Table of Contents
- Why the Right Containers Matter More Than You Think
- Glass vs. Plastic: A Kitchen Dilemma
- Lids That Actually Seal (And Stay On)
- Top Ten Food Storage Containers For Leftovers and Meal Prep
- Stackable, Space-Saving Design Is a Game-Changer
- The Importance of Transparency (Literally)
- Look for Multi-Use Durability
- Containers That Do More Than Store
- My Favorite Brands, After Years of Testing
- A Word on Labeling and Shelf Life
- Final Thoughts: Investing in a Better System
Why the Right Containers Matter More Than You Think
As someone who cooks often and relies heavily on meal prep to keep my week on track, I’ve learned that having the best food storage containers for leftovers and meal prep isn’t just about organization, it’s about efficiency, safety, and peace of mind. The wrong containers can leak, stain, warp in the dishwasher, or worse, contaminate your food. The right ones, however, make prepping, storing, and reheating meals a seamless part of daily life.
Glass vs. Plastic: A Kitchen Dilemma
One of the first questions people ask is whether glass or plastic is better. For me, glass wins on most counts: it’s oven-safe, doesn’t absorb stains or odors, and lasts longer. Brands like Pyrex and Glasslock offer durable, airtight containers that go from freezer to oven with ease. However, BPA-free plastic containers from trusted brands like Rubbermaid Brilliance or OXO are lighter and great for on-the-go meals. I personally use a mix of glass for home use and plastic for packed lunches or freezer meals.
Lids That Actually Seal (And Stay On)
A container is only as good as its lid. The best food storage containers for leftovers and meal prep have leakproof, airtight lids, and this isn’t just marketing talk. I’ve tested containers that claim to be secure, only to find soup leaking into my work bag. Silicone gaskets, secure clasps, and flexible lids all matter here. Look for words like “airtight” and “spill-proof” and test them with water before trusting them with your lunch.
Hopefully, you love our recommended Amazon Food Storage Containers! We independently selected all of them and all opinions and reviews are those of the Love Food Feed editors. For your information, if you decide to shop from the links on this page Love Food Feed may receive affiliate commission, with no cost to yourself. Also prices were accurate and the items in stock at the time of writing.
Top Ten Food Storage Containers For Leftovers and Meal Prep
1. Pyrex Simply Store 12-Pack Glass Food Storage Container Set
Rating: 4.7 of 5
Pros: Microwave + oven-safe glass
Cons: Lids may warp over time
Looking for a durable, glass food storage solution? The Pyrex Simply Store 12-pack is ideal for anyone wanting to ditch plastic. With microwave-safe tempered glass, snug-fitting BPA-free lids, and multiple sizes, it’s perfect for prepping meals or storing leftovers. Great for home cooks, busy families, and health-conscious meal preppers.
2. Joseph Joseph Nest Lock Plastic BPA Free Food Storage Container Set
Rating: 4.7 of 5
Pros: Nesting, space-saving design
Cons: Not ideal for large portions
Looking for a lighter, compact option to glass storage? Joseph Joseph’s 10-piece Nest Lock set offers leakproof, BPA-free containers that stack and store beautifully. Ideal for students, commuters, or anyone short on space, this set is both microwave and freezer safe for daily convenience.
3. OXO Good Grips 10-Piece POP Container Set
Rating: 4.6 of 5
Pros: Airtight and space-efficient
Cons: Not safe for microwave use
For those comparing food storage sets, the OXO POP 10-piece offers airtight, modular convenience with easy-clean dishwasher-safe plastic. It includes a range of sizes to suit everything from flour to snacks, and the press-button lid seal is intuitive. Best for tidy kitchens or small spaces, it’s sturdier and more versatile than budget sets—though not microwave safe, it’s built for long-term pantry use.
4. Sistema KLIP IT Collection Food Storage Containers 34-Piece Set
Rating: 4.6 of 5
Pros: Great value with 34 pieces
Cons: Lids may stain over time
Comparing glass to plastic storage? The Sistema KLIP IT 34-piece set is a space-saving, lightweight alternative. Unlike heavier glass, it’s freezer, microwave (without lids), and dishwasher safe. Great for busy families or meal preppers on a budget, this BPA-free set offers variety and volume—perfect for organizing pantries or prepping lunches.
5. Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Food Storage Containers
Rating: 4.7 of 5
Pros: Oven‑safe up to 450 °F
Cons: Containers are heavier
This Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass container set delivers crystal-clear views, stackable convenience, and true oven‑safe flexibility up to 450 °F—perfect for batch cooks, office lunch packers, and bake-to-serve meals. Reviewers applaud leak‑proof performance and odor resistance, though cover durability and heft may concern some. A reliable upgrade from everyday plastic rivals .
6. Lerine 10 Pack Dishwasher Safe Reusable Bags
Rating: 4.5 of 5
Pros: Dishwasher-safe and leakproof
Cons: May stain with sauces over time
Looking for versatile, eco-conscious food storage? Lerine’s reusable bags are durable, leakproof, and freezer-safe. The 3 sizes fit everything from snacks to marinated meats. Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning and built to reduce single-use plastic—great for everyday use at home or travel.
7. YIHONG 7 Piece Metal Mixing Bowls with Lids
Rating: 4.6 of 5
Pros: Durable stainless steel build
Cons: Lids are not dishwasher safe
Compared to bulky glass sets, YIHONG’s 7-piece stainless steel mixing bowls are a space-saving and shatterproof option. With a wide size range and colorful lids, they’re great for anyone from beginners to bakers. Durable, stackable, and dishwasher-safe (except lids), they suit any kitchen setup.
8. Amazon Basics Leak-Proof Glass Locking Lids Food Storage Containers, 14-Piece Set
Rating: 4.0 of 5
Pros: Oven-safe borosilicate glass
Cons: Smaller sizes not ideal for prep
If you’re looking for affordable glass storage containers, this 14-piece Amazon Basics set stands out. It features borosilicate glass bases that are oven-safe up to 450°F, and BPA-free plastic lids with silicone seals for leakproof storage. Ideal for home cooks, meal preppers, or anyone replacing plastic. A practical pick that’s dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe (except lids in microwave).
9. ZWILLING Fresh & Save 3-pc Glass Food Storage
Rating: 4.4 of 5
Pros: Keeps food fresh 5x longer
Cons: Vacuum pump sold separately
ZWILLING’s 3-pc glass container set is ideal for anyone serious about meal prep and freshness. Vacuum sealing preserves flavor and nutrients up to 5x longer, and the durable borosilicate glass is oven-safe, microwaveable, and stackable. Great for marinating, leftovers, or sous vide.
10. Bodum Presso Storage Container Jars
Rating: 4.3 of 5
Pros: Microwave & dishwasher safe
Cons: Too many small jars for some
The Bodum Presso 12-piece set is ideal for organizing dry goods, snacks, and even acidic or hot foods. Airtight lids preserve freshness while the BPA-free plastic resists discoloration. Great for anyone wanting sleek, space-saving kitchen storage that’s microwave and dishwasher safe. A reliable upgrade from fragile glass jars.
Stackable, Space-Saving Design Is a Game-Changer
Let’s talk real-world functionality. A fridge or freezer filled with round, mismatched containers wastes precious space. I opt for stackable square or rectangular containers that nest neatly when not in use. Brands like Sistema and Prep Naturals make storage solutions that work like building blocks, making meal prep not only easier but more organized.
The Importance of Transparency (Literally)
One tip I learned the hard way: If you can’t see what’s inside, you’ll probably forget it’s there. Transparent containers help reduce food waste by keeping leftovers visible. Bonus points if they’re clear and stain-resistant, because no one likes going to reheat something, only to realize it’s been in the back of the fridge a week too long.
Look for Multi-Use Durability
The best containers should be:
- Microwave-safe
- Freezer-safe
- Dishwasher-friendly
- Oven-safe (for glass)
- Stain- and odor-resistant
Bonus features like divided compartments or built-in steam vents make prep and reheating smoother.
Containers That Do More Than Store
Multifunctionality is key when choosing the best food storage containers for leftovers and meal prep. Look for ones that are microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, freezer-friendly, and ovenproof if possible. I’ve also come to appreciate containers with built-in dividers for portion control or separating wet and dry components. It’s little details like these that make meal prepping more enjoyable, and sustainable.
My Favorite Brands, After Years of Testing
I’ve cycled through dozens of sets, and a few clear winners stand out. Rubbermaid Brilliance is exceptional for clarity and leakproof performance. Pyrex is timeless and reliable, especially for baking and reheating. For those who prefer eco-friendly options, Stasher silicone bags are a versatile, reusable choice. And for bulk pantry items, OXO Pop containers can double as long-term storage solutions.
A Word on Labeling and Shelf Life
Whether you’re prepping for the week or storing leftovers, don’t forget to label your containers. A piece of masking tape and a Sharpie can go a long way. I always note the date I cooked the food, and if I’m freezing it, I add a use-by date too. Even the best containers can’t stop time, but they can certainly help you manage it.
Final Thoughts: Investing in a Better System
Choosing the right food storage containers isn’t just about neat shelves, it’s about reducing waste, eating better, and lowering daily stress. Quality containers make all the difference. Test what works for you and invest in a system that supports your lifestyle. But looks can be deceiving, some trendy jars may actually pose health risks. Learn more in our article Could Aesthetic Storage Jars Be Dangerous For Your Health? and join the conversation on our social media!
