Finding the right food storage container is about more than just tucking away leftovers. It’s about preserving freshness, maximizing space in your fridge, and making meal prep a seamless part of your routine. The perfect container prevents spills in your lunch bag, keeps your dry goods safe from moisture, and transitions easily from freezer to microwave.
With so many options available, from classic plastic to durable glass and innovative silicone, selecting the best set can feel overwhelming. To simplify your search, we have compiled a list of ten highly-rated food storage containers that excel in keeping your food fresh and your kitchen organized.
The Best Food Storage Containers for Your Kitchen
- Progressive ProKeeper Baker’s Airtight Kitchen Storage Set
- Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5
- Pyrex Simply Store 9-Pack Mixed Sized Glass Food Storage Set
- OXO Good Grips 10-Piece POP Container Set
- Snapware Total Solutions Glass Food Storage Set
- HOMBERKING 10 Pack Borosilicate Glass Meal Prep Containers
- Ziploc Endurables Reusable Silicone Bags, 2 Pack
- Stasher Premium Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags
- Pyrex Freshlock Glass Food Storage Containers Set
- Lock & Lock Easy Essentials Food Storage Container Set
Progressive ProKeeper Baker’s Airtight Kitchen Storage Set
This 6-piece set is specifically designed for the home baker, offering specialized containers for all your essential dry ingredients. It includes dedicated keepers for flour, sugar, brown sugar, and powdered sugar, along with two mini containers for smaller items like spices. The set is designed for functionality, featuring tools like a leveling bar for flour, a flip-to-pour spout for sugar, and a Terra Cotta disk to maintain moisture in brown sugar.
Each container is airtight, ensuring your baking staples remain fresh and free from contaminants. Measurement marks on the side allow you to easily see when you are running low, helping you manage your inventory. This set brings order and efficiency to your pantry, making the baking process more streamlined and enjoyable.
Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5
If you are looking for crystal-clear, leak-proof plastic containers, the Rubbermaid Brilliance set is a top contender. Made from BPA-free Tritan plastic, the lids and bases offer 360-degree clarity so you can instantly identify the contents. The airtight seal is highly effective at locking in freshness and preventing spills, making these containers reliable for transporting soups, sauces, and other liquids.
These containers are built for convenience. The material is stain-resistant and resists odors, so they stay looking new. Built-in vents under the latches allow for splatter-resistant microwaving with the lid on, which is a useful feature for reheating meals directly in the container.
Pyrex Simply Store 9-Pack Mixed Sized Glass Food Storage Set
Pyrex is a trusted name in kitchenware, and this 18-piece set offers tremendous value with a mix of round and rectangular containers. The tempered glass construction does not absorb stains or food odors, and it is safe for use in the microwave, dishwasher, and freezer. This versatility makes it ideal for storing, reheating, and freezing a wide variety of foods.
The set includes a practical range of sizes, from a large 7-cup round down to a small 1-cup round, accommodating everything from large batches of leftovers to individual portions. The simple, snap-on lids are BPA-free and help keep food fresh. This set is a workhorse for everyday food storage and meal preparation.
OXO Good Grips 10-Piece POP Container Set
For exceptional pantry organization, the OXO POP containers are a popular choice. This set focuses on creating an airtight environment for dry goods like cereal, pasta, and snacks. The signature push-button mechanism seals in freshness with a single press, and the button also acts as a handle for easy opening.
These containers are designed to be space-efficient, with uniform rectangular shapes that stack neatly. The set includes ten containers in various sizes, allowing you to consolidate opened packages and reduce clutter. Being completely dishwasher safe makes cleanup simple, maintaining a clean and organized pantry with minimal effort.
Snapware Total Solutions Glass Food Storage Set
The Snapware Total Solutions set combines the benefits of glass with a secure, locking lid system. This 24-piece set includes a variety of round, square, and rectangular containers, perfect for meal prepping and storing leftovers. The four locking tabs on each lid create an airtight and leakproof seal, providing confidence when transporting meals.
Made from high-quality glass and BPA-free plastic, these containers are built to last. They are safe for the microwave, freezer, and dishwasher, offering full versatility for your food storage needs. Both the containers and lids are designed to stack efficiently, saving valuable cabinet space.
HOMBERKING 10 Pack Borosilicate Glass Meal Prep Containers
For those who need durable, oven-safe containers, the HOMBERKING set is an excellent option. Made from borosilicate glass, these containers can withstand extreme temperature changes, making them safe for use directly in the oven, microwave, and freezer. The set includes ten containers in two practical sizes: 36oz and 14oz.
The containers feature an improved locking lid with a silicone seal to create a leak-proof environment, which is ideal for saucy dishes or carrying lunches. The robust construction and versatile temperature range make these containers suitable for cooking, baking, storing, and reheating all in one dish.
Ziploc Endurables Reusable Silicone Bags, 2 Pack
Offering a modern twist on food storage, Ziploc Endurables are reusable silicone bags that are incredibly versatile. These medium pouches hold up to two cups and are designed to go seamlessly from freezer to oven to microwave. The durable silicone is a reliable alternative to single-use plastic bags.
Features like Cool Grab Tabs make handling the bags safe and easy after heating. They are also dishwasher safe, simplifying the cleaning process. This product is perfect for marinating, sous vide cooking, storing leftovers, or packing snacks without the waste of disposable bags.
Stasher Premium Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags
Stasher bags are a premium, eco-friendly choice for reusable storage. Made from pure platinum food-grade silicone, they are free from harmful chemicals like BPA, BPS, and lead. The patented Pinch-Loc seal creates a leak-proof closure, making them suitable for liquids and messy foods.
Their versatility is a major advantage; they are safe for the dishwasher, microwave, oven (up to 425°F), and even boiling water. Beyond food, they can be used for organizing toiletries, office supplies, or other small items. Each Stasher bag replaces hundreds of single-use plastic bags, making it a sustainable investment.
Pyrex Freshlock Glass Food Storage Containers Set
The Pyrex Freshlock set provides the reliability of Pyrex glass with the added security of locking lids. This 14-piece set includes a well-rounded assortment of round and rectangular containers, suitable for everything from small snacks to larger family-sized portions. The glass resists stains and odors, ensuring easy cleaning and maintenance.
The locking lids are designed to be airtight and leakproof, giving you peace of mind when storing liquids or transporting meals. Like other Pyrex products, the containers are microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe, offering the full range of functionality that users expect from this trusted brand.
Lock & Lock Easy Essentials Food Storage Container Set
For a comprehensive solution, the Lock & Lock Easy Essentials set offers a substantial 20-piece collection. These containers are known for their reliable sealing mechanisms that effectively lock in freshness and prevent leaks. The set typically includes a wide range of sizes to accommodate various storage needs, from small ingredients to large leftovers.
Constructed from BPA-free materials, these containers are designed for everyday use. They are generally safe for microwave and dishwasher use, adding to their convenience. This large set is ideal for someone looking to build or replace their entire food storage collection at once.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Food Storage Containers for Leftovers
I’ve been through my fair share of food storage containers. I’ve dealt with lids that vanish into thin air, containers that stain forever after one encounter with tomato sauce, and stacks that tumble out of the cabinet every time I open the door. Over time, I’ve learned what separates a decent container from a kitchen superstar. If you’re looking to upgrade your leftover game, here’s what I consider before making a purchase.
First and foremost is the material. Glass containers are my personal favorite because they don’t absorb stains or odors, and you can see exactly what’s inside. They’re also safe to go from the fridge directly into the microwave or oven without worrying about harmful chemicals leaching into your food. On the other hand, high-quality BPA-free plastic is lightweight and less likely to break if dropped, making it a good option for packed lunches or if you have kids. I also look for stainless steel for certain things, as it’s incredibly durable and perfect for non-microwave uses, though you can’t see through it.
The sealing lid is arguably the most critical part. A bad seal means leaks and spoiled food. I always look for lids with a secure locking mechanism, often with clips on four sides, and a silicone gasket. This type of seal is essential for storing liquids like soups or sauces and for keeping food fresh for longer. For my stack of everyday food storage containers for leftovers, I make sure the lids are interchangeable within the same brand to simplify my life.
Shape and stackability are huge for cabinet organization. Rectangular and square containers use space more efficiently than round ones, both in your fridge and in your cabinet. I prefer sets that are nestable (the containers fit inside one another) and where the lids stack neatly together. A uniform design saves a tremendous amount of space and prevents the dreaded “container avalanche.”
Finally, I think about versatility. Can I use this container in the freezer? Is it dishwasher safe? Many of the best containers are, which makes cleanup a breeze. I also appreciate sets that come in a variety of sizes, from small cups for dressings or dips to large rectangles for storing a full meal. Having the right size for the job means less wasted plastic wrap and fewer flimsy takeout containers cluttering up my kitchen.
FAQ
What is the best material for food storage containers?
There isn’t one single “best” material; it depends on your needs. I prefer glass because it’s inert, meaning it won’t stain or hold onto smells, and it’s perfectly safe for reheating in the microwave or oven. For durability and lightweight portability, high-quality, BPA-free plastic is a great choice. Stainless steel is another excellent, long-lasting option, though it’s not for microwave use.
Are plastic food storage containers safe?
Most modern plastic containers made for food are BPA-free and considered safe. However, I am always careful to check the manufacturer’s guidelines. I avoid using old, scratched, or damaged plastic containers, as they can harbor bacteria and may potentially leach chemicals. For heating food, I typically transfer it to a glass or ceramic dish to be extra cautious.
How can I prevent my containers from smelling like old food?
This is a common problem, especially with plastic. My go-to solution is to create a paste with baking soda and a little water, spread it inside the container, and let it sit for a few hours before washing. You can also try wiping the container with a white vinegar solution or leaving a piece of crumpled newspaper inside for a day or two to absorb the odor.
Can I put my glass storage containers in the freezer?
Most tempered glass containers are freezer-safe, but it’s crucial to check the specific product details. To prevent thermal shock and cracking, I always make sure the food has cooled to room temperature before freezing and leave about an inch of headspace for liquids to expand. Avoid placing a hot glass container directly into the freezer.
Why won’t my container lids stack neatly?
I feel your pain! This is often a design flaw. When shopping for a new set of food storage containers for leftovers, I specifically look for brands that advertise stackable or nesting lids. Many modern sets have lids that are uniform in shape or designed to clip together, which completely solves this frustrating kitchen puzzle.
What should I do with old plastic containers I don’t want to use anymore?
If they’re in good condition, consider donating them. Otherwise, check your local recycling guidelines. Many communities now accept certain types of plastic food containers in curbside recycling. If they’re not recyclable in your area, you can get creative and use them for organizing small items like hardware, craft supplies, or as non-food storage in the garage.