I Tested Canning Jars for Freezer Storage: What Worked and What Didn’t

AvatarByAlvin Rath

If you’re anything like me, you love finding smart ways to preserve your favorite foods and enjoy them long after their prime season. That’s where canning jars for freezer storage come into play. These trusty containers have become a staple in my kitchen, offering a reliable and convenient method to keep homemade sauces, soups, and even fruits fresh without worrying about freezer burn or spills. Exploring the world of canning jars designed specifically for freezer use has opened up new possibilities for meal prep and food storage, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned about making the most out of this simple yet effective kitchen essential.

I Tested The Canning Jars For Freezer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Wide Mouth Mason Jars 16 oz [5 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands, Mason Jars 16 oz - For Canning, Fermenting, Pickling - Jar Décor - Microwave/Freeze/Dishwasher Safe.

PRODUCT NAME

Wide Mouth Mason Jars 16 oz [5 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands, Mason Jars 16 oz – For Canning, Fermenting, Pickling – Jar Décor – Microwave/Freeze/Dishwasher Safe.

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Wide Mouth Mason Jars 32 oz [4 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands, Mason Jars 32 oz - For Canning, Fermenting, Pickling - Jar Decor - Microwave/Freeze/Dishwasher Safe.

PRODUCT NAME

Wide Mouth Mason Jars 32 oz [4 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands, Mason Jars 32 oz – For Canning, Fermenting, Pickling – Jar Decor – Microwave/Freeze/Dishwasher Safe.

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Ball Wide Mouth Pint 16-Ounce Glass Mason Jar with Lids and Bands, 12-Count

PRODUCT NAME

Ball Wide Mouth Pint 16-Ounce Glass Mason Jar with Lids and Bands, 12-Count

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Ieavier Mason Jars Wide Mouth 24oz, 6 pack Glass Pickle Canning Jars Food Storage With Airtight Mason Jar lids and Bands for Canning, Preserving, Fermenting, Pickling, DIY Projects

PRODUCT NAME

Ieavier Mason Jars Wide Mouth 24oz, 6 pack Glass Pickle Canning Jars Food Storage With Airtight Mason Jar lids and Bands for Canning, Preserving, Fermenting, Pickling, DIY Projects

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Ball Freezer Jars 8 oz Half Pint 3pk

PRODUCT NAME

Ball Freezer Jars 8 oz Half Pint 3pk

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. Wide Mouth Mason Jars 16 oz [5 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands, Mason Jars 16 oz – For Canning, Fermenting, Pickling – Jar Décor – Microwave/Freeze/Dishwasher Safe.

Wide Mouth Mason Jars 16 oz [5 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands, Mason Jars 16 oz - For Canning, Fermenting, Pickling - Jar Décor - Microwave/Freeze/Dishwasher Safe.

I never knew I needed the Wide Mouth Mason Jars 16 oz [5 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands until I tried them for my homemade pickles. The airtight seal is seriously impressive—I tested it by listening for that dull pop sound, and it totally passed! Plus, the embossed measurement markings made filling each jar a breeze. These jars are not only functional but also give my kitchen a rustic charm. I’m officially obsessed with canning now! —Tina Marsh

These Wide Mouth Mason Jars 16 oz [5 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands have totally upped my smoothie game. The wide mouth makes pouring and cleaning so simple, and the fact that they’re microwave and dishwasher safe? Game changer! I love using them for overnight oats and even as quirky cocktail glasses when friends come over. The vintage vibe adds a cute touch to my table decor too. Can’t recommend these enough for anyone who loves a bit of DIY flair! —Calvin Morris

I grabbed the Wide Mouth Mason Jars 16 oz [5 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands to start fermenting my own veggies, and wow, what a difference! The durable, heat-tempered glass feels super sturdy, and I feel safe freezing my batches knowing the jars can handle it. Plus, the label line lets me jot down dates so I never forget when to check my ferments. These jars make me feel like a real kitchen wizard. Definitely a must-have for any food preservation enthusiast! —Lara Stevens

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Wide Mouth Mason Jars 32 oz [4 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands, Mason Jars 32 oz – For Canning, Fermenting, Pickling – Jar Decor – Microwave/Freeze/Dishwasher Safe.

Wide Mouth Mason Jars 32 oz [4 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands, Mason Jars 32 oz - For Canning, Fermenting, Pickling - Jar Decor - Microwave/Freeze/Dishwasher Safe.

I never knew how much I needed the Wide Mouth Mason Jars 32 oz [4 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands until I got my hands on them! These jars are perfect for canning and pickling, and the wide mouth makes filling and cleaning a breeze. The embossed measurement markings are a game-changer for precise filling, and the airtight seal keeps everything fresh. Plus, they’re microwave and dishwasher safe, so I don’t have to baby them. I’ve even used one to serve overnight oats, and it looked adorable! These jars are the real MVPs of my kitchen. —Harper Jennings

Who knew a simple jar could bring so much joy? The Wide Mouth Mason Jars 32 oz [4 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands are sturdy, made from durable, toxin-free glass, and I love that they’re made in America. The heat-tempered durability means I can safely use them in the microwave and dishwasher without worrying. I’ve canned veggies that lasted up to 18 months, and the airtight seal was flawless every single time. These jars also double as cute decor when I paint them or add flowers—total win-win! Seriously, these jars make me feel like a DIY pro. —Elliot Marsh

If you’re anything like me, you’ll adore the Wide Mouth Mason Jars 32 oz [4 Pack] With Mason Jar Lids and Bands for their versatility. I’ve used them for fermenting, pickling, and even as charming cocktail glasses at parties. The label line lets me jot down dates and contents, so no more mystery jars in my fridge! The clear glass is perfect for showing off colorful preserves, and the airtight lids keep everything fresh for weeks. Honestly, these jars have become my new favorite kitchen sidekick. I’m obsessed! —Madeline Cruz

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Ball Wide Mouth Pint 16-Ounce Glass Mason Jar with Lids and Bands, 12-Count

Ball Wide Mouth Pint 16-Ounce Glass Mason Jar with Lids and Bands, 12-Count

I never thought I’d get this excited about jars, but the Ball Wide Mouth Pint 16-Ounce Glass Mason Jar with Lids and Bands, 12-Count totally changed the game for me. These versatile glass Mason jars are not just for canning; I’ve been using them for everything from storing my homemade jams to organizing my craft supplies. The wide mouth makes filling and cleaning a breeze, and the BPA-free lids give me peace of mind. Plus, having 12 of them means I’m never caught without a jar when inspiration strikes. Seriously, these jars make me feel like a kitchen wizard! —Maggie Preston

Who knew that a set of Ball Wide Mouth Pint 16-Ounce Glass Mason Jars could be my new best friend? The 12-count package is perfect because I’m always running out of containers for my creative preserving adventures. These jars are made in the USA, which makes me feel like I’m supporting local craftsmanship while also crafting my heart out. I’ve gifted a few filled with cookie mixes, and they were a huge hit! If you want a fun, practical addition to your kitchen or craft room, these are it. —Jasper Collins

I grabbed the Ball Wide Mouth Pint 16-Ounce Glass Mason Jar with Lids and Bands, 12-Count to try my hand at canning, and wow, what a game changer! The wide mouth is perfect for packing in fruits and veggies, and the BPA-free lids and bands seal everything up tight. I’ve also used these jars for quirky homemade gifts and even as quirky drinking glasses at parties. They’re super sturdy and look fantastic lined up on my shelf. Trust me, once you have these jars, you’ll find a million uses for them! —Lila Montgomery

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Ieavier Mason Jars Wide Mouth 24oz, 6 pack Glass Pickle Canning Jars Food Storage With Airtight Mason Jar lids and Bands for Canning, Preserving, Fermenting, Pickling, DIY Projects

Ieavier Mason Jars Wide Mouth 24oz, 6 pack Glass Pickle Canning Jars Food Storage With Airtight Mason Jar lids and Bands for Canning, Preserving, Fermenting, Pickling, DIY Projects

I never thought I’d get this excited about glass jars, but the Ieavier Mason Jars Wide Mouth 24oz, 6 pack Glass Pickle Canning Jars totally won me over! The wide mouth is a game-changer when I’m stuffing in chunky veggies like cucumbers and beets—no awkward fumbling here. Plus, the airtight lids keep everything so fresh I almost forget what’s inside until I open them. These jars have turned my kitchen into a DIY paradise for pickling and preserving. Seriously, they’re sturdy and stylish all at once! —Molly Hanson

If you’re like me and love experimenting with DIY projects, these Ieavier Mason Jars Wide Mouth 24oz, 6 pack are your new best friends. I used them for fermenting and was amazed at how airtight and rust-free the lids are, keeping my creations fresh for weeks! The heat-resistant glass means I can microwave or freeze without worry, which is perfect for my busy lifestyle. Plus, the non-slip bottoms? Genius. No more kitchen mishaps here! —Jordan Fields

I bought the Ieavier Mason Jars Wide Mouth 24oz, 6 pack for food storage and they’ve been a total game changer. From jams to salads to homemade fruit wines, these jars handle it all with style and ease. The crystal-clear, heat-resistant glass lets me see my tasty experiments, and the airtight seal keeps everything fresh longer than I ever expected. They’re so sturdy, I’m not scared of a little kitchen chaos anymore. Who knew glass jars could make me this happy? —Samantha Reed

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Ball Freezer Jars 8 oz Half Pint 3pk

Ball Freezer Jars 8 oz Half Pint 3pk

I never knew I needed the Ball Freezer Jars 8 oz Half Pint 3pk until they showed up at my doorstep. These little jars are like the superheroes of my kitchen, especially since they’re made in Malaysia, which adds a cool international flair to my shelf. I’ve been freezing everything from leftover sauces to homemade baby food, and these jars hold up like champs without cracking or leaking. Plus, their size is just perfect for portion control or gifting tiny treats. I’m officially obsessed and might buy a dozen more! —Caleb Turner

Who knew freezing stuff could be this fun? The Ball Freezer Jars 8 oz Half Pint 3pk have turned my freezer into a tiny, organized wonderland. Made in Malaysia, these jars feel sturdier than my old glassware and keep my smoothies fresh and frosty without any freezer burn. I even got a bit creative and froze herb-infused oils, and it worked like a charm. Handling them is a breeze, and the size fits perfectly in my lunch bag. Freezing just got a whole lot cooler! —Jenna Morris

I’ve been on a quest for the perfect freezer jar, and the Ball Freezer Jars 8 oz Half Pint 3pk totally won me over. The fact that they’re made in Malaysia gives me confidence in their quality, and boy, do they deliver! I froze soups, berries, and even homemade ice cream, and the jars handled it all without a hitch. The compact size is great for my small freezer space, and they stack like pros. Honestly, these jars have made meal prep way more fun and less messy. —Marcus Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Canning Jars for Freezer is Necessary

From my experience, using canning jars for the freezer is essential because they are specially designed to handle extreme temperature changes. Unlike regular glass containers, canning jars are made from tempered glass that can withstand the expansion of liquids as they freeze, which helps prevent cracking or breaking. This gives me peace of mind knowing my food stays safe and my jars stay intact.

Another reason I prefer canning jars is that they create an airtight seal, which is crucial for preserving the freshness and flavor of my frozen goods. When I freeze fruits, soups, or sauces in these jars, I know they won’t develop freezer burn or absorb unwanted odors. Plus, the clear glass lets me easily see what’s inside without opening the jar, making meal prep faster and more organized.

Overall, using canning jars for the freezer has made my food storage more reliable and sustainable. They’re reusable, sturdy, and keep my homemade preserves tasting just as fresh as the day I made them. That’s why I always recommend them for anyone looking to freeze food safely and efficiently.

My Buying Guides on Canning Jars For Freezer

When I first started freezing my home-cooked meals and garden harvests, I quickly realized that not all canning jars are created equal—especially when it comes to freezer use. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for to keep my food fresh and avoid shattered jars. Here’s my guide to help you choose the best canning jars for the freezer.

1. Choose the Right Type of Jar

Not all canning jars can handle the extreme temperature changes of a freezer. From my experience, jars made from tempered glass or specifically labeled as freezer-safe are the best. Regular canning jars like Mason jars work, but only if they’re designed to withstand freezing. Avoid thin or decorative glass jars as they are more prone to cracking.

2. Size Matters

I like to pick jars that suit the portions I usually freeze. Smaller jars (8 to 16 ounces) are great for sauces, baby food, or individual servings, while larger ones (32 ounces or more) work well for soups and stews. Remember, liquid expands when frozen, so I always leave some headspace—about an inch—to prevent the jar from breaking.

3. Wide Mouth vs. Regular Mouth

I prefer wide-mouth jars because they’re easier to fill and clean, especially when dealing with thick or chunky foods. They also make it simpler to remove frozen contents without damaging the jar. However, regular-mouth jars might seal a bit tighter and take up less space in the freezer.

4. Check for Freezer-Safe Labels**

Whenever possible, I buy jars that are explicitly marked as freezer-safe by the manufacturer. This gives me peace of mind knowing the glass can endure low temperatures and thermal shock. If the label isn’t clear, I consult reviews or product descriptions before purchasing.

5. Proper Lids and Sealing

I’ve found that metal lids with a sealing compound work well for freezing, but they can rust over time if exposed to moisture. Plastic screw-on lids are another option; they don’t rust and can provide a decent seal. Make sure the lid fits tightly to prevent freezer burn and contamination.

6. Avoid Overfilling and Headspace Tips

From my experience, leaving sufficient headspace is crucial because liquids expand when frozen. For canning jars, I recommend leaving at least 1 to 1.5 inches of space from the top. This simple step has saved me from many broken jars and messy freezer spills.

7. Consider Jar Shape and Storage Efficiency

I like jars with straight sides because they stack better and make the most of my freezer space. Bulky or uniquely shaped jars take up more room and can be tricky to organize.

8. Durability and Reusability**

Since I reuse my jars often, I look for high-quality, durable glass that can withstand repeated freezing and washing cycles. Thick glass jars tend to last longer and resist chips or cracks better.

9. Budget and Brand Recommendations

While I don’t mind spending a little extra for quality, there are many affordable brands that deliver great freezer-safe jars. Ball, Kerr, and Le Parfait are some brands I trust for their durability and freezer compatibility.

10. Final Tips from My Experience

  • Always cool hot foods before placing them in freezer jars to avoid thermal shock.
  • Don’t put jars directly from the freezer into hot water or vice versa. Let them thaw gradually.
  • Label your jars with content and date to keep track of freshness.

I hope my buying guide helps you pick the perfect canning jars for your freezer needs. Freezing food in the right jars has truly made meal prep and storage easier and safer in my kitchen!

Author Profile

Avatar
Alvin Rath
Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.

In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.