9 of the best storage pots for baby food 2024

WHAT ARE BABY FOOD POTS USEFUL?

Baby food storage pots are small baby portion-sized containers. They are useful for storing food in individual portions after time-saving batch cooking as baby food shouldn’t be reheated more than once. And small portions are also good as unfinished baby food should be thrown away because of possible bacteria from your baby’s mouth.

They are not just for purées. They can be used for a variety of meal types and also for snacks, so could have a life beyond the weaning stage.

See also freezer trays and reusable pouches.

How do you use baby food pots?

If you are batch cooking, baby food can be transferred to the pots and kept in the fridge for up to two days (although refrigerated rice should be eaten within 24 hours). Frozen fruit or vegetable purées can be frozen for up to six months. When freezing don’t fill the pots right to the top as the food expands slightly.

Before storing the food, cool it down as quickly as possible, ideally within 1-2 hours. The NHS recommends running it under a cold tap whilst in a sealed container. Defrost in the fridge or on the defrost setting of a microwave. Defrosted food should be eaten within 24 hours.

When reheating, make sure the food is piping hot to eliminate any bacteria and then leave it to cool to the right temperature for your baby.

What features should I look out for?

Material: Baby food storage pots are usually plastic or glass. Glass can be a bit more expensive but it’s more eco-friendly and may last longer. It’s also more stain-resistant and won’t warp or absorb smells. Look out for borosilicate glass which is stronger, less likely to break and is better able to withstand extremes of temperature. Baby food plastic pots should always be BPA-free.

Capacity: In the early stages of weaning only small portions of around 60 - 75ml will be needed but bigger pots will last longer in the baby and toddler feeding journey.

Measurement markings: Some pots have a measurement level up the side so you can keep better track of what your baby is eating. These are usually in ml but some are in ml and oz.

Lids: If you might ever take the pots out with you get leakproof ones. Attached lids can be handy if you always find yourself losing the lids of containers.

Storage: If you want a tidy cupboard/fridge/freezer, pots that are stackable are best. Some also have sides and/or lids that click together to keep everything very organised.

Labelling: A space and surface for labelling are very useful for recording the contents and use by date. Transparent pots are also good for being able to easily and quickly see what’s inside.

Freezer safe: You will be able to keep baby food for a lot longer in the freezer so check to see if the pots can be frozen.

Dishwasher safe: Most pots are fine for the dishwasher but double-check if you don’t want to be hand washing them.

Microwave safe: Microwaves can be convenient for defrosting and reheating.

Steriliser safe: If your baby is six months or older it’s not necessary to sterilise baby food storage pots and containers but if this is your preference, look to see if they can go in your steriliser.

WHICH ARE THE BEST BABY FOOD STORAGE POTS TO BUY?

This list has been narrowed down to the very best with thorough research and the following considered:

• Consumer reviews

• Best-seller lists 

• Recommendations from industry experts

• Award-winning products

• Personal experience and the products loved by other parents.

The list is updated annually. It was last updated on 4 February 2024. 

If you buy through a link, we may earn a small affiliate commission. 5% of profits are donated to UK Baby Banks to help parents in need of essentials.