For some home canners, the canning season is coming to a close as the last garden produce is harvested. Here are some tips to store canning equipment so it is in good working order for next season.
- Clean equipment with hot soapy water. Any grease or food residue left behind can lead to bacterial growth or mold growth. Always check small parts of equipment for any leftover food residue.
- Hard water can leave a darkened residue, especially on aluminum. Fill the canner with water above that hard water area, add 1 tablespoon cream of tartar to each quart of water and bring it to a boil, covered, until the dark area disappears. Drain out this water and wash with hot, soapy water, rinse and dry completely.
- For pressure canners with gaskets, remove rubber gaskets and wash. Check for cracks or brittleness. Check the rubber plug in the lid for cracks or dryness. Both of these items can be replaced.
- Check the vent pipe to be sure it is clear. Run a string, small piece of cloth or a pipe cleaner through the hole to clear any food residue.
- Now is a good time to check dial gauges for accuracy. Many local Extension offices have the dial gauge testing equipment to test Presto, National, Maid of Honor and Magic Seal brands. We cannot test All American pressure gauges or any other brands of gauges.
- Refer to the manufacturer usage and care instructions for any other tips to keep your equipment in the best condition.
Now is a good time to inspect empty jars for any chips or breaks. Remove hard water film by soaking them in a vinegar solution of 1 cup vinegar to 1 gallon water. Store jars upside down to keep clean.
Do not save used canning lids to be reused for more canning projects. The sealing compound is already compromised and the lid may be bent after removing it from the jar. Leftover new lids can be saved. The best recommendation is to use new lids within five years.
Inspect screw bands for any damage or rust. Wash them in hot soapy water. Do not wash screw bands in the dishwasher as that increase onset of rust or corrosion. Dry completely before storing. Remove any damaged screw bands to prevent usage in the next canning season. They can be repurposed for many craft projects!
Check food dehydrators for any food residue. Wash trays in hot soapy water and dry completely before placing them in the dehydrator. Refer to the manufacturer usage and care instructions for more information.
Learn more tips on storing equipment at https://extension.psu.edu/storing-canning-supplies. Resources for replacement parts can be found at https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/preservation/index.html.
