How to Choose the Right Mepal Storage Box for Your Kitchen and Fridge

Quick Answer

To choose the right Mepal storage box, first determine what you'll store: leftovers, meal prep, dry goods, or on-the-go portions. Then match the capacity to your portion sizes, and consider whether you need microwave, freezer, or dishwasher compatibility. For everyday fridge storage, the EasyClip set offers versatile sizes, while Cirqula bowls excel in freezer-to-microwave convenience.

When you open your fridge, a jumble of mismatched containers can turn meal prep into a frustrating puzzle. Mepal storage boxes are designed to bring order to your kitchen, but with so many sizes and styles, how do you pick the right one? This guide breaks down the key factors—capacity, material, and intended use—so you can choose a storage solution that fits your habits.

Whether you're storing leftovers for the family, packing lunches for work, or keeping dry goods fresh, there's a Mepal box that fits the job. We'll walk you through the options, share honest trade-offs, and help you make a decision you won't regret.

Assess Your Storage Needs

Before you buy, take a quick inventory of what you typically store. Do you cook large batches and need to refrigerate family-sized portions? Or do you prefer single-serve containers for grab-and-go meals? For dry goods like pasta, cereal, or tea, you'll want airtight boxes that stack neatly in a pantry or cupboard.

Think about your fridge layout too. If you have deep shelves, taller containers might work, while shallow drawers call for rectangular boxes that slide in easily. Consider whether you'll freeze meals—some plastics become brittle at low temperatures, so check that the container is freezer-safe.

• List your most common storage tasks: leftovers, meal prep, dry goods, or snacks.
• Measure your fridge and pantry space to avoid buying boxes that don't fit.
• Decide if you need stackable designs to maximize vertical space.

Understand Mepal Container Sizes and Capacities

Mepal offers a range of capacities to suit different needs. Small containers (around 350-750 ml) are perfect for single portions, baby food, or snacks. Medium sizes (around 1100-1500 ml) work well for lunch portions or side dishes. Large containers (2000 ml and above) handle family meals, big salads, or bulk storage.

For example, the EasyClip set includes two 700 ml containers and one 1500 ml container, giving you flexibility for both single and shared portions. The Cirqula set offers 350, 750, and 1250 ml sizes, ideal for leftovers or small snacks. If you often store soup or large salads, the Multi bowl Cirqula 2250 ml is a roomy option.

When comparing sizes, think about what you'll actually put inside. A 700 ml box holds about two cups, which is a generous single serving of pasta or salad. A 1500 ml container suits a family side dish or a hearty lunch for one. For meal prep, you might want several medium boxes to portion out weekly lunches.

• 700 ml: single servings, snacks, baby food.
• 1100-1500 ml: lunch portions, side dishes, small leftovers.
• 2000 ml and up: family meals, bulk storage, big salads.

Consider Material and Maintenance

Mepal containers are made from durable, food-safe plastic that's designed to withstand daily use. Some are suitable for the microwave, freezer, and dishwasher, which makes cleaning and reheating convenient. However, not all lids are microwave-safe, so always check the product details.

If you plan to reheat leftovers directly in the container, look for models that are explicitly microwave-safe. For freezing, ensure the container can handle low temperatures without cracking. Dishwasher-safe options save time, but hand washing may extend the life of silicone seals.

Another consideration is transparency: clear containers let you see contents at a glance, reducing food waste. Some Mepal boxes feature transparent windows or are fully clear, making it easier to identify what's inside.

• Check for microwave-safe markings on the base and lid.
• If freezing, confirm the container is freezer-safe to avoid brittleness.
• For easy cleanup, choose dishwasher-safe models, but hand wash lids to preserve seals.

Compare Popular Mepal Storage Lines

Mepal's storage lineup includes the EasyClip, Omnia, and Cirqula ranges, each with distinct strengths. The EasyClip containers feature a simple clip system for a secure seal, making them great for liquids or on-the-go. The Omnia boxes are known for their airtight design, keeping dry goods fresh. Cirqula bowls are versatile, with a focus on freezer-to-microwave convenience.

When choosing between lines, think about your primary use. If you often carry food to work or picnics, the EasyClip's leak-resistant clips might be your best bet. For pantry organization, Omnia's airtight seal prevents moisture from ruining cereals or pasta. Cirqula's stackable bowls are ideal for fridge storage and quick reheating.

Each line offers different capacities and colors, so you can match your kitchen decor or personal style. Nordic colors like black, white, sage, and blue add a modern touch to your shelves.

• EasyClip: secure clips, good for liquids and travel.
• Omnia: airtight seal, perfect for dry goods.
• Cirqula: versatile bowls, freezer and microwave safe.

Decision Rules for Choosing a Mepal Storage Box

• Rule 1: Match capacity to portion size: For single servings or snacks, choose 350-750 ml. For lunch or side dishes, go with 1100-1500 ml. For family meals or bulk storage, opt for 2000 ml or larger. Assess your typical portions before buying to avoid wasting space or running out of room.
• Rule 2: Consider your reheating and freezing habits: If you frequently reheat leftovers, ensure the container is microwave-safe. If you freeze meals, check that it's freezer-safe. Cirqula bowls are designed for both. Choose a container that fits your lifestyle to save time and avoid damage.
• Rule 3: Think about what you store most: For dry goods like pasta or cereal, prioritize airtight containers like the Omnia line. For liquids or on-the-go meals, consider EasyClip's secure clips. For versatile fridge storage, Cirqula bowls are a solid choice. Match the container type to your primary storage need for maximum convenience.

Mepal Storage Boxes at a Glance

• EasyClip set food storage container 3 pcs (2x700 ml + 1500 ml) - Nordic black: The three-piece EasyClip food storage set is perfect for keeping your favourite salads, flavourful pastas and tasty leftovers fresh. The set includes two containers with a capacity of 700 ml each and one container of 1500 ml. This set gives you two single-serving boxes and one larger container, making it a versatile starter kit for meal prep and leftovers.
• Omnia storage boxes set 3 pcs 700, 1100, 2000 ml - Nordic white: Airtight and stylishly organised: The high-quality 3-piece storage container set in various sizes keeps tea, pasta, muesli, or snacks reliably fresh. The airtight seal is crucial for dry goods, keeping them crunchy and fresh for longer. The range of sizes suits pantry staples and larger batches.
• Multi bowl Cirqula 2250 ml / 76 oz - Nordic sage: Multi bowl Cirqula 2250 ml / 76 oz. This bowl has a capacity of 2250 ml / 76 oz and is perfect for storing or taking large portions of soup, meat or meal size salads. If you often cook big batches of soup or salad, this large bowl lets you store and serve directly, saving on extra dishes.
• Multi bowl Cirqula rectangular 1500 ml / 50.7 oz - Nordic blue: This multi bowl Cirqula rectangular has a capacity of 1500 ml / 50.7 oz and is a fantastic all-rounder in the kitchen. The bowl is suitable for the freezer, microwave, and dishwasher will look stylish on any table. All in one! This rectangular bowl offers versatility: freeze leftovers, microwave them straight away, and then pop it in the dishwasher—all with a stylish look.

Best Fit for Your Needs

Best for

• Meal preppers who need multiple sizes for portion control
• Families that store leftovers and dry goods in bulk
• People who want microwave and freezer-safe containers for convenience

Not for

• Those who prefer glass containers for oven use or long-term storage without plastic
• People needing ultra-compact containers for tiny fridge spaces

Choosing the right Mepal storage box comes down to your cooking and eating habits. By evaluating portion sizes, storage needs, and how you reheat or freeze, you can pick containers that truly work for you. With a range of sizes and styles, Mepal offers a practical solution for every kitchen, helping you keep food fresh and organized.