How To Sterilise Jars
Instructions
Oven Method:
- Heat the oven to 130°C (275°F).
- Lay a double layer of newspaper on each oven shelf but not the floor of the oven. If you are using a gas oven, make sure your newspaper is well away from any flame.
- Arrange the jars on the oven shelf, making sure thejars are not touching each other.
- Close the oven door and sterilize thejars for a minimum of 20 minutes.
- Using thick oven mitts, remove eachjar from the oven as needed onto a heatproof mat heat pad.
Dishwasher Method:
- Fill your dishwasher with clean cold jars and lids and run through a full cycle without using detergent.
- Use the jars one at a time from the dishwasher as needed.
Microwave Method:
- Clean the jars as normal.
- Rinse the jars and leave a little wet
- Microwave the jars only for 30 to 45 seconds depending on the size of the jar.
Notes
- Do NOT add cold food to hot jars, or hot food to cold jars; otherwise, the jar will shatter which is very dangerous.
- Do NOT use old jam jar lids if damaged or rusty, they should be thrown away as they may not make a good seal. Instead, use wax discs.
- Remove jars from the oven or dishwasher only when needed or they will cool down too much.
- Always sterilize more jars than you think you will need. Should you have more mixture than anticipated it is too late to start sterilizing once the food is ready.
- Leave jams, preserves or pickles to settle for 15 minutes before sealing.