How to Clean and Sterilise Manuka Honey Jars for Reuse

Quick answer

To clean and sterilise Manuka honey jars for reuse, first remove the label, then soak the jar in hot soapy water to loosen the honey residue. Wash thoroughly, rinse, and sterilise by boiling or using the oven method. Let them air-dry completely before storing or reusing.

Manuka honey jars are sturdy and attractive, making them perfect for reuse. Whether you want to store homemade jams, organise small items, or create a gift set, giving your empty honey jar a proper clean is essential. This guide walks you through the steps to remove every trace of honey and sterilise the jar safely.

Reusing glass jars is an eco-friendly choice, but honey residue can be stubborn. The key is to use hot water and patience—never harsh chemicals that could linger. Follow these steps to get your jar sparkling clean and ready for its next life.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather a few basic supplies: hot water, dish soap, a sponge or bottle brush, baking soda (optional), white vinegar (optional), and a clean towel. For sterilising, you'll need a large pot for boiling or an oven-safe tray.

These items are likely already in your kitchen, so no special equipment is required. The goal is to remove honey residue and kill any bacteria without leaving chemical residues that could contaminate future contents.

• Hot water and dish soap
• Bottle brush or sponge
• Baking soda for stubborn residue
• White vinegar for odour removal
• Large pot or oven for sterilising

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Start by removing the lid and any labels. Soak the jar in hot, soapy water for 15–20 minutes to loosen the honey. This makes the residue much easier to scrub away. Use a bottle brush to reach the bottom and corners.

For sticky spots, make a paste of baking soda and water and gently scrub. Rinse thoroughly with hot water. If there's a lingering honey smell, soak the jar in a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water for 10 minutes, then rinse again.

Once clean, you can proceed to sterilise. The boiling method is simple: submerge the jar in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. Alternatively, place the jar in an oven preheated to 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes. Always let the jar cool completely before handling.

• Don't use metal scrubbers—they can scratch glass and create tiny crevices where bacteria hide.
• Check for cracks or chips before sterilising; damaged glass can shatter.
• Ensure the jar is completely dry before storing to prevent mould.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is using cold water, which makes honey residue harder to remove. Always use hot water to break down the sugars. Another is skipping the sterilisation step if you plan to store food—this can lead to contamination.

Avoid using bleach or strong chemical cleaners, as they can leave residues that are unsafe for food storage. Stick to dish soap, baking soda, and vinegar. Also, don't rush the drying process; moisture can cause mould growth in stored jars.

• Patience is key—soaking for longer saves scrubbing effort.
• If you're reusing the jar for non-food items, a thorough wash is enough; sterilisation is optional.

Your Jar Reuse Checklist

1. Empty and rinse: Spoon out remaining honey and rinse the jar with hot water to remove the bulk of residue. Rinsing immediately after emptying makes the next steps much easier.
2. Soak and scrub: Soak in hot soapy water for 15–20 minutes, then scrub with a bottle brush. Use baking soda paste for stubborn spots. If residue remains, soak longer instead of scrubbing harder to avoid scratching the glass.
3. Sterilise and dry: Boil the jar in water for 10 minutes or bake at 160°C for 10 minutes. Let it cool completely, then air-dry upside down on a clean towel. Ensure the jar is bone-dry before storing or using to prevent mould.

Why Manuka Honey Jars Are Worth Reusing

• Twin Pack - 70 MGO Manuka Honey 500g: Every pot of this great tasting 70 MGO Manuka Honey is packed in New Zealand. Tested and certified to ensure you receive the genuine item. The sturdy glass jars from this twin pack are ideal for reuse—you get two identical jars perfect for pantry organisation or homemade gifts.
• 340 MGO Manuka Honey 500g - Monofloral: Manuka honey contains high levels of a key natural compound called Methylglyoxal (or MGO for short). MGO has special anti-bacterial properties. The larger 500g jar gives you plenty of honey and a generous glass container that's great for storing dried goods, spices, or crafting supplies.

With these simple steps, your Manuka honey jars can have a second life. Whether you're storing pantry staples, creating handmade gifts, or organising your desk, a clean and sterilised jar is safe and ready to use. Enjoy the satisfaction of reducing waste while keeping your home tidy.