What ever brand seed starting media, never buy it again. Jiffy? Yeah - I hate that stuff. It had way too much pulverized sphagnum peat moss - that is why it would not absorb water. Been there - done that. Or it might also have had too much vermiculite.
I use a plastic container where I soak my media. I soak with warm water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide. Use enough water so it is just moist - not soaking. Then I fill the trays with media.
After inserting seeds, spray with the H2O2 solution. I use covers about 1/2 the time and when I do use them, I leave them on for 2 days and then off for 2 days. I usually have to spray every other day at least.
After about a week, I start watering from bottom as well. Especially if I am using a heat mat. Never use so much that the water is standing in the bottom of the tray after a minute or so. In that case, drain it off.
Failure to germinate properly is caused by over watering more often than under watering.
Good luck.
