Kilner Clip Top Jars vs. Le Parfait: Which is Better for Your Pantry?

Quick Answer

For most home preservers, Kilner clip top jars offer better value and easier availability, especially their facetted and square designs. Le Parfait jars excel in traditional French aesthetics and come in a wider range of classic shapes. Choose Kilner for practical, budget-friendly storage, and Le Parfait if you prioritize heritage style and are willing to pay a premium.

When it comes to preserving your harvest or organizing your pantry, clip top jars are a timeless choice. Two iconic brands dominate the market: Kilner and Le Parfait. Both have loyal followings, but they differ in subtle ways that can impact your preserving experience. In this comparison, we'll look at design, durability, value, and practical features to help you decide which jar deserves a spot on your shelf.

Whether you're a seasoned canner or a beginner just starting out, understanding the nuances between these two brands will ensure you pick the right jar for your needs. We'll focus on real-world differences, not just brand reputation, so you can make an informed choice.

Design and Aesthetics: Classic vs. Traditional

Kilner jars are known for their iconic facetted design, which adds a touch of vintage charm to any pantry. The facetted clip top jars feature a distinctive pattern that catches the light beautifully, making them a favorite for displaying dried goods or pickles. On the other hand, Le Parfait jars have a more cylindrical, utilitarian look, often with a wider mouth and a simple, clean silhouette. If you're looking for jars that double as serving pieces, Kilner's facetted design might be more appealing.

However, Le Parfait offers a wider variety of traditional French shapes, including the classic 'Super' and 'Terrine' styles, which are perfect for specific preserving techniques. Kilner's range includes square clip top jars, which are space-efficient and stack neatly in the pantry. Both brands offer clear glass that lets you see your preserves at a glance, but the aesthetic choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.

• Kilner's facetted jars are visually striking and great for gifting.
• Le Parfait's classic shapes are ideal for traditional French preserving methods.

Durability and Build Quality

Both Kilner and Le Parfait jars are made from thick, durable glass designed to withstand the high temperatures of water bath canning. Kilner jars feature a robust clip top mechanism with a rubber seal that creates an airtight closure. The square 2-litre clip top jar, for example, is praised for its sturdy construction and reliable seal, making it suitable for jams, chutneys, and dry goods. Le Parfait jars also use a wire bail and rubber gasket system, which has been proven over decades of use.

One notable difference is the thickness of the glass. Le Parfait jars tend to have slightly thicker glass, which some preservers argue offers better protection against thermal shock. However, Kilner jars are also well-regarded for their durability and are widely used in home canning. Both brands are safe for use in pressure canners, but always follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

Value for Money and Availability

Price is a significant factor for many home preservers. Kilner jars are generally more affordable and widely available in stores and online. For instance, a set of three facetted clip top jars (0.95 litre) is priced at just $9.00, making them an excellent value for those starting out. Le Parfait jars, while not exorbitantly priced, often cost more due to their imported status and premium branding. This price difference can add up if you're stocking a large pantry.

Availability is another consideration. Kilner products are ubiquitous in kitchen supply stores and online marketplaces, whereas Le Parfait may be harder to find in some regions. If you need replacement seals or clips, Kilner parts are easier to source, ensuring your jars last for years.

Trade-offs at a Glance

• Design: Kilner offers facetted and square designs that are visually appealing and space-saving. Le Parfait focuses on traditional cylindrical shapes. Choose Kilner for aesthetics and space efficiency; Le Parfait for classic French look.
• Durability: Both use thick glass, but Le Parfait is often perceived as slightly thicker. Kilner's clip mechanism is reliable and easy to replace. Both are durable; Kilner offers easier part replacement.
• Price: Kilner jars are more budget-friendly, with sets like the 3x0.95L facetted jars at $9.00. Le Parfait tends to be pricier. If budget is a concern, Kilner provides better value.

Catalog-Backed Facts

• Kilner® Set of 3 Facetted Clip Top Jars 0.95 Litre: The Kilner® Facetted Clip Top Jars feature a distinctive design reminiscent of a bygone era. Perfect for storing dried, preserved and pickled foods. This design not only looks charming but also provides a practical way to store a variety of pantry staples, making it a versatile choice for home preservers.
• Square Glass Clip Top Jar - 2 Litre: Kilner Square 2L Clip Top Glass Storage Jar is durable and practical. With an airtight clip top the jar is suitable for preserving jams, chutneys and storing dry food stuffs. The square shape maximizes shelf space, and the airtight seal ensures your preserves stay fresh longer, making it a smart choice for efficient storage.

Which One Should You Choose?

Best For

• Home preservers on a budget who want attractive, functional jars.
• Those who value easy availability of replacement parts and a wide range of sizes.

Not For

• Purists who prefer the traditional French jar aesthetics and are willing to pay more.
• Those who need very thick glass for heavy-duty canning and are willing to source Le Parfait internationally.

In the battle of Kilner vs. Le Parfait, there's no single winner—it depends on your priorities. Kilner jars offer exceptional value, practical designs, and easy availability, making them a fantastic choice for most home preservers. Le Parfait brings a touch of French heritage and robust construction, but at a higher cost. Consider your budget, storage needs, and aesthetic preferences. If you're ready to start or upgrade your pantry, explore the Kilner® Set of 3 Facetted Clip Top Jars 0.95 Litre and see how they can transform your storage game.