History

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  Food and water have been stored in almost every imaginable sort of container at one time or another. Haggis in a sheep stomach anyone? A wineskin really was a skin. Large tropical leaves still make good plates. Glass bottles, jars and glasses have been around for millennia. Wood, clay, stone, baskets of grass or reeds, leather, various metals and more recently, a plethora of plastics have been used to store food and water.
  
  

Types

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  Your choices for storing food and water are virtually endless. While sheep stomachs and wineskins are no longer commonly offered for sale, a container to meet your specific need is undoubtedly on the market. An explosion of attractive options in plastic, glass and bamboo containers means that most stores have an extensive variety of styles, sizes and materials. Increased offerings in glass and metals are available for those wary of plastics.
  
  

Considerations

• What factors go into your decisions about storage containers? You can choose according to beauty, durability, safety or environmental impact. Disposable containers are touted for their convenience, and some are claimed to biodegrade quickly when thrown away. Other containers are recommended because they are reusable. Containers that are spill-proof or unbreakable are often suggested for children. If space is limited, collapsible or nesting containers are available. If you're traveling, you can choose lightweight water jugs and dishes to save on weight and space.
  
  

Warnings

• It is critical to consider the safety of your food and water. Not all containers are suitable for food storage. Check the bottom of ceramic and clay dishes for a stamp saying they are or are not safe for use with food. Some plastics should not be reused for food or water storage, or used at all in the microwave. A chart of safe and unsafe plastics is available at The Green Guide in the resources below.
  
  

Recommendations

• Decide what your food and water storage needs are. Do a little research on recommended materials and brands. Browse the aisles at your local store to find what you need. Check the item for safety labels or warning statements. Learn the best way to clean the items you choose to keep them free from bacteria and odors. Use common sense and err on the side of caution, especially when you'll be storing food and water for your little ones.