I Went Weeks Without Using Plastic in My Kitchen—Here Are My Go-To Products for an Organized Pantry

In pursuit of organizing my over-crowded pantry and fridge, I’ve acquired a slew of food storage containers. But my kitchen pride and joy are the products that have not only organized my food, but have also cut down on plastic use and food waste. In fact, I use them so often, I rarely touch single-use plastic at all. 

I haven’t had to use plastic bags or wraps in weeks thanks to my favorite glass food storage containers, Stasher bags, dry food storage containers, and more—and many help prolong the shelf-life of perishable foods. I do occasionally grab plastic wrap and bags for storing raw meat in the freezer for food safety reasons, but everything else largely goes in a reusable container. I’ve been able to cut down on my grocery costs, and I actually end up fully using up what I already have, simply because I need to free up a silicone bag or glass container before I fill it again to avoid reaching for a Ziploc. 

Keep reading to shop my favorite food storage containers that organize my pantry and fridge, cut down on food and plastic waste, and save me money in the process. 

Editor-Loved Food Storage Containers

Bentgo 10-Piece Airtight Pantry Organizers

Pantry organizers are key to keeping my dry goods fresh and shelves organized. This 10-piece set from Bentgo streamlines separating ingredients like rice and bread crumbs, so I can actually see the ingredients I have and what I’m running out of. It’s a great set to store smaller bagged items, like nuts, dried fruits, and lentils, but I wouldn’t recommend it for bulk ingredients like flour, sugar, or cereal. The airtight lids ensure everything stays fresh, and the set is dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. 

Stasher Premium Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bag Set

I was skeptical about Stasher bags at first, but once I tried a sample from the brand, I was hooked. They’re made from thick, durable silicone that mimics single-use plastic bags. I was most worried about the seal, but after using them every day for four months, I can attest each bag has a tight seal that doesn’t lose its grip no matter how long it’s been in the fridge. The bags are safe to use in the fridge, freezer, microwave, and oven—and I simply toss them in the dishwasher after each use. They come in a variety of sizes for snacks and sandwiches, but also leftover rotisserie chicken or meal-prepped veggies. I can’t credit the bags for keeping food fresh for longer, but I do find myself reaching for the food that’s stored in them more often to make sure I have enough bags at my disposal, which ultimately cuts down on my food waste.

Rubbermaid Freshworks 6-Piece Produce Saver Food Storage Containers

Rubbermaid’s containers, however, definitely keep my produce fresher longer. I was sick of throwing out wilted spinach, so I bought this six-piece produce saver set and never looked back. The containers have a built-in filter that circulates airflow and a ribbed, elevated base to separate produce from moisture. I use the two 4-liter containers for leafy greens like spinach, kale, and arugula and the 1.4-liter box for berries—both keep my produce free from fuzzy mold or slime well past one week. 

I try to avoid single-use plastic at all costs in the kitchen, and these methods have not only saved my plastic waste, but also my food waste, all while keeping my pantry, fridge, and freezer organized. Shop more of my favorite food storage containers below.  

Oxo Good Grips 3-Piece Short Pop Container Set

Ailtec 18-Piece Glass Food Storage Containers

Oxo Steel Pop Coffee Container with Scoop

Freshware Food Storage Container 50-Piece Set