Best Mason Jars to Stock Your Kitchen Pantry With

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Let’s face it, the kitchen pantry is easily one of our favorite and most frequented areas in our homes. It is where we keep and stack our favorite snacks and beverages, seasonings, and even preserved foods. With that, using efficient and convenient storage containers, such as Mason jars, is essential.

Read on to find out how these storage containers can do wonders to your pantry and even choose from our recommended products to meet your home’s storage needs!

Why Use Mason Jars?

Using Mason jars can be considered a well-known practice in terms of food storage. Having been around since the 1850s, all thanks to John Landis Mason who patented them, these screw-top molded glass containers are common storage options in American homes.

Now onto the important questions, what sparked the popularity of Mason jars? Why should you use them instead of other commercial storage containers such as those made of plastic? Let’s find out!

They are available in a variety of sizes and volume capacities

One of the reasons Mason jars are a storage must-have is the wide range of sizes available. They can be classified into two types based on the width of their mouth or opening: 1) those with a regular mouth and 2) those with a wide mouth.

Regular-mouth Mason jars have a slightly narrow mouth or opening at the top, usually measuring at least 60 millimeters (mm) in inner diameter and at least 70 mm in outer diameter. Jars with this type of mouth range in volume capacity from 4-ounce (oz) jars to those with a volume capacity of 32!

Wide-mouth Mason jars, on the other hand, are made up of jars with a minimum volume capacity of 8 oz. and as much as 64 oz. These jars, unlike regular-mouthed ones, have an inner diameter of at least 76 mm and an outer diameter of at least 86 mm.

The width of the opening determines how easy it is for you to reach inside the jars, which is an important distinction between regular mouth jars and those with wide mouths. Similarly, the width determines the amount of food that can be placed inside. The larger the opening, the easier it is to reach inside and the more convenient it is to store larger chunks of food!

For this reason, regular mouth Mason jars are ideal for storing everyday pantry essentials like seasonings and spices. These jars are also typically small, making them suitable for tiny fruits, vegetables, snacks, and chilling desserts.

Regular mouth Mason jars, however, are less ideal to use when preserving liquids by freezing. This is because their necks are slightly smaller than that of wide mouth jars, thus preventing and limiting liquid expansion. Therefore, wide-mouth Mason jars are the ones more suitable for freezing as their wider opening and necks accommodate and allow liquid expansion. These jars make it easier to fill them with both small and large pieces of food.

Despite their differences, both regular and wide-mouth Mason jars make excellent storage containers when used correctly and to their full capacities!

They are durable and are free from harmful chemicals

Mason jars are also a great option due to their sturdy construction. They are typically made of thick, high-quality glass that is less prone to breaking or shattering. In fact, Mason jars can typically withstand high temperatures. They are generally refrigerator-safe, making them ideal for storing and chilling foods and beverages, particularly leftovers. Furthermore, these jars can be sterilized (and some are microwave-safe) and are ideal for storing hot foods like soups and broths.

Aside from that, Mason jars have an airtight mechanism. These jars’ mouths have a threaded outer perimeter to accommodate a tight screw-on cap or lid. This design allows you to store food or drinks without having to worry about leakage or allowing air inside.

Many manufacturers also ensure that these products have quilted surfaces to make the surface slightly bumpy and less slippery to hold. This design also makes the jars appear more elegant and appealing.

More importantly, because Mason jars are made of glass, they are free of potentially harmful chemicals such as Bisphenol A (BPA), which is commonly found in plastic containers. As a result, they are safer for the entire family to use.

They’re versatile and multipurpose

Another reason to use Mason jars and keep them in your pantry is their versatility. They make excellent storage containers due to their various sizes, airtight mechanism, and transparent appearance, which allows you to easily differentiate the contents of the containers. In short, you can use them to store anything!

You can, for example, use these jars for home canning and preserving food, just as they were originally used in the mid-1800s. Do it by salting, fermenting, and freezing vegetables and fruits!

Moreover, Mason jars also make convenient storage for condiments as well as drinks and beverages like milk, soda, and wine. You can even use some of these jars as pitchers with their flip cap lids.

Apart from daily kitchen essentials, Mason jars are also ideal and safe to use for baby foods. They are free of harmful chemicals that could harm your child and can even be sterilized.

Of course, Mason jars are also usable for storing non-edible items. They are excellent containers for your hygiene essentials such as face creams, body lotions, and cotton balls, to name a few. In the home office and craft station, Mason jars can also function as pen holders and storage for your small paper clips and other knickknacks. They also look great as table candle holders, an overhead or hanging light fixture, planters, and vases!

They’re easy to clean

Mason jars are easy to use due to their clever design. Their regular and wide mouths allow users to easily clean them by washing, for example. The jar lids can also be easily cleaned with a damp cloth. As previously stated, you can also sterilize them to further ensure that they are germ-free.

We’ll go over how to clean and sanitize these jars in the final section of the article as well, so continue reading!

They’re sustainable and eco-friendly

Unlike plastic containers, glass storage products like Mason jars are eco-friendly. The reason for this is that they are made from raw and natural materials such as sand, limestone, soda ash, and other recycled glass. With that, Mason jars can be repeatedly reprocessed into new glass products.

Unless they are broken, there is no reason to throw these jars away as well because they can be repurposed. As previously stated, you can use them to store not only foods and beverages, but also cosmetics, office supplies, and other items. You can also use them as a piggy bank or as bird feeders! Or better yet, remove the lids and repurpose the jars as plant pots and flower vases to enhance the beauty of your home. Make use of those metal jar lids as coasters and cupcake holders too!

10 Awesome Mason Jars to Buy

Regular Mouth Mason Jars

1. Fruiteam 4-Ounce Mason Jars

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You can finally start decluttering your kitchen pantry with the help of this Mason jar set from Fruiteam.

Safe and efficient to use with its BPA-free glass construction and its 4-ounce size, this set is excellent for organizing things in small quantities. For example, you can use it to organize staple condiments such as salts, sugar, and olive oil.

You also won’t have to worry about the glasses easily slipping from your grasp as they are equipped with diamond patterns. This design makes the surface a little bumpy, which causes friction and makes it easier to hold them firmly.

Aside from that, these mini-Mason jars’ lids are made of two detachable parts: the outer metal rim and the canning cap. Hence, they can also be used as a fancy fruit shake glass by removing the canning cap (but keeping the metal rim on) so that you can drink from the jars directly!

2. Rainforce 8-Ounce Mason Jars

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This Rainforce Mason jar set is yet another stunning Mason jar set to add to your Amazon shopping cart. Measuring 8 ounces, these jars are spacious enough to store your favorite herbs. Use them to keep mint, basil, and parsley fresh and organized.

At the same time, these jars are perfect to store spices like turmeric, cinnamon, and cloves. They come with easy-to-use silver lids as well, allowing you to easily uncap them while cooking aromatic and tasty meals.

These jars are also ideal for stocking up on vitamin tablets and syrups in the pantry. They also come with labels that make it easier even for children to locate and distinguish their contents!

3. Kamota 10-Ounce Mason Jars

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Isn’t it great to check your pantry and discover that your favorite snacks are still fresh and appealing to eat? Fortunately, this is easy to achieve when you use a great Mason jar set like this one from Kamota.

Like the Mason jars from Fruiteam, this set is equipped with two-component silver lids that effectively seal candies, chips, and crackers. With this design, these jars can also be used as drinking glasses or dessert bowls at your summer backyard parties with friends! They will also make an excellent wedding and birthday gift, as well as be included on your baby’s registry!

4. Paksh Novelty 16-Ounce Mason Jars

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Trying canning for the first time can be a bit challenging. No worries though because you can always count on these Paksh Novelty Mason jars to help you out!

Durable and BPA-free, these regular-mouth jars are perfect for making jams and jellies from fruits and veggies like berries, pomegranate, and carrots. They are made of thick, sturdy glass that won’t shatter during boiling or water bath canning.

Moreover, these jars are airtight and leak-proof, preventing food from spoiling. As a result, they are also appropriate for canning cucumbers and making your favorite pickles! Remember that these jars are also perfect for heating baby foods and milk as they are microwave oven-safe (except for the lids).

5. Sewanta Ball Aqua 32-Ounce Mason Jars

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Clear and colorless Mason jars are a delight to use with their elegant look and effective sealing capacity. However, you can also buy those with lively colors, such as this one from Sewanta, to declutter and make your pantry looks extra charming!

Unlike the typical Mason jars, these containers have ultraviolet-absorbing and blocking aqua color. With that and its large storage capacity, this Ball Mason jar set is ideal for organizing your baking essentials such as flour, baking soda, and sweeteners!

Take advantage of this set’s charming appearance by repurposing it as hanging decorations in your home too! Just make sure you decorate and tie them securely so they don’t fall!

Wide Mouth Mason Jars

6. Verones 22-Ounce Mason Jars

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Regular mouth jars are surely easy to use, but wide mouth jars are ideal if you intend to store large pieces of food. With that, it is best to try this set of Mason jars from Verones.

These jars, like Fruiteam’s, have a quilted and non-slippery surface, making them easier to hold and move around. Of course, they can be used to store food. They are both heat-tempered and freezer-safe, allowing you to use them when boiling and storing easily perishable goods in the refrigerator.

At the same time, these jars are ideal for making and serving cocktails for you and your best buddies. There is no need to transfer drinks into other glasses because you can drink directly from these jars!

7. Aozita 32-Ounce Mason Jars

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Searching for sleek and spacious storage containers for your breakfast essentials? You’re in luck because these amazing Aozita Mason Jars might be just what you’re looking for!

Having a total of 32-ounce capacity, these jars are spacious enough to store cereal, butter, and even yogurt! If you like to start your day with a cup of steaming coffee, these jars can also keep your aromatic coffee beans fresh and ready to brew.

Furthermore, these Aozita Mason Jars are incredible for storing and consuming healthy vegetable salad recipes on the go. Simply layer all the ingredients that you need into the jars and then pack them in your bag so that you can have a daily supply of healthy foods even when at the office. Plus, this set comes with lots of accessories such as colorful plastic lids, silicone rings, and labels!

8. County Line Kitchen 64-Ounce Mason Jar Pitcher

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Mason jars are indeed ideal for liquid storage, as evident by the preceding products. This one from County Line Kitchen is no exception either!

Made from sturdy soda-lime glass, this Mason jar has just the right size to hold any refreshing drink. It has a 64-ounce volume capacity, and unlike most Mason jars, its silicone seal has both a flip cap and a handle. Hence, the County Line Kitchen Mason jar functions as a pitcher. This design makes it easier to pour its content!

Its handle makes it portable too, helping you carry it with ease when organizing the pantry and whenever you need a refill of energizing beverages!

9. Eatneat Mason Jars

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Remember how you used to sneak cookies from the coffee jar when you were a kid? Well, this set of Mason jars from Eatneat can surely bring back those memories when you use it!

Consisting of jars of various sizes, including 17, 27, 34, 51, and 68 ounces, this set is versatile and convenient to use. They also have an easy-to-use airtight mechanism with lids that open and close smoothly, effectively preserving food and preventing spoilage.

As a result, they can be used to keep your favorite chocolate-chip cookies fresh, dewy, and irresistible to eat, just like when you were young! The wide opening of these jars will also allow you and your children to easily reach inside the jars to get ahold of the tasty confection!

Aside from being efficient pantry organizers for food, these jars can also be repurposed as craft jars! Just decorate them with some frills and laces, then add in fairy lights, and install them as a hanging light holder. You can also paint them in vibrant colors to transform them into stained glass table decorations!

10. Qianfenie Gallon Mason Jars

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Home parties and gatherings wouldn’t be complete without a serving of delicious refreshments. Do it the fun and easy way using these gallon Mason jars from Qianfenie!

Made with a sturdy, tall glass, these jars can store ice-cold soda, fruit juice, and smoothies for your guests. Like that of Eatneat, this set also has a clamp sealing mechanism that effectively ensures that its content is fresh and tasty. Thus, they are also suitable for fermenting beverages like kombucha, a healthy drink that is made with tea, sugar, and yeast.

Moreover, you can also use these large Mason jars to ensure the crispiness of dry goods like crackers, pretzels, pasta, and rice!

How to Clean and Maintain Mason Jars

Mason jars are indeed useful due to their multifunctional and user-friendly designs. Naturally, you would want to provide them with the utmost care so that they’ll last longer. With that, here are some tips and recommendations that you can follow to make sure that these items are safe, clean, and well-maintained:

• • Mason jars should be thoroughly cleaned after each use. Do this by washing the glass jars and their lids with soapy water. You can also use a cleaning cloth, a non-scuffing pad, and a brush to gently scrub them and remove any residues from their surfaces.

• • Aside from simple washing, you can also sterilize Mason jars to eliminate harmful bacteria that can cause infection and other diseases. This process is also essential when storing baby foods and before canning foods. You can do this by placing the jars (along with their lids, rubber rings, and seals) in the dishwasher and running them through the hottest cycle. Likewise, you can also manually simmer and soak them in boiling water for at least 10 minutes.

• • When using Mason jars to store hot liquids, avoid pouring the hot liquids all at once. Instead, pour a small amount of hot water into the jars first to prevent the glass from cracking and shattering.

• • As the process of canning food involves boiling the jars, it is important to note that the jar lids are typically only suitable for single use. That means you’ll have to replace the jar lids after each canning because they won’t seal properly. To avoid product damage, always read the manufacturer’s label to see if the Mason jars and lids are microwave and dishwasher-safe as well.

• • When stacking Mason jars in your freestanding pantry cabinets, make sure that they are not stacked directly too high from one another. Two layers will suffice as it avoids putting too much weight on the jars, which may strain them and cause them to break. Placing the jars on a tiered shelf is also a great idea as this provides more stable support.

• • To keep the jars from clinking together, use soft padding materials such as crumpled papers and cardboards as dividers. This will protect the jars from breakage and shattering.

• Mason jars should be stored upside down on a closed shelf when not in use to avoid dust accumulation. Before storing, make sure the rings and lids are completely dry as well to avoid bacteria growth on their surfaces.

All in all, Mason jars are a valuable item and a storage must-have due to their versatility and durability. You can use them not only as glass containers for foods and drinks but also as general home storage and decorations. They are also safe and easy to use, making them well worth the money! Buy a set or two now and see for yourself how they can help you organize your pantry and make food preparation a piece of cake!