This $30 glass storage set cut toxins from my kitchen and easily solved stubborn storage snags

Plastic storage containers have become a staple in many kitchens but are notoriously tricky to organize. So much so that the ‘dreaded container cabinet’ has become somewhat of a joke, but there is a more worrying problem at hand: they're toxic.

If your food storage containers are leftover takeaway boxes or otherwise made from plastic, there's a risk they're made from toxic chemicals and microplastics that contaminate food with every use.

That’s why I've swapped to glass food storage, and I wish I had made the change to this non-toxic home essential sooner.

Why you need to switch to glass food storage

Of all the household items I stopped buying for a less toxic home, cutting out plastic food containers has made one of the biggest differences – and for six key reasons.

1. They reduce toxins

Plastic is one of the many types of storage you should never use in a pantry due to the toxins.

Tracee Yablon-Brenner, outpatient integrative dietician project coordinator at Holy Name Medical Center explains, ‘There is emerging research that the chemicals in plastics are known to disrupt hormones, cause developmental issues, are associated with thyroid gland abnormalities, hyperactivity of the thyroid gland and may increase cancer risk. The plastics can leach out when hot foods are put in the containers or if plastic water bottles are stored in the heat.

‘There are two main plastics you want to watch out for in storage:

• BPA and BPS: Common in water bottles and plastic containers. These endocrine disruptors can penetrate into food and beverages.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Found in food packaging such as salad dressing containers, foil, plastic cups, trays and lids shower curtains, and vinyl flooring. PVC Releases dangerous chemicals especially when heated such as phthalates and dioxins.’

Glass, on the other hand, is free from these chemicals, making it a far healthier option for the kitchen.

2. My food stays fresher

So far as food storage to reduce food waste goes, glass is one of the best. I have noticed that using glass storage, especially when organizing a refrigerator, has kept my food tasting fresher for longer. This is because glass is non-porous, meaning it does not absorb odors, flavors, or bacteria, making it a simple food storage trick to extend the life of your groceries.

As a bonus, because glass is fully transparent, I can see everything in my fridge in one glance, so I am at less risk of forgetting food and leaving it to expire.

3. They are easier to clean

Because they are non-porous, glass storage is also far easier to clean than plastic food containers – meaning I no longer have to spend time scrubbing to remove food stains when washing dishes by hand.

This is especially useful for people who have the best dishwashers. While many plastic food containers aren’t on the list of things you shouldn’t put in a dishwasher, they need to be stacked carefully to prevent damage and warping. You don’t have to worry about this with glass storage, making cleaning a kitchen after dinner quicker and easier.

4. They are easier to store

Organizing plastic containers is a hassle at the best of times. Because they are so lightweight and flimsy, they fall over easily, making a mess of kitchen cabinets and drawers.

Glass food containers, on the other hand, are much heavier. They sit in place in my kitchen storage, making kitchen organization far quicker and easier.

The only downside is that they are generally larger than plastic food containers. While this means they hold more food, they do not stack as tightly as their plastic counterparts, meaning they take up a little more space when organizing kitchen drawers. As the only downside I have encountered, however, I am prepared to forgive them.

5. They look nicer

There is no denying that glass food storage looks nicer than grubby plastic, making them a great aesthetic organizing trick to make a kitchen look more expensive.

And, as they are easier to clean and non-porous, they stay looking neat for longer than plastic, and do not discolor, making the investment continue to pay off.

6. They are more durable

As someone who is always looking for smart ways to save money at home, the durability of glass storage containers is a definite win for me.

Plastic containers (especially those that I repurposed after ordering takeout food) broke very easily and warped when heated up, meaning the lids would never fit properly after a few uses.

While glass does risk shattering if you drop it, with careful handling, they are far more durable than plastic, helping you reduce waste.

Meet the expert

Tracee Yablon Brenner, RDN, HHC, CLT

Tracee Yablon Brenner, RDN has more than 25 years of experience as a registered dietitian nutritionist and is a trained culinary professional. She graduated from Johnson & Wales University's prestigious Culinary Arts program and prior to coming to Holy Name in 2021, she had a private practice, specializing in medical nutrition therapy, coaching, and nutrition communications. 

Now, Tracee provides in-person outpatient nutrition counseling sessions.

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of glass containers?

For all their pros, there are a few disadvantages to glass containers. Most notably, they are more expensive than plastic, however, given the health benefits, durability and the fact food stays fresher longer, it is an investment I deem worth the outlay.

It's worth noting that glass storage is heavier than plastic, which may prove problematic for people with weakened grip. This would be something to weigh up on an individual basis before deciding to make the swap.

Are the plastic lids on glass containers safe?

Glass containers can come with a variety of lids, such as bamboo, wood, or plastic. The plastic lids can leach dangerous chemicals into food, especially if they are heated up, so remove the lid before microwaving, and store food so that the lid does not touch it when fully sealed to mitigate risk. Many glass containers come with BPA-free plastic so do check product descriptions to check the components. If it doesn't say BPA-free, then it's worth giving the listing a miss for the lack of clarity.

Your food storage is not the only toxin risk in your kitchen. It is worth reading up on our guide to the best non-toxic kitchen appliances, too, to truly mitigate any risk.