Melting Wax to Cover Jams

Editor's Note: This practice is not considered safe anymore. ThriftyFun recommends using modern canning techniques instead.

Here's a note about this from an extension site: "Don't seal jelly products with paraffin wax. Over time, paraffin wax begins to pull back from the sides of the jar, creating openings where mold and yeast can enter and contaminate the product. Also, paraffin can catch on fire if overheated. If you detect mold growth, throw out the entire contents. Always seal jars of jelly products with a two-piece canning lid."

Source: NC Cooperative Extension

To melt paraffin neatly and easily while making jam, secure it in a plastic zipper bag and float it in the pot of hot water that's sterilizing your canning jars. When the wax is melted, open the bag about an inch and pour the hot wax right on top of your homemade jam. A real cool way to deal with hot wax.

By Raymonde from North Bay, Ontario