Muslin is used as bags or squares for various different reason in jam making and other preserves.

There are many types of preserve making  where you might want to get rid of the pips or the pulp etc so that you have a clear liquid for your jelly or cordial mixes.

Photo by Jody Morris

Or you might want to add the flavour of herbs but not have them in the final mix.

This is where muslin comes in.  Now if you are anything like me when you start learning about making jams, you think a small bit of cotton muslin, not too expensive, great I’ll have that.

However, apparently, it is not quite so clear cut as that when it comes to getting cloth that is suitable for your precious preserves.

Not All Muslin Is Equal

We seem to be back to Goldilocks again!  The fabric holes can’t be too big nor too small, they have to be just right.

Now what size hole is just right, I hear you ask?  That depends on a couple of things.  One, what you are making, and two, what your own preferences are.   And something that will stop the unwanted the bits of fruit, pips etc, but let your liquid or syrup through.

The quality of the fabric is also important.  Muslin is often more costly these days so you want something that will last and work well when you are using it.

You don’t want bits fraying off everywhere, so you need something that is well made and sewn so the edges don’t fray.

The size of the material is also important.  Many say that 50 x 50 cm large muslin squares are fine for their needs.

Muslin Squares for Jam Making and Preserves

Muslin Square from Kilner 50cm by 50cm


Or you might want to get the smaller 5.1 cm if you just want it for herbs.  You can cut the larger cloth down if you need smaller amounts.

If you have already got a jam straining kit you will probably have a bag or cloth with that so you may not need to get extra muslin as well.

It really depends on what else you intend to do with it and what you want.

Muslin Bags, Large, Stretchy and Value for Money

These muslin bags are great value for money as you get 10 in a pack.  They are cheap to buy and they work well.  And although they ar great for jam making they are also great for other things as well.

It is often easier to use bags and just squares, it depends on your own preferences and what you are making and the size you want to use.

These bags are 45cm long and approximately 15cm width in size and are muslin bags large enough to use on a 1lb pudding basin.

10 Muslin Bags for Straining Filtering Jam Marmalade Home Brew Wine and Beer and of Boiling Hops

What Can You Use as An Alternative to Muslin Cloth or Bags

Cotton tea towels are a great alternative to muslin for the short term.  But with muslin bags made for the job at such great value you are not making a huge saving.  It’s just a good idea if you run out sometimes.

Also, if you are using an alternative to muslin cloth that has been used for other purposes it is not very hygienic even if they have been washed.

How to Tie a Muslin Square

A quick view on how to tie a muslin square.