If you like making your own condiments as I do, then you'll need to know how to sterilise your bottles and jars to keep your natural products from spoiling too soon. 

Some notes to remember...

1. Always allow the jars to cool before filling as a hot jar will cook whatever you put inside it.

2. Never microwave jars with plastic (lids) or metal.

Microwave method

Rinse the jar and leave it a little wet.

Microwave on high heat for 1 minute.

Oven method

Preheat the oven to 180C/350C/Gas 4.

Stand the jars on a baking sheet, making sure the jars don’t touch.

Bake for 10 minutes.

Remove carefully and allow to cool.

Boiling method

I don't use this method very often but it's good know in case you can't use the previous two methods.  Place the jars in a large pot and cover with boiling water.

Boil for 10 minutes.

Allow to dry completely and cool before filling.