From budget to money, we’ve found the best glass food storage sets that are suitable for everything from meal prep to stacking.
Breana Lai Killeen, MPH, RD, is a Chinese and Jewish chef and nutritionist who has worked in all aspects of the food world. She is a recipe developer, culinary nutritionist and marketing expert with over 15 years of experience creating editorial and digital content for leading food and cuisine brands.
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Does the food storage portion of your kitchen pantry look like a hodgepodge of food containers, empty glass jars, and a lack of proper lids? It used to be me and let me tell you it gets better. If you’re looking to bring more order to your kitchen (and life?) while reinvigorating your meal prep, kitchen storage, and overall cooking game, then investing in a single set of glass food storage cabinets can take your kitchen building to the next level.
Testing all these different options, we ran the gamut from keeping the crust crisp to the ultimate test: taking leftover soup to work (which, in some cases, resulted in every corner of my work bag filling up with soup). Our test kitchen has already tested all the food storage sets (glass, plastic, and silicone), but we wanted to take a closer look at the best glass sets on the market. Besides leftovers, office food deliveries, or lunches, the right glass food storage sets have many benefits: my favorite is saving time and space.
If you’re looking for an affordable glass food storage set that will pass all the tests, look no further than this set. The Pyrex Simply Store set passed the leak test brilliantly (not a single leak!), warmed up very well in the microwave, and after three days in the fridge we were stunned by the sight of a bright green avocado. We were also pleasantly surprised by the seal that these lids provide: the BPA-free plastic lids are airtight when closed, although they don’t have a locking design. They stack up really well – a dream for a kitchen with no extra space. While they’re quite strong and durable, they’re surprisingly lightweight and perfect for leftover lunches.
I haven’t used glass food storage containers to freeze food before. However, after using this set in the freezer, I would definitely do it again, especially given its performance in previous tests.
We tested a similar set, the Pyrex Freshlock 10-Piece Airtight Glass Food Storage Container Set, and while we were impressed with its durability and airtight design, we found the rubber-sealed lids to be difficult to clean thoroughly and stackability simply difficult. We line up. It’s a strong contender, but Simply Store is simply the best. Overall this set is five stars.
What you should know: The lids do not stack, making them difficult to store. The Amazon Basics Bundle offers plenty of options for anyone looking to up their food storage game. The set comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, so whether you’re storing fried chicken or using one of the containers as a scrambled egg bowl, it’ll always be covered. The thick, durable glass makes these containers feel like they will stand the test of time. Made from plastic and silicone, the lid snaps securely onto the container with four tabs and features a silicone barrier to prevent leaks, passing leak and freshness tests with flying colors. They’re dishwasher safe, so cleaning them is a breeze, and unlike many plastic containers, these containers resist stains, even from notorious offenders like tomato soup.
However, they are not without their shortcomings. The lids don’t close or fold neatly, which can make your cabinets look like a confusing puzzle. Plus, you can’t stack containers of different sizes together, which can take up more storage space. They’re heavy, which may not be the best choice for kids’ school lunches, but they’re great for adults to eat on the go. The kit costs around $45, which is very reasonable considering the quality and variety you get. Overall, if you can look past the lid issues, this is a solid investment for your kitchen.
This Glasslock set won over editor Penelope Wall, director of digital content at EatingWell, and it’s easy to see why. Its lockable lid with gasket and durable glass construction are durable and airtight for storage. These containers are easily stackable, allowing you to stack four or five containers safely.
However, the set could benefit from a larger container to accommodate larger dishes, as some users may find the existing size a little restrictive for large amounts of leftovers. Also, while the washers don’t pop out (unlike some competing brands), cleaning them can be a little tricky, requiring a smaller brush to get into tight creases. The 18-piece set retails for $50, and despite these minor flaws, we think the quality of this set makes a big difference.
Razab Containers are number one when it comes to preparing food and serving families. These containers are perfect for batch cooking, whether you’re freezing meat gravy for a future meal or freezing potato salad for a picnic. They range in size, from large enough to make an entire salad or soup to small containers that are easy to carry to work. The protective cover has four flaps that snap into place around the edges for an impressive seal. While they are a little heavy and not the best choice for small portion sizes or for people with limited cupboard space, their durability makes them ideal for both freezer and microwave use. They are also aesthetically pleasing enough to be used as tableware. Its durable design indicates a long service life, eliminating concerns about the lid becoming less effective over time, a common problem with other kits. They are a great investment for families and people who are passionate about cooking.
The Pyrex Easy Grab is a game changer for dinner parties. Its slim design allows it to be stacked in the refrigerator for easy storage while still leaving plenty of space for cooking. Made from durable glass, this cookware is durable enough to bake everything from chicken to pasta and vegetables. Its BPA-free plastic lid fits tightly and prevents leaks or spills during transport, which comes in handy when you’re taking a culinary masterpiece to a friend’s house. Its versatility is incredible: you can go from oven to table to refrigerator without hesitation. While this piece is dishwasher safe, we found that a quick hand wash was enough to get it into all the little crevices on the lid.
To test its performance, we tested this Pyrex glass with an OXO and Anchor 3-quart bakeware and the Pyrex glass came out on top. Warning: There may be better options for bulk liquid dishes, as the lid may not provide a seal for these recipes. Plus, its quality, comfort, and durability are worth the money.
What to know: The lid can be difficult to close, but once closed it provides a good seal. The OXO Good Grips set is perfect for storing small items like leftover sauce, half a lemon, or a few peppers. Its design allows for maximum use of refrigerator space, although the lid does not fit well into drawers. While they can be a little tricky to close at first, the lids provide an impressively tight seal—you can safely bring leftovers to work without worrying about leaks.
These containers are made of durable borosilicate glass with durable plastic lids for long-lasting use. Four of the six containers are designed for smaller portions, so this set is best for single people or small families who don’t need a ton of storage options. But their performance is impeccable: they’re easy to clean in the dishwasher and effectively retain freshness, despite a little clumping.
If you want to spend your money on top-notch food storage, this cilantro set is perfect for you. Made from ultra-smooth coated ceramic, these containers are versatile and can hold a large amount of food, making them ideal for storing everything from chopped vegetables to dry items like flour. The set includes countertop organizers that allow you to easily access each container without disturbing the entire stack, which is a godsend for any organized kitchen. They’re safe to bake (though the rounded edges can be tricky to grip), and ceramic makes them easy to clean. However, these heavy-duty containers are best suited for home or travel use rather than the daily commute.
Please note that although they work well under normal conditions, they leak when tested under pressure. However, these containers can keep perishable foods like mushrooms fresh for several days. Considering its luxury price, this set is ideal for serious home cooks with varied storage needs.
The Pyrex Simply Store Set (check it out on Amazon) is our top pick for its airtight seal that keeps food fresh for days, prevents leaks, and folds easily. Amazon Basics makes a set (check it out on Amazon) that came in second in our testing and is very reasonably priced.
Whether you’re a meal prep enthusiast or just tired of playing Tetris with different containers in your refrigerator, investing in a quality glass food storage set will revolutionize your kitchen habits. The right set will help you better organize and preserve your food, and make your daily life easier. Glass containers are also an environmentally friendly and durable alternative to plastic.
But before you dive into the world of glass storage containers, there are several factors to consider, such as size and shape, design features, what’s included, and overall value for money. It’s not just about choosing the set with the nicest lid or the most parts; it’s about finding a set that will add convenience and functionality to your kitchen without the clutter.
When it comes to glass food storage, size and shape aren’t just a matter of aesthetics; it’s a matter of practicality. Think about what you store most often. Leftover pasta? Should you cook vegetables before eating? You need a range of sizes to cover all bases. In terms of shape, square or rectangular containers maximize refrigerator space, while round containers are easier to clean and ideal for storing liquid contents.
Let’s talk about the design elements: weight, lid shape, glass type, and dishwasher, microwave, or freezer safeness. Weight matters when you’re carrying containers to work or stacking them high in the refrigerator. If you will be exposing your glass to extreme temperatures, choose borosilicate glass. The style of the lid is also important. Snap lids provide a better seal, but are more difficult to clean. Finally, make sure they are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning and can also be used in the microwave and freezer for a wide range of uses.
Most glass food storage sets come with several containers of different sizes and shapes, often with color-coded lids or matching lids. There is a lot of variety, but focus on what you will actually use. A 24-piece set may seem like a steal, but it’s a waste if half of it is collecting dust and you keep washing the same set for lunch every day. Additionally, most kits take into account the number of containers and lids. For example, a 24-piece set will likely have 12 storage containers and 12 lids. Some sets also include neat additions like vent covers or dividers, so consider which additions suit your storage needs. Remember: sometimes less is more.
Value is not just about price; It’s about what you get for what you spend. Of course, you can find cheaper kits, but they may not last long or provide the features you need. Plus, leftover soup in your work bag can cause costly spills. More expensive kits often have advantages such as stronger materials and more advanced design features. It’s all about finding the best balance between quality and cost.
To find the best glass food storage containers, we subjected each set to a series of rigorous tests, including: Leakage: Each container was filled with water and shaken vigorously. We then determined how much water leaked out. Freshness: To determine how airtight these containers are, we placed half a peeled, seeded avocado into each container and placed it in the refrigerator for three days. Finally, we looked at how dark each fruit had become. EASY TO USE: We put each container to the test in real-world conditions to see how they stack up (literally!) in everyday use. We’d like to see lids that we don’t have to struggle to grasp, containers that fold and store neatly, and containers that can withstand the oven, microwave, and freezer with equal ease. Easy to clean. Finally, we noticed that these containers (and their lids) need to be cleaned. If hand washing is required, we wanted to test how easy it was to get to all the nooks and crannies. We also looked at how well they hold up in the dishwasher, if possible.
Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Set of 9 Food Containers with Lids ($80 on Amazon): This set generally performs well when it comes to durability and keeping food fresh. These containers are versatile and suitable for the microwave, freezer and even baking. However, they are not the ideal storage solution for everyone. Glass is heavier and may not be comfortable for people with limited grip strength or dexterity. They also don’t nest as well as their plastic counterparts, which can be a problem for people with limited storage space. The quality of this set goes a long way toward justifying its price. However, the inability to neatly arrange containers of the same size is a distinct disadvantage, and we believe there are similar sets that do a better job of this.
BAYCO 24-Piece Glass Food Storage Container Set ($40 at Amazon): While the Bayco set offers some solid features like microwave and oven versatility and lightweight glass construction, it ultimately falls short in the kitchen. several key areas. In particular, the kit is not airtight, which is quite disappointing when transporting soup or other liquids. It is also not suitable for fresh produce as it has problems keeping avocados and sliced strawberries fresh. While it has its advantages, especially when it comes to reheating leftovers, the disadvantages make it difficult to earn wholehearted approval.
Glass containers for food preparation M MCIRCO, 5 pcs. ($38 on Amazon): MCIRCO’s M containers are a reliable option for those who want to portion food or store smaller items. These containers keep food fresh and prevent leakage. They are made from high quality borosilicate glass and have a durable, easy-to-snap plastic lid. Built-in dividers are great for meal prep, but can limit the container’s versatility. Stackability is a plus, although the lids don’t have a lip, meaning you probably shouldn’t stack them too high. Although they pass the leak test and are easy to clean, they are not ideal for people who have limited cabinet space or want to store a lot of food. They’re good, but due to the lack of size variety in the range, they’re ultimately not all-around winners.
When it comes to food storage containers, the debate often comes down to glass or plastic. Both have their benefits, but if you prioritize health and sustainability, terrariums often stand out.
Glass is non-porous, which means it does not absorb the color, taste or smell of food. These properties are ideal for maintaining food quality over a long period of time. It’s also easier to clean and dishwasher safe, unlike some plastic containers that can warp or crack. Glass does not contain harmful chemicals such as BPA, which can leach into food in plastic containers, especially when heated in the microwave. Additionally, glass containers typically have a longer lifespan, resulting in less waste.
However, plastic food storage containers are lighter and shatterproof, making them more convenient for travel or outdoor activities. High-quality BPA-free plastic containers are now available, although they may not be as strong or durable as glass.
If you need something durable, environmentally friendly and healthy, glass is the best choice. But if you need something lightweight and portable, plastic may be more suitable.
When it comes to glass food storage, tempered glass is the gold standard. This type of glass undergoes a heating and cooling process, making it stronger, more durable, and resistant to thermal shock. This means you can take the tempered glass container from the refrigerator to the microwave without worrying about it breaking.
Tempered glass is also less likely to break on impact than regular glass. If it does break, it will break into small, grainy pieces rather than sharp fragments, reducing the risk of injury. This durability makes tempered glass containers ideal for everyday use and a variety of applications such as meal prep, freezing leftovers, or oven cooking. It’s worth noting that tempered glass can still crack or shatter, especially if dropped or exposed to sudden temperature changes. Always handle it with care and check for signs of damage before use.
Overall, if you’re looking for glass food storage, tempered glass containers can’t beat the combination of safety, durability, and versatility.
Glass food storage containers generally last longer than plastic food storage containers. High quality glass, especially tempered glass, can last for many years if handled properly. They are resistant to odors, stains and odors, making them suitable for repeated use. Additionally, unlike plastic, glass is not susceptible to warping over time due to washing in the microwave or dishwasher.
In contrast, plastic containers deteriorate over time, especially when exposed to extreme temperatures or acidic foods. They can change color, retain odors, or even release chemicals into food as they decompose. Although some high-quality plastic containers last a long time, they usually do not last as long as glass ones.
However, the lifespan of glass containers may be affected by chips or cracks. Any sign of damage should prompt the container to be scrapped as it can break easily.
So while you may pay more up front for a set of double glazed windows, you may save money in the long run because you won’t have to replace them as often.
Breana Lai Killeen, MPH, RD, is a Chinese and Jewish chef and nutritionist with over 15 years of experience creating editorial and digital content for leading food and cuisine brands. Breana worked as a food editor for ten years before becoming the test kitchen and editorial director for EatingWell magazine. Briana has extensive experience with food storage containers, frying, flipping, baking and editing over 2,500 recipes in both home and professional kitchens.
This article was edited by food editor Kathy Tuttle, a contributor to publications such as Food & Wine and The Spruce Eats, and reviewed by senior business editor Brierly Horton, MS, RD, who specializes in nutrition and health. Over 15 years of experience writing articles and food products. .
Post time: Dec-26-2023