Where to Find Canning Jars in Walmart: A Pro’s Guide

Canning jars are a staple for preserving summer’s bounty, creating beautiful gifts, and organizing your pantry. But navigating the aisles of a sprawling Walmart to find them can feel like a treasure hunt. So, let’s cut to the chase: Canning jars at Walmart are typically located in the Housewares or Kitchen section, often near other food preservation supplies like pectin, lids, and water bath canners. However, keep in mind that location can vary depending on the store layout and seasonal changes. Read on for a deep dive and pro tips to make your canning jar search a success.

Decoding the Walmart Aisle: Your Canning Jar Quest

Finding canning jars isn’t always straightforward. Walmart’s store layouts can differ significantly, and seasonal promotions can lead to unexpected shifts in product placement. Here’s a breakdown to refine your search:

The Primary Location: Housewares or Kitchen Section

Your first stop should be the Housewares or Kitchen section. Look for aisles labeled with terms like “Food Storage,” “Kitchen Gadgets,” or “Home Organization.” Within these sections, canning jars are often placed near other food preservation supplies. This might include:

• Pectin and other canning additives: Brands like Ball and Mrs. Wages often have dedicated displays.
• Canning lids and rings: Essential for creating an airtight seal.
• Water bath canners and pressure canners: Larger items used for processing filled jars.
• Canning tool sets: Jar lifters, lid wands, and funnel kits streamline the canning process.

Seasonal Considerations: The Canning “Season”

Canning is heavily tied to seasonal produce availability, particularly during late summer and early fall. This means that Walmart often dedicates more prominent display space to canning supplies during these months.

• Expanded Displays: Expect to see larger displays of canning jars, sometimes even end-cap displays, during peak season.
• Temporary Locations: Walmart may create temporary “canning centers” in other areas of the store, such as the seasonal aisle or near produce sections.

Check the Online Locator (Before You Go!)

Before heading to the store, use the Walmart website or app’s store locator feature. Search for “canning jars” and select your local store. The website should indicate the aisle where the jars are located, although this isn’t always perfectly accurate. It’s still a valuable starting point!

Ask a Store Associate

Don’t hesitate to ask a Walmart store associate for assistance. They can quickly direct you to the correct aisle and even check if the jars are in stock. This is especially helpful if you’re unsure about seasonal product placements.

Decoding the Brands and Types

Once you’ve found the canning jar section, you’ll encounter different brands and types. The most common brand you’ll find is Ball, and Kerr is often available as well. Here’s a quick guide:

Common Types of Canning Jars

• Regular Mouth Jars: These have a narrower opening and are suitable for jams, jellies, pickles, and sauces.
• Wide Mouth Jars: These have a wider opening, making them easier to fill with larger fruits and vegetables.
• Quart Jars: Ideal for larger quantities of fruits, vegetables, and stocks.
• Pint Jars: A versatile size for jams, jellies, and smaller batches.
• Half-Pint Jars: Perfect for individual servings of jams, jellies, and sauces.

Choosing the Right Jar

Consider the type of food you’ll be canning and the size of the batch when selecting your jars. Wide-mouth jars are often preferred for chunky items, while regular-mouth jars work well for liquids. Ensure you have enough jars of the appropriate size before you start canning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Finding Canning Jars at Walmart

Here are 12 frequently asked questions about finding canning jars at Walmart, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your next trip.

1. Are canning jars available year-round at Walmart?

While Walmart typically carries canning jars year-round, the selection and availability are significantly higher during the peak canning season (late summer and early fall). Outside of this season, inventory might be limited or temporarily unavailable, especially in certain sizes.

2. What brands of canning jars does Walmart typically carry?

Walmart primarily carries Ball and Kerr brand canning jars. These are the most popular and reliable brands for home canning. Occasionally, you might find other brands, but Ball and Kerr are the staples.

3. How can I check if my local Walmart has canning jars in stock?

Use the Walmart website or app to search for “canning jars” and select your local store. The website will display the current stock status, although it’s always wise to call the store to confirm, especially if you need a large quantity.

4. Are canning lids and rings sold separately at Walmart?

Yes, canning lids and rings are typically sold separately, especially in bulk. Look for them near the canning jars or in the same aisle as pectin and canning additives. During peak season, you might find larger displays dedicated solely to lids and rings.

5. Does Walmart sell canning kits?

Yes, Walmart sells canning kits, which include essential tools like a jar lifter, lid wand, and funnel. These kits are usually located near the canning jars and other canning supplies. These are a great way to get started with all the tools you need in one affordable bundle.

6. Are there different types of canning jars available at Walmart?

Yes, Walmart carries a variety of canning jar sizes and styles, including regular mouth, wide mouth, quart, pint, and half-pint jars. The availability of specific types may vary depending on the season and store location.

7. How much do canning jars typically cost at Walmart?

The price of canning jars at Walmart depends on the size, type, and brand. Generally, you can expect to pay between $10 and $20 for a case of 12 jars. Prices may be slightly higher during peak season due to increased demand.

8. Where else in the store might I find canning jars at Walmart?

In addition to the Housewares or Kitchen section, check the seasonal aisle, particularly during late summer and early fall. Walmart might also create temporary displays near the produce section to promote canning during harvest season.

9. Does Walmart offer online ordering for canning jars?

Yes, Walmart offers online ordering for canning jars. You can have them shipped to your home or choose in-store pickup. Check the Walmart website for current availability and shipping options.

10. What is the best time of year to buy canning jars at Walmart?

The best time to buy canning jars at Walmart is during the late summer and early fall, when they are most readily available and often on sale. This is also when Walmart typically has the widest selection of sizes and styles.

11. How can I ensure I’m using safe canning practices when using jars from Walmart?

Always follow safe canning practices recommended by the USDA and reputable sources like Ball Canning. Ensure your jars are free from cracks and chips, use new lids for each batch, and process your jars according to tested recipes.

12. What if I can’t find the canning jars at my local Walmart?

If you can’t find canning jars at your local Walmart, check nearby stores, consider ordering online, or explore other retailers that sell canning supplies, such as hardware stores or specialty kitchen stores. If none of these work you can also consider calling the store and asking about potential back stock.

By following these tips and FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to find the canning jars you need at Walmart and start preserving your favorite foods with confidence. Happy canning!