Canning Supplies

You really do not need that many supplies to start canning. It is probably best to begin with water bath canning. The most important part you will need is an actual water bath canner. These are sold in many hardware and big box stores. They usually are sold with a canning rack. This is very important. You can not set the filled jars directly on the surface of the water bath canner.

Jars are also needed. Again these are sold in big box stores and can also be ordered online. Due to the pandemic there has been a small jar shortage over the past year. The great news is that the jars can be used over and over again. In many ways the jar investment is almost a one time cost.

You will need lids and screw bands. These are usually sold with new jars. If you are reusing the jars you have previously purchased you can reuse the screw band, but not the lid. Once a lid has been sealed it cannot be reused and must be thrown away. Lids are available online or in bog box stores.

If you conduct an internet search for water bath canning you will get many hits on pages that explain the process in detailed steps. You must follow the directions in order to maintain food safety. Canning food is a science. This is just an overview of what is needed to begin the canning journey.