Plastic wrap, zip-top bags, and disposable containers are some of the easiest single-use plastics to eliminate, and the swaps last for years. Here’s the best reusable food storage by type, so you can match the right tool to the job.
| Type | Best pick | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone bags | Stasher | Freezing, sous-vide, snacks | Durable, dishwasher-safe |
| Beeswax wraps | etee / Bee’s Wrap | Wrapping cheese, produce, bowls | Compostable, not for raw meat |
| Glass containers | Pyrex / Glasslock | Leftovers, meal prep | Oven/microwave safe |
| Stainless steel | Onyx / ECOlunchbox | Lunches, dry goods | Unbreakable, no leaching |
How to Choose
Match the container to the use. Silicone bags replace zip-top bags and handle freezing and reheating. Beeswax wraps replace plastic wrap for produce, cheese, and covering bowls. Glass is best for leftovers and meal prep (oven-to-table). Stainless steel is unbreakable and perfect for lunches and on-the-go.
Our Top Picks
Stasher. Best Silicone Bag
Platinum silicone bags that seal tight, take the freezer, dishwasher, oven, and microwave, and last for years, the most versatile single swap for plastic baggies.
etee & Bee’s Wrap. Best Wraps
Compostable beeswax wraps replace plastic wrap for most uses. See our full review of etee for a plastic-free, made-in-Toronto option.
Glass & Stainless Steel
A set of glass containers (Pyrex, Glasslock) handles leftovers and meal prep beautifully, while stainless steel boxes are ideal for lunches and anything that needs to survive a backpack.
The Bottom Line
Most kitchens want a mix: Stasher bags for the freezer, beeswax wraps for produce, glass for leftovers, and stainless for lunches. Buy gradually as you use up disposables, one good set replaces hundreds of single-use items.
Related: see our zero waste kitchen guide and whether silicone is eco-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best reusable food storage?
It depends on the use: Stasher silicone bags are best for freezing and snacks, beeswax wraps (etee, Bee’s Wrap) for produce and cheese, glass containers for leftovers, and stainless steel for lunches. Most kitchens want a mix.
Is silicone or glass better for food storage?
Glass is inert, oven/microwave-safe, and great for leftovers; silicone is lighter, unbreakable, and better for freezing and on-the-go. Both are good plastic-free choices, glass for home, silicone for travel and the freezer.
Are beeswax wraps better than plastic wrap?
For most uses, yes, beeswax wraps are reusable, compostable, and keep food fresh, replacing a steady stream of plastic wrap. Avoid them for raw meat and very wet or hot foods.
How do I start replacing plastic food storage?
Replace items as they wear out rather than all at once. Start with the disposables you use most, usually plastic baggies (swap for silicone bags) and plastic wrap (swap for beeswax wraps), then add glass and stainless over time.
Ready to Start Reducing Your Waste?
Download the free Zero Waste Starter Checklist, 35+ practical swaps organized by room, so you can start wherever makes sense for you.
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