How to Choose Food Storage Containers

A well-organised kitchen and fresh meals on the go don't just happen. Unsuitable containers often lead to sauces leaking in your bag, soggy salads at lunchtime, or a cluttered pantry. Choosing the right food storage containers is crucial to keep food fresh for longer, transport it safely, and maintain order in your fridge and cupboards.

This article serves as your guide. We will introduce different types of storage containers and explain which features are most important for various uses. Our goal is to provide you with an informed basis for your next purchase.

What to Look for When Choosing Food Storage Containers

Before you decide on a model, several fundamental criteria should be considered. These will help you find a container that withstands the demands of daily use and offers a durable solution.

Material Properties: BPA-Free and Suited for Everyday Use

Food safety is the top priority. High-quality plastic food storage containers should be explicitly labelled as BPA-free (Bisphenol-A-free). This feature ensures that no unwanted chemical substances leach into your food. Also, pay attention to the material's versatility. Containers made from polypropylene (PP) are typically robust and suitable for use in the microwave (without the lid), freezer, and dishwasher, which makes everyday handling much easier.

Locking Mechanism: Airtight and Leak-Proof

A reliable seal is the core feature of a good food storage box. An airtight lid protects the contents from air and moisture, which is proven to extend freshness and preserve aromas. For transporting soups, sauces, or dressings, a guaranteed leak-proof seal is essential. Systems with special silicone gaskets and multi-sided clip-locks, like those found on LocknLock storage containers, offer a high level of security.

Form and Function: From Divided Lunch Boxes to Large Storage Bins

The intended use determines the ideal shape and size. A compact lunch box is perfect for your daily lunch. A lunch box with dividers is practical for keeping different components like bread, vegetables, and dips separate to prevent them from getting soggy. For cereal with yoghurt or milk, a special cereal-to-go cup with two separate chambers is the right choice. For storing flour, pasta, or large quantities of leftovers, large-volume, stackable boxes are ideal.

Featured food storage sets

Based on the criteria mentioned, we have compiled a selection of functional containers for various needs.

LocknLock Sandwich Container with Divider 1.2 L

Why this product stands out: This container is specifically designed for carrying sandwiches and filled rolls. The integrated divider ensures that moist ingredients like tomatoes or cucumbers don't make the bread soggy. Its square shape makes efficient use of space in bags and backpacks.

Benefits:

• Integrated divider: Keeps ingredients separate and fresh.
• Airtight and leak-proof: Secure transport without any spills.
• Material: Robust, BPA-free plastic.
• Practical handling: Dishwasher-safe and microwave-safe (without the lid).
• Capacity: 1.2 litres provides ample space for a full meal.

Who is this product for? Ideal for professionals, students, and anyone looking for a reliable lunch box with a divider for their daily lunch.

Lock & Lock PP Classic Storage Box 10 L

Why this product stands out: With a 10-litre capacity, this box is a solution for storing large quantities. Whether for leftovers from a family gathering, freezing bulk foods, or organising dry goods, the two fold-down carrying handles make it easy to transport, even when full.

Benefits:

• Large volume: 10-litre capacity for bulk storage.
• Convenient carrying handles: Simplify lifting and carrying the box.
• 100% airtight and waterproof: The patented locking system with a silicone seal securely locks in aromas.
• Stackable: The design allows for space-saving storage in the pantry or freezer.
• Temperature-resistant: Suitable for the freezer (down to -20°C) and microwave (up to 120°C, without the lid).

Who is this product for? An excellent choice for households that need a large and robust food storage box to create order and keep large quantities fresh.

LocknLock Two Way Twist Container 360 ml - 3-Piece Set

Why this product stands out: This food storage container set consists of three containers, each featuring a two-chamber system. A lower container (360 ml) and an upper container (310 ml) are separated by a dividing insert in the screw-on lid. This allows you to transport cereal and milk, yoghurt and fruit, or salad and dressing without the ingredients mixing.

Benefits:

• Two-chamber system: Keeps dry and wet ingredients separate until you're ready to eat.
• Convenient 3-piece set: Enough containers for several days or different snacks.
• Compact design: The round shape fits easily into any bag and is ideal for on the go.
• Safe and practical: Made from BPA-free plastic, dishwasher- and microwave-safe (without the lid).
• Versatile use: Perfect as a cereal-to-go cup or for snacks with a dip.

Who is this product for? Suitable for health-conscious individuals, commuters, and parents looking for a flexible solution for snacks and small meals on the go.

Looking for Other Sizes or Shapes?

The products presented here cover common use cases, but every household has unique needs. Sometimes you might need an especially flat container for the fridge, a set of various-sized containers, or a specific shape.

Discover our entire range of plastic containers with lids and find the perfect solution for your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Food Storage Containers

Are plastic food storage containers safe for food?

Yes, as long as they are made from food-grade materials. Look for the BPA-free label. High-quality polypropylene (PP), as used in the featured products, is considered safe for food contact and does not release harmful substances with proper use.

What do 'airtight' and 'leak-proof' mean?

Airtight means the container is sealed in a way that prevents any air exchange. This slows down oxidation processes and keeps food fresh for longer. Leak-proof means the container remains completely sealed even when transporting liquids like soups or sauces. This is usually achieved through a combination of a precise locking system and a flexible seal.

How do I clean food storage containers properly to avoid odours?

Clean the containers and lids as soon as possible after use with warm water and mild dish soap, or in the dishwasher (usually on the top rack). To prevent odour build-up, store the containers dry and with the lid slightly ajar or loosely placed on top. For stubborn odours or stains, a paste of baking soda and water can help if left to sit in the container for a few hours.