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Food storage

Food storage is the easiest place to cut plastic: containers last for years and cling film has several reusable replacements. Choose by how you actually store food, not by looks.

What to look for

  • Lids that close tightly and can be replaced or washed, since the lid usually wears out first.
  • A main material you are comfortable with: glass resists stains and smells, stainless steel is light and hard to break.
  • Sizes that fit your fridge and your lunch, with a few small ones for leftovers.

What to avoid

  • Sets with many sizes you will never use.
  • Wraps for raw meat or very hot food unless the listing clearly says it is suitable.

Editor's pick

Weck Tulip Glass Jars 1 L with Lids, Set of 6

Weck

Weck Tulip Glass Jars 1 L with Lids, Set of 6

glass

Why it is on the list: Classic glass jars with glass lids, rubber seals and clamps that work for preserving as well as for storing leftovers and dry goods in the fridge or pantry.

Watch out for: The rubber rings and clamps are wear parts that eventually need replacing, and full glass jars are heavy and breakable for carrying.

Check price on AmazonDetails

Price and stock are shown on Amazon.

Quick comparison

ProductMaterialBest forWatch out for
Weck Tulip Glass Jars 1 L with Lids, Set of 6Weckglassfridge and pantry storage at homeThe rubber rings and clamps are wear parts that eventually need replacing, and full glass jars are heavy and breakable for carrying.
Glass Meal Prep Containers with Bamboo Lids, Set of 3Igluu Meal Prepglassweekly meal prepThe bamboo lids must be hand-washed, and the seals and elastic bands are silicone or rubber parts rather than glass or wood.
Glass Storage Jars with Bamboo Lids, 4 x 1200 mlKIVYglassdry pantry goods like pasta and flourThe listing says the lids should only be wiped with a damp cloth, so they are not dishwasher safe, and the jars are aimed at dry food rather than leftovers.
Beeswax Wraps Set of 3 (S, M, L)Ecollybeeswax and cottoncovering bowls and wrapping cheese or breadThe listing says to rinse them under cold water only, so they cannot take hot water or the dishwasher and need air drying between uses.
Organic Beeswax Wraps Starter Set, 3 sizeslittle bee freshbeeswax and cottonstarter set for replacing cling filmThe listing quotes a lifespan of roughly one to two years, after which the wax coating wears out and the wraps need replacing.
Organic Beeswax Wraps Set of 3 (S, M, L)Werkstückbeeswax and cottonwrapping bread and covering large bowlsThe listing says to keep the wraps cool and dry and away from sun, hot water and the dishwasher, and the larger sheet needs cutting or folding for small items.
Stainless Steel Lunch Box EasyLock, 1200 mlimmerstainless steelpacked lunches at work or schoolThe seal is silicone, and the listing recommends taking it out for washing so water does not collect in the hollow chamber.
Stainless Steel Lunch Box, 1200 ml, 2 compartmentsBambawstainless steellunch without needing a microwaveStainless steel cannot go in the microwave, and the box has to be unpacked into another dish to reheat food.
Rise Stainless Steel Snack Box, 295 mlKlean Kanteenstainless steelsnacks and small portionsAt 295 ml it only fits snacks or small portions, so it will not replace a full lunch box.
Stretch Silicone Lids, Set of 3 (19, 21, 29 cm)Coolinatosiliconecovering leftover bowls and potsSilicone is a synthetic material rather than a natural one, so these lids reduce single-use film but are not a plastic-free product in the strict sense.

Our shortlist

We have not physically tested these products. Our shortlist is research-based: we check what the listing says, favour non-plastic main materials and name the limits we can see. Always read the listing for sizes, certifications and care instructions.

Common questions

Are glass containers better than steel?

Neither is better for everyone. Glass can go in the oven or microwave (check the lid) but is heavy and breaks. Steel is light and tough but cannot go in the microwave.

How long do wax or beeswax wraps last?

Usually about a year with regular use if washed gently in cool water. They are not for hot food or raw meat, and they need drying between uses.