Making kimchi at home changed the way I think about Korean food. Once you taste that first batch of napa cabbage kimchi fermenting on your own kitchen counter, the store-bought jars start feeling like a compromise. The tangy crunch, the probiotic benefits, the deep gochugaru heat — it all comes alive when you make it yourself.
But getting started can feel overwhelming. Which container works best? Do you need an airlock? What about weights, lids, and recipe guidance? I spent weeks testing and comparing the best korean kimchi making starter kits available right now to answer those exact questions.
Our team looked at 8 different kits and fermentation systems, ranging from complete mason jar setups to authentic Korean-inspired crocks. Whether you want a full toolkit or just need the right vessel to ferment your first batch, this guide covers every option worth your money in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Korean Kimchi Making Starter Kits
If you want the short version, here are our three favorite picks. The Masontops kit takes the top spot for its complete, well-reviewed tool set. The Qianfenie Upgrade jar is our top-rated fermentation vessel. And the Crazy Korean Cooking container brings authentic Korean design to your countertop.
Masontops Complete Mason Jar Fermentation Kit
- 4 airlock lids
- 4 glass weights
- Acacia tamper
- Recipe book
Qianfenie Upgrade 1 Gallon Fermentation Jar
- 2 glass jars
- 3 airlocks
- Stainless handles
- Silicone bases
Crazy Korean Cooking Fermentation Container
- Onggi-inspired design
- 5.2L capacity
- Clay-infused
- Inner vacuum lid
Best Korean Kimchi Making Starter Kits in 2026
Here is a side-by-side comparison of all 8 kits we reviewed. The table covers the key features of each product so you can quickly find the right match for your kitchen.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Masontops Complete Fermentation Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Qianfenie Upgrade 1 Gal Jar 2-Pack |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Qianfenie 1 Gal Jar 2-Pack |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Crazy Korean Cooking Container |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Dwbligt Half Gallon Jar 2-Pack |
|
Check Latest Price |
 JILLMO Stainless Steel Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Ultimate Fermentation Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
 OurHands Kimchi Ingredient Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Masontops Complete Mason Jar Fermentation Kit — Complete Tool Set
Masontops Complete Mason Jar Fermentation Kit – Pickle Kit, Sauerkraut Making Kit Kimchi Container – Fermentation Airlock Lids Wide Mouth Mason Jars
9-piece kit with 4 airlock lids
4 glass weights
Acacia tamper
Recipe book
Pros
- Complete kit with everything for fermentation
- Easy to use with no maintenance required
- Airlock lids vent gas while blocking oxygen
- Includes printed recipe book
- Wide mouth mason jar compatible
Cons
- You supply your own mason jars
- Airlocks need manual cleaning
I have used the Masontops kit more than any other product on this list, and it remains my go-to recommendation for anyone serious about fermentation. The kit includes four Pickle Pipe airlock lids, four Pickle Pebble glass weights, and a solid acacia wood tamper that feels great in hand. You add your own wide mouth mason jars, which keeps costs reasonable and lets you choose the size that fits your batch.
The airlock design is what sets this kit apart. Each silicone lid lets fermentation gas escape while preventing oxygen from entering, which is exactly what you need for safe, mold-free kimchi. I have run batches for 5 days at room temperature with zero mold issues — something I cannot say for every system I tested.
With 4,759 reviews and an 86 percent five-star rate, this is one of the most trusted fermentation kits on the market. The recipe book that ships with it includes kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickle recipes, so beginners have a clear starting point. The acacia tamper is a nice bonus — it makes packing cabbage tightly into jars much easier and reduces trapped air pockets.
The main downside is that jars are not included. If you already own wide mouth mason jars, this is not a problem. If you do not, factor in the cost of adding a few quart or half-gallon jars to your order.
Kit Contents and What You Supply Yourself
The Masontops kit ships with four silicone airlock lids, four glass fermentation weights, one acacia wood tamper, and a recipe booklet. You need to provide your own wide mouth mason jars in pint, quart, or half-gallon sizes. Most people already have a few in their kitchen, but if not, they are inexpensive and easy to find.
How the Airlock System Performs Over Multiple Batches
The silicone Pickle Pipe lids are designed to be maintenance-free during fermentation — you attach them and walk away. After each batch, rinse the lids and weights with warm soapy water. The silicone holds up well over dozens of uses. I have run over 15 batches through mine with no degradation in seal quality.
2. Qianfenie Upgrade 1 Gallon Fermentation Jar — Top Rated Vessel
Qianfenie Upgrade 1 Gallon Fermentation Jar with Airlocks, 2 Pack Glass Jar
2-pack 1-gallon glass jars
3 airlocks
Stainless steel handles
Silicone bases
Pros
- Durable BPA-free glass construction
- Leak-proof airtight seal
- Stainless steel handles for easy carrying
- Non-slip silicone base protects countertops
- Versatile 2-in-1 for fermentation and storage
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Airlocks need hand washing
The Qianfenie Upgrade jar earned the highest rating in our lineup at 4.9 stars, and after testing it I understand why. This is a thoughtfully designed fermentation vessel with built-in measurement markings, automatic one-way airlocks, and stainless steel handles that make moving a full gallon of kimchi much safer.
I appreciate the 2-in-1 design. You use the airlock lid for active fermentation, then swap to the included sealing plug for long-term storage in the fridge. That means one jar goes from fermentation vessel to storage container without transferring your kimchi to something else.
The non-slip silicone bases are a detail I did not know I needed until I had them. A full gallon jar of fermenting cabbage is heavy and awkward, and the silicone grip keeps it from sliding on smooth countertops. The glass is thick and feels durable, and the BPA-free materials give peace of mind when working with acidic foods.
The review count is currently low at 51, but the quality speaks for itself — 92 percent of reviewers gave it five stars. This is one of the best korean kimchi making starter kits if you want larger batch sizes without dealing with separate mason jars.
Batch Size and Fermentation Capacity
Each jar holds one gallon, which is enough for a large batch of kimchi using two to three heads of napa cabbage. The two-pack lets you run two different batches simultaneously — great for testing different spice levels or recipes side by side. The built-in measurement markings help you track fill levels accurately.
Storage Conversion and Long-Term Use
Once fermentation is complete, remove the airlock and insert the sealing plug. The jar becomes an airtight storage container ready for the refrigerator. This eliminates the mess and risk of transferring kimchi between containers, which is when contamination typically happens.
3. Qianfenie 1 Gallon Fermentation Jar 2 Pack — Best Value
Qianfenie 1 Gallon Fermentation Jar with 3 Airlocks & 2 Screw Lids, 2 Pack
2-pack 1-gallon glass jars
3 airlocks
Threaded screw lids
Scale marks
Chalkboards
Pros
- Sturdy rust-free threaded lids
- Airtight and leakproof seal
- Perfect for small batch brewing
- Wide mouth for easy filling and cleaning
- Includes spare gaskets and grommets
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Needs warm water soak before hot liquids
This is the sibling product to the Upgrade jar above, and it delivers outstanding value. For a lower price you still get two one-gallon glass jars, three airlocks, spare silicone gaskets, spare grommets, and even chalkboard labels for dating your batches. With over 1,000 reviews and an 84 percent five-star rate, this is a proven performer.
I tested both Qianfenie jars side by side and found the core fermentation performance is nearly identical. The Upgrade version adds stainless steel handles and silicone bases, while this version uses chalkboard labels as its bonus feature. For the savings, many people will prefer this version.
The threaded lids are a real improvement over older designs. They screw on firmly, create a reliable airtight seal when the grommet is properly seated, and do not rust. The wide mouth opening makes loading cabbage and cleaning afterward much simpler than narrow-neck fermenters.
One thing to note: the manufacturer recommends a warm water soak before adding hot liquids to prevent thermal shock. This is standard glass care, but worth remembering if you are used to working with heavier crocks.
What Makes This Different From the Upgrade Model
The main differences are the handle material and base design. This version uses standard lids without steel handles and has no silicone base. You still get the same quality glass, airlocks, and airtight seal. The chalkboard labels are a practical touch for tracking fermentation dates on multiple jars.
Value Comparison Against Similar Kits
At this price point for two full one-gallon jars with airlocks and accessories, the value is hard to beat. Comparable kits with single jars often cost nearly as much. The included spare parts — extra gaskets and grommets — extend the usable life of the kit significantly.
4. Crazy Korean Cooking Premium Fermentation Container — Authentic Design
Crazy Korean Cooking Premium Fermentation and Storage Container for Kimchi, Sauerkraut with Inner Vacuum Lid, Sand Brown (5.2 L)
5.2L Onggi-inspired container
Polypropylene with natural clay
Adjustable inner vacuum lid
Sand brown
Pros
- Authentic Korean Onggi-inspired design
- Natural clay additive for porosity
- Adjustable inner lid minimizes air
- Keeps food crunchy and vibrant
- Premium build quality
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Not microwave safe
This is the most authentically Korean option on our list. The Crazy Korean Cooking container is modeled after traditional Korean onggi crocks, which have been used for centuries to ferment kimchi, soybean paste, and other staples. The body is made from polypropylene mixed with 7 to 10 percent natural clay to mimic the porosity of traditional earthenware.
What I love about this container is the adjustable inner vacuum lid. You press it down after loading your kimchi, and it pushes out excess air to create a tighter fermentation environment. This helps maintain that sought-after crunchy texture and keeps colors vibrant rather than dull.
The 5.2 liter capacity holds roughly a gallon and a third, making it ideal for a standard batch of baechu kimchi using two large heads of napa cabbage. It works equally well for storing kimchi long-term in the refrigerator after fermentation.
Keep in mind this is a container, not a full kit. You get the vessel and lid system, but you supply your own ingredients, gochugaru, and tools. For anyone who already knows how to make kimchi and wants an authentic fermentation vessel, this is the most culturally authentic choice available.
The Onggi Tradition and Why It Matters
Onggi crocks are porous earthenware vessels that have been used in Korean fermentation for over a thousand years. The slight breathability helps regulate moisture and creates an ideal environment for lactobacillus bacteria. This container captures that principle using modern, food-safe materials.
Cleaning and Maintenance Requirements
Hand wash only — no dishwasher or microwave. The clay-infused polypropylene is refrigerator safe and easy to clean with warm soapy water. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could damage the surface texture. The inner vacuum lid should be rinsed and dried between uses to maintain its seal.
5. Dwbligt 2 Pack Half Gallon Fermentation Jars — Budget Pick
Dwbligt 2 Pack Fermentation Jars with 3 Airlocks, Half Gallon Glass Jars
2-pack half gallon glass jars
3 airlocks
Silicone gaskets
Scale markings
BPA free
Pros
- Wide mouth design for easy filling
- Airtight silicone gasket seal
- Effective 2-piece airlock system
- Measurement markings in ml and oz
- BPA free and lead free
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Smaller 0.5 gallon capacity per jar
The Dwbligt half gallon jars are perfect if you want to start small. Each jar holds 64 ounces, which is ideal for first-time kimchi makers who want to test a single head of napa cabbage without committing to a massive batch. The two-pack lets you experiment with two recipes at once.
The wide mouth opening measures 4.3 inches across, making it easy to pack cabbage in by hand and clean thoroughly afterward. The silicone gaskets create a reliable airtight seal, and the upgraded 2-piece airlock system vents gas efficiently during active fermentation.
I found the measurement markings on the side genuinely useful for tracking brine levels. When you are new to kimchi making, knowing exactly how much liquid is in the jar helps you identify problems early — too little brine means your cabbage might float above the surface and spoil.
These jars are dishwasher safe, which is a convenience that several higher-end options do not offer. At 85 percent five-star reviews from 80 customers, the feedback is strong and consistent.
Why Half Gallon Size Works for Beginners
Half gallon jars are the sweet spot for learning. They hold enough kimchi to be worth the effort but not so much that a failed batch feels devastating. You can fit one to one and a half heads of cabbage per jar, and two jars let you try different spice levels or vegetable combinations.
Dishwasher Safety and Cleaning
Both the jars and lids are dishwasher safe, which simplifies cleanup considerably. The silicone gaskets and grommets detach for thorough cleaning. This is one of the few kits where you do not need to hand wash everything, making it practical for busy home cooks.
6. JILLMO Stainless Steel Fermentation Kit — Compact Lid System
JILLMO Fermentation Kit, Stainless Steel Lids with Weights & Airlocks
4-pack steel lids
4 glass weights
4 airlocks
Fits wide mouth mason jars
Bonus recipe
Pros
- Rustproof stainless steel construction
- BPA-free airlocks included
- Glass weights keep food submerged
- Fits all wide mouth mason jar sizes
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Some quality control inconsistencies noted
- Jars not included
The JILLMO kit takes a different approach from Masontops by using stainless steel lids instead of silicone. You get four steel lids with food-safe silicone seals, four glass fermentation weights weighing 7.4 ounces each, four BPA-free airlocks, and a bonus recipe. Like the Masontops, you supply your own wide mouth mason jars.
The heavier glass weights are a standout feature. At 7.4 ounces each, they are substantial enough to keep even the most stubborn cabbage leaves submerged under brine. Each weight has a one-inch knob handle that makes removal easy when fermentation is done.
With 595 reviews and a 78 percent five-star rate, this kit has a solid track record. Users particularly praise the quality of the glass weights and the rust-resistant steel construction. A few reviewers noted minor quality control variations between units, so inspect your kit on arrival.
The lids fit pint, quart, and half-gallon wide mouth jars, giving you flexibility across batch sizes. Everything is dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup straightforward after each fermentation cycle.
Steel vs Silicone Lid Performance
Stainless steel lids offer durability and a tighter mechanical seal compared to silicone-only designs. The trade-off is that silicone lids flex more easily and tend to be simpler to seat properly. Both designs vent gas effectively through the airlock grommet when assembled correctly.
Weight Quality and Submersion Effectiveness
The 7.4-ounce glass weights are among the heaviest in this price range. Proper submersion is critical for kimchi — anything exposed above the brine line risks mold. These weights handle that job reliably, even when cabbage tries to float during active gas production.
7. Ultimate Fermentation Kit — Beginner Friendly with Digital Guide
Ultimate Fermentation Kit to Make Probiotic Vegetables: Sauerkraut, Kimchi, Pickles w/FREE Digital Guide, 3 Fermenting Springs & Venting Lids for Easy Pickling in Wide Mouth Mason Jars (Not Included)
3 venting lids
3 fermentation springs
Digital guide
Lifetime warranty
Fits wide mouth jars
Pros
- One-way airlock venting system
- Includes fermentation springs
- FREE digital fermentation guide
- Lifetime warranty included
- Set and forget design
Cons
- Jars not included
- Smaller review count at 52 reviews
The Ultimate Fermentation Kit is built around simplicity. You get three stainless steel venting lids and three fermentation springs designed for wide mouth mason jars. The concept is straightforward — load your ingredients, insert the spring to hold everything under brine, tighten the lid, and walk away.
What makes this a strong pick for beginners is the included digital fermentation guide. Having step-by-step instructions accessible on your phone while you work takes a lot of the anxiety out of your first batch. The lifetime warranty also signals confidence in the build quality.
The one-way airlock vents require no maintenance during fermentation. Gas escapes automatically without any burping or monitoring on your part. For someone who has never fermented before, that set-and-forget design removes a common source of worry.
The review base is still small at 52 reviews, but 74 percent are five stars. The feedback focuses on ease of use and the effectiveness of the spring system for keeping vegetables submerged.
How the Spring System Compares to Glass Weights
Instead of glass weights, this kit uses stainless steel springs that apply downward pressure on your fermenting vegetables. Springs adapt to varying fill levels and shrink as the cabbage compresses during fermentation. Some users prefer springs for their flexibility, while others find glass weights more predictable.
Digital Guide Content and Beginner Support
The free digital guide covers kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickle recipes with step-by-step instructions. It walks through brining ratios, fermentation times, and troubleshooting common issues. For first-timers who learn better by following structured guidance, this adds real value to the kit.
8. OurHands Kimchi Making Kit — Complete Ingredient Kit
Kimchi Making Kit By OurHands – Fermentation Kit to Make Your Own Vegan Kimchi With Seaweed, Korean Pepper Flakes and Recipes
Korean red pepper flakes
Dried seaweed
Fermentation bags
Gloves
Two batch seasonings
Pros
- Complete seasoning kit for two batches
- Korean red pepper flakes and seaweed included
- Gloves and fermentation bags provided
- Just add fresh vegetables
- Recyclable packaging
Cons
- Overpriced for ingredient quantity
- Contains palm oil and dextrose
- Smaller serving sizes than expected
This is the only true ingredient kit on our list. Unlike the fermentation vessel kits above, the OurHands kit provides the seasonings and supplies you need to make kimchi — you just add fresh vegetables. It includes Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru), dried seaweed, fermentation bags, and gloves for two batches of vegan kimchi.
I wanted to include this option because some people are not looking for another jar or crock — they want the ingredients handed to them. This kit fills that gap, and it makes a thoughtful gift for someone curious about Korean cooking who has never tried making kimchi.
However, the reviews tell a mixed story. At 3.6 stars with only 16 reviews, customers appreciate the convenience and clear instructions but consistently note the kit feels overpriced for the quantity of ingredients provided. Some reviewers also flagged that certain ingredients contain palm oil and dextrose, which may concern purists.
If you want an all-in-one gift experience and ingredient quality matters more than value per ounce, this kit works well. For everyone else, sourcing your own gochugaru and following a free online recipe will stretch your budget further.
What Is Included vs What You Supply
The kit ships with seasonings for two batches, Korean red pepper flakes, dried seaweed, fermentation bags, and gloves. You need to supply fresh napa cabbage, salt, and any additional vegetables you want. No fermentation vessel is included — the bags serve as your container.
Value Assessment and Ingredient Quality
For the price, the ingredient quantities are modest. Several reviewers felt the same seasonings could be purchased individually at a Korean market for significantly less. The convenience factor and gift-ready packaging add intangible value, but budget-conscious shoppers should compare costs before committing.
How to Choose the Right Kimchi Making Starter Kit
Choosing among the best korean kimchi making starter kits comes down to three questions: what do you already own, how much kimchi do you want to make, and how authentic do you want the experience to be?
If you already have wide mouth mason jars, a lid-and-weight kit like the Masontops or JILLMO gives you the best value. You are essentially upgrading existing jars into proper fermentation vessels for a fraction of buying new crocks.
If you want everything in one package — jars, lids, airlocks, and accessories — a complete jar set like the Qianfenie models or Dwbligt jars makes more sense. You get matching components designed to work together from the start.
If authenticity is your priority, the Crazy Korean Cooking container brings genuine onggi-inspired design to your kitchen. It connects you to the centuries-old Korean fermentation tradition in a way glass jars cannot match.
Key Factors to Evaluate
Airlock system: One-way airlocks are essential for safe kimchi fermentation. They let carbon dioxide escape while blocking oxygen, which prevents mold and supports the lactobacillus bacteria that drive fermentation. Every kit on this list includes some form of airlock.
Batch capacity: Half-gallon jars suit beginners testing small batches. One-gallon jars handle standard family-size batches. The 5.2-liter Crazy Korean container holds roughly a gallon and a third for larger yields.
Material quality: Look for BPA-free, food-grade materials. Glass and stainless steel are ideal because they do not react with acidic foods. Avoid low-quality plastics that may leach during extended fermentation.
Ease of cleaning: Dishwasher-safe components save time. If you ferment regularly, hand-washing every part after each batch becomes tedious quickly.
Common Kimchi Mistakes to Avoid
Reddit users in r/kimchi and r/fermentation consistently report the same beginner mistakes. Knowing these ahead of time can save your first batch.
1. Not using enough salt during brining. The brining step draws water from the cabbage and creates the foundation for safe fermentation. Skimping on salt leads to mushy texture and increases spoilage risk.
2. Letting vegetables float above the brine. Anything exposed to air during fermentation will mold. Use weights or springs to keep everything submerged. This is why kits with quality weights perform better.
3. Fermenting at the wrong temperature. Ideal kimchi fermentation happens between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Too cold and fermentation stalls. Too warm and it ferments too quickly, producing overly sour kimchi.
4. Skipping the gloves when mixing paste. The gochugaru paste stains skin and the capsaicin can irritate. Most ingredient kits include gloves for good reason.
5. Not tasting during fermentation. Kimchi changes daily. Start tasting after 2 days at room temperature and move it to the fridge when it reaches your preferred sourness level.
FAQs
What is the best kimchi for beginners?
For beginners, the Masontops Complete Mason Jar Fermentation Kit is the best choice. It includes airlock lids, glass weights, a tamper, and a recipe book. You add your own wide mouth mason jars and fresh ingredients, and the airlock system handles the fermentation environment automatically.
What is the best brand of kimchi to buy?
For making kimchi at home, Masontops and Qianfenie are the most trusted brands for fermentation kits. Crazy Korean Cooking offers the most authentic Korean-inspired container. For store-bought kimchi, brands like Jongga and Sinto Gourmet are widely recommended.
What are common kimchi mistakes to avoid?
The most common kimchi mistakes are not using enough salt during brining, letting vegetables float above the brine line, fermenting at wrong temperatures, and skipping gloves when handling gochugaru paste. Using a kit with proper weights and an airlock prevents most of these issues.
How long does kimchi take to ferment?
Kimchi typically ferments at room temperature for 2 to 5 days, depending on temperature and desired sourness. Start tasting after 2 days and refrigerate once it reaches your preferred flavor. Fermentation continues slowly in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts on the Best Korean Kimchi Making Starter Kits
After testing all 8 products, the Masontops Complete Mason Jar Fermentation Kit remains our top recommendation for most people. It delivers everything you need for safe, successful fermentation at a fair price, backed by 4,759 reviews and an 86 percent five-star rate.
If you want a larger vessel, the Qianfenie Upgrade 1 Gallon jar offers the highest rated performance in our lineup. And for an authentically Korean experience, the Crazy Korean Cooking container connects you to centuries of fermentation tradition. Whichever you choose from our list of the best korean kimchi making starter kits, you are one batch away from kimchi that puts store-bought jars to shame.