Water Bath Canner Buying Guide

Home canning is a rewarding way to preserve fresh, seasonal produce for year-round enjoyment. If you’re new to canning or looking to upgrade your equipment, choosing the right water bath canner is an important first step.

Growing up, store-bought jars of tomato sauce were unheard of in my family. Instead, my Italian grandmother and aunt would transform baskets of homegrown tomatoes into rich, homemade sauce, preserving enough to last all year. The process was a tradition—one that filled the kitchen with the comforting aroma of simmering tomatoes and garlic. 

When I purchased my own property and started a garden, I knew I wanted to continue that tradition. Growing my own tomatoes and canning my own sauce deepened my appreciation for home food preservation. It also sparked a passion for learning the safest canning methods and sharing that knowledge with others. There’s something incredibly gratifying about stocking a pantry with home canned goods, and I love helping others experience that same satisfaction.

Water bath canning is a simple and effective method for preserving high-acid foods like fruits, pickled vegetables, and tomato products with added acidity. Unlike pressure canning, which requires a special canner to process low-acid foods safely, water bath canning only requires a large pot, a rack to hold jars off the bottom, and a steady boil to seal your preserves safely.

With so many canners available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is best for your needs. Should you go with a traditional enamel canner, a durable stainless steel model, or a digital canner that allows for pressure canning as well? What size should you choose? And if you don’t have a dedicated canner, can you use a regular stockpot instead?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying a water bath canner. We’ll explore different types, key features to consider, and some of the best options I recommend.

What is Water Bath Canning?

Water bath canning is a simple and effective method for preserving high-acid foods, such as jams, jellies, pickles, relish, and tomato products with added acidity. Submerging filled jars in boiling water for a specified time ensures food safety by preventing spoilage and creating a vacuum seal that keeps your canned goods shelf-stable for long-term storage.

How Does Water Bath Canning Work?

At its core, water bath canning uses sustained boiling temperatures to make home-canned foods safe for storage. The heat penetrates the jars, eliminating microorganisms that cause spoilage while also forcing out air. As the jars cool, the lids seal tightly, creating a vacuum that protects the food from bacteria and mold.

Steps to Water Bath Canning:

1. Prepare Your Equipment: Wash jars, lids, and bands in hot, soapy water and rinse well. Add the canning rack to the water bath canner, clean jars, and fill it with enough water to cover the jars by two inches. Bring the canner to a simmer (180°F) for 10 minutes, and keep warm.
2. Prepare Your Recipe: Follow a tested canning recipe to prepare your food.
3. Fill the Jars: Use a funnel to ladle food into the jars one at a time, leaving the recommended headspace. Remove air bubbles with a bubble popper tool or a non-metallic spatula. Wipe jar rims clean and apply lids and bands fingertip-tight. Place the filled jar onto the canning rack into the water bath canner, and repeat until the jars are filled or you run out of food.
4. Process the Jars: Add hot water to adjust the water level if necessary so that it is two inches over the tops of the jars. Cover the canner and bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling vigorously, set a timer and process for the time specified in your recipe, adjusting for altitude if necessary. Keep the canner covered and maintain a boil throughout the processing time.
5. Cool and Store: Once processing is complete, turn off the heat, remove the lid, and let the jars sit in the canner for 5 minutes. Then, carefully lift them out using a jar lifter and place them on a towel to cool for 12 to 24 hours. Check the seals, wash the jars, and label them with the contents and date before storing them.

Can You Use Any Large Pot for Water Bath Canning?

If you’re just getting started with water bath canning, you might wonder if you need a specialized canner or if you can use a pot you already have in your kitchen. The good news is that any large pot can serve as a water bath canner as long as it meets a few essential requirements.

• A Rack Is Essential: Jars should never sit directly on the bottom of the pot, as direct heat exposure can cause them to crack. A canning rack elevates the jars, allowing water to circulate evenly around them during processing and helping to maintain a consistent temperature. You can use a round cake cooling rack or even tie extra canning jar rings together to create a makeshift rack.
• The Pot Must Be Deep Enough: To process jars safely, your pot needs to be tall enough to fully submerge the jars with at least 1 to 2 inches of water above the lids. You’ll also want an extra couple of inches of space to prevent boiling water from splashing out. You will need a pot at least 9 to 10-inches deep to accomodate quart sized jars for water bath canning.
• The Pot Must Have a Lid: A lid helps maintain a steady boil and prevents excessive water loss during processing.

While a standard stockpot can work for small-batch canning, investing in a dedicated water bath canner can make the process more efficient and convenient—especially if you plan to can frequently or in larger quantities. In the next section, we’ll explore the different types of water bath canners available and how to choose the best one for your needs.

Types of Water Bath Canners

When choosing a water bath canner, it’s important to consider the different types available. While all water bath canners serve the same purpose—processing high-acid foods in boiling water—each type has its advantages and considerations.

Below, I’ve highlighted some of the most common water bath canners on the market, from time-tested enamelware to modern electric options, to help you find the perfect fit for your home canning needs.

Traditional Granite Ware Enamel Canners

Granite Ware water bath canners have been a staple in home kitchens for generations. These canners are lightweight steel coated with speckled enamel, making them affordable and easy to use. They typically come in large sizes, allowing you to process multiple jars at once.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Comes in a variety of sizes
• Heats quickly

Considerations:

• Ridged bottom is not suitable for glass-top or induction stoves. 
• The enamel coating can chip and flake over time
• Can be prone to rust if not dried thoroughly after use

Granite Ware Traditional Water Bath Canners:

• Granite Ware 15.5-Quart Water Bath Canner (320682): Includes a jar rack and holds 8 half-pints, 7 pints, or 4 quart jars.
• Granite Ware 21-Quart Water Bath Canner (F0707-2/319814): Includes lid and jar rack. Holds 12 half-pints, 9 pints, or 7 quart-sized jars.
• Granite Ware 33-Quart Water Bath Canner (F0709-2/319802): Includes lid and jar rack. Large capacity canner holding up to 17 half-pints, 14 pints, or 9 quart jars.
• Granite Ware 8-Piece Water Bath Canner Kit (F0710-2/319815): Includes a 21.5-quart water bath canner with lid, jar rack, and a 5-piece canning tool set.

Granite Ware Heavy Gauge Water Bath Canner

Granite Ware also makes a heavier gauge model constructed with a double layer of porcelain on steel. It states that it is suitable for all kinds of cooktops, including induction, but do check with your stove’s manufacturer to be sure it won’t damage your cooktop.

• Granite Ware 21-Quart Heavy Gauge Water Bath Canner (320851): Includes a glass lid and jar rack. Holds 12 half-pints, 9 pints, or 7 quart-sized jars.
• Granite Ware 9 Piece Water Bath Canner Kit: Includes a 21-quart heavy gauge water bath canner with a glass lid, jar rack, preserving kettle, and a 5-piece canning tool set.

Stainless Steel Water Bath Canners

Stainless steel canners are a durable alternative to traditional enamel canners. They resist rust and corrosion, making them a long-lasting investment. Many stainless steel models have a flat bottom, allowing them to be used on all stovetops, including glass-top and induction ranges (Check with your stove manufacturer). 

Pros:

• Durable and resistant to rust
• Most work on all stovetops, including induction
• Often comes with a flat bottom for better heat distribution
• Also can be used as a large sauce pot for large batches of soups or sauces

Considerations:

• More expensive than enamel canners
• You may need to buy a separate canning rack to fit the pot
• Heavier, especially when filled with jars and water

Recommended Stainless Steel Water Bath Canners:

While there are many large stainless steel pots on the market suitable for water bath canning, these have been around for a while and have received great reviews. Again, be sure to check with your manufacturer to be sure your cooktop can support the weight and heat of a full canner load without causing damage.

• Victorio, Roots & Branches, or Harvest Stainless Steel 20-Quart Canner (VKP1130): 18/8 stainless steel canner with a smooth bottom that works on all cooktops, including induction. It can be used for both water bath and steam canning. You may find this canner under several brand names, including Victorio, VKP Brands, Roots & Branches, and Harvest. Includes a glass lid and canning rack. Holds 12 half pints, 8 pints, or 6 quart sized jars. 
• NutriChef Stainless Steele 20-Quart Stockpot (NCSPT20Q): 18/8 stainless steel stockpot with a lid. Works on gas, induction, ceramic, glass, and halogen cooktops. Holds 12 half pints, 8 pints, or 6 quart sized jars.
• Prep•N•Cook by McSunley 21.5-Quart Induction Stainless Steel Water Bath Canner (638-COM): Has a flat base compatible with all cooktops, including induction and glass top ranges. Includes canning rack and glass lid. Holds 12 half-pints, 8 pints, or 6 quart sized jars. 
• Cook N Home 24-Quart Stainless Steel Stockpot: 18/10 stainless steel stockpot with glass lid. Induction compatible and works on gas, electric, glass, and ceramic. Holds 12 half pints, 8 pints, or 6 quart sized jars.

Electric Water Bath Canners

Electric water bath canners free up stovetop space by allowing you to process jars independently. These canners are plug-in units that function like an electric kettle, maintaining a steady boil without the need for a stove. They are convenient for small-batch canning and those who want to avoid excess heat in the kitchen.

Pros:

• Frees up stovetop space
• Convenient for small batch canning
• Can be used anywhere with an electrical outlet

Considerations:

• Bulkier than traditional canners
• More expensive than stovetop models
• Requires an electrical outlet, limiting placement options

Recommended Electric Water Bath Canners:

• Ball EasyCanner Electric Water Bath Canner, 21-quart: A fully electric water bath canner that simplifies the canning process. It maintains a consistent boil, reducing the need for constant monitoring. This model holds up to 8 pint-size or 7 quart-size jars per batch.
• Presto Precise 12-Quart Digital Pressure Canner (02144): A versatile electric canner that functions as both a water bath and pressure canner. It features precise temperature control, making it ideal for beginners or those who want a more automated process. The 12-quart model accommodates pints and half-pints only, as it is not tall enough for quart jars to be fully submerged with the recommended 1-inch layer of water. Holds 8 pints or 10 half-pints.
• Presto Precise 17-Quart Digital Pressure Canner (02152): A newly released, taller version of the 12-quart model, allowing for quart-size jars to be properly processed. It holds 5 quarts, 8 pints, or 10 half-pints per batch, making it a great option for those who want more capacity without sacrificing convenience.

Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of water bath canners, the next section will walk you through key features to consider when selecting the best canner for your needs.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Water Bath Canner

With so many canners available, it’s important to consider the key features that will best suit your needs. Here are some important factors to keep in mind when selecting a water bath canner:

1. Material: Enamel vs. Stainless Steel: Enamel-coated canners (like traditional Graniteware) are lightweight, budget-friendly, and widely available. However, the enamel coating can chip over time, and these canners are not always compatible with glass or induction stovetops. Stainless steel canners are more durable and rust-resistant. Many have a flat bottom, making them suitable for all stovetops, including induction.
2. Size and Capacity: Water bath canning pots come in various sizes, typically holding 7 to 9 quart jars per batch. Larger models can process up to 14 pint jars at once, making them ideal for big-batch canning. Consider the size of your stove burners and storage space when choosing a canner.
3. Flat vs. Ridged Bottoms: Flat-bottomed canners are essential for use on glass and induction stovetops, as they allow for even heat distribution. Ridged-bottom canners (like traditional Graniteware models) work well on gas and electric coil stoves but may not heat evenly on smooth cooktops.
4. Electric vs. Stovetop Canners: Stovetop canners require a heat source and can be used on gas, electric, or induction stoves (depending on the bottom design). Electric canners offer convenience by freeing up stove space and maintaining a steady boil automatically. These are ideal for high-volume canners or those looking for a hands-off approach.

How to Choose the Best Water Bath Canner for Your Needs

With so many options available, choosing the right water bath canner depends on your specific needs, kitchen setup, and how often you plan to can. Here are some key factors to consider before making your final decision:

1. How Often Do You Plan to Can? If you home can occasionally process only a few jars at a time, a standard small enamel canner like the Granite Ware 15.5-Quart Water Bath Canner is a cost-effective choice. If you can regularly or in larger batches, consider a larger capacity canner such as the Granite Ware 33-Quart Water Bath Canner.
2. What Type of Stovetop Do You Have? Any type of water bath canner will work on gas and electric coil stoves, but a stainless steel model heats more evenly than enamelware. But for glass-top and induction stoves, choose a flat-bottomed induction compatible canner made of stainless steel, since ridged-bottom enamelware canners do not work well on these surfaces.
3. Do You Want an Electric Canner? If you want to free up stovetop space and prefer a set-it-and-forget-it option, an electric canner like the Ball EasyCanner is an excellent choice. If you also want a pressure canning function, go with one of the Presto Precise Digital Canners for added versatility.

Additional Equipment to Consider

While a good canner is essential, having the right tools can make the canning process easier and safer. Here are a few must-have accessories:

• Jar Lifter: Helps safely remove hot jars from boiling water.
• Canning Funnel: Ensures easy and mess-free filling of jars.
• Bubble Remover & Headspace Tool: Helps remove trapped air bubbles and measure proper headspace.
• Kitchen Timer: Essential for tracking processing times accurately.
• Canning Rack: Some canners come with a wire jar rack, but these can be flimsy, making it easy for the jars to tip over. Additionally, they tend to rust quickly. It’s a good idea to replace the wire rack with a flat canning rack, which prevents the jars from sitting directly on the bottom of the pot.

Investing in the Right Water Bath Canner

Choosing the best boiling water canner depends on your canning goals, kitchen setup, and how frequently you plan to preserve food. A simple enamel canner is great for beginners, while a stainless steel or electric model offers durability and convenience for frequent canners.

Regardless of which canner you choose, home canning is a wonderful way to preserve fresh food, reduce waste, and enjoy homemade jams, pickles, and sauces all year long. With the right equipment, you’ll be well on your way to building a pantry full of home-canned goodness!

You May Also Like:

• Pressure Canning Buying Guide
• 6 Tips to Prepare for Canning Season
• My Favorite Tomato Sauce Canning Recipe

If you love salsa, consider adding our eBook, Grow a Good Life Guide to 50 Salsa Canning Recipes, to your resource library. This 72-page eBook is packed with a variety of delicious salsa recipes, including classic tomato salsas to roasted and grilled salsas to tomatillo and delicious fruit blends, all safe for water bath canning. It’s the perfect guide to help you preserve your garden harvests.