SodaStream style devices should be mechanically pretty simple. If you're out of warranty you might just have a loose or missing O-ring or something fairly easy to repair. That said, my Sparkel is still going strong and I'm averaging about two bottles per day. :)

[@trizhaay]

Fantastic!

[@louisep6683]

What is the carbonation like when you recarbonate flat soda? Is the soda's carbonation similar to when it was first opened?

[@31acruz]

Why does the water from it dry 'SOLID' ??? what is that doing to my insides ????!!! (just spill a little and don't dry it and come back in a few minutes its dry like freaking clay !!)

[@raymondpinner8328]

I went to Germany back in 2006 and they had a carbonator that didn't use a canister and also had to get plugged in. I don't remember them having to mix chemicals. I'm curious if there's anything similar in the US.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Hello Raymond. Not sure what the technology would be if it's not either this chemical process or drawing from a CO2 canister. Heck, restaurant-style soda machines are basically just big soda-streams that use scuba-tank-sized tanks.

[@raymondpinner8328]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans The one thing I do remember is that they had to heat up the water, run the machine, then let it cool. At the time I thought that it was just forcing air into the water but now I'm not sure.

[@vivsoares3330]

Very good video! You mentioned important points. Thank you for sharing!

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kinglord5429]

Bed bath beyond has $15 canisters and you can use 20% off coupon. I have had the Revolution sodastream machine and its looks cool first electronic one sold but sadly not available anymore. Seams sodastream is moving away from electronics and back to manual operations. Their new one uses a leaver on the side to deliver co2 and special quick connect canisters. The first canister is $60 some license fee crap after $15 refill exchange. Either way soda is now over $2 large bottle so these machines are making more sense. I buy 5 gal diet soda syrup from webresterant store, takes 3 oz. Syrup to 1 lt. bottle sodastream and its more along lines of Pepsi tase than coke which i like.

[@kinglord5429]

Oh yesh i will go through more than 4 1lt. bottles a day, i make 4 at time and will probably refill them twice a day. I like me soda 🤩🥤

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Dang KingLord, that's a lot of carbonation! The Bed Bath and Beyond deal, is that $15 per canister refill? I think I'm spending $38 for two canisters in the DrinkMate recycling program. That Bed Bath and Beyond deal would be great!

[@kinglord5429]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans yes 60L canisters refill have always been $15. Drink mate program which think in sodastream program i guess charging for home delivery. You go to BBB with your empty and just exchange for full ones. Bad part was i own the Revolution and it used the 130L then they were dropped and could only get 1 60L replacement.

[@Nozoki]

Actual reason Sparkel doesn't want you using cheaper ingredients, they can't over charge you for them and make bank.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

It's the kuerig/razor blade model. The sachets are not crazy expensive and it's real easy to avoid so I can't complain about them too much. They are the only ones trying to avoid the compressed canisters after all.

[@Mr.Sparklze]

How much of the baking soda and citric acid do you use?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

I used a 2tsp measuring spoon for both and it seemed to work well.

[@Mr.Sparklze]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans great, thanks

[@JustCliff]

i'm debating whether to get a DrinkMate or get a Sparkel. Both can carbonate anything but the Sparkel doesn't require c02 tanks.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Hey Cliff. I bought a Drinkmate a little while ago and working on a comparison video. Not to spoil it, but unless you really REALLY hate the canisters I'd go with the DrinkMate. Three minutes is just too long to wait for carbonation.

[@JustCliff]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans Okay. I have no issues with canisters since I can return ship them. Is the taste different between the two with water?

[@Yogsothoth32]

Thanks for putting this together.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

You bet! Thanks for watching.

[@3Mfarm]

Sparkel is a Canadian company, is it sold in the USA? I looked today and it's not on amazon

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

You are correct. It appears all Sparkel carbonators are currently unavailable on Amazon (or anywhere else that Google or DuckDuck go search). I purchased mine from Amazon. Hopefully they are not gone forever :(

[@melanycallagher8328]

I love mine! I use the generic chems all the time. No problem. Clean your top often.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Good call! My biggest complaint with the Sparkel (besides the 3 minute wait time which is a bit unavoidable) is that it gets kind of disgusting around most of the fittings without a good scrub!

[@iandunn206]

How often?

[@Fredengle]

HI just got the sparkel today so would your advice to me since everything is more zeros now be buy bulk baking soda and citric acid and in the end it will be more cost effective? ( i mean both as bulk is going to save me money is that correct does it still work fine ?) thoughts please thank you.

[@glennlewman4186]

Have you tried adding a bit more chemicals for stronger carbonation?

[@DinoWinoSaur]

very in-depth and cool review

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Much appreciated!

[@arnaudnicolau2093]

run it twice on lvl 5 if you want extra bubbles.( don t add more carbonator just one dose is enough)

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

It will let you run twice without dumping the water/citric acid/baking soda mix? I thought it locked you out until you raised the release and dumped the waste?

[@arnaudnicolau2093]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans run twice on the same bottle

[@Pacifictheory]

Are you still using this?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Not so much. I got sick of the wait time for the chemical carbonation and switched to a traditional canister-based carbonator. I think the Sparkel is still great for folks that don't want to deal with canister, but for me the speed of a canister outweighs the inconvenience of storing and filling them.

[@g0g0nat]

Would taking apart the bottom assembly to clean it out void the warranty in any way?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Good question. I think that may end up falling on the laws and regulations in your country or state. I'm sure they would claim that disassembly at all would void warranty but whether that would hold up or not is questionable. I didn't see any tamper identification - no warrant stickers, tabs to break, etc. I don't think they'd even be able to tell you took it apart if you didn't break anything - and if you broke something then the warranty is likely void. They do say that using anything other than their sachets voids the warranty and I would guess that if you were using your own citric acid and baking soda and something went wrong with the compression chamber you'd likely be out of luck as well.

[@Adam.P]

not sure, but not using their expensive packets will definitely void the warranty.

[@denisepinet9472]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans There is a video on youtube that shows how to clean the machine.

[@alfredharrison597]

bro just pour your carbonated drink into another bottle or another glass lol

[@JD-un2zv]

11g citric and 13g soda.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Look at Mr Science Man with 'exact measurements'! :) Thanks for posting something more precise.

[@JD-un2zv]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans I stole it from another post lol

[@jamesinclair]

Great review. The gunk at the bottom is a deal breaker for me

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Yeah, it can get pretty disgusting. I recently got a DrinkMate and I'm pretty sold on the compressed canisters now. I don't like the exchange and haven't looked into the refill/larger tank options yet but it's just so quick, simple, and clean. Waiting 3 minutes for a bottle is for the birds :)

[@denisepinet9472]

​@@LilMikeysBigPlans I was looking at the drinkmate before I got the sparkel. I forgot to order some of the sachets only a few left. With the canisters all you have to do is go to a store and buy one but the sachets won't carbonate your drink if you don't have any.

[@zoobiasiddiqui1551]

Thanks for the review! Can you please share roughly how much syrup you added?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

I pretty much go with what that bottle recommends. I believe the Sodastream cap lines are based on 1L while the Sparkle bottles are 750ml so you may want to go 3/4 of the way up to the line. That said, each syrup has its own strength. For example, I use more fake-Sprite flavor and less fake-Coke flavor per bottle but that's something you'll have to experiment with yourself.

[@mattzee6287]

The baking soda/citric acid hack is 👍, but, 10 mm wrench, and about $1.50 worth of dry ice refills CO2 tank, for up to five years...

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Hey Matt. I've watched a few videos on the dry ice process. It looks fairly simple but also could be pretty easy to mess-up in a bad way. How do you get refills for years with dry ice? Doesn't it evaporate fairly quickly?

[@mattzee6287]

Sorry, I meant you could keep doing refills this way, as opposed to switching tanks, but five years of this , I don't know if I would trust the tank anymore.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

@@mattzee6287 Ahh, gotcha! How much dry ice do you put in per canister? Do they bleed off excess if you accidentally overfill?

[@LiamGandelsman]

Very informative, thank you.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Glad it was helpful!

[@joannel5074]

great review...thanks

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Thanks for watching!

[@kareenhaskin795]

I want a sparkle

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Go get it Kareen!

[@madnecessity]

Does this work with wine?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

It works with vodka :) I think I have some wine that I can experiment with. Will test and let you know tonight.

[@scott3282]

13:18 how long can I use this carbonation? You explained that we can use maybe up to 5 times, but can I use it 5 times as a few days in between?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Not sure what you mean by use the carbonation. Are you asking how long a drink will remain carbonated once you have it in the bottle? I would think it's similar to a bottle of water/soda that you've opened and re-sealed. You'll probably get a few days out of it. I've generally drank mine immediately after making it - with maybe some left over in the fridge overnight and haven't had issues with carbonation loss - at least no more than I would expect from a soda bottle.

[@scott3282]

@@LilMikeysBigPlans oh, I mean there is some amount of baking soda and citrus to put in to make carbonation. How much water can I carbonate with 1 load? Do I need to load and dump every time I use it? If I can use it more than one full bottle of water, can I carbonate another drink few days after without reloading baking soda and citrus?

[@Nozoki]

@@scott3282 It gets dumped to waste every time, so you have to fill with new powder every time. The water tank just lets you make multiple bottles before refilling the water.

[@joannel5074]

Question ..you can carbonate any liquid? Tea, Wine.. etc?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Yes, you can with the Sparkel. Most carbonators recommend only carbonating plain water - mainly because there is now way to clean the carbonation 'tube' due to the way they are constructed. With Sparkel, the valves are built into the bottle and not the station so you can wash them. Unfortunately liquid does fall down onto the little pin and chamber below the bottle so be prepared to clean the thing once in a while if you're carbonating more than just water. The DrinkMate uses CO2 cylinders like Sodastream but there is a valve the screws onto the top of the bottle and is washable. So if you're looking for a canister-based carbonator that can do more than just plain water, check out the DrinkMate.

[@secretdaisy6484]

That’s a whole lot of process for not much output. I think the SodaStream 🥤would be less work. Not sure I need to make my own drinks that I can easily buy anywhere with no work whatsoever. 😵‍💫

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

Agreed. I'm strongly considering switching to a SodaStream like devices (probably a DrinkMate) because the three minute wait is getting very annoying.

[@DD-jq5cb]

Saving me money. Thank you.

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

You're welcome! :)

[@pannellclara]

has anyone ever had any issues with it? twice now the water & citric acid + b. soda spilled into my drink - any advice?

[@LilMikeysBigPlans]

I've had it dump baking soda into the drink a couple times. I can't put my finger on exactly why. I'm guessing something wasn't sealed correctly some where and it pushed the mixing water into the pressure extraction tube but can't say for sure what was going it. It was rare enough that I didn't spend a lot of time on it though. I've since moved on to a Drink Mate.

[@Mr.Sparklze]

Ticklish indeed!

[@funNactive1]

Seems overly complicated. I'll keep my SodaStream. - great review.