The 11 best food storage containers of 2024: Tried and tested

Material: Tritan plastic or glass bases with plastic lids | Care: Plastic containers are dishwasher-, freezer- and microwave-safe (bases and lids) | Quantity: 24 pieces

Topping our list are the Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, which come in a variety of sizes, available with either a glass or BPA-free Tritan plastic base. We tested the Tritan plastic and they were durable yet lightweight, the flip-style lids were easy to clean and, when locked, the set proved to be airtight. Based on our experience, the containers are also odor- and stain-resistant, so they still smell fresh and look like new after being used to store colorfully sauced foods such as marinara sauce and — as pictured above — hot wings.

Unlike some other plastic containers on the market, these containers 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. A mix of small, medium and large containers stack together beautifully for orderly storing and transporting. Did we mention the set is an Amazon No. 1 bestseller with over 69,000 five-star reviews? Of note, Rubbermaid also offers one-compartment and multi-compartment sets, as well as pantry storage.

Material: Plastic | Care: Microwave-, freezer- and top-rack dishwasher-safe | Quantity: 20 pieces

This plastic food storage collection from Ziploc is our budget-friendly pick for a simple yet reliable set that rivals some of the more expensive brands we've tested. The containers are lightweight and nestle nicely inside each other for compact stowing. The lids have little grooves that snap tightly into place so leftovers are kept safe.

Having owned and used these for several years, I can confirm they don't stain or leak — and they're top-rack dishwasher-friendly for hassle-free cleaning. I particularly like and recommend using the Twist 'n Loc containers with a screw-style locking system (also sold separately) for a little extra security when transporting lunch, especially soups and other liquids.

Material: Plastic | Care: Dishwasher-, freezer- and microwave-safe (bases only) | Quantity: 48 pieces, plus labels and pen

If you like the tumble-friendly allure of plastic with a thicker shell for more durability, this container set from FullStar performed at the top of its category, boasting 24 containers of different dimensions for accommodating different food types and appetites.

Each is dishwasher-safe and comes with a lock-style lid that, as demonstrated in our testing, renders it completely leak-proof. The enclosed labels and pen are also great for easily tracking and spotting contents and all-important use-by dates.

We're smitten with this set and are in good company. FullStar's containers are an Amazon customer favorite — backed by over 34,000 positive reviews — for everyday food storage and meal prepping.

Honorable mention: For a smaller plastic food storage set, I own and love these containers from Joseph Joseph, which nest neatly for cozy or compact spaces and come in three chic color combos.

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 

These durable, tempered glass containers from Pyrex can go from the freezer to the microwave or even a preheated oven — then right to the table, thanks to their streamlined design — making this one of the most versatile sets we tried.

They stack nicely in the fridge and come with airtight plastic lids in different colors for each size. These tight-sealing, colorful lids aid in identification and organization, lock in freshness and provide added grip when carrying.

While the lids from this set held up well to leaks in testing, we recommend one of Pyrex's lock-lid styles (such as this, which also performed well in our testing) when you need to transfer liquids beyond your dining room.

Honorable mention: Ello’s glass containers are another leak-proof, durable option for those looking to add a pop of color to their assortment, with the added protection of a silicone sleeve. They also come in multi-sized sets for sides and snacking.

Material: Containers are available in plastic or glass with plastic lids (shown); bags are plastic and all valves are silicone | Care: Glass containers are freezer-, dishwasher-, oven- and microwave-safe; BPA-free bags are freezer- and microwave-safe | Quantity: Two vacuum containers with lids, four vacuum bags and one rechargeable pump 

This innovative food storage system from Zwilling comes with a compact, cordless, easy-to-use vacuum pump that sucks the oxygen out of the accompanying storage containers — extending a food's shelf life and reducing the estimated 30% of perishables that end up in the garbage.

In our testing, produce stored in Zwilling's vacuum-sealed containers and bags lasted up to a week longer without showing signs of deterioration compared to produce stored in regular containers. This is especially beneficial for those who batch-cook and meal-prep.

The glass containers are freezer-, microwave- and even oven-safe (up to 356°F, sans lid and vacuum seal); the reusable bags are freezer- and microwave-safe (sans seal). This particular set is also available with a plastic base and additional options for different food preservation needs.

Material: 18/8 stainless steel base with silicone lid | Care: Freezer-, dishwasher-, microwave- and oven-safe (base only) | Quantity: Two pieces

Like glass, stainless steel containers are non-reactive to acids in foods like citrus or tomatoes. Like plastic, they're typically more lightweight and less likely to break (in the case of the Klean Kanteen Rise containers, seemingly shatter-resistant).

Even more, the Rise containers are sustainable (made with 90% post-consumer recycled materials) and — distinct from many other stainless steel options — microwave-safe. They're also 100% leak-resistant thanks to a unique seal and snap function, confirmed by our evaluation.

The rectangular container shown, ideal for individual servings such as a small side and a sandwich, can be purchased solo or as part of a three-piece set, while Klean Kanteen’s insulated canisters are handy when it comes to longer hauls and larger lunches.

Honorable mention: For a slightly more cost-effective canister style, we like the Ecolunchbox Seal Cups, which are nesting, durable and organized by color-coded lids for easy sorting (in three- or six-piece sets). The brand also has a vacuum-insulated canister for keeping foods cold or hot for longer periods.

Material: Stainless steel base with silicone lid | Care: Freezer- and top-rack dishwasher-safe | Quantity: One bowl with lid, plus tray and ramekin 

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 cold pasta salads — stay contained when shaken.

We're delighted to report the bowl kept lettuce fresh and wilt-free for 24 to 28 hours in our testing, making it a great option for make-ahead meal prep. It's also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.

While the S'well bowl made our "best of" list for its function, 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.

Honorable mention: Like S'well's, Bentgo's salad bowl has a removable ramekin and tray and is completely leak-resistant per our evaluation. It's a safe bet for those who prefer plastic, as reinforced by over 44,000 positive reviews.

Material: Plastic | Care: Dishwasher-safe | Quantity: 10 pieces

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 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, in perfect condition with no signs of staleness.

Because the seal also mitigates evaporation, granular powders and sugars didn't clump or harden. We also appreciate the practical range of sizes, ideal for stowing everything from starches and baking essentials to coffee bar go-tos.

Every piece in the set is dishwasher-safe (aka low maintenance) — and for those in warmer climates, these containers are a powerful weapon against pantry moths. Oxo Good Grips also offers a three-piece canister set with scoops and a 20-piece collection for accommodating more snacks.

Honorable mention: Prefer a “pop” of color? Ello's stackable plastic food storage canisters, available in a 10-piece set, also ranked high on our list, complete with airtight lids and jewel-toned silicone bases for added grip.

Material: Glass bases with bamboo or stainless steel lids | Care: Freezer-, dishwasher- and microwave-safe (base only) | Quantity: 12 pieces

These pantry jars from JoyJolt are a sight to behold, pairing borosilicate glass cylinders with bamboo lids for a clean, natural look that leveled up our counter space and cabinets (there's also a stainless steel lid version for a sleeker aesthetic).

These 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 glass item, they're not shatter-proof, so we recommend keeping them out of the reach of small children.

Material: Silicone bases with plastic lids | Care: Freezer-, dishwasher- and microwave-safe | Quantity: Two pieces

Collapsible food storage containers are a saving grace for those needing to conserve space — and these silicone wonders from Stojo are as compact and stylish as they come.

The sandwich box is big enough to fit a hearty sandwich or a small meal, while the 36-oz. container is ideal for large salads and bowls (I also own Stojo’s collapsible cups, which are great for hydrating on the go).

The verifiably leak-proof, microwave-safe containers condense to a height of only 1.3 inches, so they tuck nicely inside a bag when packing up after a beach or park outing. I also like to keep one of these in tow for occasional restaurant leftovers. 

All through testing these collapsibles performed well, and they looked pretty doing it, in colors ranging from sunny yellows to muted blues in both opaque and transparent options. 

Material: LFGB-grade silicone | Care: Freezer-, dishwasher-, microwave- and oven-safe | Quantity: Five pieces

Last but certainly not least is this set of reusable silicone bags from W&P, consisting of three flat bags and two standing bags, each made of LFGB-certified silicone (of higher quality, according to European standards) and featuring a clear panel for added visibility.

I particularly like the depth of the standing bags for storing — and not smushing — more shapely produce, like lettuce, carrots and berries, and I can confirm from testing and personal use that, when properly sealed, they do not leak.

These bags are a splurge, but they often go on sale and, in my case, have proven a worthy investment, inspiring me to take control of my fridge and consume more fruits and veggies. Despite being bags, they're also microwave- and oven-safe!

W&P's reusable bags come in the same shades as the brand's glass bowls — another personal favorite and a top pick among professional organizers — for matching. The brand also offers Clean Kitchen Storage Sets for additional savings and cohesion.