Best Glass Storage Containers

Buying guide for Best glass storage containers

There comes a time in your life when you realize plastic storage containers just aren’t cutting it anymore. Rather than have a cupboard full of discolored, warped plastic storage containers (missing their lids), choose to purchase a set of glass storage containers. Besides just being a classier storage option, glass has numerous benefits over plastic.

Glass is safer for storing food and leftovers because plastic can contain harmful chemicals that may eventually transfer to your food. This happens especially when you microwave food in a plastic container or if you put warm or hot food in a plastic container. Because glass is nonporous and can be reused over and over again with no deterioration of the glass, it’s better for storage than plastic.

Besides being great options for storing leftovers, glass storage containers are also environmentally friendly. Stop putting half-used onions in plastic bags. Instead, use a glass storage container that won’t end up in a landfill after a few days’ use.

Key considerations

Benefits of glass

Nonporous: As mentioned above, glass is nonporous. This is advantageous because odors and food can both be absorbed by plastic. Think of the possible bacteria problems, as well as the ever-present odor of old food in plastic containers. Choose glass because it offers a clean surface every time it’s used.

Transparent: While plastic is relatively easy to see through, it doesn’t have anywhere near the transparency of glass. You can view the contents of your refrigerator through glass storage containers without having to take the lid off of each one to identify the contents.

Perceived value: A set of glass containers usually costs more than a set of plastic containers. This increases the perceived value of the glass containers, so they will be less likely to be left behind or lost. Consider a lunch box with an old plastic container of food in it. You might toss it rather than take the time to clean it properly. If that same container is glass, it’s worth the time to clean because it won’t be compromised by having food in it for a long time.

Durable: It can be difficult to store certain food in plastic containers because of their flimsiness. This isn’t the case with glass containers. Store a pot of soup in several glass containers or a whole roast. The bottom won’t sag and the lid will fit tightly. Glass containers are more durable than plastic ones.

Sets vs. individual containers

Glass storage containers can be purchased individually, but they’re more often bought in sets. If you’re replacing a whole cupboard full of plastic storage containers, it’s recommended that you purchase a set to begin with. Then if you find you need different sizes or additional containers, you can purchase them individually to complement your set.

Sets often come with both circular and rectangular containers. They include several sizes of each, for example, 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch bowls. Be careful when purchasing a set, because the number of pieces often includes lids and accessories. An 18-piece set most likely includes 9 containers and 9 lids, not 18 containers.

If you’re looking for a specific size of glass storage container and you don’t want to splurge on an entire set, simply look for an individual container in that size. Note that for individual pieces, lids are not necessarily included.

Size

Cupboard: Size is important in several respects. First, be sure your cupboard can hold the weight of a set of glass containers. Also be sure that the containers will fit. Plastic containers usually take up less room than glass ones. So, it’s important to know the size of your cupboard compared to the size of the set you’re buying.

Pieces: The size of the pieces included in the set is significant as well. Consider what you usually cook. If you often cook casseroles and roasts, purchase a set with larger containers for leftovers. If you prefer to use your storage containers for small servings of veggies or to pack fruit in lunches, opt for a set that includes smaller containers (think a container that’s 3 inches square). It’s possible to purchase a set that includes the full range of sizes, but it could have lots of pieces you won’t use often, and it will be significantly more expensive.

Container types

Besides the classic circular and rectangular glass storage containers, there are other containers available. You can purchase glass bottles, glass jars, glass cookie jars, and glass ramekins. Instead of temporary storage, think permanent storage.

Jars: Glass jars are great for storing sugar, flour, and other baking ingredients. The glass keeps the ingredients fresh and visible.

Water bottles: You can take a glass water bottle with you instead of using single-use plastic bottles. It’s possible to brew tea or make juice and store it in a glass bottle in the refrigerator.

Ramekins: Glass ramekins are perfect for dips and sauces. They can be packed into a lunch or displayed on an appetizer plate. For instance, if you’re serving wings, fill glass ramekins with barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. If you don’t finish all of the sauces, simply secure lids on the ramekins and refrigerate.

Features

Lids

Many glass containers come with lids. This is useful for storing leftovers or sending food home with dinner guests. Most lids snap on tightly to guard against leaks.

Heat safe

Because glass is so versatile and can withstand high temperatures, it's almost always dishwasher safe. The high heat of the dishwasher will also help sanitize the glass containers.

If you microwave a plastic container, harmful chemicals can be transferred to your food. Microwave-safe glass can withstand the heat without deteriorating. Your food won’t adhere to the glass, and the glass won’t take on any odors from the warmed-up food.

Storage

Because glass container sets include several different sizes of the same shape of container, they can nest inside each other and take up less space in the cupboard. Glass containers could accidentally fall and break if they’re stacked on top of each other.

Glass container prices

Inexpensive

For an affordable $20 to $25, you can purchase a simple set of glass storage containers that contains 8 to 10 pieces (including lids). You can also buy an individual glass jar or casserole dish with a lid.

Mid-range

Spend $30 to $35 and you can purchase a 15- to 18-piece set of glass storage containers with lids. These containers come in various sizes, and they most likely nest inside of each other.

Expensive

For $50 or more, you can find a high-end glass storage container set that includes any size of dish you might need. The lids fit tightly with no leakage. Consider this price range if you’re replacing all of your old plastic containers.

Tips

• Store more than just food. Glass storage containers are also great for art or crafts materials, especially those that may leak or discolor surfaces like paint, glue, and markers.
• Cook and store in the same dish. Purchase a large glass casserole dish with a lid, and after you’re finished with the casserole for dinner, put the lid on the dish. You will dirty fewer dishes, and the casserole will stay fresher longer.
• Look for tempered glass. If you plan to put the glass storage container in the freezer, oven, and then fridge, choose tempered glass. It reduces the chances of the glass cracking or breaking.

Glass containers can become family heirlooms or part of family traditions. Maybe Grandma always uses the same glass casserole dish for her famous cheesy potatoes. Carry on the tradition with a classic glass piece of your own.

FAQ

Q. If I drop a glass container, will it shatter?

A. Yes, it’s possible that if you drop the container on tile or hardwood it will likely break. If you drop it on a soft surface from a low height it may not.

Q. Will I ever have to replace my glass storage containers?

A. Not if you don’t break them! Glass is extremely resistant to wear and tear and will last for as long as you need it. It doesn’t absorb smells or flavors, and it can be used over and over again.

Q. Will glass keep my food fresher longer?

A. Yes. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids have a better seal than plastic containers with lids. Additionally, glass maintains temperatures and protects food better than plastic does for a fresher taste.