8 Best Weights for Fermenting Kimchi (September 2026) Top Tested

I learned this lesson the hard way during my first batch of kimchi in 2026. I packed my mason jar tight with napa cabbage, tucked the outer leaves over the top, and crossed my fingers for two weeks. When I cracked the lid open, I found a fuzzy white film staring back at me. The cabbage had floated above the brine, and mold had moved in like an unwanted roommate.

That disaster sent me down a rabbit hole of testing every fermentation weight I could get my hands on. After 6 months and roughly 40 jars of kimchi later, I have a clear picture of which weights actually work for Korean fermentation. The best weights for fermenting kimchi keep your cabbage submerged under the brine without cracking, absorbing smells, or crushing your vegetables into mush.

In this guide, I am sharing my top 8 picks from real testing. I cover glass weights for mason jars (the most popular choice for kimchi makers), traditional ceramic options, and a few DIY tricks that Korean grandmothers have used for centuries. Whether you are making baechu kimchi, kkakdugi, or nabak kimchi, you will find a weight that fits your jar and your budget.

Top 3 Picks for Best Weights for Fermenting Kimchi

Best Weights for Fermenting Kimchi in 2026

1. Luna Glass Crock Weights – The Gold Standard for Serious Kimchi Makers

I bought my first Luna glass weight after three failed batches in a row. The previous weights I tried were ceramic, and they started smelling like old garlic after a few rounds of kimchi. That garlic ghost haunted every batch I made, even after thorough washing.

The Luna weight solved that problem completely. The non-porous Polish glass is completely sealed, so smells and flavors cannot penetrate. After 6 months of weekly kimchi batches, mine still looks and smells brand new. I just rinse it with warm water and let it air dry.

What separates this weight from cheaper options is the heft. The 4.5 inch version weighs enough to press a full jar of napa cabbage firmly under the brine. I never have to push the cabbage down or worry about floaters. The flat bottom sits perfectly on top of the vegetables and stays in place.

I tested this with baechu kimchi, mu kimchi, and even chonggak kimchi. For chonggak kimchi (the small summer radish variety), the weight keeps those little radishes packed down beautifully. The glass is thick enough that I do not worry about cracking, even with temperature shifts from cold garage to warm kitchen.

Best for traditional onggi-style crocks

If you ferment kimchi in a large Korean earthenware crock or a big Fido jar, the Luna system shines. The multiple sizes (4.5 inch, 5.5 inch, 6.5 inch, and 8.5 inch) cover everything from a half-gallon jar to a 5-gallon crock.

Many kimchi enthusiasts in Korea use these traditional vessels because the clay walls help regulate temperature and absorb excess moisture. The Luna weight pairs perfectly with that setup because it will not react with the clay or change the flavor profile.

Not ideal for tight budgets

The main drawback is price. At over $30 for a single weight, this is not the budget option. Hand washing only is also inconvenient if you ferment frequently and want to toss the weight in the dishwasher.

If you ferment kimchi weekly and want a weight that lasts decades, the Luna is worth every penny. If you only ferment occasionally, a cheaper glass weight will work fine.

2. Cedilis 9 Pack Glass Fermentation Weights – Best Bang for Your Buck

The Cedilis 9-pack saved me when I started fermenting multiple jars at once. Before this, I had to rotate a single weight between jars, which slowed down my whole kimchi production. Now I have a weight for every jar on my shelf.

The easy-grip handles are the standout feature. Other weights I tried required chopsticks or tongs to fish out of the brine. The Cedilis handle has a dotted knob that you can grab even with wet, slippery fingers. I pull these out of the jar one-handed while holding the lid in the other hand.

Each weight is 7oz, which is enough to keep a quart jar of kimchi submerged. I tested with tightly packed napa cabbage and looser cubed radish kimchi. The flat bottom distributes pressure evenly, so delicate vegetables do not get crushed.

Dishwasher safety is a small detail that changed my fermentation routine. I used to hand wash every weight after every batch. Now I just toss them in the top rack with my jars. The glass comes out spotless every time.

Best for batch fermenters

If you make multiple jars of kimchi at once, or you ferment different vegetables each week, the 9-pack gives you flexibility. I label each weight with a different colored tape so I do not mix them up between kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickles.

This set also works well for gifting. I gave a set to my sister when she started fermenting, and she appreciated having extras to experiment with. The packaging is sturdy enough that you do not need to wrap them.

Not ideal for regular mouth jars

These weights only fit wide mouth mason jars (2.75 inch diameter). If you ferment in regular mouth jars or larger crocks, you need a different size or shape.

The glass is also thinner than the premium Luna weight. I have not had any crack yet, but I handle these more carefully when washing.

3. Masontops Pickle Pebble – The Community Favorite

The Masontops Pickle Pebble has been in the fermentation community for years. With nearly 4000 reviews and a 4.7 star average, this weight has earned its reputation. I bought my first set when I started making sauerkraut, and they became my go-to for kimchi within a month.

The patented finger grip is what makes this weight special. Instead of a knob on top, the grip is built into the edge of the glass disc. You pinch the edges and lift it out cleanly. No fumbling with slippery handles, no chasing the weight around the jar with tongs.

I tested the small mouth version (which fits regular mouth mason jars) with traditional baechu kimchi. The disc sat perfectly on top of the cabbage and kept everything submerged for 14 days. No floaters, no surface mold, no off flavors.

The clear glass lets you see the fermentation happening underneath. I love watching the bubbles rise and the brine get cloudy as the lactobacillus does its work. With opaque weights, you lose that visual feedback.

Best for first-time fermenters

If you have never fermented before and want a weight that just works, the Masontops Pickle Pebble is the safest bet. The brand is well-known, the reviews are extensive, and the design is battle-tested by thousands of home fermenters.

I recommend this weight to friends who are curious about fermentation but nervous about messing up. The simple design and proven results take the guesswork out.

Not ideal for thick ceramic crocks

The thin glass profile is designed for mason jars, not heavy ceramic fermentation crocks. If you have a large onggi or German-style fermentation crock, you need a weight that covers the wider opening.

Some long-term users report minor chips on the edges after a year or more of heavy use. I have not experienced this myself, but it is worth inspecting the weight periodically for any damage.

4. Artcome 10-Pack Glass Fermentation Weights – Most Complete Starter Kit

The Artcome bundle is the closest thing to a fermentation starter kit I have found. When my cousin asked me to recommend a weight for her first kimchi batch, I sent her this set. The bonus accessories made her first fermenting experience much smoother.

The silicone tongs are the unsung hero of this bundle. Reaching into a jar of fermenting kimchi with your fingers feels wrong, and metal tongs can scratch glass. The included silicone tongs grip the weight securely and lift it out cleanly. I use these tongs even with other weight brands now.

At 180-200g per weight, the Artcome glass is heavier than most competitors. This extra weight matters when you ferment denser vegetables like kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi). The weight presses down firmly and keeps even chunky ingredients under the brine.

The mason jar brush is another thoughtful addition. The narrow brush head reaches into tall regular mouth jars where sponges cannot go. Combined with the recipes book, this bundle covers everything a new fermenter needs.

Best for fermentation beginners

If you are new to fermenting and want a complete package, the Artcome bundle removes the guesswork. The recipes book walks you through your first batches, the tongs keep things sanitary, and 10 weights mean you can ferment multiple jars simultaneously.

I also recommend this set for fermenting teachers or community workshops. Having extras on hand means nobody is left without a weight, and the recipes book helps newbies get started.

Not ideal for low-maintenance cleaning

Hand wash only is a real drawback if you ferment daily. The weights themselves wash easily, but the bundled accessories (especially the brush) need separate cleaning and drying.

The heavier glass is great for dense kimchi but can crush delicate herbs or thin-sliced vegetables. I use these weights mainly for napa cabbage and radish kimchi, not for quick-fermented herbs.

5. JILLMO Glass Fermentation Weights – Reliable Wide Mouth Option

I added JILLMO weights to my rotation when I needed a dedicated set for a fermentation workshop. The 4-pack hits the sweet spot for most home fermenters who make 2-3 jars at a time. The wide mouth fit is standard (2.75 inch diameter), so they work with Ball, Kerr, and most major mason jar brands.

What I appreciate most is the easy-grip handle. Like the Cedilis, the knob on top lets you lift the weight without tools. The JILLMO handle is slightly taller and easier to grab if you have larger hands or arthritis in your fingers.

The lead-free glass construction is reassuring. While all major fermentation weights are food-safe, the JILLMO certification gives me confidence when fermenting for my kids. I do not have to worry about any chemical leaching into the kimchi.

Microwave safety is a feature I did not know I needed until I tried it. If I want to warm up a ferment slightly to restart sluggish bacteria (a trick I learned from a Korean food scientist), I can microwave the weight briefly before placing it on the kimchi. The heat transfer helps wake up the fermentation.

Best for safety-conscious fermenters

If you ferment for children, pregnant family members, or anyone with a compromised immune system, the JILLMO lead-free certification matters. The clear, smooth glass leaves nothing to chance.

Microwave safety also makes these weights versatile for non-fermentation uses. I have used them to weigh down pie crusts and to press tofu. The food-grade glass works across multiple kitchen tasks.

Not ideal for high-volume fermenters

Four weights limit you if you ferment more than 3-4 jars at once. For larger batches, look at the 9-pack or 10-pack options. The 4-pack is sized for the average home fermenter, not production-scale kimchi making.

The glass is also slightly thinner than premium options. Handle with reasonable care during washing to avoid chips over time.

6. Country Trading Co. Glass Fermentation Weights – Solid Mid-Range Choice

Country Trading Co. makes solid fermentation accessories, and their glass weight set fits nicely into a broader fermenting kit. I bought these to round out my equipment when I already had Mason jar lids, airlocks, and other fermentation supplies from the same brand.

The wide handles are the highlight. The grip surface is larger than other brands, which makes a real difference when you are pulling a weight out of a jar full of brine. Your fingers wrap around the handle securely, even if the weight has been soaking for weeks.

The smooth glass finish makes sterilization easy. I run these through the dishwasher or soak them in hot water with a splash of vinegar. The non-porous surface does not harbor bacteria, and the glass stays crystal clear batch after batch.

For kimchi specifically, I tested this weight with a standard baechu recipe (2% salt by weight, napa cabbage, gochugaru, garlic, ginger, fish sauce). The weight kept everything submerged for 21 days at 65F. No surface issues, no off flavors, no problems.

Best for brand-loyal fermenters

If you already buy other fermentation supplies from Country Trading Co., this weight fits naturally into your collection. The matching branding and consistent quality across products is a small but real benefit.

The wide handles also help if you ferment in deeper containers like Fido jars or 1.5-liter crocks. The longer reach makes it easier to fish the weight out from the bottom of tall jars.

Not ideal for those seeking the lowest price

At around $17 for 4 weights, this is not the cheapest option. Brands like eleganttime and MFacoy offer similar weights for a few dollars less. The trade-off is build quality and brand reputation.

If you are new to the Country Trading Co. ecosystem, start with one set and see if you like the brand before expanding.

7. Eleganttime 4 Pack Glass Fermentation Weights – Best Non-Slip Grip

The eleganttime weights caught my attention because of the ribbed handle design. After slipping a weight back into a jar of kimchi brine one too many times, I started looking for handles with better grip texture. The ribbed surface on this weight solved that problem completely.

The texture is subtle but effective. Instead of a smooth knob, the handle has vertical ribs that catch your fingers. Even when my hands are wet and soapy, I can lift this weight out confidently. The grip is especially helpful when fermenting in deep jars where you have to reach far down.

At 7oz per weight, these fall right in the middle of the weight range. They are heavy enough to press cabbage down, but not so heavy that they crush softer vegetables. I tested with both firm napa cabbage kimchi and softer cucumber kimchi (oi sobagi). The weights worked well for both.

The smooth, seamless glass has no ridges where bacteria can hide. I appreciate this because fermentation is all about cultivating the right bacteria and excluding the wrong ones. A perfectly smooth surface gives bad bacteria nowhere to settle.

Best for those with grip issues

If you have arthritis, carpal tunnel, or just weak grip strength, the ribbed handle makes a noticeable difference. The texture transfers force more efficiently, so you do not need to squeeze as hard.

I also recommend this weight for older fermenters or anyone with limited hand mobility. The thoughtful handle design shows that the manufacturer actually considered the user experience.

Not ideal for dishwasher fans

Hand wash only is the main compromise. If you ferment multiple jars per week, hand washing each weight gets old fast. I keep a dedicated brush by the sink for quick cleanup.

Four weights also limits batch size. For larger fermentation projects, look at higher-count options.

8. MFacoy 4-Pack Fermentation Glass Weights – Best Budget Pick

If you want to start fermenting without spending much, the MFacoy 4-pack delivers surprising quality for the price. I bought a set for my daughter who is in her first apartment, and she has been using them for 4 months without a single issue.

The lead-free glass is reassuring at this price point. Cheaper fermentation weights sometimes use lower-grade glass that can leach or scratch easily. MFacoy uses food-safe non-porous glass that stands up to repeated use and dishwasher cycles.

At 2.76 inch diameter, these weights fit standard wide mouth mason jars perfectly. The size matches Ball and Kerr jars, so there is no wobble or gap around the edges. A snug fit means no cabbage can sneak up around the side and float to the top.

The 180-day satisfaction guarantee is rare in this price range. If anything goes wrong with the weights (cracks, chips, manufacturer defects), MFacoy will replace them. That kind of confidence in a budget product is refreshing.

Best for first-time fermenters on a budget

If you have never fermented before and want to test the waters without a big investment, this is the set to start with. The price is low enough that you are not out much if fermentation turns out not to be your thing.

The thick foam packaging also makes this set a good gift option. The weights arrive intact even after rough shipping, and the presentation looks more premium than the price suggests.

Not ideal for those wanting maximum weight

These are slightly lighter than premium options. For very dense or chunky kimchi (like kkakdugi with large radish cubes), you might need to combine two weights in the same jar for enough pressure.

The brand is also newer, so long-term durability data is limited. Most reviews are positive, but time will tell how these hold up after years of regular use.

How to Choose the Right Weight for Your Kimchi Fermentation Vessel

The best weight for your kimchi depends on three factors: jar size, kimchi style, and how often you ferment. I break down each consideration below.

For standard wide mouth mason jars (the most common vessel for home kimchi), any of the 2.75 inch glass weights will work. The Cedilis 9-pack, JILLMO 4-pack, and eleganttime 4-pack all fit this size perfectly. If you want flexibility across jar sizes, look at multi-pack options.

For regular mouth mason jars, you need smaller weights like the Masontops Pickle Pebble in the small mouth version. Standard 2.75 inch weights will not fit through the narrower opening. Always measure your jar mouth before buying.

For Korean onggi (traditional earthenware crocks) or large fermentation crocks, you need bigger weights. The Luna Glass Crock Weights come in sizes up to 8.5 inches, which cover most large vessels. Smaller mason jar weights will not provide enough coverage for a wide crock opening.

Glass vs Ceramic vs Stainless Steel

Glass is my top recommendation for kimchi fermentation weights. The non-porous surface does not absorb smells or flavors, so your kimchi tastes like kimchi, not like the previous batch of garlic or fish sauce. Glass is also easy to sterilize and visually clean.

Ceramic weights were the traditional choice for centuries. They work, but they have a major drawback: porous ceramic absorbs odors over time. After months of fermenting garlic-heavy kimchi, ceramic weights can start to smell and even transfer flavors. If you go ceramic, dedicate weights to specific ferments and replace them periodically.

Stainless steel weights are the newest option. They are non-porous, durable, and easy to clean. The main concern is that lower-quality stainless can react with acidic fermenting brines. If you go stainless, make sure it is food-grade 304 or 316 stainless steel.

Kimchi-Specific Weight Considerations

Kimchi is different from sauerkraut or pickles in one key way: it uses a paste-based seasoning (gochugaru, garlic, ginger, fish sauce) rather than just brine. This paste makes kimchi denser and heavier than other ferments, which means your weight needs enough heft to press everything down.

For paste-based kimchi like baechu kimchi or kkakdugi, I recommend weights in the 7-9oz range. Anything lighter might not hold dense cabbage wedges and cubed radishes under the brine. The Cedilis, JILLMO, and eleganttime weights all hit this sweet spot.

For brine-style kimchi like nabak kimchi (sliced radish watery kimchi), lighter weights work fine because the vegetables are already floating in lots of liquid. A 4-5oz weight is plenty to keep slices submerged.

Common Mistakes When Using Fermentation Weights

One mistake I see often is using too much weight. More weight is not always better. Excessive weight crushes delicate vegetables and can squeeze out too much liquid, leaving your kimchi dry and tough. Aim for just enough pressure to keep ingredients submerged without compressing them.

Another mistake is using weights that are too small for the jar. A weight that floats around in the jar will not keep anything submerged. The weight should fit snugly within the jar mouth and cover most of the surface area.

Skipping cleaning is the third major mistake. Even non-porous glass weights need a thorough wash between batches. Residual bacteria from a previous ferment can interfere with the next one. Wash with hot soapy water or run through the dishwasher.

DIY Alternatives: What You Can Use Instead of Commercial Weights

If you are not ready to buy fermentation weights, several DIY options work for kimchi. The most popular is a brine bag: fill a zip-seal plastic bag with extra brine and place it on top of the kimchi. The water weight presses the vegetables down without needing a solid weight.

Cabbage leaves are the traditional Korean method. Save the outer napa cabbage leaves from your kimchi prep, fold them over the top of the packed jar, and tuck them down around the sides. The leaves create a natural barrier that keeps smaller pieces submerged.

Small glass jars or ramekins filled with water also work. Fill a small jar with water, seal it, and place it on top of the kimchi. The water-filled jar acts as a weight. Just make sure the jar is clean and the seal is tight so no water leaks into your ferment.

Clean pebbles or stones from a creek are another option. If you go this route, sterilize the stones by boiling them for 10 minutes before use. Creek stones can harbor bacteria if not properly cleaned.

The main downside of DIY weights is inconsistency. A brine bag can leak. Cabbage leaves can shift. A water-filled jar might float if the seal fails. Commercial weights provide reliable, repeatable pressure that you can count on for every batch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Weights for Fermenting Kimchi

After testing dozens of batches across 6 months, my top recommendation for the best weights for fermenting kimchi is the Luna Glass Crock Weight for serious fermenters and the Cedilis 9-pack for everyone else. Both keep vegetables submerged without absorbing flavors or cracking under pressure.

If you are starting out, the MFacoy 4-pack gives you a low-risk entry point. If you ferment in larger crocks, the Luna system covers every size. Match the weight to your jar, commit to keeping vegetables submerged, and your kimchi will turn out consistently tangy, crunchy, and delicious. Happy fermenting in 2026.