How to Choose Meal Prep Containers (Glass vs Plastic)
Good containers make meal prep easier to stick with. The big choice is glass or plastic, and many families end up with some of each. Here is what each type does well, what to check on the label, and when to skip it.
Glass containers
Why it helps: Glass doesn't hold stains or smells, and containers labeled oven-safe can go from fridge to oven for reheating. Glass is usually microwave-safe too, but the plastic lids often are not oven-safe, so take them off first.
What to look for:
- A clear "oven-safe" label if you want to bake or reheat in the oven, plus the maker's temperature limit
- Tempered or borosilicate glass, which handles temperature changes better
- Snap-lock lids with a seal for leak-resistant lunches
- Shapes that stack or nest when empty
Skip it if: You carry lunches a long way, pack for small kids, or need light containers. Glass is heavy and can break.
Plastic containers
Why it helps: Plastic is light, cheaper, and less likely to break, which makes it handy for kids' lunches and on-the-go meals.
What to look for:
- A "microwave-safe" label if you plan to reheat in it (plastic is not for the oven)
- A "BPA-free" label if that matters to you
- Dishwasher guidance, such as "top rack only"
- Lids that seal firmly and are sold with replacements
Skip it if: You mostly reheat tomato or oily dishes, which can stain plastic, or you want to use the oven.
Divided (compartment) containers
Why it helps: Separate sections keep sauces, sides, and mains from mixing and make portioning easy.
What to look for:
- Two or three compartments sized for your usual meals
- Dividers tall enough to reach the lid
- The same oven, microwave, and dishwasher labels as above
Skip it if: You mostly prep soups, stews, or one-pot meals.
Small dressing and snack cups
Why it helps: They keep dressings and dips on the side so salads and crackers don't get soggy.
What to look for:
- Screw or snap lids that don't leak
- A size that fits inside your main containers
Skip it if: You rarely pack sauces or dressings.
Care tips for any container
- Follow the maker's microwave and dishwasher instructions. Labels vary, and lids often have different rules than bases.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes with glass, such as moving it straight from the freezer into a hot oven, unless the maker says it's fine.
- Vent or loosen lids when microwaving.
- Replace containers that are cracked, chipped, or warped.
Once you have containers, our meal prep hacks help you fill them faster.
Quick answer
Choose glass if you want containers that resist stains and, when labeled oven-safe, can go in the oven. Choose plastic labeled microwave-safe (and BPA-free if you prefer) for light, kid-friendly lunches. Either way, follow the maker's microwave and dishwasher instructions.