The best food storage containers of 2026, after testing 50+ for leaks and stains
Rubbermaid and Pyrex came out on top for storing leftovers, while Oxo beat out the competition for organizing pantry staples.
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The best food storage containers can make all the difference when meal prepping
for the week ahead or storing leftovers after a large meal. You want vessels that are durable and easy to clean, but also not a pain to store in your kitchen. Although it's not crucial, a sleek design or a rainbow of colors to choose from never hurts.
Our team of home and health editors has tested more than 50 food storage containers, including nontoxic options
made from glass, stainless steel and BPA-free plastic (according to the manufacturers). Those that made our list kept foods fresh for multiple days without staining and proved completely leakproof when properly sealed. No more packing a lunch with fear of spills! Many are also microwave-, freezer- and dishwasher-safe, so you can go from heating to storing to cleaning without skipping a beat.
In this story
Best food storage containers for 2026
Material:Tritan plastic or glass bases with plastic lids | Care:Plastic containers are dishwasher-, freezer- and microwave-safe (bases and lids) | Quantity:14 pieces, including lids
Why it's great:Topping our list are Rubbermaid's Brilliance containers, available in a variety of sizes with either a glass or BPA-free Tritan plastic base. We tested both versions, which feature flip-style lids that stayed airtight when locked. Based on our experience, the plastic containers are just as odor- and stain-resistant as the glass ones, a big plus if you store a lot of saucy foods.
Unlike some other plastic containers on the market, these also have excellent clarity — especially helpful when you need to identify food quickly or navigate a fully stocked fridge. Another biggie: The bases and the lids in both the plastic and glass versions of this set are dishwasher-, freezer- and microwave-safe. Did we mention the set has over 64,000 five-star reviews?
Minor criticisms:Rubbermaid's sets come with a mix of small, medium and large containers that stack together beautifully for orderly storage, but they aren't available in different colors like other containers. Still, the brand offers one-compartment and multi-compartment sets, as well as pantry containers .
- Lightweight
- Stackable
- Locking lids
- Lifetime guarantee
- Plastic not oven-safe (though glass versions are up to 450°F)
- One color only
Material:Glass base with silicone lid| Care: Top-rack dishwasher-safe | Quantity:Two pieces, including lid
Why it's great:If you're looking for easy portion control (especially if you don't like different foods to touch), this bento-style lunch box is a must-have. This container is made from thick, durable glass and features three compartments. Our tester reported the larger section is perfect for the main star of your meal, while the smaller sections work well for veggies, fruits, rice and more.
While she liked several other containers, this one came out on top thanks to its relatively reasonable price and glass material. "Eating out of a glass container made the whole experience more enjoyable. It felt more like a proper meal compared to plastic or stainless steel," she says. "Glass is also the safest option for reheating food, as plastic containers, even microwave-safe ones, may leach plastic particles when heated," she also notes.
Minor criticisms:Unlike some of the salad bowl kits we tested up ahead, the compartments in this container aren't adjustable. This makes the Bentgo Box less ideal for storing hot and cold foods together.
- Made from thick, durable glass
- Safe for the oven, microwave, dishwasher and freezer
- Three compartments for balanced meal prep
- Compartments aren't adjustable
- Can't store hot and cold foods together
Material:Glass bases with plastic lids | Care:Bases are freezer-, dishwasher-, microwave- and oven-safe (lids are top-rack dishwasher-safe; not oven-safe) | Quantity:24 pieces, including lids
Why it's great:These durable, tempered-glass containers from Pyrex can go from the freezer to the microwave or even a preheated oven, and then right to the table. The streamlined design makes them the most versatile set we tried, and they even stack nicely in the fridge or cabinet when not in use.
The containers come with airtight plastic lids in different colors for each size. These tight-sealing lids help identify leftovers when you want to reheat dinner quickly. Even though these lids held up well to leaks, we also recommend the brand's lock-lid containers , which also performed well in testing, for when you need to transfer liquids beyond your dining room.
Minor criticisms:Home Editor Elizabeth Berry has experience with these timeless containers from the popular brand, but reports that the lids can warp or crack easily. Even so, she likes using the small glass bowls to serve dips and hold measured ingredients.
- Stackable
- Great value
- Oven-safe base
- Two-year limited warranty
- On the heavier side
- While durable, glass still has the potential to break
Material:18/8 stainless steel base with silicone lid | Care:Freezer-, dishwasher-, microwave- and oven-safe (base only) | Quantity:Two pieces (one base, one lid)
Why it's great:Like glass, stainless steel is nonreactive to acids in foods like citrus or tomatoes (no staining!). Like plastic, they're typically lighter and less likely to break. These containers from Klean Kanteen are also made with 90% post-consumer recycled materials, but unlike many stainless steel options, they're microwave-safe.
The rectangular container shown is ideal for a sandwich and a side — it even comes with a snap-in divider. The smaller container pictured below it is the brand's 23-ounce version , which costs around $25 and is ideal for individual servings such as a side salad. These containers are designed to be 100% leak-proof, thanks to a unique seal-and-snap function (which we confirmed by shaking the containers and flipping them upside down).
A couple of notes on the silicone lids: While typically considered a safer choice than plastic, there are some concerns. "Silicones also contain additives, and they also are non-inert materials that leach additives and other chemicals into foods," says Jane Muncke , managing director and chief scientific officer at the Food Packaging Forum, a nonprofit organization. She feels comfortable using them with cold foods, but high-heat exposure (like in the microwave or dishwasher) could be problematic.
Varun Subramaniam , associate scientist at the Environmental Working Group, agrees, citing research from 2023 suggesting that silicone products are more prone to aging, degradation and "posing potential food safety hazards" when used in high-temperature, high-pressure or microwave environments. In other words, stick to handwashing these lids rather than putting them in the dishwasher.
Minor criticisms:At a few bucks under the price for an entire set of food storage containers, the Rise Food Box is pricey. But if you care about using a nonreactive material to store your food or want a durable vessel for hiking adventures, the investment will pay for itself with continued use.
- Shatter- and rust-proof
- Microwave- and oven-safe base
- Comes in multiple colors
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Limited sizes and shapes
- Pricey
Material:Plastic | Care:Dishwasher-safe | Quantity:10 pieces, including lids
Why it's great:Oxo Good Grips' pantry storage line is among the most extensive and innovative plastic options we evaluated, featuring a wide range of sizes and a signature "pop" button on the lids that, as confirmed in our testing, effectively locks in freshness.
The button is a cinch to use — you just press it down to create an airtight seal that minimizes moisture. It kept our pantry items, among them cereal, pasta and mixed nuts, fresh for weeks. Because the seal also mitigates evaporation, flour and sugar didn't clump or harden.
"I appreciate the practical range of sizes that lets me store everything from pasta and baking ingredients to Nespresso pods," shares Berry. The brand also offers a three-piece canister set with scoops and a 20-piece collection , handy if your house is fully stocked with snacks.
Minor criticisms:Every piece in the set is dishwasher-safe (aka low maintenance), but they aren't microwave- or oven-safe. While Berry can't imagine using any other pantry containers, the sticker price is the set's main flaw. Pro tip? Our editors have spotted Oxo products at HomeGoods for less.
- Stackable
- Air-tight seal
- Convenient shapes
- Easy to open and close
- Not microwave- or oven-safe
- Mid-price range
Material:Glass bases with bamboo or stainless steel lids | Care:Freezer-, dishwasher- and microwave-safe (base only) | Quantity:12 pieces, including lids
Why it's great:These pantry jars are a sight to behold, pairing borosilicate glass cylinders with bamboo lids for a clean, natural look that leveled up our counters and cabinets. The canisters are just as practical as they are pretty, complete with an airtight silicone seal that preserved dry pastas and other pantry items in our testing for weeks on end.
Given the elegant look they impart, the jars also moonlight beautifully as bathroom storage, table decor or vases (kudos for versatility!). Of course, as with any item made of glass, these are not totally shatterproof, so keep them out of the reach of small children.
Minor criticisms:The tallest jar didn't fit spaghetti, but you can store shorter pasta shapes inside or other pantry staples like rolled oats and rice. This set is also more affordable than the Oxo Pop Container Set.
- Made with mostly natural materials
- Microwave-safe
- Silicone-grip lids
- Tallest jar may not be tall enough
Material:Stainless steel base with silicone lid | Care:Freezer- and top-rack dishwasher-safe | Quantity:One bowl with lid, plus tray and ramekin
Why it's great:This stainless steel bowl kit from S’well is spacious enough to hold a generous portion of greens and comes with a tray and ramekin for conveniently separating toppings and dressing. The lid stays securely locked, ensuring salads — including ones with heavy ingredients, like pasta salads — stay contained when shaken.
The bowl kept lettuce fresh and wilt-free for 28 hours in our testing, making it a great option for meal prepping. It's also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning, but remember it's always best to hand-wash the silicone lid to extend its life and avoid any potential chemical leaching.
While the S'well bowl made our list for its function, not its good looks, we'd be remiss if we didn't point out the beautiful patterns and colors it comes in, with equally striking names like Mountain Sage and Azurite Marble (shown).
Minor criticisms:Although not the most expensive single container (with lid) we tested, the S'well bowl kit is pricey compared to what you get in a 24-piece set. It also can't go in the microwave, which means no warming up leftovers at work.
- Shatter-resistant
- Generous size
- Removable ramekin and tray
- Comes in eye-catching colors and patterns
- Pricey
- Not microwave- or oven-safe
Material:LFGB-grade silicone | Care:Freezer-, dishwasher-, microwave- and oven-safe (although we suggest using them for cold food only and hand-washing for safety) | Quantity:14 pieces, including containers with lids, stretch wrap and stretch lids set
Why it's great:Made of LFGB-certified silicone (which is of higher quality, according to European standards ), W&P's silicone storage bags come in various sizes, from 10-50 ounces, for everything from fresh veggies to pantry staples. The colorway is also transparent, so you can easily keep track of whatever you're storing.
Sealing these takes some care, but once you do it properly, they're leakproof. The brand's kitchen set comes with three reusable bags (a 10-ounce, 34-ounce and 34-ounce) alongside two matching glass containers, which are an editor favorite and a top pick among professional organizers. There is also reusable wrap and six extra lids to pair with your own bowls.
Minor
criticisms:The set is only available in cream, which is neutral enough to suit everyone's fancy, but isn't as bright as bolder hues. And while these are technically safe for use in the dishwasher and microwave, our experts recommend using silicone products only for cold storage (like fruits, veggies and sandwiches) to reduce the potential for chemical leakage.
- Lightweight
- Strong seal
- Set includes matching glass containers
- Only available in one color
Delivery! We loaded containers of all shapes and sizes to see which ones are worth your coveted cabinet space.
(yahoo_shopping_510)Factors to consider when choosing food storage containers
✓ Lids:Plain and simple, a bad lid makes a bad storage container. Look for storage sets with matching airtight seals and locking lids to minimize spills. Some of the items on our list also feature screw-style caps for additional security when transporting liquids.
✓ Materials:
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Stainless steel food containersare increasingly popular for their heavy-duty yet lightweight frames. When insulated, they can maintain food temperatures for extended periods, but you may have to reheat food in another container (while some stainless steel containers stand up to high heat in an oven, most are not microwave-safe).
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Plastic food storage containersare often lighter than glass and tumble-friendly, making them ideal for longer treks and school lunches. Because they aren't insulated, they won't keep hot foods hot for long periods. Some thinner plastics can absorb stains and even melt under high temperatures, so you'll want to look for labels like "stain-resistant," "dishwasher-safe" and "microwave-safe."
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Silicone food storage containersare often lightweight, complete with collapsible options that condense for compact storage and carrying. However, just as with certain plastics, some silicone materials can latch onto colorful sauces and lose form when exposed to high temperatures.
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Glass food storage containersare typically stain-resistant, dishwasher-, microwave- and oven-safe. They're also among the purest materials, free of chemical compounds that can otherwise seep into food . That said, glass containers can break with impact. They also err on the heavier side and are therefore less convenient to carry.
✓ Durability:Some of the food storage containers on our list are composed of several materials, such as stainless steel with a rubber lining or glass with a bamboo lid. While these material combos can have benefits, like added grip or flexibility, this can affect durability as well as freezer-, microwave-, oven- or dishwasher-safety — so you'll want to prioritize what's most important to you. All of our top picks are stain-resistant, as confirmed in our testing.
✓ Dimensions:Shallow, rectangular containers tend to line up and stack easily — in the fridge and dishwasher — allowing you to optimize space, while deep, round containers are a shoo-in for pastas and salads. Nesting, collapsible and flat-lay storage items (like bags) can be saviors for preserving cabinet space.
✓ Intended use:Of course, a significant factor in choosing the material and dimensions of a food storage container will be how you plan to use it. Because silicone, stainless steel and plastic are lighter weight, they tend to be popular for school and office lunches. Glass is great for microwaving, cooking and serving. Stainless steel is durable and, when insulated, temperature-preserving, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and traveling. Lock-lid/zip and screw-top food storage containers provide added security and are therefore recommended when dealing with liquids — especially on the go.
✓ Versatility/price:A food storage container that allows you to toggle between uses will add more value in the long run. Each of the individual picks and collections on our list earned high scores in versatility, with all bases proving dishwasher-friendly (most heat-safe), in a variety of colors, styles and dimensions for finding the perfect fit. While we consider food storage containers a good investment, many of the brands represented here also offer bundles and special promotions for more savings.
Other food storage containers we tested
So many food storage containers, so little cabinet space! Below, some other sets and styles we recommend.
Joseph Joseph Nest Lock Plastic Food Storage Container Set (10-piece) :While not as extensive as the Rubbermaid Brilliance set featured or some others on our list, these containers from Joseph Joseph nest inside one another, making them a great option for those who may be traveling or have limited storage. I own and use them in my apartment and can attest they're leak-proof, as well as freezer- and microwave-safe, though not freezer-safe.
Snapware Total Solution Plastic Food Storage Containers Set (20-piece) :As confirmed by our testing, this plastic storage set from Snapware's Total Solution line is completely leak-proof, as well as top-rack dishwasher, freezer- and microwave-safe. The collection isn't as comprehensive as the FullStar one in our top picks — and therefore not as conducive to meal-prepping — but we'd consider it a great starter or everyday set for preserving leftovers. Berry has also tried these containers and hasn't observed any leaks so far, but notes it's difficult to fully clean the grooves around the lid's gasket.
Bentgo All-in-One Salad Container :Like S'well's highlighted in our top picks, Bentgo's salad bowl has a removable ramekin and tray that are completely leak-resistant per our evaluation. It may not be as deep or durable, but it's both dishwasher- and microwave-safe, making it a good choice for those who prefer plastic or are looking for a salad container at a lower, often discounted, price point. You don't have to take it from us: The all-in-one container has over 45,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.
Our team of home editors frequently packs salads for lunch. A designated bowl keeps ingredients contained, with no risk of dressing leaking into our work bags.
(Kelli McGrane/Yahoo)PlanetBox To-Go Salad Bowl Kit : Speaking of packing up your leafy greens for lunch or dinner, Senior Health Writer Kelli McGrane recently tried out this nifty bowl. More meal-prep container than salad bowl in design, the kit includes a nesting tray, ramekin, and silicone lid. "It's super handy if you have leftover salad or other meals where you want to store the individual components separately," explains McGrane. While the bowl can't hold a huge batch of leftovers, it's perfect for tomorrow's lunch. "I'll usually store the grains in the bottom container and then proteins and cooked veggies up top so the grains don't get soggy," shares McGrane.
Stasher Reusable Silicone Food Storage Bags (4-Pack) : In an effort to cut back on her plastic intake, Berry purchased this set of reusable food storage bags. Similar to our top pick from W&P, they require some care to fully seal, but Berry can overlook the learning curve. She uses the smallest "snack" bag for on-the-go treats, while the medium-sized "sandwich" bag gets more use storing frozen bananas in her freezer. Berry likes to keep fresh herbs in the half-gallon bag and finds it helps her produce stay fresh longer.
Ello 3.4-cup Glass Meal Prep Set (10-piece) :These containers are a leak-proof, freezer-safe option for those looking to add a pop of color to their assortment, with the added protection of a silicone sleeve. Like the Pyrex glass set in our top picks, Ello glass containers are also microwave- and oven-safe without the lids. Unlike the Pyrex set, which features different shapes and sizes for prepping and serving different portions, the pieces are all the same size, making them more ideal for meal-prepping. You're also looking at fewer pieces.
Ecolunchbox Seal Cups: In our original write-up, we featured an Ecolunchbox Seal Cup set as a more budget-friendly, nesting alternative to Klean Kanteen's stainless steel canisters . While it appears the set is no longer available, you can still purchase the plastic-free and verified leak-proof seal cups individually at the manufacturer's website.
Caraway Ceramic-Coated Glass Food Storage Set (14-piece) :Caraway's set has become somewhat of a legend for its range and aesthetic. It includes five glossy glass containers enveloped in the brand's signature non-toxic, colorful ceramic coating, which makes them dishwasher-, microwave-, oven- and freezer- safe. It also features smaller container pods with lids, along with straps and a counter organizer. In our evaluation, the containers did everything Caraway says they do (they may just be the most stylish we've ever tested), but they're definitely a splurge and very heavy.
The best food storage containers for 2026, tested and reviewed
(yahoo_shopping_510)More food storage containers we plan to test
Amazon Basics Tritan Plastic Food Storage Containers (22-piece) : Amazon's brand is home to, well, basics and that includes food storage containers. This behemoth of a set retails for under $50, but comes with 22 containers in various sizes and accompanying locking lids that are designed to be airtight. The set is meant to be odor- and stain-resistant, so we're curious to see how the brand's claims hold up in testing. But so far we appreciate the small, medium and large sizes included, ideal for storing things like salad dressing, snacks and batches of leftovers.
Caraway Mini Food Storage Set : Food and drink storage is going miniature these days. First it was a tiny water bottle , and now the top-tested brand has a line of adorable containers. One of the most anticipated product launches , we're excited to get our hands on this nine-piece set that includes compact square and rectangular boxes with lids, plus an organizer. Like the full-sized version, the containers have Caraway's non-toxic ceramic coating. So far, they've racked up over 1,400 five-star reviews.
How we tested these food storage containers
If there's one thing we take seriously, it's food . We put a lot of heart and soul into our best food storage container tests, sourcing more than 50 products. Every food storage container or bag was evaluated for durability and leak resistance, as well as each brand's claims of microwave, freezer and dishwasher safety. To make it to the top of our list, the containers had to excel at the following:
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Drop or stretch test:We dropped plastic and silicone containers from counter and cabinet heights to ensure they didn't bend out of shape or break. We also stretched storage bags to confirm they didn't lose their form.
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Leak test:We filled all the containers with water, sealing them and shaking them upside down rigorously to ensure they were spill-proof.
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Stain test:We filled the containers with sauce-forward foods like marinara and hot sauce to gauge their stain resistance.
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Pressure test:We put containers in the microwave and freezer when indicated as safe to see how they'd stand up to different appliances and scenarios. Then we washed them to see how easy they were to clean.
Prep your vegetables and store them in a pouch, so they're ready to go in the frying pan or pot.
(yahoo_shopping_510)Food storage container FAQs
What type of container keeps food fresh the longest?
If you're trying to gauge the best material for long-term food storage, each of the materials on this list should generally do the trick. Glass and stainless steel tend to hold up better against odors and stains, but when it comes to spoiled food, air and moisture are the main culprits. Opt for an air-sealed or at least a lock-tight lid to keep food dry and limit oxygen — and be sure to toss food when it looks moldy, smells sour or passes its expiration.
What is the safest food storage container?
The safest food storage container is purest in its materials and manufacturing — containing no toxic chemicals such as BPA or lead that could pose health risks — with glass and stainless steel among common picks. That said, thinner glass is shatter-prone and generally not heat-safe, so you'll want to be careful if that's what you use.
Is it better to store food in glass or plastic containers?
Plastic containers have gotten a bad rap for containing certain toxins, namely bisphenol A, a chemical in certain resins that can latch onto food, especially when plastic is heated at high temperatures. Because of this, we suggest looking for "BPA-free" plastic (like all of the containers on this list).
However, there is still potential for exposure to other monomers in the bisphenol family, as well as phthalates (a known endocrine disruptor that can affect hormones). Glass, on the other hand, is an inert material and therefore doesn't release or absorb chemicals, making it a popular choice for nontoxic containers .
How often should you replace food storage containers?
There's no hard-and-fast rule, but you should replace containers as soon as they are damaged — and that includes if they become discolored. In general, glass food storage containers last longer than plastic.
Best food storage containers comparison chart
| Material |
Dishwasher Safe? |
Freezer Safe? |
Microwave Safe? |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rubbermaid Brilliance |
Tritan plastic or glass bases with plastic lids |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Pyrex |
Glass bases with plastic lids |
Top rack |
Yes |
Yes |
| Bentgo Glass Lunch Box |
Glass base with silicone lid |
Top rack |
Yes |
Yes |
| Klean Kanteen |
Stainless base with silicone lid |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| S'well |
Stainless steel base with silicone lid |
Top rack |
Yes |
No |
| Oxo |
Plastic |
Yes |
No |
No |
| JoyJolt |
Glass bases with bamboo or stainless steel lids |
Yes |
Yes |
Bases only |
| W&P |
LFGB-grade silicone |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Update, Oct. 14, 2026: Our No. 1 pick remains unchanged, but we removed food storage containers that are currently out of stock and added a new pick for meal-prepping. We incorporated recent testing images and additional products we've evaluated, as well as a section on containers we plan to try.
We received complimentary samples of some products and purchased others ourselves, but we reviewed all products using the same objective criteria.
