We assessed their quality based on a number of factors, including performance, ease of cleaning, overall design, and capacity.

We did three tests to measure the above categories. First, we filled each container with a cup of tomato sauce and chopped yellow onion. We let that sit in the refrigerator for three nights, emptied the contents, ran it through the dishwasher, and then noted if any stains developed or if there were any lingering smells after.

We then tested the containers that claimed to have a tight seal, or boasted that they were "spill-resistant," to see if any leakage occurred. We filled the containers up with water mixed with food coloring, wrapped them in a towel, and shook vigorously to see if any of the dyed liquid appeared on our towel.

For the plastic containers, we tested durability by dropping them onto the floor, filled with liquid, to see if they broke or if the lid popped off. We took all these insights and used them to come up with the best food storage containers. Most food storage containers are either made of glass or plastic, both of which come with pros and cons.

Finding the material that works best for you is all dependent on your lifestyle. Plastic containers also often have more tight-fitting lids than glass containers, and are less likely to break on impact and are much lighter to carry around than glass ones.

Glass, on the other hand, is durable, less likely to stain from stored food, and better able to keep smells at bay. Costello says its durability makes it better suited for microwaving and freezing than plastic containers, as it is less likely to crack.

For pantries with critter challenges, Costello recommends opting for glass or metal containers. Food storage containers come in all kinds of sizes, each suitable for different purposes and quantities.

Large bins are good for storing large amounts of dry food, such as cereal, pasta, and flour. The partially open boxes or bags that typically contain these kinds of foods leave them susceptible to invasion by pantry bugs, so more secure bins are particularly great at keeping pests away.

Not only that, but these kinds of bins will also make your kitchen cabinets look a lot more organized. Canisters are another excellent storage option, especially for dry foods you use often and want readily accessible on the kitchen countertop.

Since many canisters come in stylish designs, they can also double as counter decor. If you eat leftovers often, consider looking into food container storage sets. Sets feature many of the same size food storage containers or multiple sizes to accommodate different amounts of leftovers.

If your leftovers tend to be of the same size, get a set that has multiples of the same-sized food storage container. If you make large batches of food, such as stews, or your own salad dressings alongside portioned meals, get a set that includes big, medium, and small-sized options.

When it comes to food storage containers, durability is the ability to handle all kinds of different environments, including those found in the microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher. When buying food storage containers, make sure that they fit your storage lifestyle. That distinction will usually be made by the manufacturer.

If you prefer reheating leftovers in the oven, go with a glass food storage container. When putting them in the dishwasher, make sure to remove the gasket around the lid, if there is one.

The area between the gasket and the part of the lid where the gasket slides into is difficult to get completely dry due to the lack of airflow. Not adequately drying that area makes it ripe for the production of mold. Even so, we were disappointed by the excessive leakage during testing.

When choosing between plastic and glass storage containers, Coleman says a lot depends on personal preference. Coleman also advises considering where you are planning to keep the canisters and containers. Costello agrees that plastic is a safer choice when children are present. She also mentions that while plastic is ideal for storing dry goods, glass is a more durable option for heating and freezing.

Coleman says storing food in storage containers will definitely make it stay fresh longer , particularly if the container has an airtight lid. Costello notes that airtight containers do tend to cost more, so if budget is a concern, consider saving the airtight containers for longer-lasting foods and use non-airtight ones for foods with quicker turnarounds.

If you are planning to finish the bag of food quickly, it may not be worth decanting it. In terms of expiration dates , Coleman recommends denoting them on the storage container. She says she often advises clients to either write the expiration date on the bottom with a dry erase marker or use a label maker to print the date in small font.

She adds that clear containers allow you to more easily identify what food is inside and how much is left rather than opening up the package. Coleman emphasizes that the main benefit of using storage containers is to keep the contents fresh longer.

She says by choosing containers with airtight lids in particular, you may be less inclined to be lazy as there is no choice but to put the lid on it.

Along with making food last, Coleman feels that another benefit of using storage containers is their sleek appearance. This article was written by Rachel Center , a home cook and product reviews home writer for Real Simple, and updated by Jamie Fischer , a commerce writer for Real Simple.

To compile this list, we tested 21 food storage containers in our Lab and evaluated each on design, capacity, ease of cleaning, and performance. We also tapped two professional organizers: Ashley Coleman , professional organizer and founder of Done Neatly, and Alejandra Costello , an organization expert and certified life coach.

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn't an option.

All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company. Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects , from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.

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Develop and improve services. Use limited data to select content. Which Tightvac container do I need? Quick tips for maintaining your Tightvac food container Maintaining your Tightvac airtight food storage containers is easy, just hand-wash and dry! Purchase directly from the manufacturer Purchasing directly from the manufacturer ensures your desired Tightvac is original quality, and is shipped out swiftly.

Featured Best Selling Alphabetically, A-Z Alphabetically, Z-A Price, low to high Price, high to low Date, new to old Date, old to new. TV0 Vitavac. TV1 Minivac. TV2 Tightvac. TV3 Tightvac. TV4 Tightvac.

TV5 Tightvac. TV6 Kilovac. TV7 Breadvac 5lb Container. Pastavac - Keep your pasta fresh. Tightvac Links About us Blog FAQ What is Tightvac?

NSF CERTIFIED Tested and certified for food safety. Keep in Touch. American Express Apple Pay Diners Club Discover Meta Pay Google Pay Mastercard PayPal Shop Pay Venmo Visa. These containers earned top scores in our test for keeping air out and that means keeping freshness in.

The lids are see-through and have a flexible edge that won't crack over time, and though we did see slight denting in the lids after several high-heat dishwasher cycles, we were able to pop them right back into place.

The lids are textured and the lip on the side helps with opening and sealing, but they aren't the best for holding large amounts of liquid as we saw water loss during both our shake test and overnight leakage test.

This line features nested containers and nested lids, so when you put them away, you only have to clear space for the largest-sized container. The lids snap onto the containers to create a tight seal, though we found leaking during our testing and wouldn't recommend them for liquids.

Similar to other plastic containers we tested, these are prone to staining if used with highly pigmented foods. The larger sizes are great for batch cooking. If you like your plastic baggies and Ziplocs, you'll love Stasher reusable bags , which will save you money in the long run.

Store fruits, veggies and other snacks in the bags' thick, but flexible silicone that's transparent and comes in an assortment of colors and sizes.

They seal and open easily. When we tested them at home, they kept herbs wrapped in a damp paper towel fresh for weeks, and we didn't have to shuffle everything around in our fridge to make room for them since they take up minimal space.

Stasher bags are freezer-, microwave-, oven- and dishwasher-safe and can even be used in boiling water for cooking sous vide! We did notice staining during our in-Lab tomato sauce testing so keep that in mind when storing pigmented foods. The shapes in this set stand out for their versatility and it comes with 11 containers plus their lids at a great price especially when on sale!

The containers nest and their lids are slim for easy storage. Pyrex containers can be used in the oven, which makes them great for reheating leftovers or crisping small servings — just be sure to let them come to room temperature first to avoid thermal shock, per the brand.

In our dishwasher test, we ran each 4-cup round container and 3-cup rectangular container through the dishwasher five times. While the glass was naturally unscathed, we found that the lids can become slightly deformed after multiple cycles which may lead to leaking if storing liquids.

Zwilling may be known for its cutlery, but the German knife maker has expanded into food vacuum sealing. The vacuum-seal containers are easy to use and help keep your leftovers airtight. They're also great for marinating or storing raw meat after you've opened a pack.

The vacuum sealer is compact and attaches to the lid of the container to seal it with the press of a button. This model was a top performer during our leak tests, and once sealed properly, the lid didn't budge.

While this set only includes one large 2. In our tests, we found that the containers held up very nicely when run through the dishwasher, and we were impressed by how thick and durable the glass was.

These twist-and-seal food storage containers are a favorite in the Kitchen Appliances Lab and have kept food items fresh in our pantry for months. The silicone seal helps keep air out, which is ideal for storing pasta, flour and other dry goods while the rounded edges allow for easy pouring.

The whole container isn't dishwasher safe, but the top can be hand-washed. The square shape and design make stacking a breeze and range in sizes from. When testing, we noticed that the twist-to-lock top and release buttons may be tricky for some people to grab and use.

We love that the Neat Stack lunch containers are not only some of the more affordable storage containers out there, but that they can be stored in your cabinets without taking up too much space.

The nesting set comes with five containers in various sizes to hold anything from ½ cups of fruit to whole meals and comes with a freezer pack that can attach to the large lids to help keep your lunch cold when traveling.

Each size container is color-coded and has engraved cup sizes for each, including 5-cup, 3-cup and ½-cup versions, great for portioning during meal prep.

Several containers share the same lid size, so there's less fumbling for the right match. We did notice staining during our freezer to microwave test so keep that in mind when heating pigment-rich foods.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test all kinds of kitchen gear, from air fryers to chef's knives to food storage containers. In our latest food storage container test, we tested 21 container brands to evaluate performance and ease of use.

For leak testing, we filled each container with water to its maximum capacity, secured the lid, weighed the container then vigorously shoot it for one minute.

We then weighed the container again to determine how much water was lost. Then, we refilled each container with water and left them upside down for 24 hours to see how much they retained.

For each dishwasher-safe container, we performed over 10 hours of washing on the highest heat and water cycle to evaluate disfiguration and record any damage that occur during each cleaning cycle.

During our freezer-to-microwave testing, we used more than 25 ounce jars of traditional pasta sauce to see how well each container performed in the freezer and then in the microwave. We assessed staining, damage and how well they cleaned. When shopping for food storage containers, the below features are important to keep in mind to find the best performing set for your home:.

Shop Target for small airtight containers you will love at great low prices. Choose from Same Day Delivery, Drive Up or Order Pickup plus free shipping on The average price for Food Storage Containers ranges from $10 to $ What are a few brands that you carry in Food Storage Containers? We Best Budget Dry Food Storage Containers. Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set

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We've tested dozens of food-storage containers over the years, subjecting them to repeated freezing, microwaving, and 3-foot drops onto hard floors Price Range. minus. Under $10 (). $10 to $25 (). $25 to $50 (78) Plastic and glass food storage containers are usually appropriate Best Budget: Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set This dry food storage set comes with 14 containers, and it's so beloved by the: Low-cost airtight containers

These containrrs Affordable pantry essentials kept my food fresh Subscription-based samples have never ccontainers the food a plastic taste. And they look nice. Zirtight think this set offers the best range of sizes and shapes among the plastic containers we tested. These vacuumed sealed containers are also fantastic for small crafting items, and terrific storage for personal, office, and travel items. Enhancements you chose aren't available for this seller.	PrepWorks by Progressive Large Cereal Keeper. Material: BPA-free plastic What's Included: 2 0. Create profiles for personalised advertising. FREE Returns Return this item for free Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. The lids here are a real standout. I love the little labels they came with.	Shop Target for small airtight containers you will love at great low prices. Choose from Same Day Delivery, Drive Up or Order Pickup plus free shipping on The average price for Food Storage Containers ranges from $10 to $ What are a few brands that you carry in Food Storage Containers? We Best Budget Dry Food Storage Containers. Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set	Best Budget Dry Food Storage Containers. Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set Best Budget: Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set This dry food storage set comes with 14 containers, and it's so beloved by the Pyrex Piece Glass Food Storage Container Pyrex really delivers when it comes to affordable glass kitchenware, and this food storage set is	PRAKI Airtight Food Storage Containers Set with Lids - 24 PCS, BPA Free Kitchen and Price: Low to High · Price: High to Low · Avg. Customer Review · Newest Missing Airtight Food Storage Container(+) ; Now$ current price Now $ $ Was $ · out of 5 Stars. reviews ; From $ · out of 5
They're cpntainers great for when you have Affordable pantry essentials big haul of fruit or vegetables from containrs picking, Cheap lunch deals they make a great bucket airtihht when Affordable pantry essentials airtibht to rinse containerd prepare produce. Why Low-cost airtight containers Great: Basic starter Subscription-based samples, great quality, flip-buckle lid is unique, part of an open-stock collection. Important information To report an issue with this product or seller, click here. To learn as much as we could about materials, and what makes a great container, we've talked with several experts over the years, including glass scientists and cookbook editors. Airtightness A good seal that keeps out all air and moisture is key for keeping your dry goods fresh for a longer period of time.	TV5 Tightvac. Cons Not the best for liquids. The set includes five containers of varying sizes, with capacities ranging from 16 to 54 ounces, and while the mouth doesn't particularly accommodate measuring cups for scooping flour and similar ingredients, we found dry measuring spoons can easily fit inside. The clear materials make it easy to see when your ingredients are running low. A hard material, like plastic or glass, keeps them away from dry goods.	Shop Target for small airtight containers you will love at great low prices. Choose from Same Day Delivery, Drive Up or Order Pickup plus free shipping on The average price for Food Storage Containers ranges from $10 to $ What are a few brands that you carry in Food Storage Containers? We Best Budget Dry Food Storage Containers. Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set	Store bulk food and keep it fresh longer with airtight food storage containers! Shop WebstaurantStore today for wholesale prices and fast shipping! and shop the best of our airtight food containers solutions at ContainerStore Price Range. plus. Under $10 (14). $10 to $25 (11). $25 to Missing	Shop Target for small airtight containers you will love at great low prices. Choose from Same Day Delivery, Drive Up or Order Pickup plus free shipping on The average price for Food Storage Containers ranges from $10 to $ What are a few brands that you carry in Food Storage Containers? We Best Budget Dry Food Storage Containers. Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set
Pros Preheated oven-safe Includes several containers. Affordable pantry essentials Ratings. Pros Containegs silicone construction containrrs these extremely versatile and contaiiners. The set includes five containers in varying sizes, five matching lids, two scoops, and a brown sugar saver. Use profiles to select personalised advertising. Our tests built on our testing from previous years.	To report an issue with this product or seller, click here. Your family members tend to lose containers. Best Airtight. They come in different sizes and they included cute labels with a marker But if you have kids who will be serving themselves or if someone in your home has mobility issues, you may want to consider a lid that fits snugly to keep air from entering the container but also comes off easily, and comes with a lid for easy pouring or scooping. Photo: Michael Murtaugh.	Shop Target for small airtight containers you will love at great low prices. Choose from Same Day Delivery, Drive Up or Order Pickup plus free shipping on The average price for Food Storage Containers ranges from $10 to $ What are a few brands that you carry in Food Storage Containers? We Best Budget Dry Food Storage Containers. Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set	Air Tight Container In Food Storage Containers · 32 Pack Kitchen Plastic Food Containers with Airtight Lids Leak Proof & Freezer · 20 Piece Glass Food Storage Best Budget Dry Food Storage Containers. Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set Tightvac's food storage containers are airtight and water resistant. These unique Price, low to high, Price, high to low, Date, new to old, Date, old to new	We've tested dozens of food-storage containers over the years, subjecting them to repeated freezing, microwaving, and 3-foot drops onto hard floors Vtopmart Airtight Food Storage Containers, 7 Pieces BPA Free Plastic Cereal Containers with Easy Lock Lids, for Kitchen Pantry Organization and Storage, Include We tested the best food storage containers, from ones that are airtight and leakproof to those that are collapsible, made of glass or

Low-cost airtight containers - Airtight Food Storage Container(+) ; Now$ current price Now $ $ Was $ · out of 5 Stars. reviews ; From $ · out of 5 Shop Target for small airtight containers you will love at great low prices. Choose from Same Day Delivery, Drive Up or Order Pickup plus free shipping on The average price for Food Storage Containers ranges from $10 to $ What are a few brands that you carry in Food Storage Containers? We Best Budget Dry Food Storage Containers. Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set

We then weighed the container again to determine how much water was lost. Then, we refilled each container with water and left them upside down for 24 hours to see how much they retained.

For each dishwasher-safe container, we performed over 10 hours of washing on the highest heat and water cycle to evaluate disfiguration and record any damage that occur during each cleaning cycle. During our freezer-to-microwave testing, we used more than 25 ounce jars of traditional pasta sauce to see how well each container performed in the freezer and then in the microwave.

We assessed staining, damage and how well they cleaned. When shopping for food storage containers, the below features are important to keep in mind to find the best performing set for your home:.

Glass can often be used in the oven, while plastic cannot. Plastic containers are also prone to staining when storing highly pigmented foods; glass is not. Though most plastic is now BPA Bisphenol A -free, it's always wise to double-check as some food container sets may include BPA parts because, according to the FDA , "current approved uses of BPA in food containers and packaging are safe.

Some simply press down to close while others have clasps on the sides. This roundup was written by Nicole Papantoniou , who runs the GH Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab and oversees all content and testing related to cooking products.

She started testing and developing cooking tools, gadgets, gear and appliances in though she's been cooking since she was 12 years old. Nicole is trained in classic culinary arts and is a professional recipe developer.

A previous version of this article was written by Raena Loper , a former product reviews editor for GH. Raena worked closely with the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute to gather and analyze all testing data collected for food storage containers conducted in the most recent tests.

Raena is a graduate from Montclair State University where she earned a degree in fashion studies as well as gender, sexuality and women's studies. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, cooking BBQ and spending time with family.

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The Best Portable Carpet Cleaners. Skip to Content Product Reviews Life Health Food Beauty. sign in. Our top picks: 1. Pros Lightweight, sturdy design Transparent Easily stackable. Cons Lids are cumbersome to store. Material Plastic Dishwasher-safe Yes, top-rack dishwasher safe Freezer-safe Yes Microwave-safe Yes BPA-free according to manufacturer Yes lid and container.

Pros Very affordable Stackable Lids lock into place. Cons May stain over time. Pros Features a tight seal Assortment of shapes and sizes Stackable and transparent. Cons Pricey Not ideal for taking on the go.

Material Plastic Dishwasher-safe Yes, top-rack dishwasher safe Freezer-safe No Microwave-safe No BPA-free according to manufacturer Yes lid and container. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below.

Pros Oven-safe up to ºF without lids Top performer in Lab tests Lids are easy to put on and take off. Cons Not watertight. Material Glass with plastic lids Dishwasher-safe Yes, top-rack dishwasher safe Freezer-safe Yes Microwave-safe Yes BPA-free according to manufacturer Yes lid and container.

Pros Great value Space-saving nesting design. Cons Lids can be tricky to lock into place. Pros Oven-safe up to ºF Flexible, stand-up design takes up minimal room in fridge BPA- and PVC-free.

Cons Not as compact as Ziplocs when storing. Material Silicone Dishwasher-safe Yes, top-rack dishwasher safe Freezer-safe Yes Microwave-safe Yes BPA-free according to manufacturer Yes.

Pros Preheated oven-safe Includes several containers. Cons Lids may deform slightly in the dishwasher Not great for transporting liquids. Material Glass with plastic lids Dishwasher-safe Yes, top-rack dishwasher safe Freezer-safe Yes Microwave-safe Yes, without lid BPA-free according to manufacturer Yes lid and container.

Pros Easy to use Works quickly Creates a vaccum seal. Cons Pricey. Material Glass container with plastic lid; plastic food storage bags Dishwasher-safe Yes, top-rack dishwasher safe Freezer-safe Yes Microwave-safe Yes BPA-free according to manufacturer Yes lid and container. Pros Available in multiple sizes Lid twist to seal.

Cons Top may be tricky for some. Material Plastic Dishwasher-safe Base is top-rack dishwasher safe, the lid is not Freezer-safe No Microwave-safe No BPA-free according to manufacturer Yes lid and container. Pros Comes with a cooling freezer pack Size labels on each container Great value.

Cons Not the best for liquids. How we test food storage containers. Philip Friedman. How to shop for the best food storage container. Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Raena Loper Freelance Writer. Watch Next. Product Reviews. Our top picks all passed our tests, so the best food storage containers for your kitchen will come down to preference: think material, storage capacity, and cost. If you tend to cook in bulk, you may want to supplement the set with more large pieces.

Nine pieces and their lids are included, ranging in size from a 0. The thick glass walls and airtight lids keep food protected from air and freezer burn, keeping contents fresher for longer. Testing this set, we were impressed with the overall construction and performance of these containers. It took a few days for a halved avocado to start browning, and even longer for cut lettuce to show signs of wilting.

We also like that the tight-fitting seal makes these containers leakproof, so no need to worry about them dripping in a lunch box. Material: Glass, polypropylene Number of Pieces: 9 plus lids. We noticed the plastic held on to some odors when we washed them by hand.

Also, the largest container holds just 5 cups, so you may need to add more large pieces to your collection for batch cooking. With so many plastic food storage container options out there, this piece set from Rubbermaid rises above the competition with its shatterproof, stackable design.

Also, strong odors were difficult to remove from the lids with hand-washing alone, but running them through the dishwasher helped. When we tested this set, its tight seals stood out to us — we kept a halved avocado fairly green after three days, and blueberries stayed fresher than if we had stored them in their original plastic tub.

We further tested its sealing capabilities with zero leaks or spills to report, even when we vigorously shook a container with liquid inside.

Material: Tritan plastic Number of Pieces: 10 plus lids. Pyrex really delivers when it comes to affordable glass kitchenware, and this food storage set is no exception. This piece set includes a 7-cup round, a 6-cup rectangle, two 4-cup rounds, two 3-cup rectangles, two 2-cup round, and a 1-cup round container, each with its own lid.

Made of tempered glass, these containers are safe to use in the dishwasher, freezer, microwave, and oven. While some containers have ridges where the lids snap on, these have a smooth design that makes them especially easy to clean, whether by hand or in the dishwasher.

Material: Tempered glass, plastic Number of Pieces: 9 plus lids. The Tritan construction gives you a perfectly clear view of each containers contents from every angle.

Another outstanding collection from Rubbermaid, the Brilliance line consists of sturdy Tritan plastic, making it shatterproof and stain- and odor-resistant. This set includes a 0. When we tested fresh produce, these containers kept spinach, berries, and a halved avocado in pretty good shape over a few days.

The Tritan plastic resisted staining notably well, even after holding red sauce and yellow curry for several days. The containers can be cleaned by hand or in the dishwasher, and are safe to use in the fridge, freezer, and microwave.

Material: Tritan plastic Number of Pieces: 7 plus lids. If you want to avoid single-use plastics, consider this set of food storage bags a worthy investment.

This set includes four pieces: a ounce flat bag, a ounce standing bag, an ounce sandwich bag, and a ounce snack bag. One bag kept a halved avocado from going mushy in the fridge while another kept ice crystals from covering berries in the freezer. We also tested them for storing dry goods and appreciated that they work just as well as any airtight container as long as you close them properly.

One editor even uses them to pack liquid toiletries and makeup when traveling. While the bags are dishwasher safe, the inside edges are harder to get clean; we used a straw cleaning brush to get into the corners and the grooves of the seal.

Material: Silicone Number of Pieces: 4. In the pantry, storage containers can extend the shelf life of goods that arrive in hard-to-close packaging.

Our third pick from Rubbermaid, this set has a modular design for easy stacking and space-saving. The containers are clear from top to bottom, so you can easily keep tabs on your inventory. Durable and thick, their BPA-free plastic construction makes them suitable for daily use, and each container comes with a lid that seals tightly, keeping out moisture and humidity.

They're also leakproof and can be used in the freezer in addition to the pantry. We were impressed with these containers for their tight seals, how easily they cleaned up, and the lack of stains and smells left behind. For more extensive organizing, Rubbermaid offers this set in several configurations, from individual pieces to larger sets.

We find the piece set just right for storing everything from pantry essentials to cut vegetables or fruit in the refrigerator. Material: BPA-free plastic Number of Pieces: 10 plus lids. As we mentioned, the best set of storage containers depend on your preferences. If we were to choose one best overall, it would be the Glasslock Piece Assorted Glass Storage Container Set for its strong, oven-safe glass; tight, locking lids; versatile shapes and sizes; and the fact that it can stand up to the oven and freezer alike.

We tested 76 food storage container sets, which included 35 plastic sets, 24 glass sets, 13 reusable silicone bags, two reusable fabric bags, and two ceramic canister sets. We tested containers in several everyday situations to see how well they could keep brown sugar from drying out, preserve cut avocados, freeze berries, and resist stains from tomato sauce and odors from raw onions, to name a few scenarios.

We tested the containers as it made sense, so pantry canisters and taller bins did not go through our refrigerator, freezer, and microwave tests. The food storage containers that made our list received top marks in testing, in addition to meeting our standards for capacity, ease of cleaning, and design.

This set includes a nice assortment for singles or a couple. Made of thick glass with locking airtight lids, these containers can be used in the fridge, freezer, and microwave and can be placed in the dishwasher for easy cleaning. This is a glass version of the popular Brilliance Tritan set on this list.

The glass bases are suitable for use in the oven up to degrees, allowing them to double as cookware and serveware. It's more expensive than the average glass set, however. Made of borosilicate glass, these containers can go from the freezer to the oven.

We love that this set stacks and nests really well, saving space wherever you decide to use them. They performed well in our leakproof tests and are also easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher.

This vintage-styled set includes 18 containers with lids, ranging in size from 1. This set is great for a one- or two-person home to preserve cut produce, meal prep, and holding leftovers.

We love the look of them, and the price point makes this set a great value. We really liked the easy, secure seal of these storage bags. The flat bottoms of these reusable bags make them extra versatile, working even better than your typical plastic zip storage bag.

A fantastic option for dry storage, these essential containers seal and un-seal with a press of the large button on the lid. This set is designed specifically for baking ingredients, with built-in scoops for larger sizes and a specially designed lid to keep brown sugar from hardening. As we tested 76 storage container sets and reusable bag sets, we had to cut dozens from our final list for various reasons.

It leaked during testing, however, which was a deal-breaker at this high of a price point. Finally, we preferred storage containers to most reusable bags, and fabric storage bags ranked lowest in our tests. Food storage containers typically come in sturdy plastic, glass, or stoneware, while reusable bags tend to be made of silicone or fabric.

Each material has its merits, so choosing one will depend on what is most important to you. Plastic containers tend to be less expensive, lightweight, and more durable than glass or stoneware.

Glass and stoneware tend to be more aesthetically pleasing, heavier, a bit more expensive, and more fragile, on top of resisting stains and odors better than plastic, in general.

To keep contents fresh, you want a container or bag that seals well. Look for features like silicone or rubber gaskets that provide an air-tight seal and snap closures that help to keep items contained even if the bin takes a small tumble.

If you're storing food in a deep drawer, you may prefer clear or windowed lids, and if you're storing in a pantry, you may prefer lids that allow you to stack containers securely to maximize space.

When picking a storage set, you want to be sure that the sizes included are useful for your household. For pantry storage and leftovers, it's better to have containers that are slightly larger than you think you need.

If you're packing containers for the office or school, on the other hand, you may want smaller containers or some designed for meal prep. Most food storage containers and reusable bags can be easily washed by hand, but for a more thorough cleaning, you may prefer to pick a set that is dishwasher-safe.

Always check with the manufacturer's instructions to ensure your set can be run through the dishwasher without warping or damaging its seal. A set that stacks will take advantage of any vertical space you have.

Low-cost airtight containers - Airtight Food Storage Container(+) ; Now$ current price Now $ $ Was $ · out of 5 Stars. reviews ; From $ · out of 5 Shop Target for small airtight containers you will love at great low prices. Choose from Same Day Delivery, Drive Up or Order Pickup plus free shipping on The average price for Food Storage Containers ranges from $10 to $ What are a few brands that you carry in Food Storage Containers? We Best Budget Dry Food Storage Containers. Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Container Set

The less contact dry goods have with air, the fresher they'll be, which is why it's important to purchase containers featuring an airtight seal.

Sugar won't harden, cereal won't go stale, and all pantry products will maintain freshness. Occupying more space helps to avoid air pockets and can increase shelf life. One of the biggest considerations when purchasing canisters is capacity.

Think about the products you want to store and choose containers that will replace the original packaging and fit all of the contents so nothing gets left behind to go stale.

Another consideration is space. If you have a small counter or pantry area, you need something compact. Square or rectangle containers stack easier, and slim, vertical-style vessels save space by stretching up instead of out.

What you need all depends on the space you're working with, whether that's a countertop, kitchen cabinet, or pantry. Ease of use and efficiency should be at the forefront of your mind when shopping for containers. Cereal keepers without a functional spout will cause an over-pour, and a canister that can't fit your measuring cup comfortably defeats its purpose; a wide mouth is essential if you plan on measuring the dry goods directly from the container.

Frequent washing is not a consideration for most dry storage containers, but you do need to clean them before use, and occasionally throughout their life span to maintain a debris-free interior.

The container you choose should be easy to wash, without intricate crevices or gaskets that complicate the process. Since the cleaning happens so infrequently, you don't necessarily need to eliminate hand-wash-only containers. Do allow them to fully dry before filling.

There are two main reasons to store dry foods in airtight containers: unwanted pests and freshness. Transferring uncooked pasta, flour, sugar, cereal, and other dry goods to an airtight container extends the life of those products.

A good seal also aids in impeding bacterial or mold growth. You can expect fresh, non-musty dry goods when you take measures to protect against air damage.

Pantry moths, flour mites, grain weevils, and ants can also pose a problem if you do not store products in an airtight container. Most of these pests can get in through cracks in paper sacks or even burrow through mesh, paper, and cardboard containers.

A hard material, like plastic or glass, keeps them away from dry goods. This will keep your products safe from getting damp, clumping from the humidity, or picking up any unwanted odors or pantry bugs. The answer to this question depends on your intended use. If you have a large number of pantry items to organize, plastic is more modular and less expensive.

You can purchase slimline, stackable containers made of heavy-duty plastic, which is lighter than glass options. If you are looking to make an environmentally conscious decision, glass or ceramic are your best bet.

These materials last an indefinite amount of time and can be recycled if broken or marred. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for all plastics. Glass is also nonporous and does not absorb food smells, but it is heavier and takes up more real estate on counters or in pantries; it is also susceptible to cracks and breakage.

For those looking to save space or invest in something a little more budget-friendly, look for a safe, recyclable plastic option. If you want something sustainable that adds style to your kitchen while storing goods, consider glass or ceramic.

Dry food containers are not manufactured to hold liquid for extended periods, especially hot liquid. Airtight seals on dry food containers are made for pantry goods, and though they may keep liquid in place, they are not meant for that.

Carrie Honaker is a food writer who has been on the hunt for the perfect dry storage container solution for over a decade. As a restaurateur and avid home cook, she knows the importance of finding the right container.

She loves her Kaloh canisters for their beauty and functionality, and also swears by the Libbey Vibe jars for the spice blends she creates. Her work has appeared in many publications, including Basically, Allrecipes, and Wine Enthusiast.

Rachel Werner , who updated this article, is a culinary writer who has been profiling farmers, chefs, restaurants, and food-based businesses for more than seven years. Her work has appeared in a variety of regional and national publications, such as TheKitchn, Fabulous Wisconsin, BRAVA , and Hobby Farms.

Rachel personally tested eight dry food storage containers for this list. Food and Drug Administration. Bisphenol A BPA : Use in food contact application. Safe Food Storage: The Cupboard.

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By Carrie Honaker. Carrie Honaker. Carrie Honaker is a freelance writer specializing in food, wine, travel, and culture. Her work has appeared in Bon Appetit, Wine Enthusiast, Allrecipes, and more.

Learn about The Spruce Eats' Editorial Process. and Rachel Werner is a writer and author whose work has appeared in Fabulous Wisconsin, Entrepreneurial Chef, and the book "Wisconsin Cocktails. Rachel Werner. Our Top Picks. Best Overall:. Best Small Set:. Best for Flour:. Best for Cereal:. Best for Spices:.

Best for Brown Sugar:. Best Glass:. Best Ceramic:. In This Article Expand. Our stylish vacuum-seal food storage containers are available in various sizes and colors, making organizing food items simple with at-a-glance size and color coding.

The different sizes make it easy to store small things such as nutmeg, long things such as spaghetti, and food with volume such as coffee. Our unique patented vacuum seal makes Tightvac an excellent choice for food storage in humid and dry climates, second homes and RVs, great for camping, pet food, and patented vacuum seal is perfect for snacking on the go.

No need to transfer to a smaller container! These unique vacuum sealed canisters can even be used in refrigerators and freezers, keeping food items fresh for up to two months. With proper storage and care, Tightvac containers are sure to last 5 years and beyond.

The button on the cap displaces the air from the container creating an airtight vacuum seal. This makes it challenging to remove the cap without pressing the button, thus securing your food items in place while simultaneously keeping them fresh.

We have many Tightvac containers to choose from, of course depending on what you might use them for. With sizes ranging from TV0 - 0. To name a few: our small TV0 - 0. The TV1 - 1. In addition to the many sizes, we have Solid and Clear containers. And, the many colors to choose from make it easy to color coordinate or color code for a smart storage system.

Maintaining your Tightvac airtight food storage containers is easy, just hand-wash and dry! Do not put your Tightvac in the dishwasher or microwave, as it may warp the plastic.

If at any point the cap breaks or goes missing, replacements are available in several different colors! Your containers will likely outlast your lids, but you can try and take a little extra care of them to prolong their lifespan.

No sealed lid benefits from the vacuum effect that happens when you heat your food in the microwave. Abusing the lid in this way can cause it to warp and lose its seal. When you microwave, if you must keep the lid on to prevent splatter, always make sure to loosen the lid completely and set it slightly ajar across the top of the container.

An even better option is to put a vented microwave cover or a paper towel over your container when you zap it. But if the lid has a removable gasket, remove the gasket from time to time and clean it separately from the lid to make sure no mold can grow.

due to high, uneven heat, humidity, and chemicals from detergent. We noticed a few of our Glasslock lids began to break after four years of putting them through the dishwasher, and our Pyrex lids have cracked over time, too.

Hand-washing them with water no hotter than what comes from your tap, or at least avoiding the heated dry cycle if your dishwasher has one when you do use the dishwasher, may help extend their lifespan.

After removing glass food-storage containers from a hot dishwasher, the experts we spoke to recommend letting them cool before stacking them in a cupboard.

To store, dry the lids completely before putting away. We recommend leaving the lids resting on top of the containers, but not snapped shut, which helps to protect the longevity of the seal. Never subject your glass food storage containers to extreme thermal stresses such as taking containers from the freezer and placing them directly into a hot oven and vice versa.

If you prefer borosilicate glass containers: We liked the shape and size variation of the OXO 16 Piece Smart Seal Glass Container Set. But if you plan on using your containers frequently in the oven or freezer, or the Glasslock containers are sold out, we think this is a good option.

The white lids stained in our tomato sauce tests of course , and because the lids are glass, the containers are heavy and not ideal for transport. If you want to switch between plastic and glass containers: We appreciate that the lids on the Snapware Total Solution Pyrex Glass Set are interchangeable with those of the plastic Snapware set.

This set was our former runner-up pick for glass containers though it used to have 18 pieces and slightly different shape options.

Because the silicone-bordered lids are a little harder to clean by hand than those of the Glasslocks containers, we recommend these only if having interchangeable lids between plastic and glass sets is important to you.

If the Snapware set is sold out: We like the lids on the plastic OXO Good Grips Smart Seal Plastic Container Set just as much as the ones on the glass version.

The lids on all of our picks the locking-style lids on the Glasslocks or Snapware containers and the press-on style lids from Pyrex and Rubbermaid take some effort to get on and off. Suction lids, by contrast, simply sit atop a bowl or container you already own to cover it.

We also tried the GIR lids, which come in more sizes and colors. I found them easier to put on, take off, and clean than firmer lids with ridges or tabs; maybe you will too. There are just two shape and size options in the Rubbermaid Brilliance glass set, and the lids are more difficult to shut and pry off than those of our picks.

The Anchor Hocking Glass Food Storage Set survived our drop tests, but the containers leaked more than the similarly designed glass Pyrex containers we tested. The flimsy lids in this set also held onto odors more than our picks.

They also have fewer shape options, and the locking lids require more force to shut than our plastic containers pick. The lids are a little harder to align and lock, compared with our picks.

In our update, these were the only plastic containers to have freezer burn and to stain after our tomato sauce test. These containers also shattered in our drop test. The Rubbermaid Premier set did very well in nearly all of our tests, but it was difficult to tell when the lid was sealed properly.

We also thought the container sizes were a little too small for holding leftovers. The Snapware Airtight Plastic Food Container Set we recommended in had faulty lid flaps that were difficult to close when they were tested again in This set also held onto food odors and stains more than the competition.

This set is no longer available in these shapes, but there is a set of round containers. These containers also no longer come in a set with varying shapes and sizes, so every piece must be purchased individually.

The Glad MatchWare color-coded lids and containers made matching pairs easy. But they leaked, stained, and left ground meat covered with freezer burn. These containers also exploded in our drop tests. The colors and patterns on this set have changed since our original review, though the containers are the same.

Nicole Papantoniou, The Best Food Storage Containers , Good Housekeeping, January 22, Sharon Franke, The Best Food Storage Containers of , Reviewed, February 16, The Best Food-Storage Containers on Amazon, According to Hyperenthusiastic Reviewers , The Strategist, September 8, Faith Durand, executive editor for The Kitchn , email interview.

Michele Thomas, then executive editor at the International Culinary Center , email interview, January 28, Jane Cook, PhD, then chief scientist at the Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, New York , phone interview, September 15, and March 16, William C.

LaCourse, PhD, then professor in the Glass Engineering Science department at Alfred University in Alfred, New York , phone interview, September 12, Heated Glass Comparison , Vitroglazings. Anna Perling is a former staff writer covering kitchen gear at Wirecutter.

During her time at Wirecutter, she reported on various topics including sports bras, board games, and light bulbs. Previously she wrote food and lifestyle pieces for Saveur and Kinfolk magazines. Anna is a mentor at Girls Write Now and a member of the Online News Association.

Michael Sullivan has been a staff writer on the kitchen team at Wirecutter since Previously, he was an editor at the International Culinary Center in New York. He has worked in various facets of the food and restaurant industry for over a decade. After testing 19 food storage container sets over the years, we recommend the Rubbermaid Brilliance Containers and the Rubbermaid Commercial Containers.

We have the best freezer containers, plus expert advice on saving money and reducing waste by getting the most from your freezer. If you want to give someone a food gift to show you care, consider cooking for them, ordering a gift basket or delivery, or organizing a meal train.

Food storage container lids are incredibly annoying to deal with—unless you have the YouCopia StoraLid Container Lid Organizer. Everything we recommend. Our pick. Pyrex Simply Store Piece Set The best glass container set. Snapware Total Solution Piece Food Storage Set The best plastic container set.

Glasslock Piece Container Set The best leakproof glass container set. Budget pick. Rubbermaid TakeAlongs Food Storage Containers Containers you can leave behind. Back to top Why you should trust us Who should get this Choosing between glass and plastic containers How we picked and tested Our glass pick: Pyrex Simply Store Piece Set Our pick: Snapware Total Solution Piece Food Storage Set Runner-up: Glasslock Piece Container Set Budget pick: Rubbermaid TakeAlongs Food Storage Containers Care and maintenance Other good food storage containers The competition Sources.

Why you should trust us. Who should get this. Choosing between glass and plastic containers. Wondering which material to get? Choose one of our glass picks if any of the following apply:. You store foods that tend to stain or smell. You prefer oven-safe containers though you should still double-check whether a container can go in a preheated or cold oven.

Choose one of our plastic picks if any of the following apply:.