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What to Know About Kilner Glass Jars

What to Know About Kilner Glass Jars

Posted by The Wares Team on 20th May 2025

At Wares of Knutsford, glass Kilner jars are one of our biggest-selling product ranges, and our customers love the versatility and durability of these classic, hardwearing glass jars, which come in a huge range of sizes and closure types.

So let's take a closer look at the timeless appeal of Kilner jars and cover everything you need to know about these multi-tasking kitchen wonders.

 

Why are glass Kilner jars more expensive than standard glass jars?

Kilner jars tend to be more expensive than generic glass jars because they are made from a higher quality sodalime glass. They are also made with the clip-top lid, which adds to the cost thanks to the unique design. Kilner is also known for its high-quality manufacturing and sustainability credentials, and the brand has a long history, which makes it more valuable in the market.

 

Why are Kilner glass jars of better quality than alternatives?

The sodalime glass from which glass Kilner jars are made is particularly desirable for intensive kitchen use. Kilner jars are known for their thick and consistent jar walls and pristine clarity, delivered by the choice of premium glass. Sodalime glass helps to prevent weak spots and enhances lifespan, making kilner jars particularly durable.

 

Why choose Kilner jars?

Kilner jars are designed to be high-quality and suitable for use again and again. In fact, many people keep Kilner jars for years, and their iconic design also makes them incredibly attractive. Kilner jars are often used for home crafts and storage, as well as for use in the kitchen, so their slightly higher price point is more than overcome by their versatility and durability.

In recent years, Kilner jars have also become notably popular for food service. For example, people use them to make overnight oats, or to transport 'shake down' layered salads to work, ready to invert to shake the dressing through the ingredients. Kilner jars can be great for serving luxurious ice-cream-topped milkshakes, soups and other dishes, and they look great. Because the glass is robust, dishes can sit inside the fridge until they are ready to serve. Did you know you can even freeze Kilner jars? Some people do so if they want a non-plastic storage solution for frozen food, and the thick quality glass is strong enough to withstand the freezing temperature (unlike cheap glass)

 

What are the two-part lids used for?

 The clip-top closure system that you see on Kilner jars is now iconic, and it was originally created to provide an airtight seal for the contents of the jar. This means that jams, jellies, pickles, preserves, ferments and other products can last for longer. The Kilner lid can be used with the screw band to create a completely airtight seal which maximises the lifespan of the food contents. When Kilner jars are used in a canning process, the inner lid with the rubber seal also serves to create a vacuum seal.

The great thing about Kilner jar lids is that the components can be replaced if they become damaged over time or lose their ability to seal. It's possible to buy replacement lids and bands, and this allows you to use your Kilner products again and again.

 

Top facts about glass Kilner jars

Kilner glass jars have been used in kitchens around the world since the 1800s, when they were invented in England by John Kilner and Co. Over their long history, the design has remained consistent, with its high-quality ethos and classic design.

Kilner has always aimed to promote a sustainable business model by offering glassware that is a great alternative to plastic containers. Kiler glass jars are free from BPA chemicals, which are a concern in plastics because chemicals can leach from plastic containers and contaminate food. Kilner jars are also more durable because they don't absorb flavours or colours, and they can be cleaned very easily. In fact, if you have a dishwasher, you can simply pop the jars in to sterilise them. Just remember to hand wash the rubber seals.

 

Stock up on Kilner Jars at Wares of Knutsford

We stock a wide range of glass Kilner jars and bottles at Wares of Knutsford, and we have all kinds of sizes and available designs for every need. Some customers buy in bulk for commercial food production or food service, and others buy to create beautiful vintage-themed pantries with glass storage. The smallest size of glass Kilner jars is great for spice storage, for example. You'll also find extra-large sizes, which are great if you love making kefir or kombucha.

Got any queries about our glassware range? Our friendly team is always on hand for any queries that you might have. We pride ourselves on our excellent service and our low delivery costs, and we dispatch every order rapidly and without any plastic packaging in the whole process. We are passionate about sustainable business and recycling, so we use paper wrap for our deliveries to help our customers benefit from sustainable buying. Why not sign up for our newsletter for the latest news, promotions, products and more?