How can I open an old Mason jar with a rubber gasket without breaking the glass?

Answer 1

If it is the kind with a metal lid held down by a ring, then punch a hole in the lid with a can opener. If it is older style with a gasket ting that has a stick-out tab then grab that tab with a pliers and pull it to the side to get it out.

Sometimes if you did a bad canning job and have dried syrup or jelly sticking like glue then scrubbing ot soaking with hot water will get rid of that adhesive sweet stuff.

Answer 2

I am guessing you have one of the old jars with a glass lid held down with a wire clamp. First, soak everything in warm water. If there is a tab sticking out from the rubber gasket (some were made this way) pull on it, try to get the ring out, or part of it. You should be able to get the lid off. If the rubber has hardened, or gone sticky, what ever may be still in the jar should probably not be eaten.

Answer 3

If it's rust that is preventing the lid from coming off, you will have to be very very careful. If it's the contents that have leaked out, just throw it away, the contents are no good. Try running under hot water, then tapping the side with a case or butter knife (the handle end). This will usually break the seal enough to unscrew it. If you don't have a grippy pad to help with leverage, use a slightly damp cloth so you can get a good grip on it.

Answer 4

The objective, is to release the pressure from within, without putting pressure on the jar. Warm water will do this, as will a small tack or nail PUSHED through the top. Don't hammer it in.

Usually the ribber part of the underside (sealant) will have perished and once prized will release. Dont be in a hurry, if water is not having effect. Add more hot water and wait... it will work.

Answer 5

run it under very warm water for a while then take a dishcloth and pry it open