Boiling water can indeed sterilize glass bottles. In fact, it is one of the most common methods used for sterilizing jars and bottles for canning or preserving food. I have personally used this method many times when preparing homemade jams, pickles, and sauces.
To sterilize glass bottles using boiling water, you will need a large pot or canning pot with a rack or towel at the bottom to prevent direct contact between the jars and the heat source. Fill the pot with enough water to completely submerge the jars, leaving some extra space to account for water displacement when the jars are added.
Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a rolling boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully lower the jars into the pot using tongs or a jar lifter. Make sure the jars are fully submerged in the water.
Start a timer and let the jars boil for at least 10 minutes. This duration is recommended to ensure proper sterilization. During this time, you can also add the jar lids and bands to the pot to sterilize them as well.
It is important to note that the jars should remain submerged in the boiling water throughout the entire 10-minute period. This ensures that all surfaces of the jars, including the inside and outside, are exposed to the high temperature and effectively sterilized.
After the 10 minutes are up, carefully remove the jars and caps from the pot using tongs or a jar lifter. Place them on a clean towel or cooling rack to dry. It’s important to handle the hot jars with caution to avoid burns.
At this point, the jars and caps are sterilized and ready to be filled with your desired food items. Whether you are canning fruits, vegetables, or sauces, the sterilized jars will help ensure the preservation of your food and prevent spoilage.
It’s worth mentioning that while boiling water can effectively sterilize glass jars, it may not be suitable for all types of containers or materials. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for proper sterilization methods specific to the type of jars or bottles you are using.
Boiling water is a reliable and commonly used method to sterilize glass bottles for canning or preserving food. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring that the jars remain submerged in boiling water for at least 10 minutes, you can confidently sterilize your jars and prepare them for filling with your favorite homemade treats.