Jars are used for collecting and storing specimens, solids and lab supplies, as well as for general lab use and field sampling, and are typically manufactured from glass or plastic. Chemical resistance from jars can come from the liner of their cap, with caps available either unlined or with multiple styles of linings.

Glass jars are generally capable of withstanding higher temperatures than other jars, while amber glass blocks ultraviolet and infrared radiation. Plastic jars are noted for their durability, while bell jars can be used to form and contain a vacuum.

Lab jars have wider openings than bottles and are more often used for dry or semi-solid materials. Like bottles, they are made from clear or colored glass or natural or colored plastics. Other styles include bell, vacuum, and other specialty jars.

Choose jars made from clear glass or natural plastics for maximum visibility and amber-tinted glass and plastic for light-sensitive materials. Most jars are sold with attached or separate closures, and may be processed (sterilized or cleaned) for specific purposes.