What’s the ideal number of containers for small households?

Question

What’s the ideal number of containers for a small household? Find out how to have enough for meal prep without creating cabinet clutter.

Answer 1

For small households (1-2 people), a set of 10-15 containers of various sizes is usually sufficient for storing leftovers, meal prepping, and pantry organization. This provides enough flexibility without overwhelming your storage space.

Detailed Explanation:

Determining the ideal number of containers for a small household depends on several factors, including cooking frequency, meal prepping habits, and storage space. A good starting point is to consider the following:

1. Leftover Storage: Estimate how many meals you typically have leftovers from each week. Plan for at least 2-3 containers for this purpose, in sizes ranging from 1-cup to 4-cup capacity.

2. Meal Prepping: If you meal prep, consider the number of meals you prepare in advance. Allocate containers specifically for these meals, typically in single-serving sizes (around 2-cup capacity). A set of 5-7 containers might be ideal for weekly meal prep.

3. Pantry Organization: Use containers to store dry goods like rice, pasta, beans, and snacks. A few larger containers (4-cup to 8-cup capacity) can help keep your pantry organized and prevent food spoilage.

4. Freezer Storage: If you freeze food regularly, invest in freezer-safe containers. These should be durable and airtight to prevent freezer burn. A couple of containers in various sizes will be helpful.

By considering these factors, you can tailor the number and sizes of containers to your specific needs. A set of 10-15 containers provides a good balance between functionality and space efficiency for most small households.

Pro Tip:

Choose containers with clear lids and stackable designs to maximize visibility and space efficiency in your refrigerator and pantry. This makes it easier to find what you need and prevents food from being forgotten and wasted.