If you’re a canner, you’ve probably heard of Tattler lids. The lids that most of us have used forever for canning are one use type lids. Use them and when you’re done . . they’re tossed. Some have commented that they’ve re-used those lids. It is not recommended. I don’t do it and I definitely don’t recommend it.
The white lids are the Tattler lids. They can be used and re-used many times. Some have reported using them dozens of times. This is the first year I’ve used them and I’ve canned probably three dozen jars and haven’t had a single problem with them. They’ve all sealed perfectly and have stayed sealed. They do cost a good bit more than the throw away lids.
The least expensive place I’ve found to buy the Tattler lids is My Patriot Supply where a dozen wide mouth lids is $10.47. The disposable lids are about $3/dozen so if the Tattler lids are re-used at least four times, they’ve paid for themselves.
Here’s how they work: In the box are a dozen lids, either regular mouth or wide mouth, depending on what you’ve ordered. The same size rubber rings are included. They’re separate from the lids, but in the same box.
The sterilized jars are filled exactly in the same manner as if using a regular lid. The top of the jars are wiped and cleaned exactly the same as if regular lids are used. The rubber ring is placed on to of the jar. I’ve had no problems with this step. It fits perfectly on top of the jar. The rubber rings are meant to be re-used over and over also, though replacement rubber rings can be purchased.
The lids are placed on top of the rubber ring. At this step, the lid doesn’t always “seat” itself but I usually just mash it down to be sure it’s all the way down. Regular rings are then placed on the jar and tightened. When I first heard about Tattler lids, there were some complaints that involved the rings and it seems that some folks were tightening the jar rings with all their might and that was creating some issues.
I tighten my rings “finger tight” . . not “Vince tight”. That husband of mine can put the lid on the mayo that I can never get off! I haven’t had a single issue with the Tattler lids and I feel so good having the lids that I can re-use.
Having said all that, Tattler is having a sale. Beginning at 12:01 a.m. on June 8, they will have 25% off their 200 count mixed bulk package, which is 100 regular mouth and 100 wide mouth lids. In order to get the discount, type in “special” in the coupon code area at checkout. Even though I mostly only use wide mouth, I do use regular mouth for jams, jellies and most of my canned peppers so I’m going to order one of the mixed bulk packages.
Eileen says
I never heard of Tattler lids but they look like the old rubber ring and glass tops of long ago. I’m going to have to look for them. I do re-use the other lids sometimes but not for canning, for leftovers only.
thanks for the tip.
BTW, I know what you mean about “Vince tight.” At my house it’s Dan tight. If he’s not home the jar’s not opening. 🙂
Karin says
I am in need of some lids, just used the last of what I had when I made some pickled garlic last week. I tried to find the 200 mixed bulk package you mentioned, but didn’t see it?
Cindy from CA says
I would love to try these lids! However, I never use wide-mouth lids. Is there someone out there who would like to split one of these orders (I take all the regulars – you take all the wide mouths)??? Or split two orders?
You can email me at:cindyburgdorf@sbcglobal.net
Michelle says
My husband does the same thing with tightening lids. I’ve asked him to simply use his fingers and not his bicep strength to close things, please!
I do wonder though, what did our foremothers do for canning before Wal-Mart had all of those disposable lids? Certainly they did not use disposable lids, so what did they have?
Christine says
Heh Judy, With the Tattlers, can you take the rings off after they are processed and cooled down? When I first started canning I always left the rings on and noticed that they would rust and deteriorate. I learned that I could remove them after the jars had cooled and store the jars without the rings. I would assume you can do the same with the Tattlers…..????
Linda Steller says
Wow. That special is a real deal! I too generally use the wide mouth jars/lids, but I still have lots of regular ones that I’d haul out for that price. That would bring those lids down to nearly the price of regular toss-away lids for reusables. You have to love that!
Barb in MI/FL says
For the first time in about 15 years we’re having a garden again. Had some nasty looking pine trees taken out because they were planted too close together by some previous owner. And, the radishes are already up… like a mother hen, I watching carefully, as we weren’t sure of results in dirt that held pine trees for so many years. Only have 8 tomato plants (regular & romas), but we’re hoping to get enough to can… the Tattler lids sound like a great idea, though I’m not sure I’d need 200 lids! LOL
Trish says
I, like Karen, couldn’t find the bulk lids. Would you be so kind as to post a link to them, especially on the day of the sale!! Hugs, Trish
suzanne says
Judy, I have been reading about people not storing canned goods with the rims on the jars. Have you heard of doing that and if so, do you do that?? Thanks!