10 Best Microwave Safe Containers, Top Reviews

Our pick: M MCIRCO 10-Pack,22 Oz Glass Meal Prep Containers

The M MCIRCO 10-Pack 22 Oz Glass Meal Prep Containers offer a solid solution for anyone serious about meal prepping or looking to improve food storage at home. After testing them over several weeks, I found the containers to be durable, user-friendly, and versatile enough to handle a variety of food storage needs.

Each container is made of premium borosilicate glass that feels sturdy in hand and performs reliably in both the oven and microwave. The single-compartment design is ideal for portion control, and the 22 oz size is sufficient for lunches, leftovers, or bulk cooking. These containers provide a cleaner, more sustainable alternative to plastic storage solutions.

Pros

• Strong borosilicate glass construction

• Airtight, leak-proof locking lids

• Microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher safe (glass only)

• Stackable and space-saving design

Cons

• Lids are not microwave or oven safe

• Slightly heavier than plastic containers

The M MCIRCO 10-Pack Glass Meal Prep Containers deliver excellent value and functionality for home cooks, meal preppers, and anyone wanting a more organized kitchen. With a few minor limitations, these containers still stand out as a dependable and long-lasting food storage solution.

Also great: Glass Storage Containers For Food

This 10-pack set of glass storage containers (5 x 34oz and 5 x 12oz) offers both variety and practicality for anyone looking to streamline meal prep and food storage. I tested them for storing full meals, snacks, and leftovers, and found the different sizes very convenient for portion control and organization.

The borosilicate glass holds up well under high heat and in the freezer, and I experienced no issues with cracking or warping during use. The BPA-free lids seal tightly, preventing leaks and keeping food fresh, while also allowing the containers to stack neatly in the fridge or cabinet. The dual sizes make it easy to prep an entire week’s meals with minimal clutter.

Pros

• Two practical container sizes (34oz and 12oz)

• Leakproof, airtight snap-lock lids

• Oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe (glass only)

• Space-saving and stackable design

Cons

• Lids are not oven safe

• Lids may stain with colored sauces over time

This glass container set is a reliable, flexible solution for home meal prepping and food storage. With its durable materials, airtight lids, and useful size options, it suits both daily use and long-term storage. The one-year replacement warranty adds confidence to an already solid purchase.

Also great: BPA Free Plastic Meal Prep Container

The Ello 10-Piece BPA-Free Plastic Meal Prep Container Set stands out with its thoughtful design and fun color accents. Each of the five containers holds 3.7 cups, making them a practical size for meal prepping lunches, dinners, or leftovers. After using them for daily meal storage and reheating, I found them reliable, easy to clean, and ideal for on-the-go meals.

What sets this set apart is the removable silicone boot, which not only adds a stylish touch but also helps protect the base from chips or wear. The airtight, leak-proof lids snap on securely and kept my meals fresh without any spills. Though made of plastic, the containers are free of BPA and resistant to odors and staining—something I appreciated after storing tomato-based dishes.

Pros

• Includes colorful, protective silicone boots

• Leak-proof, airtight locking lids

• BPA-free and odor-resistant plastic

• Microwave, freezer, and top-rack dishwasher safe

Cons

• Not safe for boiling or cooking

• Lids and containers can warp under high heat if misused

The Ello 10 Pc Plastic Meal Prep Container Set is a well-designed, stylish choice for those who want functional storage with a pop of color. While they require some care to avoid damage from high heat, they perform well for everyday meal prep and are easy to clean, making them a great pick for busy lifestyles.

Source: Amazon

Selecting the right microwave-safe containers is essential for ensuring safe and efficient cooking, heating, and storing of food. Using inappropriate containers can lead to uneven heating, melting, or even chemical contamination of your food. Here are some key considerations to help you choose the best microwave-safe containers:

Material

Microwave-safe containers come in various materials, each with its pros and cons. The most common materials include:

• Glass: Glass containers are excellent for microwave use as they do not absorb food odors or stains. They are durable and can withstand high temperatures. Ensure that the glass is labeled as microwave-safe.
• Plastic: Not all plastics are microwave-safe. Look for containers labeled with “microwave-safe” or the microwave symbol. BPA-free plastics are preferable to avoid potential chemical leaching.
• Ceramic: Ceramic containers can be microwave-safe if they are labeled as such. They are great for heating food evenly but avoid ceramics with metallic paint or decorations.
• Silicone: Silicone containers are flexible, durable, and microwave-safe. They are great for reheating and storing food but may not be suitable for all types of cooking.

Size and Shape

The size and shape of the container can affect how evenly your food heats. Consider the following:

• Uniform Shape: Round or oval containers heat food more evenly than square or rectangular ones, reducing the chances of cold spots.
• Capacity: Choose containers that are appropriate for the portion sizes you typically microwave. Overfilling containers can lead to spills and uneven heating.
• Space for Steam: Leave some space at the top of the container to allow steam to escape, preventing pressure build-up and potential splattering.

Lids and Venting

Containers with lids are convenient for storing and reheating food, but it’s crucial to ensure they are designed for microwave use:

• Vented Lids: Look for containers with vented lids that allow steam to escape. This prevents the build-up of pressure and helps avoid splatters.
• Loose Fitting: If your container doesn’t have a vented lid, place the lid loosely on top to allow steam to escape or use microwave-safe plastic wrap with small holes poked in it.

Durability and Maintenance

Consider the durability and ease of maintenance when choosing microwave-safe containers:

• Stain Resistance: Some materials, like certain plastics, are more prone to staining from foods like tomato sauce. Glass and ceramic are more stain-resistant.
• Dishwasher Safe: For convenience, choose containers that are dishwasher safe. This makes cleaning up much easier.
• Freezer Compatibility: If you plan to store food in the freezer before microwaving, ensure the containers are freezer-safe as well.

Safety Symbols and Labels

Always check for safety symbols and labels on the containers to confirm they are microwave-safe. Common symbols include a microwave with wavy lines or specific text indicating microwave safety. Containers without these labels should not be used in the microwave.

Avoiding Metal

Never use containers with metallic components in the microwave, including those with metal rims or decorations. Metal can cause sparks and potentially damage the microwave.

Trusted Brands

Opt for containers from reputable brands known for producing quality microwave-safe products. Brands like Pyrex, Rubbermaid, and Tupperware have established reputations for safety and reliability.

By considering these factors, you can select microwave-safe containers that ensure your food heats evenly, safely, and efficiently. Proper containers can also help maintain the quality and flavor of your food while making your microwave cooking experience more convenient.

The safest microwave container to use is typically glass. Glass containers are inert and do not release any harmful chemicals into your food when microwaved. They are also durable and can withstand high temperatures without warping or melting.

What is the healthiest microwavable container?

The healthiest microwavable container is often considered to be glass. Glass does not leach any chemicals into your food, ensuring that your meal remains free from any potential contaminants. Additionally, glass containers are reusable and do not contribute to environmental pollution.

What 4 containers are not safe to use in the microwave?

Several types of containers are not safe to use in the microwave due to the potential release of harmful chemicals or risk of melting:

• Plastic containers that are not labeled as microwave-safe can release harmful chemicals such as BPA (Bisphenol A) or phthalates when heated.
• Styrofoam containers can melt or release toxic chemicals when exposed to high temperatures.
• Metal containers or containers with metal accents can cause sparks or fires in the microwave.
• Containers made of paper or cardboard may catch fire or release harmful chemicals if not specifically designed for microwave use.

What are 3 microwave safe containers?

There are several materials that are safe to use in the microwave:

• Glass containers: Glass is inert and does not release harmful chemicals into your food.
• Ceramic containers: Many ceramic dishes are microwave-safe, but it's essential to check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure they can withstand microwaving.
• Microwave-safe plastic containers: Look for containers labeled as microwave-safe and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding usage and temperature limits.

What materials should you avoid in a microwave?

It's best to avoid using materials that are not specifically labeled as microwave-safe, as they can pose risks to your health and safety. Specifically, avoid:

• Non-microwave-safe plastics, as they can release harmful chemicals when heated.
• Metals or containers with metal accents, as they can cause sparks and fires.
• Styrofoam, which can melt or release toxic fumes.
• Containers made of paper or cardboard unless they are explicitly labeled as microwave-safe, as they can catch fire or release harmful chemicals.

Read more:

• The Best Microwave And Toaster Oven Combo, Top Choices
• An Exhaustive Guide To The Best Microwave Airfryer Combo
• 10 Best Microwave Safe Containers, Top Reviews
• 10 Best Microwave Safe Plates, Top Rated
• The Best Over-The-Range Microwave 

When it comes to choosing the best microwave safe containers, it’s all about finding the right balance between durability, convenience, and safety. Whether you're meal prepping for the week, storing leftovers, or reheating last night’s dinner, a quality microwave-safe container makes all the difference. From glass options that resist stains and odors to BPA-free plastic containers with smart venting lids, there's a perfect choice for every kitchen. No matter your lifestyle, investing in reliable microwave-safe containers is a simple upgrade that brings long-term value to your daily routine.