Glass jars offer you a versatile solution for your kitchen storage needs, especially in the case of bulk food storage. They’re not just containers but your allies in keeping your kitchen countertop and pantry organized and visually appealing.
There are some categories of food items that you can put in glass jars in the kitchen, and you need to know what pantry essentials to store in these transparent, chic containers.
You can store various types of dried pasta, from spaghetti to penne and fusilli, neatly arranged in jars. Glass jars are also great for storing cookies to keep them fresh and add a touch of style to your kitchen. Rice is another staple food that is perfect for bulk storage in glass jars.
We will discuss all the items ideal for storing in glass jars in your kitchen so you can keep your pantry organized and beautifully display your food items.
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What to Put in Glass Jars in the Kitchen: Items to Consider
You may consider placing the following items in glass jars in your kitchen to combine functionality with style.
- Pasta
- Cookies
- Rice
- Beans
- Oatmeal
- Sugar
- Cereal
- Citrus fruits
- Coffee & tea
- Flavored water packets
- Floral stems
- Cooking utensils
1. Pasta
Glass jars are fantastic for storing many dry pasta types such as spaghetti, penne, fusilli, and macaroni. When you use uniform-sized jars, it can provide an organized and visually appealing way to display your pasta collection.
Aside from keeping pasta fresh, this storage solution adds a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen decor.
2. Cookies
You can showcase and preserve your favorite cookies by putting them in glass jars in your kitchen. Storing cookies in glass jars keeps them fresh and adds a charming touch to your countertop.
The transparent sides of the jar allow you to display the cookies in all their tempting glory, making them an eye-catching focal point in your kitchen.
Whether baking classic chocolate chip cookies, buttery shortbread, or festive holiday treats, the glass jar beautifully showcases the cookies’ textures, colors, and shapes.
The airtight seal of the jar ensures that your cookies stay fresh for longer, maintaining their deliciousness over time.
3. Rice
Rice is an essential ingredient in many dishes, making it a popular choice for bulk food storage in glass jars. The glass jars provide easy access to rice while keeping it fresh and dry. We suggest using larger, narrower jars that can accommodate more rice while taking up less counter space.
The clear glass jars with the neutral tone of rice create a beautiful contrast that can give a sleek and modern look. And because the jars are transparent, it’s easy to keep track of how much rice you have left, so you never run out in the middle of a meal prep.
4. Beans
Another great food to store in glass jars is dry beans. You can choose from an array of bean types, including kidney beans, black beans, lima beans, among others.
The color variety of beans makes it an attractive ingredient that can add a pop of color to any kitchen decor. These jars also help to keep the beans dry and fresh, while the clear glass permits you to view the amount of content remaining inside.
You can use various jar sizes, depending on your bean storage needs, from small to extra-large, depending on your frequency of use and cooking preferences.
5. Oatmeal
Store oatmeal in glass jars, which provide convenience and an aesthetic appeal. Consider using a wide-mouthed jar for easy scooping when storing oatmeal in glass jars. By doing so, you can maintain a mess-free environment when serving yourself or your family members.
The generous opening also offers ample ventilation to prevent moisture buildup that can cause soggy oatmeal.
6. Sugar
White or brown sugar is an essential ingredient in various desserts and beverages. So, having it readily available on your kitchen counter in a glass jar is a convenient option. You can keep sugar fresh and away from pests and moisture by storing it in glass jars.
Glass containers can also preserve the sugar’s natural granular texture. Additionally, choosing different jar sizes depending on your sugar usage is a great way to avoid excess clutter in your pantry. Plus, the aesthetic value of glass jars makes your kitchen counter feel more organized and put-together.
7. Cereal
Cereal is a breakfast staple for most households, and storing it in glass jars on your kitchen counter adds an elegant touch to your kitchen decor. Using crystal-clear jars or containers instead of frosted plastic tubs enhances the cereal’s visual appeal, and it’s a great way to avoid cluttering your pantry shelves.
8. Citrus Fruits
Glass jars are not limited to dry goods and can extend to include fresh produce, including citrus fruits. Displaying oranges, limes, and lemons in glass jars on your kitchen counter creates a natural and rustic feel to your kitchen decor.
The vibrant colors of the fruits add a refreshing touch, making your kitchen feel more inviting and dynamic. These readily available fruits boost convenience for your kitchen tasks, including cooking, baking, or garnishing.
9. Coffee & Tea
Glass jars are also perfect for storing ground coffee or whole beans, as they help preserve the freshness and aroma. You can use a measuring spoon to scoop out the desired amount conveniently.
For tea enthusiasts, glass jars are also ideal for storing loose-leaf tea or tea bags, keeping them organized and within reach. If you prefer single-serve coffee options, a large wide-mouth jar can be used to store K-Cups or coffee pods.
Stack them neatly or create layers with labels facing out for a polished and organized look. You can easily showcase your coffee and tea options with glass jars while ensuring they stay fresh and accessible.
10. Flavored Water Packets
Glass jars can also serve as a reliable storage solution for your flavored water packets, keeping them organized and easily accessible. You can place them on your kitchen counter, providing a quick and refreshing drink option whenever needed.
With jars, you can keep track of your packet inventory or experiment with various flavors by mixing and matching multiple packets in one jar.
11. Floral Stems
Glass jars can be used to add a touch of nature to your kitchen decor. One great way to do this is by displaying fresh floral stems or other greenery in a jar.
To create a natural and inviting atmosphere, you can choose from a variety of flowers, including roses, daisies, and sunflowers. Fresh flowers can also help purify the air in your kitchen by removing toxins.
The key to successfully displaying floral stems in a jar is to choose the right size. Make sure the top of the jar is not too wide, as this will cause the stems to spread out too much and look sparse.
12. Cooking Utensils
You can also put cooking utensils in glass jars, which are a unique and stylish option. Spatulas, whisks, and wooden spoons are just a few examples of utensils that could be stored in glass jars.
For choosing the right jar, consider the size and style carefully. You must ensure the jar is large enough to hold all the utensils you want to store but not so large that it takes up too much space on your counter.
Things You Shouldn’t Put in Glass Jars on Your Kitchen Counter
When it comes to glass jars on your kitchen counter, there are certain items that you should avoid putting in them.
1. Non-Kitchen Items
Our suggestion is to avoid storing miscellaneous items such as paper clips, rubber bands, or pens in glass jars.
Non-kitchen items like office supplies, small trinkets, or craft materials can clutter your kitchen counter and create a disorganized appearance.
2. Unattractive Items
If you want to maintain a visually appealing kitchen counter, avoid putting unattractive items such as expired spices or stale snacks in glass jars.
As for unattractive items, it is best to store anything visually unpleasing, such as dates and raisins, in closed containers in the pantry.
FAQ’s: What to Put in Glass Jars in Kitchen
There are many questions homeowners have regarding the use of glass jars in the kitchen. The following are a few of them.
Can I store liquids like oil or vinegar in glass jars on the kitchen counter?
You can keep liquids such as oil and vinegar in glass jars on your kitchen counter. Glass jars are an ideal option for storing these liquids because they provide an airtight seal, preserving the freshness and flavors of oil and vinegar.
To prevent leaks or contamination, you have to ensure that the lids are securely closed. Storing oil and vinegar in glass jars not only adds functionality to your kitchen but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal, particularly if you have a collection of different colors and flavors.
Can glass jars be used to store hot liquids and soups?
Glass jars are suitable for storing hot liquids and soups, but you have to take precautions to prevent cracking or shattering. While glass jars can withstand hot temperatures, rapid temperature changes can cause them to break.
To safely store hot liquids, allow them to cool slightly before transferring them to the glass jar. Leave some space at the top of the jar to accommodate any expansion as the liquid cools.
Conclusion
Glass jars in the kitchen can be both practical and aesthetically pleasing. They’re great for storing dry goods like grains, pasta, beans and small kitchen essentials like utensils or cooking tools.
The use of glass jars in your kitchen storage not only contributes to keeping your pantry organized but also adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen countertops. Whether you’re displaying your favorite cookies or fresh citrus fruits, these versatile containers keep your kitchen staples accessible.
Take advantage of the charm of glass jars and elevate your kitchen’s functionality and visual appeal.
