Discover the best uses for Ball Mason Jars from personal experience — from pantry storage to preserving jam, here’s why they’re a kitchen essential.
🏡 Why I Swear By Ball Mason Jars
If you’re into preserving, pantry organizing, or zero-waste living, Ball Mason Jars are your best friend. I’ve used them for everything from strawberry jam to fermenting kimchi—and they never disappoint. Their classic look, durability, and versatility make them a staple in my kitchen (and even in my bathroom!).
In this post, I’m sharing my top 5 tried-and-tested uses for Ball jars and why they deserve a place in every home.
1. 🍓 Preserving Jams, Pickles & Homemade Sauces
Best For: Water bath canning, jams, chutneys
Jar Sizes I Use: 8 oz, 16 oz regular mouth
Ball jars are made for preserving, and they truly shine when you’re canning fruit, pickles, or tomato sauces. The two-piece lid system gives a secure seal every time. I use them for:
- Homemade apricot jam
- Pickled onions and cucumbers
- Tomato chutney and relishes
✅ Pro Tip: Pair with the Ball Water Bath Canning Kit for mess-free, safe home preserving.
2. 🫘 Pantry Storage for Dry Goods
Best For: Grains, pasta, spices, baking ingredients
Jar Sizes I Use: 32 oz & half-gallon wide mouth
I decant everything from oats and rice to cacao nibs and chia seeds into Ball jars. It keeps my pantry organized, clean, and plastic-free.
- Airtight seal keeps food fresher, longer
- Wide-mouth jars make scooping easy
- Look beautiful on open shelving
3. 🧄 Fermenting & Sourdough Starter
Best For: Small-batch fermenting, sourdough
Jar Sizes I Use: 32 oz wide mouth
These jars are great for making:
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
- Garlic honey
- Wild yeast sourdough starter
Use fermentation lids like those from Masontops to make the process easier.
4. 🥣 Smoothies, Overnight Oats & On-the-Go Meals
Best For: Breakfasts, portable lunches, DIY drinks
Jar Sizes I Use: 16 oz regular mouth
These jars double as travel cups and meal prep containers. I use them for:
- Overnight oats
- Green smoothies
- Chia puddings
- Iced lattes or herbal iced teas
Optional accessories: Reusable drinking lids, metal straws, or silicone sleeves for grip.
5. 🕯️ Crafts, Gifts & Rustic Home Décor
Best For: Candles, floral displays, bathroom storage
Jar Sizes I Use: Assorted (especially vintage or blue-tinted)
Some creative ways I’ve used Ball jars:
- DIY soy candles as gifts
- Mini vases for fresh herbs or dried blooms
- Toothbrush and makeup brush holders
- String light lanterns for outdoor dining
They’re also perfect for weddings or baby shower décor.
🛍️ Where to Buy Ball Mason Jars
🇺🇸 USA & 🇦🇺 Australia:
- I buy from Amazon for fast shipping, competitive prices, and a wide selection—all in one trusted place.
🏁 Final Verdict: Are Ball Mason Jars Worth It?
Absolutely. These jars are durable, multi-functional, eco-friendly, and stylish. Whether you’re a seasoned home canner or just love an organized pantry, Ball Mason Jars are a smart investment.
📌 Quick Recap:
| Use Case | Recommended Size | Tools to Pair With |
|---|---|---|
| Jam & Pickles | 8 oz / 16 oz | Water Bath Canner Kit |
| Dry Pantry Goods | 32 oz / Half Gallon | Stackable jar racks |
| Fermentation | 32 oz wide mouth | Airlock lids, Masontops fermenting kits |
| Meal Prep | 16 oz regular mouth | Reusable drink lids |
| Gifts & Crafts | Any size | Candle wax, string lights, chalk labels |
💬 Have You Tried Ball Jars?
Tell us how you use them in the comments below.
