Ethan Clarke
When it comes to storing leftovers, there are many plastic food storage containers to choose from. The best containers should be durable, leakproof, and easy to stack and store. Some popular options include the Snapware Total Solution 20-piece Plastic Food Storage Set, the Rubbermaid Flex & Seal 26-piece Set, and the Zoku containers. Other factors to consider when choosing a plastic leftover container include whether it is microwave-safe, stain-resistant, and oven-safe. Proper care and maintenance of plastic containers, such as following dishwasher instructions, can also impact their longevity and performance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic |
| Airtight | Yes |
| Leakproof | Yes |
| Lightweight | Yes |
| Stackable | Yes |
| Microwave-safe | Yes |
| Dishwasher-safe | Yes |
| Freezer-safe | Yes |
| Stain-resistant | Yes |
| Durable | Yes |
| Interchangeable lids | Yes |
| Variety of shapes and sizes | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
Leakproof and durable
When it comes to plastic leftover containers, leakproofness and durability are key. You want to make sure your leftovers are secure and that your containers will last.
The Snapware Total Solution Plastic Containers performed well in drop tests, with only a small piece of the lid breaking off after the third drop. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with larger containers for leftovers and smaller ones for sauces and dressings. The lids are also easy to snap shut and provide a tight, leakproof seal.
The Snapware Total Solution Pyrex Glass 10-piece Food Storage Container Set is another great option. It combines durable Pyrex glass containers with plastic Snapware lids that snap on for an airtight, leakproof lock. The Pyrex glass is also very durable and stood up to drop tests without scratching or chipping. However, they are heavier than other options and pricier, at $16 per container and lid.
The Rubbermaid containers are also worth considering for their durability and leakproof design, with secure latches that are easy to open and close.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Joseph Joseph Nest Lock Plastic Food Storage Container Set features nested containers and lids, so they're space-efficient. While there was some leaking during testing, they are still a good choice for storing leftovers and meal prep.
Finally, the Zoku containers are great for storing weekly meals and leftovers, with easy-to-identify bright rims and unique lids. They are stackable and ideal for transporting soups and liquid-based foods, although some staining was observed during testing.
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Lightweight and stackable
When it comes to storing leftovers, lightweight and stackable plastic containers are a great option. They are easy to carry, take up less space, and can be neatly organised in your kitchen cabinets. Here are some of the best options for lightweight and stackable plastic containers:
Rubbermaid Brilliance Collection
The Rubbermaid Brilliance collection offers a range of lightweight and durable plastic containers. The set includes containers of different sizes, with lids that fit multiple containers, making it convenient to find the right lid. The plastic containers are microwave-safe and leakproof, ensuring no spills or messes. The lids snap together for easy storage, making this set a great choice for those looking for lightweight and stackable containers.
Rubbermaid Flex & Seal 26-Piece Set
The Rubbermaid Flex & Seal set features flexible silicone lids that form a tight seal, preventing leaks. The containers are stain-resistant, even when storing colourful foods like tomato and turmeric soup. This set is ideal for those seeking lightweight and stackable containers that can handle a variety of leftovers without staining.
Utopia Kitchen Plastic Food Storage Container Set
The Utopia Kitchen set is a budget-friendly option for those seeking lightweight and stackable plastic containers. While they may not be the best at preventing leaks, they are still a viable option for storing dry goods and leftovers. The containers are easy to stack and store, making them a convenient choice for those on a budget.
Glad Containers
Glad offers lightweight plastic containers that are microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe. The containers nest together, and the lids snap together for compact storage. While they may stain with certain foods, they are a good choice for those seeking lightweight, stackable containers on a budget.
When choosing plastic containers for storing leftovers, it's important to consider your specific needs. Factors such as leakproof seals, stain resistance, and ease of stacking can influence your decision. Additionally, think about the types of food you'll be storing and whether you need microwave, freezer, or dishwasher compatibility. By considering your priorities, you can select the best lightweight and stackable plastic containers for your leftover storage needs.
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Microwave and dishwasher safe
When it comes to plastic leftover containers that are safe for use in the microwave and dishwasher, there are several options to consider. Firstly, it's important to distinguish between flexible plastic containers and more durable alternatives. Flexible plastic containers are often sold in bulk as single-use options, although they can sometimes be reused with careful handling. These containers are usually microwave- and dishwasher-safe, but they are more prone to cracking or discolouration over time. Higher-end flexible plastic containers, on the other hand, are designed for long-term reuse and are typically microwave- and dishwasher-safe as well.
If you're looking for something more durable, there are plastic containers that are specifically designed for repeated use and are less likely to crack or discolour. For example, the Caraway storage set is a dishwasher-, freezer-, fridge-, oven-, and microwave-safe option. These containers are slightly more expensive than flexible plastic ones but offer the advantage of long-term durability. Additionally, some premium flexible plastic containers, like the Mepal Set of 4 Deep Microwavable Nested Storage Bowls, are also designed for long-term reuse and offer the convenience of nesting for easy storage.
When considering plastic containers, it's worth noting that some experts advise against using any type of plastic in the microwave due to the potential for chemicals to leach into food when heated. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed plastics labelled "microwave-safe" to be suitable for microwave use, with no known short- or long-term health consequences. Therefore, if you choose to use plastic containers, it is recommended to select those labelled as microwave-safe and avoid using cold-storage plastic containers or single-use plastic containers in the microwave.
In addition to plastic containers, glass and ceramic options are also available that are safe for use in the microwave and dishwasher. Glass containers, such as those made from borosilicate glass, offer the advantage of being highly resistant to heat, thermal shock, and cracking. Ceramic containers, while microwave-safe, can heat up more quickly, resulting in uneven heating of food. When choosing glass or ceramic containers, it's important to check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure they are rated for microwave and dishwasher use.
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Stain-resistant
When it comes to plastic leftover containers, stain resistance is an important factor to consider. While some plastic containers may claim to be stain-proof, the truth is that many of them will still absorb some colour and odour from their contents, especially when it comes to tomato-based sauces or other dark-coloured foods.
To test the stain resistance of plastic containers, reviewers often create a "'stain soup' made with garlic tomato sauce and ground turmeric, which is then left in the containers overnight before being washed. Even containers that claim to be stain-resistant may retain a faint scent or colour after such a test, but they will not be visibly stained.
The Snapware Total Solution Plastic Containers performed well in stain tests, with only faint marks remaining after microwaving spaghetti sauce. The Rubbermaid Flex & Seal 26-Piece Set also excelled in stain tests, with only the underside of the container showing any visible stains from tomato and turmeric soup. The Glasslock containers were also noted to resist staining slightly better than the Snapware lids, although the plastic lids did absorb some colour and smell from the soup.
While flexible plastic containers are more prone to staining, especially when heated, this does not affect their performance. Glass containers, on the other hand, are less likely to stain, even when holding foods like spaghetti sauce or curry.
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Freezer-safe
When it comes to storing leftovers in the freezer, there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, it's important to use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn, which occurs when air and moisture come into contact with frozen food. It's also a good idea to choose containers that are designed for the freezer, as these can withstand extreme cold and the transition back to room temperature. Some containers are sturdy enough to go straight from the freezer into the microwave or oven, but always check the manufacturer's instructions first.
One option for freezer-safe containers is the Snapware Total Solution Plastic Food Storage Set. This set includes 10 containers and lids in various shapes and sizes, which nest nicely for easy storage and stack well in the freezer. The lids feature locking tabs and gaskets, ensuring a tight seal that prevents leaks and freezer burn. While these containers are top-rack dishwasher-safe, they are not oven-safe.
Another option is the Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Container set. These plastic containers are thicker than other options, making them ideal for storing liquids. The lids feature snap-on fasteners and a reliable gasket, and built-in vents that make them splatter-resistant in the microwave. They stack well in the freezer and are top-rack dishwasher-safe, but not oven-safe.
If you're looking for a glass option, Pyrex offers a range of freezer-safe containers, including the Freshlock 10-piece Glass Storage Set and the Snapware Total Solution Pyrex Glass 10-piece Food Storage Container Set. Glass containers are odour-resistant, microwave-safe, oven-safe, and dishwasher-friendly. However, they are heavier and more prone to breaking if dropped.
Finally, for those who prefer a more flexible option, Stasher offers Reusable Silicone Bags that can go from the fridge to the freezer. These bags seal tightly, limiting the transmission of air and moisture, and are easy to clean in the dishwasher. While they are more expensive than plastic bags, they are more durable and contribute less to plastic waste over time.
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