Choosing Meal Prep Containers: Pro Tips & Container Picks

At Caraway , we know that when it comes to meal prep, the right containers make all the difference. They keep your meals organized, your fridge neat, and your food fresh longer. But with so many options out there—plastic, glass, stainless steel, silicone—it can feel overwhelming to know what’s actually worth using.

In this guide, we’ll break down what to look for in meal prep containers, from materials and sizes to features like being microwave-safe or leakproof. Plus, we’ll share some pro tips and top container picks to streamline your meal prep routine.

What Exactly Are Meal Prep Containers?

Meal prep containers are exactly what they sound like—containers designed to store and organize prepped food. They make it easy to portion meals in advance, keep ingredients fresh, and pack lunches or dinners for the week. Think of them as your go-to for saving time and cutting down on stress in the kitchen.

What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Meal Prep Container?

So, what should you look for when picking the best meal prep containers? Whether you're just starting out or a meal prep regular, the right containers can take your prepping routine to the next level.

Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing the perfect ones for your kitchen.

Material

Take a stroll down the container aisle, and you’ll see options in plastic, glass, stainless steel, and silicone. However, not all containers are made equal, and the material you choose can seriously impact how your food stays fresh and how easy meal prep feels.

Plastic containers are lightweight and affordable but can stain, warp, or absorb odors over time . Glass containers, on the other hand, are reusable, perfect for reheating, and great for long-term use—though they’re heavier to carry.

Stainless steel is super durable and keeps food fresh, but it doesn’t work in the microwave. Meanwhile, silicone is flexible, great for small portions, and easy to store but may not hold up well for all meals. Think about how you’ll use your containers to decide what makes the most sense for you.

Size and Capacity

Picking the right size and capacity for your meal prep containers is key to keeping things practical. You’ll want containers that fit your portions without wasting space. Think about the meals you’re prepping—are they single servings, family-sized dishes, or snack portions?

Smaller containers work well for snacks like nuts or cut-up veggies, while medium ones are great for lunches or meal components like proteins and sides. Larger containers are perfect for batch-cooking soups or stews. And if your fridge is short on space, stackable designs can help you stay organized without overcrowding your shelves.

Compartments and Dividers

If keeping meals organized is your goal, compartments are a lifesaver. They’re perfect for portioning and keeping different foods neatly separated, so nothing ends up soggy or mixed when it shouldn’t be.

Here’s how different options can work for your meal prep:

• Single Compartment: These offer a spacious design, perfect for prepping simple meals like stir-fries, pasta dishes, or bulk-prepped ingredients.

• Two Compartments: Great for separating proteins from sides or packing a main dish with a snack or salad.

• Three Compartments: These are ideal for balanced meals, keeping your veggies, proteins, and carbs neatly portioned in one container.

• Bento Boxes: With multiple sections, bento boxes are perfect for portion control, variety, and making lunches more fun and organized—especially for on-the-go meals or kid-friendly options.

Choosing the right layout can simplify your prep and keep your meals fresh, organized, and ready when you need them.

Safety and Usability Features

The best meal prep containers should make your life easier, not more complicated. Look for features that simplify reheating, storage, and cleanup.

• Microwave-safe containers let you warm up meals without extra dishes, while oven-safe options are great if you want to bake or reheat directly.

• Freezer-safe containers help you store food without worrying about cracking or freezer burn.

• And let’s not forget the importance of being dishwasher-safe—because who has time for handwashing everything?

• Finally, airtight and leakproof designs keep your food fresh and prevent spills, whether you’re storing soups at home or packing salads to go.

What Are Some Tips for Choosing a Meal Prep Container?

We’ve gone over the features of a great meal prep container, but how do you figure out which ones belong in your kitchen? It’s all about finding containers that work for your lifestyle, keep food fresh, and make prepping a breeze.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Select the Right Material

After learning about plastic, glass, stainless steel, and silicone, you might be wondering—what’s actually the best option? It depends, but if you’re looking for something non-toxic, durable, and easy to clean, glass is hard to beat.

It doesn’t absorb odors, resists stains, and skips the questionable chemicals found in some plastics. At Caraway, we take it a step further with our Food Storage Set . Made from ceramic-coated glass, it’s non-stick and non-toxic and comes with built-in organizers that make storing leftovers ridiculously easy.

2. Go for Versatility

Your containers should work with your routine, not against it. Look for ones that handle it all—microwaving, freezing, reheating, and keeping your meals fresh in the fridge.

Airtight lids? A must. Oven-safe for reheating casseroles? Even better. Versatile containers are like the MVPs of meal prep, letting you focus on enjoying your food instead of managing a pile of mismatched lids and warped plastic.

3. Consider Your Storage Needs

Meal prepping can turn into a storage nightmare if you don’t plan ahead. Single-compartment containers are great for big batches of soups or stews, but dividers are a must when you want to pack a balanced meal. Think protein, veggies, and carbs—all neatly separated. Plus, stackable designs save fridge space and keep your kitchen from feeling like a game of Tupperware Tetris.

4. Focus on Product Quality

No one wants containers that crack, warp, or fall apart after a few uses. Investing in high-quality containers means you’ll have a set that lasts, saves money in the long run, and makes meal prep easier. Look for durable materials like glass or stainless steel that can handle the freezer, microwave, and dishwasher without wearing down.

A well-made container isn’t just about durability. It also means no leaky lids or food odors sticking around. Caraway’s ceramic-coated glass containers are built to last, offering a clean and modern way to prep, store, and reheat without the wear and tear of lower-quality options.

5. Don’t Forget About Size Requirements

Picking the right sizes is just as important as choosing the right material. Prepping single servings? Smaller containers work great for portioning out snacks or lunches. Planning family meals or big-batch recipes? Larger sizes are key for storing soups, stews, or roasted veggies. And for those in-between meals, medium-sized containers give you flexibility without taking up too much fridge space.

Caraway’s Food Storage Set now includes extended sizes, like our new Mini containers—perfect for snacks, small portions, or meal prep for one. Whether you’re prepping a snack, dinner, or leftovers, having a range of sizes makes everything easier.

What Makes Caraway’s Food Storage Set Right for You?

At Caraway, we’re all about simplifying meal prep with containers that are practical, stylish, and safe for you and your family. Our 17-piece Food Storage Set is designed with your kitchen in mind, featuring non-toxic ceramic-coated glass that’s free from BPA and harmful chemicals.

The built-in Air Release Technology keeps your food fresh while blocking unwanted odors, and the complimentary organizers help keep your cabinets tidy. From snacks to full meals, our stackable, leakproof containers make meal prep feel less like a chore and more like an upgrade.

Tips for Meal Prepping Like a Pro

Meal prep containers are just part of the equation—how you plan and execute your prep matters just as much . If you’re just starting out or looking for ways to simplify your routine, a few smart strategies can completely transform how you approach meal prep.

These tips will help you save time, stay organized, and enjoy stress-free meals all week long.

Start With a Plan

Meal prep is so much easier when you know exactly what you’re cooking. Take a little time each week to plan your meals and write a shopping list.

Focus on recipes that use similar ingredients to minimize waste and save money. Whether it’s a batch of roasted veggies or a hearty stew, having a plan keeps you on track and makes the process feel manageable.

Prep Ingredients in Batches

Instead of prepping one meal at a time, tackle your ingredients in bulk. Roast a tray of veggies, cook grains like rice or quinoa, and bake proteins all at once.

Store them separately in meal prep containers for mix-and-match meals throughout the week. This method saves time and gives you the flexibility to create different dishes with the same ingredients.

Label and Date Everything

Labeling isn’t just for neat freaks—it’s a game-changer for keeping your meals organized. Use sticky notes or write directly on your food storage containers with a dry-erase marker to include the contents and date. This simple step helps you keep track of what’s fresh and what needs to be eaten first.

Dedicate Time for Meal Prep

Carve out a specific day or time each week to focus on meal prep. Maybe it’s Sunday afternoon or a weekday evening—whatever works for your schedule.

Treat it like an appointment to help stay consistent. Put on a podcast, gather your favorite kitchen tools, and make it enjoyable. With a little planning, it can feel less like a task and more like a weekly routine you actually look forward to.

Clean as You Go

Meal prep can get messy fast, but cleaning as you go keeps your workspace manageable and your process efficient. Wash cutting boards, knives, and other tools as soon as you’re done using them to avoid a big pile of dishes at the end. With fewer distractions, you’ll find that meal prep moves along smoothly.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right meal prep containers is about more than just convenience—it’s about setting up your kitchen for success. From non-toxic glass meal prep containers to versatile designs with dividers, having the right tools can transform how you prep, store, and enjoy your meals.

At Caraway , we’re here to make meal prep simple and stylish. Our BPA-free, ceramic-coated Food Storage Set is designed to keep your food fresh and organized, whether you’re packing lunch boxes, storing leftovers, or prepping recipes for the week ahead.

Ready to upgrade your home kitchen? Explore our non-toxic kitchenware and discover how easy meal prep can be.

Sources:

Meal Prep Guide | The Nutrition Source | Harvard

Remove Plastic Food Container Odors by Storing Them with Salt | Lifehacker

Meal Prep and Cooking Tips | Nutrition.gov

How To Healthy Meal Prep: A Beginner’s Guide | Cleveland Clinic