5 Uses for Canning Jars in the Kitchen

Canning jars seem to be all the rage lately. And why shouldn’t they be? They are easy to find, inexpensive, durable, and can be used in so many different ways! Sure you may have used them for canning your fruits and vegetables, but did you know they have other practical uses as well? Take a look below at 5 uses for canning jars in the kitchen that you can try. You will find that canning jars belong in your kitchen for more than just canning!

5 Uses for Canning Jars in the Kitchen

1. Store your spices and other ingredients.
Canning jars are perfect for acting as spice canisters. Place your flour, sugar, tea, coffee grounds, spices, and other kitchen ingredients in them. Twist the lid on tightly and they are sure to stay fresh. You can even add chalkboard label to the front of them for some extra cuteness! When empty, simply refill or wash and use for something else.

2. Give your pasta a home.
Canning jars are great for storing and displaying dried pasta. Small noodles fit great in them, and it will keep them dry until you are ready to use them. The clear glass also makes it easy to see which pasta variety you are reaching for. Place your pasta jars on a shelf or counter and they double as decor.

3. Clean your kitchen naturally.
Fill a canning jar with white vinegar and toss in a few orange or lemon rinds. Twist the lid on tightly and keep it near the sink for when you need some natural cleaning solution. It will work great on sinks. counters, and can even clean your disposal. When empty, just refill! No more empty cleaning containers to toss away!

4. Store your dishwasher pods.
Keep your dishwasher cleaning pods (or your homemade tabs!) on hand in a canning jar. It will keep them high and dry and away from little hands. The clear glass also lets you see how many are left, helping you avoid the dreaded, “the dishwasher is full and I have no tabs!” dance.

5. Use a canning jar in place of several dishes and utensils.
Need to mix something? Instead of grabbing for a mixing bowl, place the ingredients in a canning jar, place the lid on, and shake away. Need a drinking glass? Use a canning jar! Need a leftovers container? Use a canning jar! Want to make biscuits and need a cookie cutter? Just use the mouth of your canning jar! There are so many ways to use your canning jars, you will never run out of options.

Canning jars are great for keeping your kitchen organized. The next time you see some at your local thrift or craft shop, grab a few! You will be amazed at how fun they are to use.