Did you know that plastic containers can sometimes sneak chemicals into your favorite leftovers? It’s a worrying thought when you are trying to keep your food fresh and healthy. We all want food storage that works well, lasts long, and keeps our families safe. But finding the perfect non-plastic option can feel like a puzzle. Should you pick glass, stainless steel, or maybe a silicone bag? Each material has its pros and cons, and knowing the difference is key to avoiding leaks, stains, and clutter.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best non-plastic food storage containers available today. You will learn which materials are truly durable, how to store everything from soup to snacks safely, and which containers will save you money in the long run. Get ready to ditch the flimsy plastic and upgrade your kitchen storage for good. Let’s dive into finding your ideal, long-lasting food containers!
Top Non Plastic Food Storage Containers Recommendations
- VERSATILE GLASS FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITH LIDS: Prep, stash, stack, store, and more with this glass meal prep container set! BPA-free and going from freezer to oven without breaking, these glass containers handle it all. With a variety of shapes and sizes, say hello to healthier meal prep.
- 12 SIZES FOR EVERY NEED: Our airtight food storage containers with lids set includes 4 rectangle containers 35oz (8x6in), 21oz (6.75x5in), 12oz (two 4.2x5.5in). 4 square containers 27oz (6in), 17.5oz (5.2in), 11oz (two 4.3in). 4 round containers 32oz (6.75in). 21oz (5.9in), 13.5oz (two 5.2in). Height ranges from 1.75-2.3 inches.
- TEMPERATURE SAFE FOOD CONTAINERS: Made from borosilicate glass (aka, space shuttle glass), these containers are durable and robust. Fridge, freezer, dishwasher, oven, and microwave safe containers, they're the ultimate multi-taskers for busy lives. *Lids are handwash only.
- AIRTIGHT FRESHNESS: These airtight containers feature a removable silicone seal and secure hinge clips, so you can use them as a food container without odors or air getting in or out! They're also leakproof glass lunch containers, so fill them as soup containers in your lunch bag without fear!
- UNBOX KITCHEN BLISS: JoyJolt's glass tupperware with lids arrives securely packaged in a gift box, ready to transform any kitchen. Like all JoyJolt Glassware, it's backed by a limited 1-year warranty, so you can prep lunch, organize, store leftover, and enjoy with confidence. Shop today!
- LEAK-PROOF AND AIRTIGHT: Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Food Storage Containers have crystal-clear lids that are 100% airtight and leak-proof, plus odor and stain resistant
- EASY STORAGE AND REHEATING: Glass containers have vented, microwave-safe lids for easy, splatter-resistant microwaving
- SPACE SAVING: Space-saving, modular Rubbermaid containers are perfect for stacking and organization
- OVEN-SAFE: Glass bases are oven-safe up to 450 degrees F, so they double as glass cookware and serveware
- EASY TO USE: BPA-free, dishwasher-safe (use top rack for lids), microwave-safe for reheating only with lids unlatched, and freezer-safe
- 【Set of 8 Glass Storage Containers】Rectangle (35.1OZ)+(21.6OZ)+(12.5OZ)+(5OZ); Square (27.1OZ)+(17.6OZ)+(10.8OZ)+(6.8OZ); large and small containers are versatile for different use: meal prep food, leftover, sauce, lunch to go, RV, picnic, camping.
- 【Glass Containers Safe for Oven/ Microwave/ Freezer/ Dishwasher】Vtopmart Meal Prep Container is able to withstand -4℉ to 752℉ (-20℃ – 400℃), the glass containers is made of high-quality borosilicate glass to hold up very well from refrigerator direct to microwave.
- 【100% Leak Proof Airtight Lid】Glass food containers is designed with removable silicone seals and 4-hinge snap locks to ensure zero leaking or spilling, which also prevent smell go out and keep food fresh.
- 【BPA Free and Food Grade Material】The glass food containers is 100% BPA Free, crystal-clear glass making it easy to see what's inside. Stains-resistant material for easy cleaning and keep glass containers looks like new.
- 【Stackable Storage to Save Space】The durable food storage containers stack into each other for easier storing when you don’t use them, which fit neatly in kitchen cabinets.
- Silicone Food Storage Containers with Lids: These nesting reusable silicone food storage containers with lids are hard shell, airtight and leakproof. These silicone containers are great for meal prep, storing lunch, leftovers, snacks, fruits, etc
- Set of 12 Nesting Silicone Containers: Package include 12 silicone containers and 12 lids of variety size. Each 6pack set include five different size to meet your variety storage needs. Safe for use in microwaves, ovens, dishwashers, and freezers
- Size: This set include 2 count 33.8oz (6.3 x 5 x 3.5 inch), 2 count 20oz (5.5 x 4.3 x 2.7 inch), 2 count 10oz (4.5 x 3.5 x 2.2 inch), 2 count 6.7oz (3.7 x 2.9 x 1.8 inch), 4 count 1.3oz (2.2 x 1.5 x 1.4 inch count silicone food storage containers
- Food Grade Silicone Storage Containers: Crafted from BPA-free, food-grade silicone, these food containers are perfect for any kitchen. Each come with a snug-fitting lid, ensuring freshness and spill-free storage
- Wide Application: These silicone food storage containers with lids are perfect for keeping cooked meals, vegetables, nuts. Ideal for soup freezer & meal prep. They can as for camping food storage, snacks containers, lunch box containers for women and men
- Airtight Lids: Snap tight to keep food fresh and prevent leaks
- Space Saving: Modular design that enables perfect stacking for compact storage
- Durability: Thick-walled construction for everyday use
- Microwave Safe: Built-in vents allow steam to escape without removing the lid
- Safe Materials: Freezer-safe, top rack dishwasher-safe, BPA-free containers
- 14-PIECE GLASS FOOD STORAGE SET: Includes 7 glass containers with 7 matching locking lids for storing, transporting, and organizing meals and leftovers
- FOOD-SAFE BOROSILICATE GLASS: Made from BPA-free, non-porous borosilicate glass that won’t retain odors, flavors, or stains
- LEAK-PROOF PERFORMANCE: These leak-proof glass food storage containers are ideal for storing sauces, soups, and other liquids without spills
- TEMPERATURE RESISTANT: Containers are freezer, microwave, and oven safe (lids are not oven safe and can be used in microwave if not sealed or latched to containers); withstands temperatures up to 1076°F and sudden temperature changes without cracking
- EASY TO CLEAN: Glass containers and lids are dishwasher safe; place lids in top rack; wash lids by hand for best results
- Freezer-to-Microwave Safe – Thick 5mm borosilicate glass containers withstand -20°F to 450°F, perfect as freezer-safe glass food storage containers or microwavable soup containers with lids without cracking
- 100% Leakproof Seal – Airtight glass food storage containers with lids keep soups, dressings, and meals secure; ideal for travel soup containers or glass salad containers for lunch
- Space Saving Square Design – Stackable glass soup containers with lids maximize fridge/pantry space; use as 32 oz soup storage containers or glass fruit storage containers for fridge
- BPA Free & Non Toxic – Safe microwave-safe glass containers with vented lids; zero chemicals leach into food, unlike plastic soup containers
- Meal Prep Ready – 4-pack of 4-cup glass storage containers with lids (32oz/940ml) for portioning soups, salads, or small meal prep containers glass
- 【4 Different Sizes Wooden Lids Containers:】They are rectangle: (35.1oz) & (22oz), square: (27oz) & (17.6oz), which meet your family needs, the two large glass containers are useful for meal prep, on the go food, lunch for work, leftover; and the small size is perfect for a picnic, fruits storage, dry food storage.
- 【Glass Containers Safe for Oven/ Microwave/ Freezer/ Dishwasher】Made of borosilicate glass, the food containers can be used in Oven/ Microwave/ Dishwasher WITHOUT LIDS, which is able to withstand -4℉ to 752℉ (-20℃ – 400℃), and they are also used in fridge with lids in 3-5days, which help you keep leftover and next day lunch, enjoy a health life.
- 【BPA Free and Food Grade Material】The glass food containers is 100% BPA Free, crystal-clear glass making it easy to see what's inside. Stains-resistant material for easy cleaning and keep glass containers looks like new.
- 【Bamboo Lids with Silicon Seals】It's more than a lids, the stylish bamboo lids can be used as a cutting board for cheese, vagetables, fruits and more. The silicone seals is better for keeping food fresh. Please keep the bamboo lids dry after washing with water, and NOT recommend for any fluid food or soup or overfilling the food in containers.
- 【Stackable Storage to Save Space】The durable food storage containers can be stacked into each other for easier storing when you don’t use them, which fit neatly in kitchen cabinets.
The Essential Buying Guide for Non-Plastic Food Storage Containers
Switching to non-plastic food storage is a great choice for your health and the planet. These containers keep your food fresh without the worries that come with plastic. But with so many options, how do you pick the best ones? This guide breaks down what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
Good food storage containers do more than just hold food. They need to be easy to use and reliable.
- Airtight Seals: Look for lids that lock tightly. An airtight seal keeps air out, which stops food from going stale quickly. This is the most important feature for freshness.
- Leak-Proof Design: If you pack soup or dressings, you need containers that will not spill in your lunch bag. Check reviews to see if users report leaks.
- Easy-to-Clean Surfaces: Food residue should wipe away easily. Smooth glass or high-quality stainless steel surfaces clean up faster than textured plastics (even non-plastic ones).
- Stackability: Smart storage saves space. Containers that stack neatly inside each other when empty, and stack securely when full, make kitchen organization simple.
Important Materials: What Are Your Options?
The material determines durability, weight, and how you can use the container.
Glass
Glass is a top choice. It does not stain or hold onto food smells. You can usually move glass containers straight from the fridge to the microwave or oven (always check the temperature limits first!). Glass lasts a long time, but it breaks if dropped.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is incredibly durable. It is perfect for packing lunches or camping because it resists dents and won’t shatter. However, you cannot microwave stainless steel. Also, you cannot see what is inside without opening the lid.
Bamboo Fiber or Other Composites
These newer options offer a lightweight, eco-friendly feel. They look nice, but their durability can vary. Make sure they are certified food-safe, as some composites might not handle very hot liquids well.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all non-plastic containers are created equal. Small details make a big difference in the long run.
Quality Boosters:
- Thick Walls: Thicker glass or heavier gauge stainless steel means the container will last longer and is less likely to warp or break.
- Durable Gaskets: High-quality silicone or rubber gaskets in the lid ensure a long-lasting, tight seal. Cheap gaskets dry out and crack quickly.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Clasps: If the clips or latches that hold the lid on feel weak, they will likely snap off after only a few uses.
- Poor Finish: Rough edges on stainless steel or cloudy spots on glass suggest lower manufacturing quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the containers daily. This shapes your best purchase.
For Meal Prepping: Glass is fantastic here. You can bake, store, and reheat all in one container. Look for sets that are all the same size for easy stacking in the fridge.
For School Lunches: Weight matters. Stainless steel or durable bamboo composites work well for kids. They handle being tossed into backpacks better than glass.
For Pantry Storage (Dry Goods): Focus on the seal. Large, square stainless steel canisters with locking lids keep flour, rice, and sugar safe from moisture and pests.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Non-Plastic Food Storage
Q: Are non-plastic containers truly safe?
A: Yes. Glass, stainless steel, and certified food-grade bamboo composites do not leach harmful chemicals into your food, unlike some plastics.
Q: Can I put my glass containers in the freezer?
A: Most quality glass containers handle freezing fine. However, never put a frozen glass container directly into a hot oven or microwave. Thermal shock can cause it to shatter.
Q: How do I clean stains from my stainless steel containers?
A: For tough stains or smells, make a paste of baking soda and water. Rub the paste onto the stain, let it sit for an hour, and then wash as normal.
Q: Which material is the lightest?
A: Bamboo fiber or composite containers are usually the lightest choice, followed by thinner stainless steel.
Q: Do I need to buy special silicone lids?
A: Many brands now sell universal silicone stretch lids. These are great replacements for lost lids or ways to cover bowls that didn’t come with one.
Q: Will stainless steel rust?
A: High-quality stainless steel, usually marked as 18/8 or 304 grade, resists rust very well, even with regular washing.
Q: Are these containers dishwasher safe?
A: Glass and stainless steel are almost always dishwasher safe. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for bamboo or composite lids, as they often require hand washing.
Q: What is the main downside of glass storage?
A: The main downsides are weight and fragility. They are heavier to carry around than plastic or steel.
Q: Should I buy containers with snap-on lids or screw-on lids?
A: Snap-on (locking) lids are usually faster to open and close, offering a great seal. Screw-on lids often provide a tighter, more traditional seal for long-term storage.
Q: How important is the color of the container?
A: For food safety, color does not matter. However, clear glass lets you see your food easily, while opaque stainless steel hides colorful leftovers.