[Hesse2509]

So I've decided that the only way to use my glut of Rhubarb is to try my hand at this jam making malarkey. I popped into Aldi and picked up six jars of their 29p jam, which is still cheaper than buying the empty jars from The Range, and once emptied I know that they will need to be sterilised immediately before being filled.

What's the best and safest method of sterilising them? I'm really worried that they'll break if I get them too hot in the oven. I do have an old steam steriliser used for sterilising babies bottles; would that do the job? 

[mumofstig]

They need washing then going in the oven - no higher than gas no 2 (150C I think the conversion is) for 10mins. Glass is quite happy at that temperature - honestly 

[Mrs.Apron]

Yes indeedy, 150c is just right to sterilise jam jars.  Just pop them in while you make the jam/chutney.  Fill them while still hot and put the lids on right away.

[Hesse2509]

So the bottle steriliser wouldn't work at all?

[Kleftiwallah]

The glass jars need to be as close as possible the same temperature as your jam.  A difference in temp' will cause the jars to crack.   100 - 150 degrees C is about right.   I lost a load of jars before I discovered this fact. 

Rhubarb makes a great wine too ! ! !

Cheers,    Tony.

[devonbarmygardener]

They need washing then going in the oven - no higher than gas no 2 (150C I think the conversion is) for 10mins. Glass is quite happy at that temperature - honestly 

I do exactly the same thing.
Made a gorgeous batch of seville marmalade in february.

Emma