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The best food storage containers for leftovers, meal prep and organising

Including leakproof and compact designs

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best food storage containers
Joseph Joseph

The best food storage containers are not only great for weekly meal prep and preserving last night's leftovers; they can also provide excellent kitchen storage solutions.

They need to live up to their claims though, and not just look pretty in your fridge. Otherwise, they’ll end up in that cupboard – you know, the one where none of the lids match up and all the containers comes tumbling out when you open the door? Let’s get that sorted.

Quality storage containers will help keep your food fresh, won’t leak in your bag, and will hold up against stains – trust us, it’s worth investing in ones that perform well.

Luckily, the Good Housekeeping Institute is here to help. We’ve found some of the best-selling, most innovative and most highly-rated food storage containers on the market to cut through all the noise.

How we chose the best food storage containers

To select the best food storage container sets, we assessed materials used, design, leakproof features such as secure clips or seals, as well as any with innovative extras.

We looked to see whether they were dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning and if they could be popped in the microwave or freezer. For plastic containers, we also checked whether the manufacturer had used materials that are BPA-free (a chemical used in the production of plastic, which may interfere with the body’s hormones).

Finally, we considered what size of container was included in each set and how these would help with food storage.

These are our top picks for meal-prepping, batch cooking and general storage.

Good large food storage container set

Rubbermaid Brilliance Storage 24-Piece Plastic Lids

Brilliance Storage 24-Piece Plastic Lids

Brilliant for many reasons, these plastic food storage containers are completely see-through (aside from the seal) and perfect for taking on the go, as they're lightweight and sturdy. The set features a tight seal with lids that also snap closed for extra protection.

We love that you get a range of sizes, too. Each container is made from BPA-free Triton plastic and they’re dishwasher-, freezer-, and microwave-safe, making them a versatile addition to your kitchen.

With over 17,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, they’re a reliable buy.

Key specifications

MaterialPlastic with plastic lids
Dishwasher safeYes
Freezer safeYes
Microwave safeYes
BPA-free according to the manufacturerYes
Set includes4 x 120ml, 4 x 300ml, 2 x 757ml, 2 x 1111ml + lids
Good airtight food storage containers

Oxo Good Grips POP Container (pack of 4)

Good Grips POP Container (pack of 4)

Oxo's well-known POP containers can be closed with one hand — simply press the button down to form a seal, then press again to open. Some in the range, including this set of four containers, are compatible with accessories such as scoops and date dials, which attach to the underside of the lid, to help with portioning and tracking expiration dates.

The clear containers stack neatly to help save space and allow you to easily keep track of necessary refills. There are also plenty of sizes available, from 200ml up to 5700ml, so you’ll always be able to find the perfect container for the job.

They’re safe to pop in the dishwasher and the airtight seal can be separated from the lid when you need to do a deeper clean.

Key specifications

MaterialPlastic with plastic lids
Dishwasher safeYes
Freezer safeUnspecified
Microwave safeUnspecified
BPA-free according to manufacturerYes
Set includes4 x 1000ml
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Good for easy storage and space saving

Joseph Joseph Nest Lock

Nest Lock

Put your hand up if you’ve ever been attacked by a lid or tub falling out of the cupboard? Us too. Thankfully, Joseph Joseph has come to the rescue with its genius nesting containers. Each of the five tubs sit inside one another – as do the lids – making one compact box for storage. The containers and lids are colour-coded too so you don’t need to spend ages searching for the right lid.

The set is also freezer- and microwave-safe and can be popped in the dishwasher on the top rack for easy cleaning.

Key specifications

MaterialPlastic
Dishwasher safeYes (top rack only)
Freezer safeYes
Microwave safeYes
BPA-free according to manufacturerBPA-free
Set includes1 x 230ml, 1 x 540ml, 1 x 1100ml, 1 x 1850ml, 1 x 3000ml storage containers with lids
Good food storage bag

Oxo Good Grips Silicone Reusable Bag

Good Grips Silicone Reusable Bag
Now 20% Off

If you like your plastic baggies and Ziplocs, you'll love Oxo’s reusable bags, which should save you money in the long run. Store fruits, veggies and other snacks in the bags' thick but flexible silicone, which is transparent and comes in an assortment of sizes.

They take up less space than boxy containers, so you can slip them down the sides of other items in your fridge and the stand-up design makes them easy to fill. The plastic seal is made to open and close smoothly too, but the soft sides do mean that some foods may be squished if taken on the go.

Key specifications

MaterialSilicone
Dishwasher safeYes
Freezer safeYes
Microwave safeYes
BPA-free according to manufacturerNaturally BPA-free
Set includes1 x 946ml (available in sizes from 354ml to 1893ml)
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Good meal prep containers

Igluu Meal Prep Glass Food Storage Containers

Meal Prep Glass Food Storage Containers

Look no further for the perfect meal-prep containers – this set from Igluu is about to become your new kitchen go-to. There are five large 1050ml containers and five small 370ml options, making them ideal for taking lunches and snacks into work for the week.

They’re made of borosilicate glass (so they’re incredibly durable) and are freezer-, microwave-, air fryer-, dishwasher- and oven-safe – just don’t pop the lids in the air fryer or oven as these are made of BPA-free plastic and will melt.

Key specifications

MaterialBorosilicate glass with plastic lids
Dishwasher safeYes
Freezer safeYes
Microwave safeYes
BPA-free according to manufacturerBPA-free
Set includes5 x 1050ml containers with lids and 5 x 370ml containers with lids

Sistema KLIP IT Plus

KLIP IT Plus
Now 56% Off

An ‘Amazon’s Choice’ buy, this set is a reliable pick for keeping your fridge and cupboards organised. They’re stackable and nest inside each other for easy storage when not in use, plus they come with easy-locking clips and a tight seal to prevent any leaks.

This set includes three one-litre containers but there are other options available, including larger 3350ml pots and assorted sets for different needs.

Key specifications

MaterialPlastic
Dishwasher safeYes (top rack only)
Freezer safeYes
Microwave safeYes (without lid)
BPA-free according to manufacturerBPA-free
Set includes3 x 1000ml
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Good vacuum-compatible food storage container set

Zwilling Fresh & Save Cube Set

Fresh & Save Cube Set

Zwilling’s Fresh & Save set is compatible with the brand’s vacuum pump (sold separately), which offers an innovative way of extending the shelf life of your food – just place the handheld pump on top of each container and suck the air out to keep your food freshly sealed.

Of course, that’s an add-on you may not need. As standard containers, they already have a tight seal to maintain freshness and the set includes smart container labels that can tracked via the Zwilling app and will inform you when your food’s shelf-life is due to expire.

There’s also a measuring spoon for easily scooping out specific amounts of dried goods.

Key specifications

MaterialPlastic
Dishwasher safeYes - separate the silicone seal and valve from the lid before washing
Freezer safeNo
Microwave safeNo
BPA-free according to manufacturerUnspecified
Set includes1 x 700ml, 1 x 1800ml, 1 x 2900ml, 1 x measuring spoon, 5 x labels, 1 x chalk pen

Zyliss Twist & Seal 5 Piece Container Set

Twist & Seal 5 Piece Container Set

With a simple twist mechanism on top of each container, this set provides an airtight, leakproof seal in one easy step. The five containers are made of BPA-free plastic and are stain and odour resistant (so no more lingering Bolognese stains), plus the bases can be popped in the dishwasher for a fuss-free clean.

The boxes also come with a five-year warranty for peace of mind.

Key specifications

MaterialPlastic
Dishwasher safeYes (bases only)
Freezer safeNo
Microwave safeNo
BPA-free according to manufacturerBPA-free
Set includes2 x 470ml, 2 x 1040ml, 1 x 1610ml
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Joseph Joseph Podium Storage Container Set and Stand

Podium Storage Container Set and Stand

Stackable containers are great – until you need to unload your whole cupboard to reach the one at the back. Enter this clever podium stand and container set from Joseph Joseph.

The design allows you to access any jar at any time without having to juggle the rest around, providing a more straightforward organisation system. Plus, the lids feature an airtight silicone seal, and each container is BPA-free.

You can’t put them in the dishwasher, which isn’t ideal, but they should only need a quick hand wash every now and then if storing dried foods like rice and pasta.

Key specifications

MaterialPlastic
Dishwasher safeNo
Freezer safeNo
Microwave safeNo
BPA-free according to manufacturerBPA-free
Set includes1 x 500ml, 2 x 900ml, 1 x 1300ml, 1 x 1900ml and stand

Bodum Storage Jars

Storage Jars

The clever design of these storage jars will make dispensing dried foods a breeze – they’re circular for easy pouring and come with a fitted band for a more comfortable grip. The jars are made of recyclable, BPA-free plastic, which is also shatterproof, microwaveable and dishwasher-safe.

With a good range of sizes at a reasonable price, these are a fantastic choice for organising your kitchen.

Key specifications

MaterialPlastic
Dishwasher safeYes
Freezer safeNo
Microwave safeYes
BPA-free according to manufacturerBPA-free
Set includes4 x 250ml, 3 x 600ml, 3 x 1000ml, 2 x 2000ml
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Good Housekeeping

What to consider when shopping for the best food storage containers

Material: Glass and plastic are the most common food storage materials. Glass can often be used in the oven, while plastic can’t. Plastic containers are also prone to staining when storing highly pigmented foods; glass is not. The trade-off is that glass is heavier and can break, so it's less suited for taking leftovers into the office.

Shape: Look for containers with straight edges versus flared; flared sides take up additional room in your fridge and cabinets.

Lids: A lid that doesn’t seal is a dealbreaker. Some simply snap into place with pressing while others have clasps on the sides. Lids without clasps are thinner and easier to store, but it's worth noting that the clasps typically offer an extra source of leak protection.


How to clean food storage containers

When it comes to cleaning food storage containers, it may be a bit more complex than you think. First, look at the care instructions for your containers. While most food storage containers are dishwasher-safe, some may have lids or parts that need to be hand-washed.

Also, check the instructions to see whether they need to be placed on the top rack of the dishwasher. Since heating elements are commonly found in the bottom of the dishwasher, items that don’t hold up well at very high temperatures should be placed at the top to prevent warping and cracking.

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Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute

These products have all been hand-picked by the Good Housekeeping Institute’s senior homes and lifestyle writer, Megan Geall.

Megan has reviewed hundreds of products in her time as a consumer journalist so knows what to look for from a good set of food storage containers. She’s also used many of them herself for taking her lunch to the office every day!

Headshot of Nicole Papantoniou
Nicole Papantoniou
Kitchen Appliances Lab Director

Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal.

Headshot of Raena Loper
Raena Loper
Contributing Writer and Analyst

Raena Loper (she/her) is a fashion journalist and product analyst based in New Jersey whose work has appeared in Forbes, Good Housekeeping and O, The Oprah Magazine. 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. 

Headshot of Megan Geall
Megan Geall
Senior Homes and Lifestyle Writer

Megan is the Good Housekeeping Institute’s senior homes and lifestyle writer. She loves diving into the latest product releases to find the very best buys on the market and has written hundreds of product reviews on everything from the best vacuum cleaners and coffee machines to the best ice cream makers and robot window cleaners.

When she’s not writing about the newest gadgets and gizmos for your home and garden, you’ll find her running every distance from 5km to 100km or relaxing at home with her cat – there really is no in between. 

Megan has an MA in Magazine Journalism and has previously written for Stylist, Glamour, Women's Health, TimeOut, SquareMeal, and YOU magazine. You can find Megan on Instagram @meganlouisegeall.

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