How to Sterilise Jars and Lids
Equipment Needed
• Washing up liquid (preferably Fairy Original or equivalent – you don’t want to use the more exotic fragranced liquids)
• Washing up gloves
• Jars
• Lids
• Clean tea towels
• Kitchen paper
• Baking tray
• Baking/greaseproof paper
• Tongs
• Heat proof mat
You can re use jars and lids but if the previous contents were strong flavoured chutneys or vinegar based products it is best to discard the lids as they will be tainted with the flavours.
Prepare your jars and lids in advance so they are ready when you have finished your recipe.
Your jars need to be warm when filling with hot preserves to prevent the glass from cracking.
When you are ready to fill the jars, remove from the oven using tongs and place on a heat proof mat to protect your work surface.
Oven Method
1. Preheat oven to 140°C.
2. Place a sheet of baking paper on a baking tray.
3. Check jars/bottles for any cracks/chips and discard any damaged jars.
4. Wash jars/bottles in hot soapy water. (The water needs to be hot enough for you to need to wear washing up gloves).
5. Rinse in very hot water.
6. Invert the jars on a clean tea towel or kitchen paper to remove excess water.
7. Place the inverted jars on the baking tray and place in the oven for 10-15 minutes to dry.
Dishwasher Method
This is a good method if you want to prepare a large number of jars/bottles.
1. Preheat oven to 140°C
2. Place a sheet of baking paper on a baking tray.
3. Check jars/bottles for any cracks/chips and discard any damaged jars.
4. Place inverted jars in the dishwasher and run on the hottest cycle.
5. Place the inverted jars on the baking tray and place in the oven to dry. (Even though the jars have been through the dishwasher they still may not be completely dry).
6. Keep warm in the oven until required.
Microwave Method
1. Follow the previous methods steps 1 to 3.
2. Half fill the jars with water and place in the microwave.
3. Microwave on full power until the water boils.
4. Pick up the jars with a tea towel and swill the water around the jars then empty.
5. Invert the jars on a clean tea towel or kitchen paper to remove excess water.
6. Place the inverted jars on the baking tray and place in the oven for 10-15 minutes to dry.
Preparing Lids
1. Boil the lids in water for 10 minutes.
2. Place on a clean tea towel to remove excess water.
3. Dry each lid thoroughly with kitchen towel.
