Best Plastic Free Alternatives for Food Storage

Plastic containers, zip-lock bags, and plastic wrap are the most common food storage plastics — and all have excellent reusable alternatives. Here are the best plastic-free options for every food storage need.

Best for Airtight Storage: Silicone Bags

Stasher Silicone Reusable Bags (4-pack) are the best replacement for zip-lock bags:

• Airtight seal — keeps food fresh as long as plastic bags
• Freezer safe, microwave safe, dishwasher safe, oven safe, sous vide safe
• 100% food-grade silicone — non-toxic, no chemical leaching
• Reusable for years — replaces thousands of single-use bags
• Available in snack, sandwich, half-gallon, and gallon sizes

Best for Leftovers and Meal Prep: Glass Containers

Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Containers (set of 4, 3.2 cup) are the most versatile food storage option:

• Non-toxic, non-reactive — no plastic taste or chemical leaching
• Oven safe, microwave safe, dishwasher safe
• Leak-proof lids
• See-through — easy to identify contents
• Lasts indefinitely with proper care

Best for Hot Food and Soups: Stainless Steel Container

The Hydro Flask Food Jar 8 oz keeps hot food hot for hours — perfect for soups, stews, and hot lunches. Insulated stainless steel, leak-proof, dishwasher safe lid.

Best for Wrapping Food: Beeswax Wraps

Bee's Wrap beeswax wraps replace plastic wrap for wrapping cheese, bread, sandwiches, and cut produce. Mold to food using hand warmth, wash in cold water, compostable at end of life.

Best for Covering Bowls: Silicone Stretch Lids

Silicone stretch lids (12-pack, 6 sizes) stretch to fit over any bowl, pot, or container. Airtight seal, dishwasher safe, microwave safe. Round and rectangle shapes included.

Best for Packed Lunches: Reusable Zip Bags

Lerine reusable zip bags (10-pack) replace single-use zip-lock bags for sandwiches, snacks, and packed lunches. BPA-free, dishwasher safe, extra thick, leak-proof.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best plastic-free food storage overall?

Glass containers for leftovers and meal prep, silicone bags for snacks and produce, beeswax wraps for wrapping food directly, and silicone stretch lids for covering bowls. Together these four replace virtually all plastic food storage.

Are silicone bags safe for freezing?

Yes — food-grade silicone is freezer safe. Stasher bags are specifically designed for freezer use and maintain their seal at freezing temperatures.

Can I use glass containers in the microwave?

Yes — glass is microwave safe. Remove the lid before microwaving (most lids are not microwave safe). The Rubbermaid Brilliance glass containers are microwave safe without the lid.

How do I clean silicone bags?

Turn inside out and wash with warm soapy water, or place in the dishwasher. For stubborn odors, soak in a baking soda and water solution for 30 minutes before washing.

Are beeswax wraps airtight?

Not completely airtight — they create a good seal but breathe slightly. For foods requiring an airtight seal (like cut avocado or leftovers), use silicone bags or glass containers instead. Beeswax wraps are best for cheese, bread, and produce that benefit from some air circulation.