We’ll teach you the basics of water bath canning so you’re free to get started today.

It’s just a large pot with a rack at the bottom to set the jars on.

The rack allows water to flow beneath the jars for even heating.

The Basics of Water Bath Canning

Credit:BHG / Michela Buttignol

The following guidelines apply to both methods.

water canner pot

Credit: Marty Baldwin

sterilizing jars in canner

sterilizing lids in bowl of hot water

funnel food and liquid into jars

Credit: Karla Conrad

canning measuring headspace

wipe jar rims with damp cloth

placing food jars in canner with jar lifter

Credit: Karla Conrad

processing jars in boiling water canner

Credit: Waterbury Publications Inc

jars cooling on towel

Credit: Karla Conrad