Complete Set Composition & Inventory

The 20-piece designation encompasses individual containers and lids across multiple geometric configurations. Understanding the complete inventory assists in determining set suitability for specific household storage requirements.

Container Type Distribution

The set divides into three distinct container categories based on shape and intended use:

Rectangular Containers: Six containers in four different capacity sizes, providing geometry suited for refrigerator shelf organisation and space-efficient stacking.

Round Containers: Eight containers across four capacity sizes, offering shape advantages for certain food types and microwave heating patterns.

Sauce Cups: Six small-capacity round containers in two sizes, designed for condiments, dressings, and portion-controlled servings.

Detailed Quantity Breakdown

Rectangular Container Inventory

• 1 × 50.7 fl oz (1,500ml) capacity container
• 1 × 33.8 fl oz (1,000ml) capacity container
• 2 × 16.9 fl oz (500ml) capacity containers
• 2 × 8.1 fl oz (240ml) capacity containers

Subtotal: 6 rectangular containers with matching lids

Round Container Inventory

• 2 × 40.6 fl oz (1,200ml) capacity containers
• 2 × 23.7 fl oz (700ml) capacity containers
• 2 × 13.5 fl oz (400ml) capacity containers
• 2 × 6.1 fl oz (180ml) capacity containers

Subtotal: 8 round containers with matching lids

Sauce Cup Inventory

• 3 × 2 fl oz (60ml) capacity sauce cups
• 3 × 1 fl oz (30ml) capacity sauce cups

Subtotal: 6 sauce cups with matching lids

Total Set Component Count

When counting individual pieces including both containers and lids:

• 20 container bodies (6 rectangular + 8 round + 6 sauce cups)
• 20 matching lids (each container receives dedicated lid)

Total: 40 individual pieces (20 containers + 20 lids = advertised “20-piece set” counting container-lid pairs as single units)

Capacity Range Coverage

The set provides storage solutions spanning 1 fl oz (30ml) to 50.7 fl oz (1,500ml), representing approximately 50:1 capacity ratio between smallest and largest containers. This range addresses diverse storage scenarios from individual condiment portions to family-sized meal components.

Material Construction & Safety Standards

Food storage containers require materials that maintain structural integrity across temperature extremes whilst preventing chemical migration into stored foods. Understanding material specifications clarifies safety compliance and performance expectations.

Primary Container Material

The manufacturer specifies “upgraded food-grade materials” without identifying the exact polymer type. Based on industry standards for food storage containers claiming microwave, dishwasher, and freezer compatibility, likely materials include:

Polypropylene (PP): The most common material for food storage containers due to high heat resistance (microwave safe), chemical stability (no flavour transfer), and impact resistance. PP containers withstand temperature ranges from -20°C (freezer) to 120°C+ (microwave/dishwasher).

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE): Less common for reusable containers but occasionally used for its clarity and lightweight properties. Lower heat tolerance than PP limits microwave temperatures.

Tritan Copolyester: Premium BPA-free plastic offering exceptional clarity, durability, and heat resistance, though typically used in higher-priced product lines.

Without manufacturer confirmation of specific polymer designation, polypropylene represents the most probable material given the claimed temperature compatibility and BPA-free status.

BPA-Free Certification

The manufacturer emphasises BPA-free construction addressing health concerns about bisphenol A, an industrial chemical used in some plastics. BPA has raised questions regarding potential hormone disruption effects, leading many manufacturers to reformulate products using alternative plasticisers.

BPA-free designation means the plastic formulation excludes bisphenol A compounds, typically substituting alternative materials like:

• Bisphenol S (BPS) or bisphenol F (BPF) – structurally similar alternatives with ongoing health research
• Completely different polymer families like polypropylene that never required BPA in manufacturing

Polypropylene, if used in these containers, inherently contains no BPA as its chemical structure differs fundamentally from polycarbonate plastics where BPA occurs.

Silicone Sealing Ring Material

The airtight sealing system employs silicone rings integrated into lid designs. Food-grade silicone provides several advantages for sealing applications:

• Temperature Stability: Maintains flexibility and sealing properties across freezer to microwave temperature ranges (-40°C to +230°C typically)
• Chemical Inertness: Does not react with acidic foods, oils, or strong-flavoured items that might degrade rubber gaskets
• Compression Set Resistance: Returns to original shape after compression, maintaining seal integrity through repeated use
• Odour Resistance: Does not absorb food odours with proper cleaning
• Durability: Resists cracking, hardening, or deterioration that affects rubber seals over time

Food Contact Safety Standards

Food contact materials in the UK must comply with retained EU legislation including:

Framework Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004: Establishes general requirements that materials shall not transfer constituents to food in quantities that could endanger human health or cause unacceptable changes in food composition.

Plastics Regulation (EU) No 10/2011: Specifies migration limits for plastic materials and articles intended for food contact, defining authorised substances and testing methodologies.

Products marketed in the UK should demonstrate compliance through migration testing showing substances transferring from plastic to food remain within established safety limits. Manufacturer documentation does not reference specific compliance certificates, though “food-grade” designation implies intended conformity with applicable regulations.

Container Shape Analysis: Rectangular vs Round

The set’s inclusion of both rectangular and round containers addresses different storage optimisation priorities. Understanding geometric advantages assists in container selection for specific storage scenarios.

Rectangular Container Advantages

Space Efficiency: Rectangular geometry maximises refrigerator shelf utilisation by eliminating gaps between containers. Multiple rectangular containers nest tightly together, utilising available space more completely than round containers that create interstitial voids.

Shelf Compatibility: Rectangular shapes align with standard refrigerator shelf dimensions, allowing containers to span shelf width efficiently. The straight edges facilitate organised rows and columns for systematic storage.

Drawer Organisation: Refrigerator drawers typically feature rectangular compartments. Rectangular containers align with drawer geometry, preventing rolling or shifting during drawer operation.

Stacking Stability: Flat rectangular surfaces create stable stacking platforms, reducing tipping risks when multiple containers stack vertically.

Round Container Advantages

Microwave Performance: Round shapes promote more even microwave heating by eliminating corners where electromagnetic energy can concentrate. This geometry reduces hot spots and cold zones during reheating.

Mixing and Serving: Curved interior surfaces facilitate thorough mixing of contents and easier serving with spoons or ladles, as implements can reach all interior surfaces without corner accumulation.

Cleaning Accessibility: The absence of corners simplifies cleaning, as food residue cannot accumulate in angular crevices. Rounded interiors allow sponges and brushes to reach all surfaces easily.

Lid Sealing: Circular lid perimeters create uniform sealing pressure around the entire circumference, potentially offering more consistent airtight performance than rectangular designs where corner sealing can create challenges.

Optimal Container Selection by Storage Priority

Users prioritising different storage objectives may favour particular container shapes:

Maximum Space Utilisation: Rectangular containers for refrigerator shelf and drawer organisation where fitting maximum food quantity into available space takes priority.

Reheating Performance: Round containers for foods requiring microwave reheating where even temperature distribution matters for food quality and safety.

Liquid Storage: Round containers for soups, stews, and liquid-heavy dishes where easier pouring and reduced corner pooling provide advantages.

Sandwich and Flat Items: Rectangular containers for items like sandwiches, pizza slices, or layered salads where shape complements food geometry.

Dual-Shape Set Strategy

Including both geometries within a single set provides flexibility for diverse household storage needs without requiring separate purchases. Users can select appropriate shapes for specific foods whilst maintaining visual cohesion through matching lid styles and material finishes.

Capacity Specifications & Volume Breakdown

Container capacity determines suitability for specific portion sizes and food types. The set’s graduated sizing system addresses varying household storage requirements from individual condiment portions to family-sized meal components.

Large Capacity Containers (1,000ml+)

The set includes three containers exceeding one litre capacity:

• 50.7 fl oz / 1,500ml Rectangular: Largest capacity suited for bulk meal preparation, family salads, or batch cooking storage. Dimensions accommodate approximately 6-8 individual meal portions depending on dish density.
• 33.8 fl oz / 1,000ml Rectangular: Family portion sizing for prepared meals, vegetable storage, or medium batch cooking. Holds approximately 4-6 individual servings.
• 40.6 fl oz / 1,200ml Round (×2): Twin large-capacity round containers ideal for soups, stews, casseroles, or cereals. Volume accommodates approximately 5-7 servings of liquid-based dishes.

These large containers suit households practising meal prep, batch cooking, or managing family-sized food quantities.

Medium Capacity Containers (400-700ml)

Four containers provide mid-range capacities balancing portion size with refrigerator space consumption:

• 23.7 fl oz / 700ml Round (×2): Individual to double serving sizes for rice, pasta, grain dishes, or single-person meal portions. Suitable for lunch preparation or side dish storage.
• 16.9 fl oz / 500ml Rectangular (×2): Standard individual meal portion size accommodating main course servings, sandwich assemblies, or substantial snack quantities.
• 13.5 fl oz / 400ml Round (×2): Smaller individual portions for side dishes, snacks, dips, or children’s meal servings.

Medium containers address individual meal prep, packed lunch preparation, and everyday leftover storage.

Small Capacity Containers (180-240ml)

The smallest full-sized containers provide compact storage for minor food quantities:

• 8.1 fl oz / 240ml Rectangular (×2): Snack-sized portions, sandwich components (cheese slices, deli meat), cut fruits, or small leftover quantities.
• 6.1 fl oz / 180ml Round (×2): Condiment storage, nuts, dried fruits, baby food portions, or supplement organisation.

Sauce Cup Capacities (30-60ml)

Six dedicated sauce cups provide minimal volumes for highly concentrated foods or condiments:

• 2 fl oz / 60ml Sauce Cups (×3): Salad dressing portions, dipping sauces, liquid supplements, or medication dosing.
• 1 fl oz / 30ml Sauce Cups (×3): Individual condiment servings, spice portions, vitamin supplements, or travel-sized personal care products.

These micro-containers suit portion-controlled diets, packed lunch assembly, or preventing cross-contamination between strongly flavoured condiments.

Measurement System Considerations

The manufacturer provides capacities in US fluid ounces. UK users may find metric millilitre measurements more intuitive for kitchen use. Key conversions:

• 1 US fluid ounce = approximately 29.57ml
• UK fluid ounce = 28.41ml (slightly smaller, creating minor measurement discrepancies)
• Metric measurements eliminate conversion requirements for recipe following

Four-Lock Lid Mechanism Design

The containers employ four-point locking lid systems creating mechanical seals around container perimeters. Understanding lock mechanism operation clarifies sealing performance and usage requirements.

Four-Lock Configuration

Four-lock systems position individual latches at 90-degree intervals around rectangular container perimeters or approximately equidistant spacing around circular containers. This quad-point design distributes sealing pressure more evenly than two-lock systems that can create weak sealing zones between latch points.

Each lock typically consists of:

• Latch Tab: Flexible plastic extension attached to lid perimeter
• Catch Point: Raised feature on container body that locks engage
• Hinge Point: Flexible region allowing latch to bend during engagement
• Release Tab: Graspable portion facilitating lock disengagement

Locking Operation Sequence

Proper lid sealing requires methodical lock engagement:

1. Lid Positioning: Align lid onto container opening ensuring silicone seal contacts container rim uniformly
2. Sequential Engagement: Close opposing locks first (lock 1 and 3, then lock 2 and 4) to distribute pressure evenly across seal perimeter
3. Firm Pressing: Apply downward pressure on lid centre whilst engaging locks to compress silicone seal against container rim
4. Audible Confirmation: Properly engaged locks typically produce audible click indicating latch has seated behind catch point

Simultaneous lock engagement without opposing-pairs sequence may create uneven seal compression, potentially compromising airtight performance.

Enhanced Lock Design Features

The manufacturer claims “4 enhanced rounded lock mechanisms for ergonomic use,” suggesting design refinements beyond basic latch systems:

Rounded Edges: Smooth contours on latch tabs reduce sharp edges that might cause discomfort during repeated opening/closing cycles or create stress concentration points leading to cracking.

Ergonomic Gripping: Shaped release tabs facilitate easier grasping and leverage application during lock disengagement, particularly important when hands are wet or oily during food preparation.

Reinforced Hinge Points: Thickened material at flex zones extends latch lifespan by distributing bending stress across larger cross-sections, reducing fatigue failure risks.

Lock Mechanism Durability

Four-lock systems experience repeated flexing stress with each opening and closing cycle. Durability depends on several factors:

Material Selection: Polypropylene offers excellent flex fatigue resistance, withstanding thousands of cycles before potential cracking. Lower-quality plastics may become brittle after extended use, particularly if subjected to dishwasher heat cycles.

Temperature Cycling: Freezer-to-microwave transitions create thermal expansion and contraction stresses. Quality materials maintain flexibility across temperature ranges without becoming brittle when cold or too soft when heated.

User Technique: Forcing locks without proper lid alignment creates excess stress. Gentle, aligned engagement extends lock lifespan compared to aggressive forcing.

Airtight Sealing Technology & Silicone Rings

Airtight sealing prevents moisture loss, odour transfer, and oxygen exposure that accelerates food degradation. The sealing system combines mechanical lock pressure with silicone gasket compression to create barrier properties.

Silicone Seal Configuration

The containers employ silicone sealing rings, likely configured as:

Lid-Integrated Seals: Silicone ring moulded into or attached to lid underside, creating raised gasket that compresses against container rim when locks engage.

Container Rim Seals: Less common configuration where silicone ring sits atop container opening, with lid pressing downward to compress seal.

Lid-integrated designs (more common) offer advantages including seal retention during lid storage and elimination of separate seal components that might become lost.

Seal Compression Mechanism

Airtight sealing requires sufficient compression force to deform the silicone gasket, filling microscopic gaps between lid and container surfaces:

Lock Engagement Force: The four-lock system generates downward pressure on lid perimeter. As locks engage, they pull lid edges toward container body, compressing the silicone seal between lid and rim surfaces.

Gasket Deformation: Silicone’s elasticity allows compression whilst maintaining recovery properties. Compressed seal fills surface irregularities, creating continuous contact around entire perimeter.

Pressure Distribution: Four-lock configuration distributes compression force more uniformly than two-lock systems, potentially creating more consistent seal across entire rim.

Airtight Performance Factors

Several variables influence actual airtight effectiveness:

Rim Surface Condition: Scratches, warping, or food residue on container rims create gaps the silicone seal cannot completely fill. Clean, undamaged rims ensure optimal seal contact.

Seal Cleanliness: Food particles, oils, or soap residue on silicone seals reduce compression effectiveness. Regular seal cleaning maintains performance.

Lock Engagement Completeness: Partially engaged locks provide insufficient compression force. All four locks must fully engage for specification-level airtight performance.

Temperature Effects: Silicone maintains sealing properties across temperature ranges, though extreme cold may slightly stiffen material. Seals typically perform well from freezer to room temperature.

Odour Transfer Prevention

The manufacturer emphasises seal effectiveness for preventing refrigerator odour transfer. Airtight seals create barriers preventing volatile aromatic compounds from migrating between containers or into refrigerator air space.

This isolation proves particularly important for:

• Strongly flavoured foods (onions, garlic, fish) that might impart odours to other items
• Delicate foods (milk, butter, fresh fruits) that might absorb external odours
• Maintaining distinct flavour profiles in meal prep containers stored together

Leak-Proof Performance & Testing Considerations

The manufacturer claims “100% leak proof” performance, a specification requiring examination of testing contexts and real-world application scenarios.

Leak-Proof Definition

Leak-proof performance means containers prevent liquid escape when properly sealed, even under physical agitation or inverted positions. This characteristic depends on seal integrity creating barriers against liquid migration through lid-container interfaces.

Manufacturer Testing Context

The “100% leak proof” claim likely derives from controlled testing under specific conditions:

Static Testing: Sealed containers filled with water, inverted, and observed for liquid escape over defined time periods whilst stationary.

Agitation Testing: Sealed containers subjected to shaking or tumbling motions simulating transportation conditions, then inspected for leakage.

Pressure Testing: Containers placed in various orientations under slight external pressure to verify seal integrity under compression.

Testing typically occurs with new containers, properly engaged locks, and appropriate fill levels (not overfilled beyond capacity).

Real-World Leak Performance Variables

Actual leak resistance in daily use depends on several factors beyond manufacturer control:

Proper Lock Engagement: All four locks must fully engage to create specification-level seal compression. Incomplete latching creates leak pathways.

Fill Level: Overfilling containers beyond stated capacity may prevent proper lid seating. Maintaining fill levels below rim ensures lid-seal contact with container surfaces.

Rim Condition: Warping from microwave heat, damage from dropping, or residue buildup compromises seal contact. Undamaged, clean rims maintain leak resistance.

Seal Condition: Degraded, stretched, or damaged silicone seals lose compression properties. Regular seal inspection and replacement when signs of wear appear preserves performance.

Contents Viscosity: Thin liquids (water, juice) challenge seals more than thick substances (hummus, yoghurt). Very thin liquids may find escape paths through microscopic gaps that viscous foods cannot traverse.

Appropriate Use Cases

Containers demonstrate reliable leak resistance for typical food storage scenarios:

• Refrigerator Storage: Upright positioning with minimal agitation during normal refrigerator use
• Transport in Upright Bags: Lunch bags or coolers where containers remain predominantly upright with moderate movement
• Brief Inversion: Temporary upside-down positioning during retrieval from refrigerator shelves or rearrangement

Scenarios potentially exceeding leak-proof specifications:

• Extended periods in backpacks or bags with containers sideways or inverted
• Vigorous shaking or tumbling during vehicle transport over rough roads
• Overfilling containers beyond capacity markings
• Extremely thin liquids under pressure (carbonated beverages, for example)

Stackable & Nestable Storage Design

The manufacturer emphasises stackable and nestable characteristics addressing kitchen storage space optimisation when containers sit empty or partially full.

Stackable Design Features

Stackability allows multiple filled containers to sit atop one another without tipping or lid damage:

Flat Lid Surfaces: Level lid tops create stable platforms for supporting additional containers above. Smooth surfaces prevent upper containers from shifting or sliding.

Recessed Lid Centres: Many designs incorporate slight lid depressions allowing container bases to nest partially into lids below, creating interlocking stability that resists lateral movement.

Non-Slip Bottom Features: The manufacturer mentions “durable non-slip bottoms,” suggesting textured or raised features on container bases that increase friction against lid surfaces below, preventing sliding in stacked configurations.

Vertical Alignment: Containers of identical size stack with aligned footprints, creating stable vertical columns. Mixed-size stacking (smaller containers atop larger) remains possible though requires care to centre weight appropriately.

Nestable Storage Configuration

Nestability allows empty containers to stack inside one another, dramatically reducing storage footprint when containers sit unused:

Tapered Sidewalls: Containers with slight outward taper from bottom to top allow smaller containers to nest inside larger ones. The taper angle must balance nestability (steeper tapers nest more compactly) against interior space efficiency (vertical walls maximise storage volume).

Size Graduation: The set’s varied capacity sizing creates nesting sequences where progressively smaller containers stack inside larger ones. For example, the smallest rectangular containers might nest inside medium, which nest inside large.

Lid Stacking: Lids typically stack separately from container bodies. Flat lids with consistent design stack efficiently into compact piles occupying minimal vertical space.

Space Saving Calculations

Nestable storage provides significant space advantages compared to storing all containers separately:

Separate Storage: 20 containers stored individually occupy volume equal to sum of all individual container volumes plus spacing between each.

Nested Storage: Containers nested by size family (all rectangular together, all round together, all sauce cups together) occupy volume approximately equal to largest container in each family plus minimal height additions for nested smaller containers.

Space savings of 60-80% compared to separate storage represents typical nestable container set efficiency, though exact savings depend on taper angles and size distributions.

Organised Storage Strategies

Users can optimise container organisation through systematic approaches:

Shape Separation: Store rectangular, round, and sauce cup families separately for faster container selection and neater nesting.

Lid Organisation: Stack all lids together or match lids to container sizes and store with corresponding container sizes for quicker assembly during use.

Size-Based Access: Position frequently used sizes (medium capacities for daily meals) in easily accessible locations whilst storing less common sizes (very large or very small) in less convenient spaces.

Drawer vs Shelf Storage: Deep drawers accommodate nested container stacks efficiently, whilst shallow shelves may work better for single-layer organisation of frequently accessed sizes.

Temperature Range: Microwave, Freezer, Dishwasher

The manufacturer claims compatibility with microwave heating, freezer storage, and dishwasher cleaning. Understanding specific temperature capabilities and limitations assists in appropriate usage.

Microwave Compatibility

The product documentation specifies microwave safety “without the lid,” indicating important usage parameters:

Container Body Microwave Safety: The plastic material (likely polypropylene) withstands microwave heating temperatures without melting, warping, or releasing harmful substances. Standard food reheating temperatures (70-90°C internal food temperature) remain well within material capabilities.

Lid Exclusion Requirement: Lids must be removed before microwave use for several reasons:

• Pressure Buildup: Sealed containers create internal steam pressure during heating, potentially causing lid failure, container deformation, or explosive lid release when opened
• Lock Mechanism Exposure: Concentrated microwave energy near lock mechanisms may create localised hot spots degrading plastic
• Silicone Seal Protection: Whilst silicone tolerates high temperatures, excessive microwave exposure may accelerate ageing
• Venting Requirements: Foods benefit from moisture escape during reheating; sealed containers trap steam creating soggy textures

Microwave Usage Protocol:

1. Transfer refrigerated container to room temperature briefly to reduce thermal shock
2. Remove lid completely before microwave placement
3. Use microwave-safe cover (paper towel, microwave cover) if splatter protection desired
4. Heat in intervals, stirring between heating cycles for temperature distribution
5. Allow standing time after heating before handling (containers become hot through food contact)
6. Replace lid only after contents cool to safe handling temperature if storing reheated food

Freezer Compatibility

Freezer-safe designation indicates materials withstand sub-zero temperatures without cracking or becoming brittle:

Temperature Tolerance: Standard home freezers operate at -18°C to -20°C. Quality polypropylene maintains impact resistance and flexibility at these temperatures, unlike some plastics that become brittle when frozen.

Expansion Accommodation: Water-based foods expand during freezing (approximately 9% volume increase). Proper freezer storage requires:

• Leave headspace (2-3cm) in containers when freezing liquids to accommodate expansion
• Avoid completely filling containers to prevent lid bulging or seal failure
• Position containers upright during initial freezing to prevent liquid leakage before complete solidification

Freezer-to-Microwave Transitions: Allow frozen containers to thaw slightly before microwave reheating to reduce thermal shock stress. Remove lid before thawing if seal pressure develops from internal ice expansion.

Dishwasher Compatibility

Dishwasher-safe status indicates tolerance for hot water cycles and detergent exposure:

Recommended Placement: Top rack placement reduces heat exposure compared to bottom rack proximity to heating elements. Whilst containers may tolerate bottom rack temperatures, top rack positioning extends lifespan by minimising heat stress.

Temperature Considerations: Standard dishwasher cycles reach 60-65°C during wash phases and 70-80°C+ during dry cycles. Quality polypropylene withstands these temperatures, though repeated extreme heat exposure may gradually reduce lock mechanism flexibility.

Detergent Compatibility: Standard dishwasher detergents do not degrade food-grade plastics, though abrasive formulations might create surface scratching over extended use affecting transparency.

Lid Component Care: Silicone seals tolerate dishwasher environments but may accumulate detergent residue in textured surfaces. Occasional hand inspection and targeted cleaning maintains seal cleanliness.

Food Storage Applications by Container Type

Understanding optimal container selection for different food types maximises set utility and food preservation effectiveness.

Large Rectangular Containers (1,000-1,500ml)

Optimal Contents:

• Large mixed salads for family meals or meal prep
• Batch-cooked grains (rice, quinoa, couscous)
• Marinating proteins (chicken pieces, tofu blocks)
• Sliced vegetables for week-long snacking
• Bulk leftovers (lasagne portions, casseroles)
• Sandwich assembly components (lettuce, tomatoes, cheese slices)

Shape Advantages: Rectangular geometry maximises refrigerator shelf utilisation and accommodates layered foods efficiently.

Large Round Containers (1,200ml)

Optimal Contents:

• Soups and stews for family servings
• Pasta with sauce for multiple portions
• Cereals and granola for breakfast storage
• Large fruit salads or cut melons
• Batch-cooked beans or legumes

Shape Advantages: Round interior facilitates thorough mixing and easier serving with ladles or large spoons. Even microwave reheating for liquid-based dishes.

Medium Rectangular Containers (500ml)

Optimal Contents:

• Individual packed lunch main courses
• Sandwich assemblies with sides
• Sliced meats and cheese for weekly use
• Prepared salads for single servings
• Snack portions (crackers, pretzels, trail mix)

Shape Advantages: Perfect for rectangular sandwich shapes and layered meal assembly. Efficient for drawer organisation.

Medium Round Containers (400-700ml)

Optimal Contents:

• Individual soup or stew portions
• Rice or grain side dish servings
• Yoghurt storage with granola toppings
• Individual pasta servings
• Overnight oats preparation
• Baby food portions for multiple meals

Shape Advantages: Single-serving sizing for portion control. Microwave-friendly geometry for reheating individual meals.

Small Containers (180-240ml)

Optimal Contents:

• Cut fruits for snacking (berries, melon chunks)
• Nuts and dried fruits in controlled portions
• Sandwich components kept separate (pickles, olives)
• Small leftover quantities
• Condiment storage (mayonnaise, mustard)
• Children’s snack portions

Shape Advantages: Compact sizing prevents food waste by matching container to actual food quantity. Easy for children to handle.

Sauce Cups (30-60ml)

Optimal Contents:

• Salad dressing portions for packed lunches
• Dipping sauces (hummus, ranch, ketchup)
• Vitamin and supplement organisation
• Spice portions for camping or travel
• Medication doses for daily tracking
• Small condiment quantities (jam, honey)

Shape Advantages: Prevents cross-contamination between strongly flavoured condiments. Portion control for calorie-dense dressings and sauces.

Maintenance, Cleaning & Longevity

Proper maintenance preserves container functionality, appearance, and food safety performance throughout extended use periods.

Initial Use Preparation

Before first use, thoroughly wash all containers and lids:

1. Remove any labels, stickers, or packaging materials
2. Wash with warm soapy water, paying attention to lock mechanisms and seal surfaces
3. Rinse thoroughly to eliminate soap residue
4. Dry completely before first food contact

This initial cleaning removes manufacturing residues and ensures food safety from first use.

Routine Cleaning Procedures

Daily Hand Washing:

• Empty containers promptly after use to prevent food residue drying and adhesion
• Wash with warm water and standard dish soap using soft sponge or cloth
• Pay particular attention to corners (rectangular containers), seal grooves, and lock mechanisms where residue accumulates
• Rinse thoroughly under running water to eliminate soap traces
• Air dry completely with lids separate from containers to ensure moisture evaporation from all surfaces

Dishwasher Cleaning:

• Place containers on top rack to minimise heat exposure
• Position containers upside-down or angled to prevent water pooling
• Separate lids from containers for thorough cleaning of all surfaces
• Use standard dishwasher detergent (avoid highly abrasive formulations)
• Allow complete drying before storage to prevent moisture retention

Deep Cleaning for Stains and Odours

Extended use with strongly coloured or aromatic foods may create staining or odour retention:

Tomato Sauce Staining: Create paste from bicarbonate of soda and water, apply to stained areas, allow 15-30 minutes contact time, scrub gently, rinse thoroughly.

Curry/Turmeric Discolouration: Fill container with warm water, add 2-3 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice, soak several hours or overnight, wash normally.

Persistent Odours: Crumple newspaper and seal inside container overnight to absorb odours, or fill with water and several tablespoons bicarbonate of soda, soak overnight, wash thoroughly.

Grease Residue: Hot water washing with degreasing dish soap. For stubborn grease, soak in hot water with dish soap before scrubbing.

Silicone Seal Maintenance

Silicone seals require specific care to maintain sealing effectiveness:

• Regular Cleaning: Remove lids and clean seal grooves specifically, as food particles accumulate in recessed areas
• Grease Removal: Oily residue on seals reduces compression effectiveness. Use degreasing soap and ensure thorough rinsing
• Inspection: Periodically examine seals for cracking, tearing, or permanent deformation indicating replacement need
• Odour Prevention: Avoid storing strongly flavoured foods for extended periods, as silicone can absorb persistent odours despite cleaning

Lock Mechanism Care

Lock longevity depends on gentle handling and cleanliness:

• Engage locks with aligned lid positioning rather than forcing misaligned assemblies
• Clean lock mechanisms periodically to prevent food residue buildup creating sticking or difficult engagement
• Avoid excessive force during lock release that might stress hinge points
• Inspect locks for cracks or deformation indicating potential failure

Stain Prevention Strategies

Proactive approaches reduce cleaning requirements:

• Apply light cooking oil spray to container interior before storing tomato-based or curry dishes (creates barrier reducing staining)
• Avoid extended storage of strongly pigmented foods (transfer to alternative containers for long-term storage)
• Clean containers promptly after use rather than allowing residue to dry and set
• Store containers with lids off when not in use to prevent odour development in sealed environments

Replacement Indicators

Containers should be replaced when:

• Cracks or damage appear in container bodies creating leak pathways
• Lock mechanisms break or no longer engage securely
• Silicone seals tear, permanently deform, or lose compression properties
• Warping from heat exposure prevents proper lid seating
• Deep scratching creates surface roughness harbouring bacteria
• Persistent odours or staining resist cleaning attempts

Complete Technical Specifications

This section consolidates all technical information for reference purposes.