Kilner Jar Tongs: Safe Lifting for Hot Preserving Jars
By Kilner® - Iconic Glass Jars, Bottles & Equipment | Kilner® | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to safely lift hot preserving jars using Kilner Jar Tongs. Step-by-step guide to avoid burns and broken jars.
Quick answer
Use Kilner Jar Tongs to safely lift hot jars during sterilizing and processing. The spring-loaded hinge provides a secure grip, reducing the risk of burns or jar breakage.
Why dedicated jar tongs matter
Standard kitchen tongs often lack the curved grip needed to hold preserving jars securely. Kilner Jar Tongs are designed with a spring-loaded hinge and angled jaws that fit jar shoulders, giving you a stable hold even when the jar is wet or slippery from boiling water.
Using the right tool also prevents thermal shock. Grabbing a hot jar with a metal spatula or cloth can crack the glass if pressure is uneven. The tongs distribute force evenly around the rim, protecting your jars and your hands.
How to lift hot jars safely
- 1. Prepare your workspace: Set a heatproof mat or cooling rack next to your boiling water bath or sterilizer. Have the Kilner Jar Tongs within easy reach but away from the direct heat source. Never place hot jars directly on a cold countertop — the temperature difference can crack the glass.
- 2. Position the tongs correctly: Open the spring-loaded jaws and slide them under the jar rim, centering the curved pads against the jar shoulders. Squeeze the handles gently until you feel firm contact. If the jar wobbles or tilts, release and reposition. A centered grip prevents slipping.
- 3. Lift straight up: Raise the jar vertically with a steady motion. Avoid tilting or jerking. Hold the jar over the pot for a second to let excess water drain back. Lifting at an angle can cause hot water to spill onto your hand or the jar to slip out of the tongs.
- 4. Transfer and release: Lower the jar gently onto the heatproof mat or rack. Open the tongs by relaxing your grip and slide them away. Let the jar cool naturally before handling with bare hands. Do not tighten lids or move jars while they are still hot — the seal may break or the jar may crack.
Product details
- Kilner Jar Tongs: The Kilner® Jar Tongs are used to easily lift preserve jars and clip top jars when sterilising and processing. The new design features a spring loaded hinge for easy grasp. The spring-loaded hinge keeps the jaws open without constant hand pressure, so you can position the tongs accurately before lifting.
Kilner Jar Tongs
