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The Best Food Storage Containers of 2024
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Food storage containers help you keep your food fresh and organized. Some containers can be used to store any type of food, while some are only designed to store dry food or non-perishable items. They are typically made out of plastic, glass, silicone, or stainless steel. Each material has pros and cons; it all depends on what types of food you plan to store in them and for how long. For example, silicone containers are lightweight, easy to handle, kid-friendly, and dishwasher-safe, but glass containers are durable, microwave-safe, and do not absorb food odors or stains. Our team has put together a list of the best food storage containers and the top spot goes to the ComSaf Glass Food Storage Containers because of their volume capacity, size variety, modern aesthetic, and airtight storage.
Our Top Picks For Food Storage Containers
View all ContentsThe Best Food Storage Containers
Best Overall
The ComSaf glass food storage containers are a great addition to any kitchen. They are made of high-quality borosilicate glass, which is food-grade and durable. The bamboo lid with the silicone sealing loop ensures that the container is airtight and moistureproof. It is also easy to monitor the contents of the jar through the crystal glass. Storage of food items such as cookies, candy, flour, rice, beans, spices, or cereals is made easy with the 37oz container size.
These containers are also easy to clean. They can be safely washed in your dishwasher, and the wood lid can be cleaned with a quick hand wash. These glass food storage containers provide convenience and ease of use, making them the top product on our list.
Pros
- High-quality, food-grade glass
- Microwave and dishwasher safe
- Lids snap on tightly and securely
Cons
- Lids may be difficult to remove
- Glass may break easily
Best Value
The NeoHome Food Storage Containers provide reliable and healthy solutions for your kitchen needs. Made from high-end borosilicate glass, these containers are durable, BPA-free, and non-toxic. They are resistant to corrosion and can withstand extreme temperature changes, including boiling water. The glass food containers are both microwave and dishwasher-safe, providing convenience and ease of use.
The airtight lids of the food storage containers are made of premium nature wood with a food-grade silicone sealing ring. This combination ensures a tight seal, preventing moisture, dust, bugs, and other contaminants from entering the containers. Your food stays fresh for longer periods, making these containers ideal for storing dry, wet, or baked foods such as oatmeal, nuts, seeds, beans, spices, cut fruits, candies, and even bath salts.
One standout feature of these containers is the extra convenient spoon that comes with each set. The practical two-pack includes a bamboo spoon attached to each container’s glass loop, making it easy to access and scoop out your stored food. It saves time and maximizes storage efficiency in your cabinet. Whether you’re preparing overnight oats or doing meal prepping, the included spoon adds a convenient touch to your kitchen routine, making this one of the best on the list.
Pros
- Made of high-end borosilicate glass, BPA-free, and non-toxic
- Microwave and dishwasher safe
- Airtight lids with food-grade silicone sealing ring
Cons
- Little expensive
Easy to Clean
This KooK Food Storage Container is an ideal choice for anyone looking to keep their pantry neat and organized. These containers are made with high-quality, chip-resistant glass, which means they will last for many years. With their extra-large 3.7-liter capacity, they are perfect for holding everything from flour and sugar to pasta, cookies, and candies. The airtight lids provide a tight seal that helps keep the contents fresh for weeks. I found that storing chocolate chip cookies in jars with lids like these last so much longer. No more stale cooking with these! If you don’t want to store cookies these jars are also great for storing cotton balls, Q-Tips, bath salts, and more in the bathroom, too.
The storage containers are remarkably easy to use and clean. These containers feature an easy-grip knob on the lid that makes opening and closing them a breeze. Best of all, they are dishwasher safe, so you can quickly rinse them off or put them in the dishwasher when they need cleaning. Each jar is carefully packaged in a custom polyfoam mold to ensure it arrives in perfect condition.
Pros
- Looks great sitting out on counter
- Handle on lid for ease of opening
- Good airtight seal
Cons
- Only comes in sets of two
Most Size Variety
The ClearSpace Food Storage Containers is an ideal organizing and storage solution for pantries. The plastic canisters come with durable lids and a silicone gasket to ensure airtight closure, making them the perfect solution to keep food fresh and organized. These containers are made of BPA-free, food-grade plastic and are perfect for storing a variety of dry and liquid food items such as grains, cereals, flour, sugar, nuts, tea, and more.
They are both functional and versatile, as they maximize space and are easy to clean. With four different sizes ranging from extra-large to small and labels that can be erased and rewritten, these containers make it easy to organize any kitchen. Best of all, these containers are made of high-quality materials, and their four different sizes make it perfect to store a variety of items.
Pros
- Comes with measuring cups
- Can hold a variety of foods
- Organizes your pantry
Cons
- May break if dropped
Best for Countertop Storage
The Simply Gourmet Food Storage Container is the perfect way to keep your kitchen organized and your food fresh! These versatile containers are designed to store a variety of food items and are made from top-quality materials that won’t break down or rip. The rubber freshness seal keeps cereal, pasta, and oatmeal in perfect condition by preventing air and moisture from entering the container. This pantry organization and storage set also includes universal lids which fit all-size containers and crystal clear measurements, so you always know when it’s time to restock.
It also contains no-mess airtight food storage with sturdy plastic canisters which don’t tear, reusable labels, and included chalk pen to help you keep track of all your grains and seasonings. With this set, you are sure to have the perfect kitchen organization system that will make meal preparation much easier.
Pros
- Variety of sizes for different items
- Lids fit snugly, keeping contents secure
- Chalkboard labels and marker included
Cons
- Plastic construction is not eco-friendly
Most Containers Per Set
The Chef’s Path Food Storage Container is an excellent choice for anybody looking to achieve amazing new heights of pantry and kitchen organization. This 24-container set includes several different sizes of BPA-free, airtight food storage containers perfect for cereal, rice, flour, oats, and more. All containers can be safely stacked to save space in your refrigerator, cupboard, or kitchen counter.
One highlight of this product is its use of interchangeable lids, which makes it highly flexible and user-friendly. The plastic lids keep the contents securely stored so that it stays fresh for longer. This product comes with a chalkboard marker, labels, and a measuring spoon set, which will help you keep your pantry organized. The Chef’s Path Food Storage Container is perfect for home organization and makes a great gift for those looking to get their kitchen tidied up in style.
Pros
- Easy to store and stack
- Durable, can hold up in the dishwasher
- Airtight lid prevents food from spoiling
Cons
- Hard to hand wash
Great for Leftovers
The EatNeat Glass Storage Bowls with Lids are an excellent choice for those looking for a versatile, airtight, and stylish food storage solution. This five-piece set of glass containers is the best way to store, prepare, and serve food in style. The set includes five sizes – 6 oz, 17 oz, 34 oz, 68 oz, and 120 oz – to accommodate most kitchen organization and food storage needs.
The ultra-premium containers feature airtight locking lids that keep food fresher for longer. They are safer than plastic alternatives – made from borosilicate glass – and can go from freezer to oven to table without danger of cracking under extreme temperature changes. The bowls are stain-resistant and odor-free. The set is nested together for space-saving storage when not in use and is ideal for taking food to potluck parties or picnic cookouts. It’s a great gift for weddings, housewarmings, Mother’s Day, Christmas, or simply just a thoughtful gesture, which makes it a great pick!
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Leak resistant
- Easy to clean and store
Cons
- Cannot withstand heavy mixing
- Not suitable for baked goods
Most Recognizable Brand
For general kitchen storage of dry items as well as leftover cooked or raw food, this Rubbermaid set includes a whopping 21 containers of all sizes. Varying from half a cup to 7 cups in capacity, you can store a small amount of sauce, an extra batch of soup, and everything in between.
Some of the containers also feature vented lids; simply flip the vent to allow steam to escape for splatter-free heating. Furthermore, they are stackable, which means your pantry will always stay tidy. And, since they fit inside each other, they’re easy and compact to store when not in use. Because of their overall versatility and plastic design, I always opt for these food storage containers when I’m on the go. No need to worry about them breaking if I accidentally drop them.
Pros
- BPA-free food-grade plastic build
- Dishwasher and freezer-safe
- Clear so you can see its contents
Cons
- Containers are not airtight
Great for Pantry Storage
This set of 15 tubs from Vtopmart is perfect for storing dry foods. The containers are stackable and see-through, allowing you to see what’s inside. This lets you see how much food is left while maximizing your space without having to shove things in the back of the cupboard where they’ll be forgotten. Meanwhile, the clip-closure containers are airtight to ensure foods stay fresh for longer. With four different sizes, you can store anything from spaghetti to cookies, cereals, and dried fruit. As a bonus, you get 24 reusable stick-and-peel labels. Just make sure to wipe them clean when changing up the contents.
Pros
- Includes reusable labels
- Containers are dishwasher-safe
- Comes in four different sizes
Cons
- Plastic is opaque, and not clear
- Lids need to be hand-washed
Great for Perishables
Chefs Path offers a set of 16 containers with airtight lids. The four-hinge clip closure lids feature a silicone seal ensuring maximum protection against air and moisture. The set consists of both round and rectangular containers ranging from 12 to 35 ounces of holding capacity, allowing you to keep anything from small cereal, pretzels, and leftover sauces to larger quantity stew leftovers and whole tomatoes. Ideal for the pantry, refrigerator, and freezer, they’re also great to take on the go since they’re leakproof.
Pros
- Convenient leakproof design
- Dishwasher and microwave safe (without lids)
- Includes free labels and a chalkboard marker
Cons
- Not ideal for bulk storage capacities
Unique Lid Design
The OXO Good Grips Food Storage Containers are ideal for storing items you usually keep in large quantities in the pantry, such as baking flour, pasta, and sugar. The specially designed lid features rubber seals all the way around; once the lid is in place, press the large top button down to activate the airtight seal for fully locked-in freshness. I’ve used this lid before, and it really does keep food fresh for longer.
OXO also offers a range of separately available accessories, such as various scoops, date dials, and labels, so you can optimize your kitchen storage and ensure pantry items stay hygienic and safe.
Pros
- BPA-free plastic design
- Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning
- Airtight to keep air and moisture out
Cons
- Not suitable for freezer storage
Best for Bulk Storage
This extra-large container is ideal for keeping bulk items fresher for longer. Ideal for apples, oranges, watermelons, muffins, and large pastries, this container features easy-locking clips that ensure an airtight seal to keep air and moisture out. The container can also be used to organize multiple items together, such as pickle or jam jars, dressings, and spices. Additionally, you can warm food in the microwave safely by leaving the lid off. Best of all, there is a multitude of sizes to choose from to make up your own complete set.
Pros
- Comes in various sizes
- Dishwasher-safe design
- Spacious design to hold large quantities
Cons
- Purchase includes one container only
The Best Food Storage Container Buying Guide
Air and moisture are the enemies of fresh foods. Whether storing perishables like salad or non-perishables like dried pasta and biscuits, exposure to air and moisture will cause food to spoil faster. Although containers without proper-fitting lids can be covered in cling film or aluminum foil, this does not efficiently seal in freshness.
Ultimately, safe food storage comes down to the correct conditions and container reheating or freezing compatibility. Here’s what you must consider when choosing the safest, most space-saving food storage containers.
Glass vs. Plastic
Most reusable containers are made from either glass or plastic. Disposable aluminum foil or cardboard containers are usually for short-term use only and are unsuitable for keeping food fresh for a long time.
Glass
Glass containers allow you to store and reheat food safely without worrying about chemicals going into the food or the hassle of transferring the meal into a heatproof dish. They don’t stain or retain food odors easily and are less likely to leak than other containers. They’re heavier than plastic and break more easily while being more expensive. My family opts mainly for glass containers because they are so heavy to stain. Is there anything worse than having to scrub out tomato sauce stain from a contain? I don’t think so. Still, plastic containers have their place. Speaking of which…
Plastic
Good quality plastic containers are ideal for taking food to school or work since they don’t break easily and are much lighter. Unlike glass containers, which generally aren’t suitably sized for bulk items, plastic is available in pretty much any size. But remember that it is important only to use BPA-free, food-safe plastic containers for edible items. Plastic containers are also not suitable for warming meals in the oven and may retain stains and odors from foods with intense flavors, such as curry.
Shape and size
Round, square, and rectangular — containers come in a range of shapes, but what you pick depends on preference. Square and rectangular containers are easy to squeeze into corners and help optimize your available storage space. Round glass containers on countertops for tea, coffee, sugar or cereals do, however, add a softer touch to your display.
Having a set of different sizes is always ideal. This way, you’ll have containers small enough for small leftover items and large family meals, casseroles, or cereals, which usually come in bulk quantities. When not in use, you can store them inside each other, which saves space and keeps everything organized.
Colors and Compartments
Clear containers are incredibly handy since you can see what’s inside and how much is left. This makes grabbing what you need from the cupboard easy without opening multiple containers. Alternatively, colored plastic containers can be helpful in color coding your storage or giving each child a specific color for their school lunch.
Some units feature smaller compartments within the container. This allows you to keep smaller food items separate but still in the same container instead of using a different container for each. For example, you can separate different color frostings for cupcake decorating or prevent your salad from leaking onto your sandwich.
Lids
Although air-tight containers are a little pricier, they will ensure your food stays fresher for longer. Clip-on lids with a rubber seal keep air and moisture out, protecting food from going stale and preventing discoloration or textural changes. They also prevent odors from getting out and being absorbed by other foods in the fridge or freezer. Whichever food storage containers you choose, make sure the lids fit well, aren’t cracked, and don’t pop off on their own. I was surprised how much longer some of my foods lasted in the fridge and freezer due to airtight lids. I noticed that my frozen foods were barely, if at all, freezer-burned after swapping to airtight lids.
Plastic Safety
If you’re choosing plastic containers, make sure they’re made from BPA-free, food-safe materials. Plastic containers that are not food-safe will transfer harmful chemicals into food during storage and heating. A quick way to determine this is to look at the recycling code on the container. The best options are items marked 1, 2, 4, and 5. Avoid anything marked with a 7, as this contains BPA.
Reheating, Freezing, and Dishwasher Suitability
Although some containers are freezer, oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe, not all of them are this versatile. If you use containers not designed for the freezer or heating, they will crack or melt when exposed to extreme temperatures. Even placing hot food in a container not made for heat exposure can cause damage. Make sure that the containers you choose are compatible before placing them in the dishwasher or exposing them to extreme temperatures.
People Also Asked
Is it better to store baking flour in glass or plastic containers?
Since flour is not going to be heated or frozen in the container, plastic and glass are equally suitable as long as the container has a tight-fitting (preferably airtight) lid to slow oxidation.
Will an airtight storage tub keep bugs out?
Airtight containers are one of the best ways to keep bugs out, as long as the bugs are not already in the grains when decanting them into the container.
Can I use bay leaves to deter pantry moths?
Yes, bay leaves are known to deter moths, flies, mice, and roaches due to their bitter smell. Add a bay leaf to dry food containers when storing grain, rice, or flour to do the trick.
How long much longer does food last in airtight containers?
Food stored in airtight containers will keep for longer than food stored outside of airtight containers. Food lifespan depends on each individual food, though. A person cannot say how long food will last by just knowing which container it is in. In general, though, food that doesn't need to be refrigerated will last the longest, then frozen food, then refrigerate.
Does cleaning my airtight containers in the dishwasher ruin them?
Certain containers should never be washed in the dishwasher. Doing so will ruin their ability to seal and lead to food not lasting as long. When it comes to dishwasher-safe containers, make sure not to wash them too hot and ruin the seal.
