When it comes to canning, there’s no room for risky business. Enter the jar lifter—the simple, scissor-like tool that lets you lift hot jars safely in and out of boiling water, without singed fingers, spills, or dropped preserves. If you’re preserving jam, pickles, or tomatoes, a jar lifter is your go-to for a smoother, safer experience.
What Is a Jar Lifter?
A jar lifter is a specialized kitchen tool designed for gripping and lifting hot canning jars from boiling water. It looks like a hybrid of tongs and pliers, with curved, rubber-coated ends that fit snugly around jar lids or bodies to provide a secure, slip-free grip.
Most jar lifters are:
- Made from metal or heat-safe plastic
- Coated in rubber or silicone to protect the glass
- Designed with a spring-loaded or hinged handle for easy control
Why You Need a Jar Lifter
Safety First
Lifting glass jars filled with boiling liquids is not something you want to do with a dish towel or regular tongs. The jar lifter keeps your hands far from heat and steam.
Secure Grip
The curved, cushioned grip hugs the jar tightly, reducing the risk of slips or breakage.
Essential for Water Bath Canning
When sterilizing jars or processing preserves, you’ll need to lower and lift jars into a large pot or canner—and this is the tool made for the job.
Cleaner Canning
No drips, no burns, no clumsy towel grabs. The jar lifter helps you maintain a smooth, mess-free process.
How to Use a Jar Lifter
- Sterilize your jars and fill them with your jam, pickles, or sauce.
- Grip the jar around the neck or just below the rim using the jar lifter.
- Lower into boiling water carefully, making sure not to tilt.
- When done processing, use the jar lifter to lift the jar straight up and out of the water.
- Place gently on a towel-covered counter or rack to cool.
Tip: Pair With Other Canning Tools
For a seamless canning setup, use your jar lifter alongside:
- Canning funnel (less mess when filling jars)
- Magnetic lid lifter (for grabbing hot lids)
- Bubble remover/headspace tool (for precise measuring)
- Large water bath canner (for processing)
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