Best Jar Lifter for Canning
The best jar lifter grips hot jars of any size securely without slipping, with coated handles that stay cool and comfortable. A sturdy, rust-resistant lifter is the single most important safety tool in canning.
Top picks
Ball Jar Lifter Ball
Secure hot-jar grip
A trusted jar lifter with a secure grip and comfortable handles for hot jars.
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Norpro Canning Jar Lifter
Durable & cheap
A sturdy, rust-resistant jar lifter that safely handles hot jars for less.
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Gemfino Canning Jar Lifter Tongs with Jar Lid Lifter Magneti
Lifter + lid lifter
A jar lifter bundled with a magnetic lid lifter to round out the kit.
Check price on AmazonWhat matters
A jar lifter has to grip hot, wet jars securely so they do not slip as you move them from boiling water. Look for rubberised grips that hold the jar, comfortable coated handles that stay cool, and a sturdy, rust-resistant build. It should fit both regular and wide-mouth jars.
How the picks compare
The Ball jar lifter is the trusted standard with a secure grip; the Norpro is a durable value pick; the Gemfino bundles a lifter with a lid lifter. Any sturdy lifter beats trying to handle hot jars with tongs or towels.
Related guides
Canning Jars, Lids & Tools Database
ComparisonWide Mouth vs Regular Mouth Mason Jars
ComparisonReusable vs Standard Canning Lids
ComparisonBall vs Kerr Mason Jars
Frequently asked questions
Can I use tongs instead of a jar lifter?
It is risky. Regular tongs do not grip round jars securely and can drop hot, heavy jars. A jar lifter is shaped to hold jars safely and is inexpensive.
Does a jar lifter fit all jar sizes?
Most fit both regular and wide-mouth jars from half-pint to quart. Very large or unusually shaped jars may need a check, but standard mason jars are covered.