Finding the perfect food storage containers can be a challenge, with countless options flooding the market. This comprehensive review dives deep into the best food storage containers of 2023, comparing various materials, designs, and features to help you make an informed decision. We've tested a range of popular brands and styles, from stackable plastic containers to airtight glass jars and innovative vacuum sealers, considering factors like leak-proof seals, durability, ease of cleaning, and overall value. Whether you're a meal prepping enthusiast, a baking aficionado, or simply looking to organize your pantry, this guide will help you choose the ideal containers to keep your food fresh and your kitchen clutter-free.This review covers a diverse selection of containers, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses based on rigorous testing. We've assessed each product's performance in key areas such as airtight sealing, leak resistance, microwave and dishwasher safety, and stain resistance. From budget-friendly options to premium choices, we've included a variety of price points and styles to suit different needs and preferences. Read on to discover the best food storage solutions for your kitchen, ensuring your ingredients stay fresh and your meals stay organized.
Pros And Cons
- Flexible, space-saving stand-up design
- Made of thick, flexible, and transparent silicone
- Various sizes and colors
- Easy to open and seal
- Freezer, microwave, and dishwasher safe
- Can be used in boiling water
- Noticeable staining with pigmented foods
- Bulky to store when not in use
- Versatile and flexible, can be used on the go
- Stackable and space-saving
- Oven, air fryer, and dishwasher safe
- Ideal for reheating leftovers
- Lids may deform after several dishwashing cycles, leading to leakage
- Stylish and efficient for transporting hot and cold food
- Available in various sizes
- Easy to clean
- Withstood high heat dishwasher cycles without damage
- Screw-on top keeps container sealed tightly
- Insulation keeps food hot or cold for extended periods
- Expensive
- Space-saving nesting set
- Easily stackable
- Assortment of sizes
- Freezer pack for keeping food cold
- Color-coded scheme
- Visible cup size engraving for meal prep portioning
- Some staining during freezer-to-microwave tests
Read more: Cambro Food Transport Containers: A Caterer's Review of Two Models
Brilliance Food Storage Containers: Clear, Stackable, and Versatile
The Brilliance food storage containers stand out for their transparency, allowing easy identification of contents. Their stackable design maximizes space efficiency in your refrigerator or pantry. The tight-sealing lids ensure freshness and prevent leaks, making them ideal for meal prepping and packing lunches.
These containers are remarkably lightweight yet sturdy, suitable for on-the-go meals. Stain resistance is impressive, with only faint marks remaining after use. Available in various sizes and sets, some even include removable dividers for organized packing.
Snapware Total Solution: Stackable and Budget-Friendly
Snapware's lock-lid containers prioritize convenient stacking, keeping your refrigerator organized. At a reasonable price point, they offer good quality and performance. While minor leaks were observed in tests, they performed well in microwave tests.
The BPA-free material is a plus, and the secure lids maintain food containment. However, noticeable staining was noted after reheating pasta, a common issue with many plastic containers. Snapware also offers a glass line for those seeking stain-resistant options.
OXO Good Grips Pop Containers: One-Handed Sealing and Baking Essentials
OXO's Pop containers are known for their user-friendly one-handed sealing mechanism. The lids are dishwasher-safe and easy to clean. Some containers even include built-in scoops for measuring dry ingredients.
The eight-piece set is perfect for storing baking ingredients, with sizes designed to fit common ingredient packaging. While some parts aren't dishwasher-safe, the overall ease of use and practicality make them a worthwhile option for baking enthusiasts.
True Seal Glass Food Storage Containers: Airtight and Oven-Safe
The True Seal glass containers excel at preserving food freshness due to their airtight design. They performed well in tests measuring air retention and freshness maintenance. The glass bases are oven-safe up to 425°F.
See-through lids and flexible edges provide durability and cracking resistance. Although minor dents may appear after high heat or dishwashing, they provide significant protection against spills. However, they are not completely watertight, showing some leakage in tests.
Nestlock Plastic Food Storage Containers: Space-Saving Champions
For those short on space, the Nestlock containers are a game-changer. Their nested design minimizes storage space, making them ideal for smaller kitchens. Lids snap securely onto containers, creating a tight seal.
However, some leakage was noted during testing, making them less suitable for liquids. They also stain easily, particularly with highly pigmented foods. The larger containers are excellent for batch cooking and efficient storage.
Macy's 22-Piece Glass Food Storage Container Set: Versatile and Oven-Safe
This 22-piece glass container set offers impressive versatility, suitable for various storage needs and on-the-go use. Stackable and space-efficient, they're also oven-safe for reheating or crisping food.
Their straight edges facilitate stacking and maximize space. While dishwasher-safe, lids may become slightly deformed after repeated cycles. Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of uses.
Fresh & Safe Vacuum Sealer: Airtight and Long-Lasting Freshness
The Fresh & Safe vacuum sealer, while pricier, guarantees airtight food storage for extended freshness. Its compact design and one-button sealing mechanism are user-friendly.
The sealer easily snaps onto container lids for a secure seal. Release of trapped air is simple with a silicone button. The glass containers are durable and dishwasher-safe, performing exceptionally well in leak tests.
Twist and Seal Dry Storage Set: Pantry Storage Solution
Twist and Seal containers excel at preserving dry food freshness for months in the pantry. The silicone seal keeps air out, ideal for flour, pasta, and other dry goods. The rounded sides allow convenient pouring.
While not entirely dishwasher-safe, the top can be hand-washed. The square design and shape optimize stacking. Various sizes are available, however, the twist-to-lock mechanism might prove tricky for some.
Wide Mouth Glass Canning Jars: Affordable and Versatile
Wide mouth glass jars offer a simple, affordable, and versatile storage solution. They're effective for preserving fruits, storing dry goods, and holding sauces. The wide mouth allows easy access.
The lids and caps prevent leakage. They performed well in leak tests, remaining leak-free even when inverted. While they lack innovative features, their versatility extends beyond food storage.
Hydro Flask Insulated Food Jar: Ideal for On-the-Go Meals
Hydro Flask insulated food jars excel at transporting hot or cold food. Stylish and efficient, they come in 12, 20, and 28-ounce sizes. They're easy to clean and durable, withstanding high heat cycles.
The screw-on top creates an airtight seal, preventing leaks even after shaking. The insulation technology maintains temperature for extended periods. However, the price point is relatively high.
Stand-Up Silicone Bags: Flexible and Space-Saving
Stand-up silicone bags offer a flexible, space-saving storage solution. Their stand-up design minimizes fridge clutter. Made of thick, flexible, transparent silicone, they come in various sizes and colors.
They open and seal easily and are microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe. They can even be used in boiling water for sous vide cooking. However, some staining occurs with pigmented foods, and they can be bulky when not in use.
Neat Stack Food Storage Containers: Meal Prep Made Easy
Neat Stack containers are perfect for meal prepping and efficient cabinet storage. This nesting set of five stackable containers comes in various sizes to accommodate different food quantities.
A freezer pack can be attached to keep food cold. Color-coded sizes and visible cup size engravings simplify organization. While convenient, some staining may occur with highly pigmented foods during reheating.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Food Storage Container
The best food storage container depends on your individual needs and priorities. Brilliance containers stand out for their clarity, stackability, and versatility. Snapware provides a budget-friendly option, though staining can be a concern. OXO Pop containers excel in ease of use, while True Seal glass containers prioritize airtight sealing. Nestlock offers excellent space-saving capabilities.
Macy's 22-piece set offers versatile oven-safe glass containers, Fresh & Safe vacuum sealers guarantee airtight storage, Twist and Seal containers are ideal for pantry storage, and Wide Mouth jars provide an affordable, simple solution. Hydro Flask offers insulated jars for on-the-go use, Stand-up silicone bags offer flexibility, and Neat Stack containers are perfect for meal prep.