When it comes to food storage, glass containers are a classic choice for many reasons. Glass is non-porous and impermeable, so it won't absorb odors, flavors, or stains like plastic can. It's also non-reactive, so you don't have to worry about chemicals from the container leaching into your food. Plus, glass is transparent - allowing you to easily see contents - and can go straight from freezer to oven or microwave for convenient reheating.
If you're looking for the best glass food storage containers, keep reading for a detailed buying guide with tips and top recommendations.
Vtopmart Glass Food Storage Containers
You're looking for a quality set of glass food storage containers to keep your leftovers fresh and organized in the fridge or freezer. This 8-pack from Vtopmart is an excellent option to consider.
One of the best features of these containers is how airtight the lids seal. The silicone gasket creates a tight seal to lock in freshness and prevent leaks. You'll appreciate how the containers neatly stack together, saving space. The glass material won't stain or absorb odors either.
When it's time to reheat food, the glass bases are microwave and oven safe up to 400°F. The clear glass makes it easy to see contents too. After use, the containers clean up nicely in the dishwasher. Just avoid putting the lids in the microwave or oven to prevent warping.
Key features:
- 8-pack of glass storage containers
- Airtight, leakproof lids
- Glass is microwave and oven safe
- Stackable nesting design
- Dishwasher safe
Pros:
- Keeps food fresh
- Versatile sizes
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Lids not oven safe
- Smaller capacity containers
UMEIED Glass Food Storage Containers
Tired of plastic food containers? This 10-pack of glass storage containers from UMEIED makes it easy to switch over. The glass material is naturally BPA-free and won't stain or absorb odors.
One of the best features is the airtight seal the lids provide. The snap-lock lids prevent leaks so you can store soups, sauces, and leftovers without spills. The variety of sizes give you options for meal prepping, snacks, and ingredients.
When it's time to reheat food, just pop the glass container in the microwave or oven up to 400°F. The clear glass lets you see contents easily too. Clean up is a breeze since the containers are dishwasher-safe.
Key features:
- 10-pack of glass containers
- Airtight, leakproof lids
- Microwave, oven, and freezer safe
- Dishwasher safe
- BPA-free
Pros:
- Versatile sizes for storage
- Keeps food fresh
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Lids not oven safe
- Handles may loosen over time
HOMBERKING Large Glass Food Storage Containers
For convenient food storage and meal prep, this 12-piece set from HOMBERKING is a great choice. The large capacity rectangular and square containers give you versatile options.
The borosilicate glass bases are sturdy and won't absorb stains or odors. The airtight plastic lids ensure a leakproof seal to maintain freshness. You'll appreciate how the containers neatly stack together when stored.
When it's time to reheat, the glass bases can go straight into the microwave or oven up to 400°F. Just avoid putting the lids at high heat. Clean up is easy since the containers are dishwasher safe.
Key features:
- 12-piece glass food container set
- Large capacity rectangular and square shapes
- Stackable nesting design
- Oven and microwave safe
Pros:
- Versatile sizes and shapes
- Keeps food fresh
- Easy to clean and store
Cons:
- Lids not oven safe
- Handles may loosen over time
Rubbermaid Glass Food Storage Containers
For keeping leftovers fresh and preventing food waste, this 4-pack of glass containers from Rubbermaid is an excellent choice. The 3.2-cup capacity is great for single servings.
One of the best features is the 100% airtight seal the lids provide. The leakproof design locks in freshness and contains spills or leaks. The clear glass also lets you see contents easily.
When reheating food, the glass bases go right into the microwave or oven up to 450°F. The vented lids allow steam to escape for splatter-free microwaving too. Clean up is easy since the containers are dishwasher safe.
Key features:
- 4-pack of 3.2-cup glass containers
- Crystal clear glass material
- Airtight, leakproof lids
- Vented lids for microwave
- Oven and dishwasher safe
Pros:
- Perfect size for leftovers
- Keeps food fresh
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Not broiler safe
- Lids may warp over time
KOMUEE Glass Food Storage Containers
For versatile food storage, this 24-piece set from KOMUEE has you covered. The variety of sizes includes rounds, rectangles, and squares to suit different needs.
The borosilicate glass material is naturally BPA-free. It won't absorb stains or odors either. The airtight lids provide a secure seal to maintain freshness and prevent leaks. You'll love how the containers neatly stack together too.
The glass bases easily go from freezer to oven, safe at temps from -4°F to 400°F. Reheating food is convenient since the containers are microwave safe. Clean up is a cinch too since they are dishwasher safe.
Key features:
- 24-piece glass container set
- Variety of shapes and sizes
- Airtight, leakproof lids
- Stackable nesting design
- Oven, freezer, and microwave safe
Pros:
- Versatile for all storage needs
- Keeps food fresh
- Easy to organize and clean
Cons:
- Lids not oven safe
- Glass can break if dropped
HOMBERKING 9 Pack Glass Meal Prep Containers
You'll love how convenient and practical these glass meal prep containers from HOMBERKING are. With 9 containers in 3 sizes and styles, you can easily portion out breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for your weekly meal prep.
The durable borosilicate glass construction means these containers are safe to use in the oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher. You don't have to worry about chemicals leaching from plastic containers into your food. The glass also resists stains and odors, so you can reuse these containers often while keeping foods tasting fresh.
An important feature is that the containers are leakproof thanks to the airtight plastic lids. The lids snap securely to seal in food and prevent spills, even when transporting the containers. This makes these meal prep containers ideal for packing school or work lunches. The containers stack neatly as well to conserve space.
When it's time to eat, simply pop your frozen meal prep container straight into the microwave to reheat your food. The glass won't melt or warp. You can even bake casseroles and dishes right in the oven-safe glassware.
Key features:
- 9 containers with 3 sizes and styles
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Airtight locking lids
- Microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher safe
Pros:
- Versatile sizes for meal prepping
- Leakproof for transporting foods
- Oven and microwave safe glass
Cons:
- Handwash lids to preserve seals
- Heavy glass means heavy to carry
ROSOS Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids
These ROSOS glass food storage containers are just what you need to keep your fridge neat, organized, and foods fresh for longer. The 12-piece set comes with 6 containers in a variety of practical sizes and shapes along with snap-on plastic lids to seal in freshness.
One of the best features of these containers is that they are microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher safe thanks to the durable borosilicate glass construction. You don't have to transfer foods to cook or reheat them - simply pop the glass container directly in the oven up to 400°F. The glass resists temperature shock well.
The plastic lids create an airtight seal around the rim of the containers to lock in freshness and prevent leaks or spills. The lids are easy to snap on and off for quick access to foods. Keeping leftovers in these airtight glass containers preserves the taste, texture, and moisture content better than non-sealing plasticware.
Having see-through glass containers makes it easy to identify and inventory leftovers and ingredients in the fridge and pantry. You'll love always having the right size container handy for packing snacks, lunches, and meals to enjoy later.
Key features:
- 6 airtight glass containers
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Plastic lids with airtight seal
- Microwave, oven, freezer, dishwasher safe
Pros:
- Variety of useful container sizes
- Keeps food fresh longer
- Lids provide a tight seal
Cons:
- Handwash lids to preserve seal
- Glass is heavy
HOMBERKING Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids
![HOMBERKING Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids, [18 Piece] Meal Prep Containers, Airtight Lunch Bento Boxes (9 lids & 9 Containers) - White](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41urVS3tUBL._SL75_.jpg)
This 18-piece glass food storage set from HOMBERKING is a meal prepper's dream with 9 containers of assorted sizes and shapes. The durable borosilicate glass is thermal shock resistant, allowing you to go from freezer to oven without worry.
One of the biggest benefits of these containers is that they are entirely microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher safe (lids are hand wash recommended). You can cook, store, and reheat foods all in one container. No need for plasticware now.
The plastic lids create an airtight seal around the rim of the glass containers thanks to a flexible silicone gasket. This prevents leaks, spills, and locks in freshness much better than non-sealing containers. Foods will maintain proper moisture content, flavor, and texture for days.
Having such a great variety of container sizes and styles makes it easy to properly portion out and pack meals, leftovers, and ingredients. You'll always have just the right size glass container with lid for your needs. They neatly stack for space-efficiency too.
Key features:
- 18 pieces with 9 containers
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Airtight sealing lids
- Assorted sizes and shapes
Pros:
- Completely oven and microwave safe
- Preserves food freshness
- Useful variety of containers
Cons:
- Glass is heavy to transport
- Handwash lids to protect seals
FineDine Glass Meal Prep Containers with Lids
You will absolutely love these glass meal prep containers from FineDine. The 3 28oz square shaped containers are a perfect size for prepping lunches or for storing and transporting leftovers.
The main benefit of these containers is their versatile, durable borosilicate glass that allows you to use them directly in the oven or microwave without worrying about warping, melting, or leaching plastic chemicals. You can cook, freeze, and reheat foods in one glass container.
The square shape means you can easily stack the containers in your refrigerator or bag for work, and the clear glass makes it easy to identify leftover contents. The lids provide an airtight leakproof seal thanks to a flexible silicone gasket that keeps food fresher for longer.
Cleaning up is a breeze thanks to the simple, detachable lid components. The glass containers clean up very nicely by hand or in the dishwasher. Having uniform sized containers is perfect for meal prepping efficient weekday lunches.
Key features:
- Set of 3 square 28oz containers
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Airtight leakproof lids
- Microwave, oven, freezer, dishwasher safe
Pros:
- Convenient 28oz size for lunches
- Oven and microwave safe
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Non-varied sizing
- Not for large leftovers
HOMBERKING 12 Sets Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids
This expansive 24-piece glass food storage set from HOMBERKING is perfect for the frequent meal prepper. You get 12 containers in a variety of shapes and sizes, all with airtight sealing lids to lock in freshness.
The biggest perk of these containers is their durable borosilicate glass construction that allows you to seamlessly use them from freezer to microwave to oven without worry of temperature shock. You don't have to dirty extra dishes transferring food containers.
The variety of shapes and sizes means you'll always have the right container handy to store leftovers or prepare meals and snacks to go. The plastic lids snap on tightly to form an airtight seal around the rim, preventing leaks, spills, and preserving food freshness.
Having so many durable, reusable glass containers means you can largely avoid single-use plasticware. The glass won't absorb stains or odors either, so your containers will look and perform like new after many uses. Meal prepping for a family each week is easy.
Key features:
- 24 pieces with 12 containers
- Assorted sizes and shapes
- Airtight sealing lids
- Durable borosilicate glass
Pros:
- Variety of containers for prepping
- Keeps food fresh longer
- Oven, microwave, freezer safe
Cons:
- Heavy glass to transport
- Handwash lids to preserve seal
Glass Food Storage Container Buying Guide
There are a few key factors to consider when selecting glass food storage containers:
Type of Glass
Glass food containers are commonly made from soda-lime glass, borosilicate glass, or tempered soda-lime glass:
- Soda-lime glass is the most common. It's lightweight, but more prone to breaking than other types.
- Borosilicate glass is known for being strong, durable, and heat resistant. However, it's heavier than soda-lime glass.
- Tempered soda-lime glass is treated with a strengthening process to increase its strength while retaining the lightweight advantage of regular soda-lime glass.
For maximum durability, look for containers made of borosilicate or tempered glass. But soda-lime glass is sufficient for most kitchen uses.
Lid Type
There are a few common lid types to consider:
- Plastic lids are lightweight and often leakproof, but can warp, stain, or absorb odors over time.
- Glass lids match the durability of the container itself, but tend to be heavier and can break if dropped. Some have rubber sealing gaskets for an airtight seal.
- Silicone lids are flexible, lightweight leakproof options, though durability varies.
- Metal lids like stainless steel offer excellent durability. Make sure they have a silicone or rubber gasket.
For a balance of durability and versatility, glass lids with a silicone gasket are a great choice. Or opt for stainless steel lids for maximum longevity.
Shape
Common shapes for glass storage containers include:
- Round - Great all-purpose shape, space efficient for liquids.
- Rectangular - Optimizes storage space and stacking. Good for bulk dry foods.
- Square - Like rectangular but avoids tipping over. Also great for stacking.
- Bowls - Convenient for soups, salads, and snacks. Often have snap-on glass or silicone lids.
Consider the types of foods you'll be storing when choosing a shape. Rectangular and square shapes make efficient use of shelf space, while round containers and bowls are favored for loose items or liquids.
Size
Glass storage containers come in a wide range of capacities, from 1 cup up to over 100 cups. Consider the quantities you cook and store when selecting sizes:
- Small (1-2 cup) - For storing sauces, salad dressings, leftovers.
- Medium (3-5 cup) - For meal prep, baked goods, sandwiches.
- Large (6-10 cup) - For storing bulk meals, soups, grains.
- Extra large (12+ cups) - For long-term pantry storage of dry goods.
Choose an assortment of sizes for maximum versatility. Having both smaller and larger containers allows you to store any quantity of food.
Other Considerations
- Airtight seal - A secure lid prevents leaks and keeps food fresh longer.
- Microwave/oven/freezer safe - Essential for reheating foods.
- Stackability - Convenient storage and space-saving.
- Handles - Allow for easy transport and lifting.
- Clarity - Lets you easily identify contents.
- Weight - Heavier glass is more durable but can be cumbersome when full.
- Dishwasher safe - For easy cleaning.
Keep these factors in mind when selecting the best glass storage containers for your needs. Prioritize the features most important for your intended use.
Top Glass Food Storage Containers
Now that you know what to look for, here are some of the best glass food storage containers in several popular styles:
Best Glass Food Storage Containers - Anchor Hocking
Anchor Hocking's glass storage line checks all the boxes for quality and versatility. The range includes rectangle and square containers, round options, and bowls - all freezer, microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe.
The Presence line features tempered soda-lime glass for enhanced durability. Lids are plastic or tempered glass with silicone seals for an airtight closure. The rectangular baking dishes come with handy lift-out handles.
For even greater resilience, their TrueSeal line uses shatter-resistant borosilicate glass. The leakproof glass lids have stainless steel rimmed edges and dual silicone seals to lock in freshness.
Best Leakproof - Rubbermaid Brilliance
Rubbermaid's Brilliance line has a 100% airtight seal thanks to the unique latched, snap-on BPA-free plastic lids. Just press a button to seal, then press again to vent for microwaving.
The thick tempered soda-lime glass construction withstands drops and extreme temps. Lids are also stain and odor resistant.
This set includes 9 containers in essential rectangular and round shapes from 1 cup up to 9 cups. The rooms stack neatly and are freezer, microwave, and dishwasher safe.
Best Glass Bowls - Pyrex Smart Essentials
For glass bowls, it's hard to beat the trusted quality of Pyrex. The Smart Essentials mixing bowls have versatile, BPA-free clear plastic lids that snap on for a tight seal.
Made of durable borosilicate glass, these bowls maintain their shape after repeated oven and microwave use. The oval shape allows for easy mixing and pouring.
This indispensable 4-piece set ranges from 1.5 cups to 4 cups, perfect for food prep, storage, and reheating. They're freezer, fridge, microwave, and dishwasher safe.
Best Borosilicate Containers - OXO Good Grips 10-Piece Set
If maximum durability is your top concern, OXO's 10-piece set is made entirely of shatter-resistant borosilicate glass - containers and lids included.
The BPA-free rubber airtight seals on the glass lids lock in freshness. The rounded corners make for easy scooping.
With a great range of practical sizes from 1 cup to 5 cups and two different shapes, this pantry set contains everything you need for sturdy everyday food storage.
Best Bulk Storage - Weck Tulip Glass Food Storage
For large batch cooking and freezable meals, consider Weck's borosilicate glass tulip jars. The unique shape allows you to easily fill the jars while minimizing air pockets.
The glass and rubber gasket lids create an airtight vacuum seal during canning or freezing. Clamps keep the lids securely in place.
With sizes ranging from .5 liters to 1.65 liters, these jars are perfect for soups, sauces, grains, bulk snacks, and more.
Most Versatile - Glasslock Assorted Oven Safe Container Set
Glasslock offers an extensive selection of nested glass containers so you can always find the right size and shape.
Made of tempered soda-lime glass, their assorted set includes rectangle and square containers, round containers, and small bowls with matching BPA-free plastic lids.
All the pieces are oven, microwave, fridge, and freezer safe. The colorful, durable containers nest for compact storage.
For maximum versatility, it's hard to beat this 18-piece set!
Glass Food Storage FAQ
Is glass or plastic better for food storage?
Glass is generally the best option for food storage because it's non-porous and chemically inert. Plastic can absorb odors and chemicals from foods or stain over time. Glass keeps food fresh for longer without any risk of leaching.
Can you microwave glass food storage?
Yes, most glass food storage containers are microwave-safe. Just be sure to check the specific container for microwave safety and remove the lid first. Some glass lids have metal components that should not go in the microwave.
Does food stay fresh longer in glass?
Yes, food keeps longer in glass storage because it provides an airtight, non-porous barrier that doesn't transfer odors or flavors. Glass prevents chemical leaching that can happen with plastic. Food preserved in sterilized glass can last for years.
Can glass containers go in the oven?
Tempered soda-lime glass and borosilicate glass food containers are typically oven-safe up to a certain temperature, usually around 400°F. Be sure to verify the specific oven safety info for your containers before using them in the oven. Metal lids should be removed first.
Is it OK to freeze food in glass containers?
Absolutely! Freezing food in glass containers is perfectly safe as long as the container is rated for freezer use. Always leave headspace at the top so food can expand as it freezes without breaking the container. Defrost in the fridge or microwave.
Should glass food containers be refrigerated?
Yes, keeping glass food containers refrigerated or frozen helps food stay fresh as long as possible. The cool temperatures slow the growth of bacteria. For long-term pantry storage at room temp, using sterilized jars and proper canning technique is best.
Do glass jars need lids?
For short-term fridge storage, glass jars may not need lids. But for optimal freshness and preventing contamination or spills, lids are recommended. For freezer storage or room temperature canning, properly sealed lids are essential to preserve foods safely.
Conclusion
From eco-friendly reusable lunch boxes to freezable meals to kitchen staple storage, glass food containers have many benefits. When selecting glass storage, look for shatter-resistant tempered or borosilicate glass, secure lids with silicone seals, and freezer/microwave/oven-safe designs.
Anchor Hocking, Pyrex, Rubbermaid, OXO, Weck, and Glasslock all make excellent glass container options to keep your food fresher for longer. Investing in a quality set of glass food storage containers in a variety of shapes and sizes will provide versatility for all your food storage needs.
Resources
- Anchor Hocking - How to care for glass food storage
- The Spruce Eats - Best Glass Storage Containers
- Taste of Home - The 8 Best Glass Food Storage Containers
- Allrecipes - The Best Glass Food Containers for Meal Prep and More
- The New York Times - The 4 Best Food Storage Containers
- Crate & Barrel - Glass Containers: Airtight, With Lids & More
- Anchor Hocking provides tips on how to care for glass food storage containers to keep them in good condition for years to come.
- The Spruce Eats has tested and reviewed top-rated glass food storage containers in a variety of shapes and sizes, and evaluated their durability, spill-proofing, and odor retention.
- Taste of Home offers a list of the best glass food storage containers, including a professional chef's recommendation for making the switch from plastic to glass.
- Allrecipes has researched and tested the best glass food containers for meal prep and more, taking into account factors such as aesthetics, size, and safety.
- The New York Times' Wirecutter has reviewed and recommended the best food storage containers, including top picks for glass containers that are durable, leakproof, and easy to clean.