Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I find it hilarious that people reviewed this item without even trying it. Give it a shot before you knock it or use another method, but don't write a negative review on something you've never used. Anyway, I got this kit as a gift a few weeks ago and decided to take a stab at canning last week. I decided to make some jams and this kit was a huge help. I did not use the jars that came with the kit since they were too large for what I needed but I did use the basket along with some smaller Ball Jars. I brought the water to a boil, put the jars I used in the basket (it easily held 5 smaller cans and will hold 3-4 larger jars), put them in the water, and put a lid on top. I did not closely track the temp like some of the other reviewers. I boiled for 8 minutes as per the recipe then removed the basket from the water. It was not melted AT ALL. It wasn't even soft and it looked just as it had before it went into the pot. The jams sealed perfectly and are delicious. I have since used the basket 4 more times with absolutely no problems. I still do not track the temp, even. I was told Ball is a reliable canning company with a great reputation and I trust them to release only good products for canners. If you are just starting out in canning you will find this product to be a huge help! Happy Canning! 10/21/10 Update: I have now used the basket a dozen times. I made Salsa a couple of weeks ago that required boiling for 45 minutes. Once again, the basket came out of the pot without melting. It still looks like new and I look forward to using it many more times. 3/20/12 Update: After a year and a half of pretty constant canning, this product is still in great condition. The color seems to have faded a bit but otherwise it still works like it did the first time I tried it. I have canned many jams, salsas, and sauces with no problems at all. I still think this is a great product and despite becoming more of an avid canner I do not feel the need to upgrade.