Health & Safety

10 Must-Have Food Storage Containers for a Perfectly Organized Pantry

ByAnita Brown October 16, 2023October 24, 2023

Woman holding stack of plastic containers with fresh vegetables for freezing at table in kitchen

In the quest for a well-organized pantry that enhances your culinary experiences, the significance of food storage containers cannot be overstated.

These versatile tools play a pivotal role in maintaining the freshness of your ingredients, facilitating efficient organization, and safeguarding your food from air, moisture, and pests.

In this article, we present a curated selection of 10 essential food storage containers that will elevate your pantry’s organization to perfection.

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1. Airtight Containers

Clear Pantry Containers Filled with Non-Perishable Foods, including Dried Beans and Grains

Airtight containers are perfect for storing dry foods such as cereals, pasta, and rice. They keep your food fresh by preventing air and moisture from getting in.

Pyrex is a tried-and-true favorite brand that has been recommended by experts.

The glass containers don’t absorb the smell or color of the food stored inside of them, making them ideal for storing different types of food without worrying about cross-contamination.

Additionally, they are dishwasher and microwave-safe, including the lids, which are great for heating up food.

2. Reusable Containers

Reusable containers are perfect for storing leftovers, snacks, or lunches.

They are usually made of plastic or glass and can be used multiple times, making them eco-friendly.

Rubbermaid Brilliance Pantry Food Storage Containers were the clear winner of all the models tested.

They are durable, tight sealing, and available in a number of convenient sizes. The lids are completely watertight, making them some of the tightest-sealing containers ever tested.

3. Freezer-Safe Containers

Freezer-safe containers are perfect for storing food in the freezer.

They are usually made of plastic or glass and can withstand low temperatures without cracking.

Pyrex glass containers are freezer-safe and can go directly from the freezer to the microwave or oven.

This makes them perfect for meal prep, as you can cook your meals ahead of time and freeze them for later use.

4. Microwave-Safe Containers

Microwave-safe containers are perfect for reheating food in the microwave.

They are usually made of plastic or glass and can withstand high temperatures without melting.

Pyrex glass containers are microwave-safe and can go directly from the fridge to the microwave or oven.

This makes them perfect for meal prep, as you can cook your meals ahead of time and reheat them quickly when needed.

5. Dishwasher-Safe Containers

Clear glass food storage meal prepping containers with fresh berries, carrots, fruits, vegetables and meat on white background.

Dishwasher-safe containers are perfect for easy cleaning. They are usually made of plastic or glass and can be washed in the dishwasher without getting damaged.

Pyrex glass containers are dishwasher safe, including the lids, which are great for easy cleaning after cooking and eating.

6. BPA-Free Containers

BPA-free containers are perfect for safe food storage.

BPA is a chemical that has been linked to health problems, so it’s important to choose containers that are free from this harmful substance.

Rubbermaid Brilliance Pantry Food Storage Containers are BPA-free, making them a safe choice for storing food.

7. Meal Prep Containers

Chicken teriyaki stir fry meal prep lunch box containers with broccoli, rice and carrots

Meal prep containers are perfect for preparing meals in advance. They usually come in sets and have different compartments for storing different foods.

They are usually made of plastic or glass and are microwave and dishwasher-safe.

Rubbermaid Brilliance Pantry Food Storage Containers are perfect for meal prep, as they are durable, tight-sealing, and available in a number of convenient sizes.

8. Leftover Containers

Woman taking container with frozen potato from refrigerator, closeup

Leftover containers are perfect for storing leftovers in the fridge. They are usually made of plastic or glass and can be used multiple times.

Pyrex glass containers are great for storing leftovers, as they don’t absorb the smell or color of the food stored inside of them.

Additionally, they are dishwasher and microwave-safe, including the lids, which is great for easy cleaning and reheating.

9. Long-Term Storage Containers

A woman meal preps in the kitchen. She is putting black berries, strawberries, peas, and nuts into clear glass food storage containers with lids.

Long-term storage containers are perfect for storing food for long periods of time. They are usually made of plastic or glass and can withstand extreme temperatures without cracking.

Rubbermaid Commercial Space Saving Food Storage Containers are workhorses designed to withstand the abuse of a commercial kitchen.

They’re similar to Cambro containers, the brand most commonly found in restaurant kitchens, but the Rubbermaid versions have a few advantages.

10. Emergency Preparedness Containers

Metal empty stillness steel lunch boxes with on a wooden background

Emergency preparedness containers are perfect for storing food for emergencies.

They are usually made of plastic or metal and can withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions.

They are essential for anyone who lives in an area prone to natural disasters or other emergencies.

Rubbermaid Brilliance Pantry Food Storage Containers are perfect for emergency preparedness, as they are durable, tight-sealing, and available in a number of convenient sizes.