A Beginner’s Guide to Using Reusable Canning Lids

Home canning is a fantastic way to preserve fresh food, but the cost of single-use lids can add up over time. That’s where reusable canning lids, like those from Harvest Guard, come in. If you’re looking for a sustainable and budget-friendly alternative to traditional canning lids, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using Harvest Guard reusable lids successfully.

I’ve been using reusable canning lids off an on for a long time – well over a decade. I loved the idea of them, but I was noticing I was having more seal failures than I did with regular metal lids. Even so, every summer I’d try a few batches with reusable lids but I didn’t get serious about trying to figure out where my user-error was until 2020 when supply chains were disrupted and I was testing pressure canning recipes for my second book. 

I canned over 2000 jars in the last half of 2020, some were canned and then shared with friends and family to be eaten that week and then canning jars given back to me to refill with a different recipe. I knew I needed a new plan because I did not want to spend hundreds on dollars on new lids for them just to be thrown away in a few days. 

It was during that time that I came across Harvest Guard Reusable lids. I ordered some lids with rubber gaskets to try…and I fell in love with them. When I got the box, there was a laminated instruction card with step by step instructions on how to use their lids. I’ve learned that when I follow the instructions, I have less fails than I did before, about the same as I with metal lids which isn’t many at all. 

Are Reusable Canning Lids Safe to Use?

The short answer is, Yes. There is no difference in safety between using traditional metal lids or plastic reusable lids. You can read more in this study done to test the safety of two piece and three piece combination lids (metal, plastic, and glass.)  

There might be a difference in seal failure rates but after years of using them, I can confidently say that the vast majority of times I didn’t get a good seal have been because I didn’t follow the manufacturer’s instructions. My success rate has gone up tremendously since using the correct process. 

What Are Harvest Guard Reusable Canning Lids?

“Regular” canning lids are metal flat lids with plastic compound around the inside edge that will seal to the jar when processed properly. The problem is that they are really a one-time-use product. I know some people will reuse metal lids but it’s not recommended because of a high failure rate. 

Harvest Guard canning lids are made of durable food grade plastic and are designed to be used indefinitely while the rubber gaskets can be reused 6-8 times, making them a more sustainable than disposable metal lids. Each set consists of a plastic lid and a separate red rubber ring, which work together to create a vacuum seal during the canning process. You’ll need to add metal screw bands to keep the lid and gasket on the jar. 

They’re BPA-free and manufactured in the US. 

Pros and Cons of Reusable Canning Lids

Like most things in life, there are positives and negatives of using reusable canning lids. 

Pros:

•  Cost-Effective: Although the initial investment is higher than disposable lids, reusable plastic lids can save money over time since they can be used indefinitely.
•  Eco-Friendly: Reusing lids reduces waste and the need for continuous manufacturing of single-use lids.
•  BPA-Free and Food-Safe: Harvest Guard lids are made without harmful chemicals, ensuring the safety of your preserved foods.
•  Availability: During peak canning seasons, metal lids can sell out quickly, making reusable lids a reliable alternative.
• Colored Lids: Harvest Guard lids come in white, red and green. Red and green are great to use for things that might stain the white lids. 

Cons:

•  Learning Curve: Using reusable lids requires a slightly different process than traditional lids, particularly in tightening and cooling techniques.
•  Extra Components: Each lid requires a separate gasket, which needs to be replaced periodically.
•  Stained Lids: The white lids can get stained over time – usually from things like tomato sauce but also spices like turmeric which is in my Granny’s bread and butter pickle recipe. 

How to Use Harvest Guard Reusable Canning Lids Successfully

1. Prepare the Lids and Gaskets: Before using, wash the lids and gaskets in hot soapy water and rinse thoroughly. The gaskets should be softened in hot water (not boiling) for a few minutes before placing them on the jars.
2. Fill and Wipe Jars: Fill your jars with the prepared food, following a tested canning recipe. Be sure to leave the correct headspace and wipe the jar rim clean to ensure a proper seal.
3. Attach the Lids and Bands: Place the rubber gasket ring onto the lid and center the lid and gasket on the jar. Then, apply a metal band and tighten it to fingertip tightness—like you would when putting on lid on a mayonnaise jar. The correct tightness is important (just like when using regular lids), do not overtighten or the air won’t be able to escape the jars of food and if the bands are too loose, the lids can come off while processing. 
4. Process in a Water Bath or Pressure Canner: Follow the appropriate processing method and time for your food type, using either a boiling water bath or a pressure canner. 
5. Allow Proper Cooling and Seal Checking: Lay a towel on the counter top to put the hot jars after removing them from the canner. 
   After processing, remove the jars from the canner and using a towel and oven mitt (silicon works best), tighten the bands. This is different than when you use metal lids, but it’s important to make sure you get a good seal. This is the step I usually miss!
   Let the jars cool for 12-24 hours at room temperature. Unlike metal lids, reusable lids will not produce a loud “ping” when sealing. To check for a proper seal, remove the metal bands (after 12-24 hours) and gently lift the lids—if the lid stays in place, the jar is sealed.
6. Store and Reuse: Wipe the jars with a clean cloth to move any residue left from canning. Label jars and store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used within a week. After use, carefully inspect the gaskets for any signs of wear and replace them if necessary.

How to Open a Jar Sealed with Harvest Guard Lids

Prior to using reusable lids, I always opened our canned food with the handle of a spoon. No idea why, it just always seemed to work. But it didn’t work with reusable lids. 

Good thing I finally read all the instructions – Harvest Guard lids can easily be removed by gently inserting a butterknife between the edge of the lid and the rubber gasket. 

Are Harvest Guard Lids Right for You?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective and sustainable way to continue successful canning, Harvest Guard lids are worth considering. While they require a bit of a learning curve, once you master the process, they can be an excellent addition to your home food preservation routine.  I use them for all our canning that is going to be staying at home (or given to one of our adult kids who knows to return them.) I save the disposable metal lids for things I’m canning for others, mainly as gifts.

You won’t find Harvest Guard lids at the grocery store, you need to order them. You can use discount code creativesimpleliving to get a 15% discount. 

Harvest Guard lids come in packs ranging from 50 to 1000. You can get just one size (regular or wide-mouth) or you can get a pack that has both regular and wide-mouth included. When you buy the lids the rubber gaskets come with them. When it’s time to reorder the gaskets, you can get a pack of just gaskets. 

There is a even a small sampler pack of 2 regular size lids and 2 wide-mouth size lids with the rubber gaskets for just $5!

Thanks for sharing with your friends!