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October 15, 2024 4 min read

Cocktail shakers can leak for two reasons: either the shaker is of low quality and needs an upgrade, or it’s not being used correctly. If it’s the latter, there are several techniques you can try depending on the type of shaker you use. In this post, we’ll guide you through them.


The Different Types of Cocktail Shakers


There are three main types: the Boston shaker, the Cobbler shaker, and the French (or Parisian) shaker:


Boston Shakers

 

boston shaker
Credit: iStock

The Boston Shaker is popular among professional bartenders. It has two parts: a metal tin and a mixing glass or another tin. It doesn’t come with a built-in cocktail strainer, so you’ll need a separate one, like a Hawthorne or Julep strainer, to filter out ice and any solids. It has a large capacity so it's ideal if you’re mixing multiple drinks at once.


Cobbler Shakers

 

cobbler shaker
Credit: Envato Elements/ wirestock

The Cobbler shaker is a three-piece design with a metal shaker tin, a built-in strainer, and a small cap. It's perfect for beginners since it’s easy to use and includes everything you need to shake and strain a drink. However, you need to be careful with this one—if the shaker gets too cold, the lid can get stuck. A little tip is to run the lid under warm water to release it easily.


French (Parisian) Shakers

 

french shaker
Credit: iStock

The French or Parisian shaker is similar to the Boston shaker but is a two-piece design without the glass. It consists of two metal tins—one fits over the other to create a secure seal. It has a sleek, classic look that many people love, and it’s a bit more common in Europe. You'll need a separate strainer since it doesn’t come with one.


How to Use Each Shaker to Prevent Leaks

 

man shaking up cocktail shaker
Credit: Envato Elements/ microgen

Here's how to use each shaker properly to avoid messy leaks:


Boston Shaker

Start by filling the metal tin about halfway with ice and ingredients. When you’re ready to shake, place the glass (or smaller tin) on top of the metal tin at a slight angle. Press down firmly with the heel of your hand and twist slightly so that the two parts lock into place. You need to have an airtight seal. If you hear a slight hiss when you’re shaking, you might not have sealed it tightly enough.

When you’re done shaking, hold the metal tin in one hand and tap the side near the top edge with the palm of your other hand to break the seal. If the seal does not separate, tap the tin on the edge of a hard surface.


Cobbler Shaker

With a Cobbler shaker, you’re dealing with three parts, so each piece needs a secure fit to prevent leaks. First, fill the bottom tin with ice and ingredients, then press the top with the strainer onto the tin. The fit should be snug to get a proper seal. Make sure not to overfill the shaker, as it can cause pressure to build up and make the top pop off.

After you place the cap on the strainer, give it a gentle twist. If you notice the cap getting loose while you’re shaking, pause and tighten it to avoid spills. After shaking, the tight seal created can make it tough to pull off the cap. If this happens, run the shaker under warm water for a few seconds to loosen it up.


French Shaker

To use a French shaker, start by filling the tin with your ingredients, then place the cap on top. Press down firmly and twist slightly to make sure it’s secure. Some French shakers have a looser fit, so give the top a quick tap to seal it tightly.

While you’re shaking, hold the shaker with both hands—one on the tin and the other on the cap. This way, you can prevent the top from slipping. When you’re done, give the cap a gentle twist and pull to break the seal. Now pour into the pint glass.

A small tip: always make sure the cap is dry before putting it on, as any moisture can make it harder to grip and increase the chances of a leak.


Is Your Shaker Still Leaking?

 

woman shaking up cocktail shaker
Credit: Envato Elements/ microgen

If you’re still dealing with leaks, here are a few reasons why it might be happening:

  • The rubber or silicone seal on your shaker is worn out.
  • The metal or glass has warped or cracked.
  • You've added too much liquid or ice which has increased pressure and broken the seal.
  • There's a slight misalignment that's preventing a good seal.

For the first two issues, it might be time to upgrade or get a new shaker to prevent leaks.


Shaker Maintenance Tips

 

shaker displayed along with cocktail glasses
Credit: Envato Elements/ lyulkamazur

Here are a few simple maintenance tips that will help extend the life of your shaker:

  • Always rinse your shaker immediately after you’re done. Leftover ingredients can build up, especially around the shaker seal, which can eventually lead to leaks.
  • After washing, dry each part with a soft cloth or towel to prevent rust.
  • If your shaker has rubber or silicone seals, check them for wear and tear. Seals can crack over time which can be the reason why your shaker is leaking. If you notice any damage, replace them.
  • Do not use the dishwasher to clean your shaker. The high heat and harsh detergents can damage it over time. Stick to hand washing.
  • Store your novelty cocktail shakers with the parts separated. This prevents any pressure from building up, which can deform the seals or make it harder to open the shaker the next time you use it.

Summary

With these tips, you'll be mixing drinks without any leaks in no time! Looking to level up your bartending skills? Check out the Pepe Nero bartender kit—it’s got everything you need to make mixed drinks right at home. Shop with us today.



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