Are you having trouble keeping pesky bugs out of your food?
If you are reading this, you probably do. And you are not alone.
A lot of people have problems with keeping weevils, pantry moths, and all the different wildlife out of their stored food.
These tiny bugs and insects can ruin your food, and worst of all, once they start infesting a particular area, they are hard to get rid of. This is why one of the first steps to keeping your food bug-free is storing it in the right food containers.
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Below I share with you the best food containers that will keep the bugs out and some essential tips and tricks.
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The Best Food Storage Containers to Keep Bugs Out
- Vtopmart Airtight Food Storage Containers (Click here to check the current price on Amazon) – A perfect set of 12 airtight food containers for smaller pantries. These will keep your food fresh and bug-free.
- Prep Naturals Glass Meal Prep Containers (Click here to check the current price on Amazon) – A great set of glass food containers that have airtight lids and will keep your food safe from bugs. It comes with a set of plastic cutlery, too.
- ENLOY Stainless Steel Airtight Canister Set (Click here to check the current price on Amazon) – A great small set of stainless steel food containers that will keep bugs, moths, insects, and anything else out of your food.
- OXO Airtight Food Storage Container (Click here to check the current price on Amazon) – This is a super easy to use food container that is made from BPA-free plastic. The lid closes and opens with a single press of a button.
- Ball Mason Jars (Click here to check the current price on Amazon) – A neat set of two 32 oz mason jars that will keep the bugs out. Mason jars are a proven way to store your food long-term.
- Chef’s Path Extra Large Food Storage Containers (Click here to check the current price on Amazon) – A set of two extra-durable large capacity food storage containers that can be used for storing large quantities of food.
Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-09-07 at 20:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Vtopmart Airtight Food Storage Containers
- Perfect for Pantry Organization ---- This container set includes 12 small containers (1.5qt / 1.6 liters), which are perfect for storing a small box...
- BPA Free and Food Grade Material ---- Made of BPA free durable plastic, these containers will have a longer life than many other brands plastic...
- Stackable Design ---- With stackable design, these plastic storage containers will make more efficient use of every inch of your home kitchen. Whether...
Last update on 2024-09-07 at 20:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you need a good set of food containers for your pantry (or fridge), look no further. This set of 12 1.5 qt containers is going to meet almost anyone’s needs and expectations.
These food containers are not terribly big, so if you are looking to store high amounts of pasta, rice, beans, or anything else you may need to look for different containers with higher capacity.
With that being said, these are perfect for smaller pantries and cupboards.
These containers are made from hard plastic that is BPA-free, and best of all, the lids are airtight, which means no leaks, no smell, and no bugs.
The plastic is durable and can be used in the freezer and the microwave. The temperature ranges it can handle are between -4 °F and +212 °F.
And when you do not need them, these food containers will take as little space as possible thanks to their stackable design.
The containers have reusable labels on them, which is a neat little feature that I am sure many will like.
2. Prep Naturals Glass Meal Prep Containers
- Save Time and Money – Whether you want to save time and money or just prefer home cooking over fast food, PrepNaturals glass food storage containers...
- Prep Meals at Home, then Eat it on the Go – Make a lunch box with home-cooked food for the whole family and bring it to work or gym. You can cook...
- Good Alternative to Plastic – Our containers are made from borosilicate glass, which makes them stronger than other cheaper containers. Borosilicate...
Last update on 2024-09-07 at 20:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
These glass food containers are one of the best when it comes to keeping bugs out of your food and especially when you are on the go.
These are smaller, food containers with a total volume of 34 oz, which makes them ideal for people that like to travel, bring food to work, or hike.
The lids fit well and are airtight. That way, you can be sure that the food inside is safe from those pesky bugs that are always ready for a little snack.
The cool thing about these food containers is that they are made from glass.
They can be used in the oven and the microwave without worrying about any harmful chemicals leaching into it.
They are also freezer-safe, too.
And if you want to clean them – they are dishwasher-safe as well.
There are three different compartments where you can store your food and even a small lid compartment where you will find a plastic knife and fork.
The glass is thick and tough, which makes it perfect for long-term use, but as with any glass product, it is heavier compared to plastic.
3. ENLOY Stainless Steel Airtight Canister Set
- Airtight Design --- The rubber seal will stay on in place and perfectly connected to the edge of the canister. This would prevent air to enter,...
- Easy to Use and Clean --- ENLOY stainless steel kitchen canisters are made with a wide 4.7" opening which makes it easy to use full size 1 cup...
- Safety --- ENLOY airtight canister is made of good quality 410 stainless steel, excellent rubber seals and clasps. It is safe for everyday use. The...
Last update on 2024-09-07 at 20:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
These fairly small stainless steel containers are ideal for small pantries and kitchens.
The 410 stainless steel alloy has better oxidation and heat resistance, and it is more durable when it comes to highly acidic foods, chemicals, and atmospheric conditions.
These stainless steel food containers feature an excellent rubber gasket that will fit well and prevent moisture, air, and insects from getting inside.
The easy to use locking clamp keeps the lid closed tightly. In fact, it seals so well that the food container is both water and moisture-proof. This container will keep your food fresh and tasty.
The silicon rubber seal is BPA-free and will not impart any plastic smells or leach out harmful chemicals.
The lid is also see-through, so even though the body is solid, you will still be able to see what is stored inside the container.
The cleaning is as easy as washing the container with some soapy water or placing it inside the dishwasher.
4. OXO Airtight Food Storage Container
- 4.0 quart Container is the ideal size for a 5 Pounds bag of flour or sugar
- These airtight, space saving storage containers keep your dry foods fresh and your pantry organized
- Push the button for an airtight seal, push again to release. Button pops up to double as a built in handle
Last update on 2024-09-07 at 20:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for something a little bit different, you may be pleasantly surprised by this food container.
This model comes in different sizes, so I am sure almost anybody will be able to find something that will fit their needs.
With the press of a single button, the lid seals tightly, preventing any bugs and insects from getting inside the container.
You will not have to worry about fighting with it difficult to open jars or food containers.
All the food containers in this product line are easy to clean and come in very practical shapes that facilitate storage.
The corners are slightly slanted, allowing for easy pouring of liquids without making a mess.
5. Ball Mason Jars
- 2-Regular mouth glass preserving mason jars. 2-Regular mouth lids. 2-Regular mouth bands.
- Ideal for sliced fruits and vegetables, pickles, tomato-based juices, and sauces.
- These jars are BPA-free. Dishwasher Safe and Reusable
Last update on 2024-09-07 at 20:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Mason jars are just one of the time-tested methods of storing food. Many people have been doing it for years and have been able to keep the bugs away.
Several factors make mason jars great for storing food.
They are made of glass, which means that they are BPA-free and will not alter the flavor or smell of the food inside;
Glass is see-through so that you can quickly inspect and see what is inside of them;
Mason jars have screw-on lids, which means airtight seals that will keep the bugs out.
Mason jars are very versatile too. You can use them to store dried food as well as cooked food, juices, water, coffee, soups, stock, and so much more.
Depending on how you intend to use them, you may need mason jars with different capacities; however, I have found out that 32 oz jars are the most versatile.
6. Chef’s Path Extra Large Tall Food Storage Containers
- Superior bundle - Your complete bundle comes with 2 BPA-free premium food-storage canisters, measuring spoon set, a chalkboard marker & bonus reusable...
- Solid seal - These tall containers come with side-locking lids that ensure maximum freshness and prolonged food storage by sealing tightly. They will...
- Versatile containers - many great uses: These air-tight food-safe keepers are ideal for storing dry foods such as flour, sugar, rice, grain, chips,...
Last update on 2024-09-07 at 20:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
So far, we have seen different types of food storage containers that you can use to keep the bugs out. However, almost all of them are relatively small.
This pack of two extra-large food containers may be just the right thing for you if you are interested in storing large amounts of dried food, grains, legumes, pasta, nuts, etc.
Each container has a capacity of 175 oz and comes with a lid that provides an excellent seal. This means bug-free and moisture-free food.
There are two reusable chalkboard labels that you can use.
The plastic is BPA-free and transparent, which is going to allow you to easily see what is inside the containers and keep an eye on the condition of the food.
How to Choose the Best Food Storage Containers to Keep the Bugs Out?
The Lid
The first thing you need to look for is a lid that fits nice and tightly. Loose lids are just inviting the bugs to come and eat some of the tasty food inside.
And this is where we can stumble upon a lot of problems.
Usually, the lids of food storage containers are made from soft plastic that can bend and warp with time. Covering hot or warm food, microwaving, refrigerating, or even direct sunlight is enough sometimes to warp the lid of your food storage container.
When the lid is warped in some way, shape, or form, this means that it will not fit tightly, and somewhere along the edges, there will be just enough space for bugs to crawl into the food container.
Avoid using soft rubber or plastic lids that are not rated to withstand higher temperatures.
The Materials
Plastic is usually considered good, but that depends.
The best materials to keep insects out are going to be glass, metal, and hard plastic.
Conversely, plastic may not be able to stop every kind of bugs. For example, some termites can eat through hard plastic and even billiard balls.
The Size
You need food storage containers that will be just the right size.
The food that will be stored in the containers needs to fit nice and tight and allow the lid to be closed tightly.
See-through
The next thing that you want is food containers that have clear sides. Anything opaque or colored will limit your ability to see what is inside.
A clear food container can often be underestimated. Still, they allow you to inspect the food inside and its condition without having to open the lid, thus lowering the risk of any bugs getting inside it.
The Number of Containers
Many people frequently wonder how many food storage containers they will need.
The rule of thumb states that you need just enough food containers so that you can frequently rotate them. The right number of food containers will allow you to store amounts of food that are tailored to your needs.
You want to be able to eat the food without it spoiling inside.
Easy to Clean
Many food containers may have tiny ledges and corners around the bottom or the top where the lid fits. These small crevices and angles often are very hard to clean, and this leads to food and dirt accumulation over time.
All this means that there is a higher risk of bugs being attracted to the food inside.
What Kind of Bugs Can Get in Your Food Storage Containers?
Ants
Where there’s one ant, there’s more.
And things can escalate pretty quickly with these little guys. You can lose a lot of food to ants as they can chew through a lot of things in order to get to it.
Worst of all, they are so small that sometimes they may be hard even to spot, let alone keep them out of your stored food.
Moths
Indian meal moths and meal moths are one of the most common types of bugs that infest stored foods.
These are relatively small brown, gray, or tan moths. The larvae are usually white with yellowish shades or small blackheads. They can be found in stored goods like grains, flour, seeds, and other food products.
The moths themselves do not stay in the food and frequently can be seen flying around the room where the food is stored.
Weevils
Weevils are another common type of bugs that can infest stored food. The two most common types of weevils are the bean weevil and the granary weevil.
They are usually tiny and infest different foods like grains, dried fruits, nuts, flour, and more.
Beetles
There is a wide variety of different beetles that can infest stored food like grain beetles, flour beetles, cigarette beetles, and more.
These can feed on dried food, spices, paper, tobacco, nuts, cereals, pasta, flour, dried fruits, and pretty much anything you can think of.
How to Makes Sure Your Food Containers Stay Bug-Free
Clean Environment
Make sure to keep your pantry, fridge, and any rooms and areas where food is stored clean.
Many small bugs, ants, and pantry moths can survive surprisingly long periods of time on tiny amounts of food that got stuck in corners, cracks, and under cabinets and appliances.
Clean your pantry, cabinets, fridge, and any other areas where you frequently store food with a solution of soapy water and vinegar. Make sure to vacuum the different cracks where food may have stuck.
This will help you remove any small bugs that may be hiding in different areas.
Do not leave any crumbs, spills, leftovers, or parts of food in the open.
Proper Storage
Make sure not to leave any food containers open when there is food in them.
Use only airtight containers that are sure to stay sealed. That way, not only will your food be stored safely away from all the bugs, but it will also remain fresh for longer.
If you have noticed any cracks or damage on your food containers, either repurpose them or replace them with new ones.
Many small bugs and insects can get inside the containers through the cracks.
Inspect Your Groceries
Frequently the problem comes not from within your home but from outside in the form of already infested foods that you bring from the store.
Make sure always to inspect the foods you buy from the store for any signs of damaged sealing or packaging and any bugs, webs, larvae, and eggs.
Usually, buying food (lentils, rice, beans, etc.) in bulk is one of the ways that we can get bugs into our pantry without even realizing it.
Food Quantity
Keep only food that you will consume within 1 to 4 months. Storing dry food in your pantry for long periods of time is a sure-fire way to attract bugs.
Make a Good Use of the Freezer
Freezing your food is one of the best ways to keep bugs out of it.
This can be done with almost any dried food.
Before you store it in your pantry, freeze it for 3 to 4 days. This way, you will be able to destroy any bugs, insects larvae, or eggs that may be in the food.
Resources I Used:
- https://www.azpest.com/bug-blog/termites-can-eat-plastic-pipes-billiard-balls/
- https://www.modernpest.com/blog/prevent-pesky-pantry-pests/
- https://extension.umn.edu/product-and-houseplant-pests/pantry-pests-insects-found-stored-food#weevils-55712
- https://njaes.rutgers.edu/food-safety/bugs-in-my-cereal.php
- https://www.sandmeyersteel.com/410-stainless-steel-cutlery.html
- https://ask.extension.org/questions/362306