Eco-friendly and healthier than plastics, glass food storage containers are fast becoming the go-to choice among conscientious cooks and committed meal preppers. Unlike plastics, glass food storage containers are nonporous and don’t hold onto odors or hide bacteria. Many are highly versatile as well and can be placed in the freezer, fridge, microwave or even used in the oven.
If you’re ready to up your food-storage game, glass is an excellent choice. When shopping for the best glass food storage containers, type, size and the number of pieces included in a set are just a handful of important considerations. If you’re after a quality set of versatile, oven-safe glass food storage containers that includes a variety of sizes, Pyrex Simply Store 24-Piece Glass Food Storage Container Set is a solid choice.
What to know before you buy glass food storage containers
Sets vs. single containers
Glass food storage containers can be purchased either in sets or as single pieces. Sets of glass food storage containers can be particularly handy if you’re in the process of replacing an entire collection of old plastic containers. Most container sets offer a variety of shapes, including round, rectangular or square. More often than not, each shape comes in a handful of different sizes as well. When choosing a set, remember that the number of pieces listed usually includes lids. This means that an 18-piece set will likely include nine containers and nine lids.
Should you find that your set lacks certain shapes or sizes, you can purchase additional pieces later on. It’s important to note, however, that single glass food storage containers may not always come with lids.
Size
When it comes to size, it’s vital that you consider both your food storage needs and your available cupboard space. Because plastic containers are thinner, they tend to nest more compactly and generally take up less space than their glass counterparts. Of course, plastic weighs less as well. Before you buy, make sure that your cupboards are capable of accommodating both the size and weight of your glass food storage containers.
In terms of your food storage needs, take a moment to consider what you plan to fill them with. For instance, large-size containers can be ideal for storing leftover casseroles, stews or soups, while medium-size containers can work well for packed lunches or meal prepping. Smaller containers, on the other hand, are great for snacks, such as fruit, nuts or yogurt and can also be used to store condiments and dips.
Container types
Glass food storage containers are available in many different forms. Aside from traditional rectangular or round containers, you can also find glass jars, bottles and ramekins. Glass jars can be ideal for storing dry ingredients such as flour or sugar. Glass water bottles, on the other hand, are great for brewing tea or storing juice in the refrigerator. Finally, glass ramekins can be used for dips, sauces or even portion-controlled snacking.
Glass food storage container features
Lids
The vast majority of glass food storage containers come with lids. When it comes to storing leftovers, pre-prepped ingredients or even taking meals on the go, airtight lids that snap on securely are a feature worth seeking out.
Heat safe
Many glass food storage containers are heat safe, making them a handy and versatile addition to any kitchen. Unlike plastics, glass food storage containers won’t warp or leach chemicals when heated in the microwave. It’s also easy to find oven-safe glass food storage containers that can be used for both cooking and food storage. Because most glass food storage containers are heat safe, they can usually be thoroughly sanitized in a dishwasher as well.
Fuss-free storage
Although not all glass food storage containers are stackable, many sets include several pieces of the same shape in different sizes. This allows matching container shapes to nest inside each other, saving valuable cupboard space.
Glass food storage container cost
Smaller sets of glass food storage containers that include 8-10 pieces or sometimes fewer but larger individual containers usually cost $20-$25. More comprehensive sets that contain between 15-18 pieces (including lids) are often priced $30-$35. For around $50 and up, you can find quality sets containing a wide variety of shapes and sizes with reliable, leak-proof lids.
Glass food storage container FAQ
How often do glass food storage containers need to be replaced?
A. If handled carefully and maintained properly, glass food storage containers can last indefinitely. Remember, glass doesn’t warp, absorb odors, stain or harbor bacteria, so unless you chip, crack or shatter a container, there’s no need for regular replacements.
Can glass food storage containers help keep food fresher for longer?
A. Yes. Glass food storage containers often have tight-fitting lids with superior seals to help keep food fresh and prevent leaks. Compared to plastic, glass doesn’t affect flavor and also maintains temperature more effectively.
Which glass food storage container should I get?
Best of the best glass food storage container
Pyrex Simply Store 24-Piece Glass Food Storage Container Set: available at Amazon
Our take: This quality set of glass food storage containers from a trusted brand offers a wide selection of sizes and shapes for just about every food storage requirement.
What we like: Robust tempered glass construction is dishwasher, freezer, microwave and oven safe. Comes with an assortment of different shapes and sizes. Makes an excellent starter set if you’re in the process of replacing plastics. Plastic lids are BPA-free and top rack dishwasher safe.
What we dislike: A few users complained that there weren’t enough large containers included in the set.
Best bang for your buck glass food storage container
FineDine 24-Piece Glass Food Storage Container Set: available at Amazon
Our take: These reasonably priced glass food storage containers come with reliable leak-proof lids, making them ideal for on-the-go use.
What we like: Features airtight rubber gaskets and hinged, locking lids for superior leak protection. Comes with 12 containers in a variety of shapes and sizes. Borosilicate glass construction withstands rapid temperature changes and is freezer, fridge, oven, microwave and dishwasher safe.
What we dislike: Rubber gaskets have a tendency to pop out during washing and can be a hassle to put back.
Honorable mention glass food storage container
Rubbermaid Brilliance 8-Piece Glass Food Storage Containers: available at Amazon
Our take: These glass food storage containers from a reputable brand come in larger sizes that are ideal for storing dishes like stews, casseroles or soups.
What we like: Offers a selection of high-capacity containers to choose from. Features airtight, leak-proof lids. Oven-safe up to 420 degrees, making them ideal for cooking and baking. Comes with vented, microwave safe lids for hassle-free heating. Stackable for neater storage.
What we dislike: Airtight lids can be difficult to remove. Cleaning around the seals can be tricky. Erica van Blommestein is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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