As we work towards a zero-waste environment, choosing to use eco-friendly, reusable containers in our kitchen and around our home is a great place to start! Since plastic (and especially single-use plastic) is straight-up bad for our environment, we’ve rounded up our top 5 reusable, sustainable storage containers with the hopes of helping you find the best solution to fit your needs. Check them out below!
1. Stasher Bags
Stasher bags are an awesome, sustainable alternative to traditional plastic baggies – I haven’t purchased any single use plastic bags in 3 years! Made from 100% food grade silicone, Stasher bags are free of toxic chemicals like lead, BPA, PVC, and latex! Best of all, these bags tightly seal and come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors! You can even freeze and microwave them (although I probably wouldn’t personally microwave them, only because I don’t microwave anything other than glass). All in all, I cannot say enough good things about them!
2. Pyrex Containers
Pyrex storage containers are more aesthetically pleasing and last longer than their plastic competitors. These glass containers can be used to store just about anything and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. We love this rectangular set – it makes storing leftovers a breeze and conveniently fits (neatly) into smaller spaces! Lids are available in glass, silicone, and BPA-free plastic.
3. OXO Glass Storage Containers
Similar to Pyrex, OXO glass storage containers come in a variety of sizes making them convenient for all types of storage. OXO containers are made from borosilicate glass, complete with a plastic and silicone lid that is 100% free of BPA, PVC, and phthalates.
Since we use these OXO glass jars for baby food and snacks on-the-go, I had them tested for heavy metals which can typically be found in the paint on jars, containers, and measuring cups. The results were non-detect for all heavy metals tested!
4. Ball Mason Jars
Made in the USA, Ball Mason jars are extremely durable, versatile, and inexpensive! The glass jars come in a variety of sizes including the most popular 4 ounce, 8 ounce, 16 ounce and 32 ounce. Store salad, smoothies, beans, lotions, craft supplies, cereal, jelly, herbs, you name it!
Personally, I stick with the clear glass jars as the colored glasses have been known to have very low levels of lead present and although it is considered safe by all standards, I prefer to keep my home as ‘clean and lead-free’ as possible. Also, check your local Target – ours had a pack of 32 ounce jars for just $12!
5. Anchor Hocking
Anchor Hocking storage containers are affordably made in the USA! Similar to Pyrex and OXO containers, Anchor Hocking glass storage can be used to safely store just about anything. Lids are available in BPA-free plastic, glass with silicone, and metal.
I prefer these ‘true seal’ lids rather than the ‘snug fit’ lids. It seems the ‘snug fit’ lids have cracked slightly over time around the edges, although so far it hasn’t affected the storage of my food at all.
Other Sustainable Storage Ideas
- Beeswax Wrap (GOTS Certified)
- Cotton Storage Bags (GOTS Certified)
- Eco-friendly Lunchbox
To check out more of my kitchen favorites, visit the What Mommy Knows Amazon storefront here.
Thanks for reading!
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