Not every plastic container belongs near your food. Here is how to tell the safe ones apart, in plain language.
The short answer
Look for containers marked food grade or BPA free, and check the recycling number moulded into the base:
- 2 (HDPE) — safe. Milk bottles, tough storage tubs.
- 4 (LDPE) — safe. Squeeze bottles, flexible lids.
- 5 (PP, polypropylene) — safe, and the best all-rounder. Most quality food containers, lunch boxes and microwave-safe tubs are PP.
- 1 (PET) — safe for single use, such as cold drink bottles. Not made for repeated washing or heat.
- 3, 6 and 7 — avoid for food storage.
If you remember one thing: number 5 (PP) is the one you want for everyday food storage.
Microwave, freezer and dishwasher
- Microwave: only use containers marked microwave safe. Remove or vent the lid so steam can escape.
- Freezer: leave a finger of space at the top; food expands as it freezes.
- Dishwasher: top rack only. The bottom rack sits closest to the element and warps lids, which is what causes leaks later.
When to replace a container
Retire it when you see deep scratches, cloudiness that will not wash out, a lid that no longer clicks shut, or staining and smells that stay after washing. Scratches hold bacteria and a lid that does not seal is the main reason food spoils early.
Practical buying tips
- Buy a set with one lid size across several bowls — fewer orphan lids.
- Clear sides beat solid ones. You eat what you can see.
- Square containers fit more into a fridge or freezer than round ones.
- For dry goods (flour, rice, cereal), choose an airtight canister rather than a click-lid tub.
- Glass suits reheating and oven use; plastic suits lunch boxes and anything carried.
Shop the range
- Storage & Organisation — everyday tubs, canisters and organisers
- Storage Boxes — bigger boxes for pantry and bulk
- Lunch Boxes — school and work
- Glass Containers — for reheating and oven use
All prices are in South African Rand. Pop into any Crazy Plastics store to feel the quality before you buy.