How to Properly Sanitize and Clean Concentrate Jars for Packaging
As a hash maker, you put a lot of time and effort into crafting top-quality cannabis concentrates, ensuring every step is done right to keep them pure and potent. But all that hard work can be undone by one overlooked issue, contamination. Even the smallest impurities can ruin your product, and one of the most common sources of contamination is the jars you use for packaging.
Most cannabis concentrate jars arrive in bulk from manufacturers, and while they might be somewhat clean initially, by the time they reach you, they’re often dirty and certainly not properly sanitized. While there are a few companies that offer pre-sanitized jars, they come at a premium price. That’s why many hash makers prefer to take control of this critical step themselves. By following a few easy steps, you can ensure your jars are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, protecting the quality of your concentrates from squish to sale.
Step 1: Prepare the Ultrasonic Cleaner
Ensure the basket is properly placed inside the ultrasonic cleaner to make the removal process easier later. Next, fill the ultrasonic bath with fresh reverse osmosis (RO) water, using the amount specified on the side of your machine.
Step 2: Arrange the Jars
Before placing the jars in the cleaner, give them a quick rinse with RO water to remove any loose particles. Then, carefully place the jars in the ultrasonic cleaner without stacking them on top of each other to ensure even cleaning. Make sure not to include plastic caps in the cleaner, as they may not withstand the cleaning process.
Step 3: Run the Cleaning Cycle
Set the ultrasonic machine to a temperature of 35°C and run it for 30 minutes. This setting is optimal for thoroughly cleaning the jars without damaging them.
Step 4: Remove the Jars and Dry
After the cleaning cycle, remove the jars and give them one final rinse with RO water to ensure no residues are left behind. We recommend using an air compressor for quick drying to avoid water spots. Alternatively, you can place the jars in a safe, sanitized area to air dry completely.
Step 6: Storage
If you’re not planning to use your jars for packaging right away, we recommend storing them in a sealed container to keep out contaminants and maintain their cleanliness. When you're ready to fill them, consider using the Lowtemp Concentrate Dispenser, which ensures precise and clean transfers, helping you maintain the quality and integrity of your product throughout the entire process.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your cannabis concentrate jars are thoroughly cleaned and ready to maintain the quality of your product. For more information, including answers to some commonly asked questions, read on below or contact us directly.
Ultrasonic Jar Cleaning Tech FAQs
Why is an ultrasonic cleaner better than a regular boiling water bath?
An ultrasonic cleaner is superior to a regular boiling water bath because it uses high-frequency sound waves to reach deep crevices, providing a thorough, consistent clean that boiling water can't match. It's faster, safer, and gentler on materials, with most cycles lasting just 20 - 30 minutes, allowing the cleaner to do all the work automatically so you can focus on more important tasks, ensuring your cannabis concentrate jars are fully sanitized without the risk of damage or uneven results.
Why can’t I use isopropyl alcohol?
You should avoid using isopropyl alcohol to clean your cannabis concentrate jars because it can leave behind harmful residues that may contaminate your product, affecting its flavor and safety. It can also degrade certain jar materials, especially plastics, leading to chemical leaching. Stick to food-safe cleaning solutions designed for your jars to ensure purity and integrity.
Can I use a solution other than water?
We opted not to use traditional cleaning products like Simple Green because it can leave a residue on the jars. Instead, we recommend sticking with a solution of distilled or RO water.