How Many Meal Prep Glass Containers Do You Really Need? (Reddit Edition)

The golden question, isn’t it? You’re staring down the barrel of a Sunday afternoon, meal prepping ambitions soaring, but a nagging doubt lingers: How many glass containers is enough glass containers? The short answer, gleaned from countless Reddit threads and years of personal experience, is this: Most individuals will find that 7-14 meal prep glass containers are sufficient for a week of lunches and dinners, depending on whether you’re prepping both or just one, your eating habits, and whether you want to account for potential leftovers or unexpected events.

However, that’s just scratching the surface. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Let’s dive deeper and unpack all the contributing factors for you to meal prep like a pro.

Factors Determining Your Ideal Container Count

Calculating the perfect number of containers is like crafting a finely tuned recipe – it requires precision and understanding of your own needs. Here’s a breakdown of the elements that will affect your ideal container count:

Meal Frequency and Scope

Are you meal prepping just lunches, just dinners, or both? Obviously, prepping both doubles the need. Are you prepping breakfasts too? That’s another 5-7 containers. If you only prep lunches, aiming for 5-7 containers will likely be enough. For both lunch and dinner, you are probably going to need 10-14.

Portion Sizes

Are you a light eater, a moderate eater, or someone who needs a hearty, filling meal to power through the day? Larger portions obviously require more, or larger, containers. If you tend to eat bigger portions, you may want to lean towards the upper end of the 7-14 range. Consider investing in some larger containers alongside the standard sizes.

Leftover Allowance

Do you like having extra meals on hand for unexpected late nights at work, a sudden craving, or when you simply don’t feel like cooking? If so, factor in 1-3 extra containers. These can be lifesavers!

Variety and Recipe Complexity

Are you planning to eat the same thing all week or are you incorporating several different recipes? Variety might seem to decrease the amount of containers you need because if you are making three meals in one and then eating them for the week, then you are only using three. In reality, it increases the amount of containers that you need. If you are eating different recipes, you might want a variety of different sized containers depending on the recipes that you’re making.

Washing Frequency

Are you diligently washing your containers every night or are you okay with letting them pile up for a few days? If you wash them daily, you can get away with fewer containers, rotating them through the week. If washing isn’t your favorite activity (let’s be honest, it’s not most people’s), having more containers will ease the burden.

Container Size and Shape

This is a crucial element! A collection of all one size container will be limiting. Consider:

• Smaller containers (1-2 cups): Great for snacks, side dishes, sauces, and individual portions of things like nuts or yogurt.
• Medium containers (2-4 cups): Ideal for single-serving meals, such as salads, pasta dishes, or stir-fries. This is the workhorse size.
• Large containers (4+ cups): Perfect for larger meals, soups, stews, or for storing ingredients for future meals.

Building Your Container Arsenal

Don’t rush out and buy every container you see! Start with a reasonable number based on your initial assessment, then adjust as you learn your prepping rhythm.

Test the Waters

Begin with 7-10 containers and see how it goes. You can always add more. This allows you to gauge your needs and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Diversify Your Shapes

Don’t limit yourself to just rectangular containers. Round, square, and divided containers all have their uses. Divided containers are fantastic for keeping components of a meal separate until you’re ready to eat.

Prioritize Quality

Invest in high-quality, durable glass containers with airtight lids. This will not only preserve your food better but also prevent leaks and spills.

Consider Stackability

Opt for containers that stack neatly to maximize space in your refrigerator and cabinets. This is a game changer for organization.

Think About Freezer-Friendliness

If you plan to freeze some of your meals, ensure your containers are freezer-safe.

FAQs: Meal Prep Container Edition

Alright, let’s tackle those burning questions that inevitably arise when contemplating your meal prep container needs.

1. What’s better: Glass or Plastic Meal Prep Containers?

Glass is generally preferred for its durability, ability to withstand high temperatures (oven and microwave safe), and resistance to staining and odors. Plastic is lighter and often cheaper, but can leach chemicals into food when heated. If you choose plastic, opt for BPA-free options.

2. What size glass containers are best for meal prepping?

The 2-4 cup range is the sweet spot for single-serving meals. However, having a mix of smaller and larger sizes is always beneficial for variety and flexibility.

3. Are glass meal prep containers safe to use in the oven?

Most are, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Look for containers specifically labeled as oven-safe. Avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent shattering.

4. How do I prevent my glass containers from breaking?

Avoid sudden temperature changes. Don’t take a container straight from the freezer to the oven or vice versa. Also, be careful when stacking them to prevent chipping.

5. How do I get rid of food odors in my glass containers?

A paste of baking soda and water is a powerful odor eliminator. Let it sit for a few hours before rinsing. You can also try soaking the containers in vinegar and water.

6. What’s the best way to clean my glass meal prep containers?

Dishwasher-safe containers are a huge time-saver. However, hand-washing with hot, soapy water is also effective. For stubborn stains, use a scrub brush or baking soda paste.

7. Can I freeze food in glass meal prep containers?

Yes, but leave some headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Avoid overfilling the container. Be mindful of thermal shock when thawing and reheating.

8. What are some good brands of glass meal prep containers?

Some popular and reputable brands include Pyrex, Snapware, Wean Green, and Ello. Read reviews and compare features before making a purchase.

9. How do I organize my meal prep containers in the fridge?

Stack them neatly to maximize space. Keep frequently used containers at the front for easy access. Label containers with the contents and date to prevent food waste.

10. Should I invest in containers with compartments?

Compartmentalized containers are excellent for portion control and preventing ingredients from mixing. They’re particularly useful for salads, bento boxes, and meals with multiple components.

11. How can I make my meal prep containers more eco-friendly?

Opt for glass over plastic, as glass is more recyclable and durable. Reusing containers is also more environmentally responsible than using disposable options.

12. Where can I find affordable glass meal prep containers?

Check out discount stores, online retailers (Amazon, etc.), and restaurant supply stores for budget-friendly options. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions. Don’t be afraid to buy used containers in good condition, too.

Ultimately, determining the right number of meal prep glass containers comes down to understanding your individual needs, habits, and preferences. By carefully considering these factors and experimenting with different strategies, you can create a meal prep routine that’s both efficient and enjoyable. Happy prepping!