The Best Storage for Leftovers
Our Review Process
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Our Picks For The Top Storage for Leftovers
- 1. Bayco Glass Food Storage Containers With Lids, 24-piece
- 2. Rubbermaid Leak-Proof Food Storage Containers
- 3. Pyrex Glass Food Container Set
- 4. Promoze 50-Pack Microwavable Food Containers
- 5. 5 Stars United Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids
- 6. Rubbermaid Brilliance Leak-Proof Airtight Food Storage Containers, 6-Piece
- 7. Fullstar Food Storage Containers with Lids, Set of 12
- 8. Prep Naturals Glass Storage Containers with Lids
- 9. DuraHome Food Storage Containers with Lids, Set of 44
- 10. DuraHome Food Storage For Leftovers
- 11. Fullstar Food Storage Containers with Lids, Set of 20
- 12. The Product Hatchery Glass Food Storage Container Set
Consider this set your one-stop shop for all your food storage container needs. The 12 different sizes in circles, squares and rectangles include capacity from 1.4 cups to 4.5 cups. You can even choose blue, green, pink, gray or purple rimmed glass lids.
VarietyNot only does this come in three different shapes with four different sizes, it's available in five different colors.
This lightweight container set holds plenty of leftovers. A leak-proof design and odor-resistant plastic sweeten the deal. They've also got vents under the latches for easy microwaving at lunchtime. In our test kitchen, we liked how lightweight these containers were, as well as the fact that they were easily stackable.
Rock-Solid StorageThe Rubbermaid Leak-Proof Food Storage Containers is a light but sturdy container set with snap-on lids and vents for microwaving
Pyrex is known for its sturdy kitchenware, and this food container set is no exception. The containers and lids can withstand drops onto kitchen tiles, microwaves, freezers and ovens. The color-coded lids also make organization easy. In our test kitchen, we liked the color-coded lids for organization, as well as the fact that we could use these gla...
Guaranteed DurabilityThe Pyrex Glass Food Container Set is a reliable set that's built to survive drops, microwaves, ovens and more
Buying Guide
Whether you’re whipping up holiday favorites, packing lunches or saving leftovers from your favorite takeout joint, one thing’s for sure: You’re going to need a great set of containers to store your leftovers. You could toss your Thanksgiving stuffing into a Ziploc bag or stuff your midday work snack into a flimsy sandwich bag, but you — and your food — deserve better. A fantastic set of reusable storage containers for your food is the best way to keep it fresh.
Food storage containers come in an array of sizes, materials and colors. Glass containers are sturdy and generally safe to put in the microwave, oven and freezer. They’re also easy to see through, so you never lose track of that meal you cooked up a few days ago. However, they are heavier than plastic containers, and they can break or chip if you drop them.
You might end up spending more than you’d like to with glass containers. Luckily, hard plastic containers are quickly catching up to glass in terms of durability and longevity. Most new plastic food storage containers are also BPA-free. Some are dishwasher, oven, freezer and microwave safe, but they still might break down over time. They’re also more likely to retain odors or colors from your food, but this can be prevented with proper care.
Locking lids are available on both glass and plastic containers. These lids offer a tighter seal that may keep your food fresher for longer. They can also prevent spills or leaks, which is vital when packing leftovers for lunch.
Finding the right storage containers for your food will keep your tastebuds happy for days or weeks after you make your meal. Head over to our Tips & Advice for more hints on buying the right set.
What to Look For
- If you want a container that you can pop directly in the microwave or oven, look for a glass container with built-in vents under the locking lid. This type of lid provides the airtight storage you need to keep your food fresh and the convenience you need to reheat food in seconds.
- Make sure that any plastic containers you buy are marked “BPA-free.” BPA is an industrial chemical used to make certain plastics, and it was common in plastic containers until a few years ago. It can seep into food over time and cause health problems.
- Many plastic containers are marked safe for ovens, freezers and microwaves, but consumer reviews beg to differ. If you want a guarantee that your plastic containers will last, wash them by hand and let them air dry.
- Airtight containers should have a silicone seal built into the bottom of the lid. Look for this feature before you plunk down cash for a set that isn’t truly airtight.
More to Explore
If it seems like your food goes bad within a day or two after grocery shopping, you might need to heed some food storage advice.
When you buy bananas, take them apart from the bunch when you get home. You can use a leftover cardboard six-pack holder to keep each banana safe and fresh.
Storing a loaf of bread in the fridge will protect it from mold, but it will also make your bread go stale more quickly. Keep your bread tightly closed in its original wrapping for maximum freshness.
It’s fine to keep commercial maple syrup in the pantry, but pure maple syrup doesn’t have the preservatives to survive on the shelf. Keep it in the fridge, then pour out a serving size and heat it up in the microwave when it’s pancake time.