Here you’ll find all of my favorite canning tools! These are the only items you really need to get started preserving at home.

jars in water bath

Canning can feel intimidating if you have never tried it before, but once you have the right tools, it is actually pretty simple.Ā Everything on this list is something I genuinely use and recommend, whether you are putting up a batch of jam or canning peaches from a big farmers market haul.

Interested in learning more about canning? See my post onĀ Home Canning Tips and Resources.

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means if you use them I receive a small percentage of the purchase at no cost to you.

Canning favorites

These are the tools I consider essential. In my opinion, this is all you need (along with the standard tools you already have in your kitchen) to get started canning at home.

Cover of "food in jars" canning resource book

Canning Resource Book

A good canning book is such a great place to start. I love “Food in Jars” by Marisa McClellan, but any trusted canning resource will work. It walks you through the basics and is packed with great recipes too.

A box of 12 glass canning jars with one jar out of the box

Canning Jars

A set of good jars is the foundation of canning. They come in half-pint, pint, and quart sizes with either a regular or wide mouth, and what you need really depends on what you are canning. I keep a mix of all of them on hand.

Extra lids and bands for glass canning jars

Lids and Bands

Jars come with lids and bands, but the lids are not reusable. You will need fresh lids for every batch of canning you do, so it is always smart to keep extras of both on hand.

Jar lifter tool

Jar Lifter

A jar lifter makes it so much easier and safer to get jars in and out of boiling water. This is one tool I would not want to can without!

Water bath canner

Water Bath Canner

A water bath canner (or a large pot you already own) is what you will use to sterilize and process your jars. It is an essential piece of canning equipment.

Jar funnel

Jar Funnel

A jar funnel helps you scoop jam, sauce, fruit, or veggies directly into your jars without making a mess everywhere. Such a simple tool but it makes a big difference!

Now you are ready to start canning! Here are a few of my favorite recipes to try:

More canning recipes