How to Store Plastic Containers

To store plastic containers efficiently, start by sorting, nesting, and drying each piece before packing them away. Clean, organized containers are easy to find and keep their shape over time.

Clean and Sort

Wash all containers and lids with warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly. Match each lid with its base to make sure you’re not storing stray pieces. If a container is cracked or stained, recycle or discard it.

Nest and Stack

Save space by nesting containers inside one another from largest to smallest. Stack matching lids vertically in a small bin or envelope-style holder. This keeps everything neat and prevents the all-too-common “lid avalanche.”

Choose the Right Bins

Use clear plastic bins with loose-fitting lids to allow airflow. Line the bottom with a clean towel to cushion the containers. Label each bin clearly — for example, “Meal Prep Containers” or “Holiday Storage Boxes.”

Store in Your Unit

Place bins on shelves rather than directly on the floor. Keep containers away from direct sunlight or extreme heat to prevent warping. Group other kitchen items nearby for efficient access.

Check and Refresh

If you store containers long-term, check occasionally for discoloration or odors. Wash again before reuse.

Plastic containers store best when nested, labeled, and kept dry. Reserving a self-storage unit at Public Storage helps you declutter kitchen cabinets while keeping food-storage essentials ready for everyday use.

Features and amenities vary by location, facility, and unit. “Climate-controlled” and related terms (such as air-conditioned, heated, or humidistat-equipped) describe storage spaces designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels compared to non-climate-controlled units. Public Storage does not guarantee temperature or humidity ranges. Availability, features, and unit types may differ by location, facility, and unit. Please confirm with your facility whether specific climate-controlled features are available on units at that location.