Neither aluminium foil nor plastic wrap is universally better than the other. Both have their benefits and the right choice depends on whether your food is hot or cold and what type of food it is. Aluminium foil is best used for keeping food hot. It is also helpful for cooking food and can be used in the oven or on a BBQ grill. Plastic wrap is best used for keeping cold food fresh with an airtight seal and storing it in a refrigerator.

The best food storage bags are ones that are made from food-safe, BPA-free materials, have secure leakproof seals and have the right thickness and durability you need for your food. Food-safe bags mean that they have no harmful chemicals like BPA, BPS or phthalates that can affect your food. Look for bags with a secure zipper-lock mechanism to keep air out and liquids in. This helps prevent freezer burn and leaks. Lastly, look for bags made from durable materials like silicone or polyethylene.

Food storage containers should be cleaned by rinsing out any leftover food, washing them thoroughly with warm water and dish soap and drying them completely before storage. If you’re washing your containers by hand, rinse with hot water, wipe away grease and food residue with a soft sponge and scrub with dish soap and warm water. You can also place them in your dishwasher to wash them. For plastic containers and lids, place them on the top rack to prevent warping and damage from the heat.

Wax paper and parchment paper are not the same and cannot be used interchangeably in an oven. Wax paper is coated on both sides with a thin layer of paraffin or soybean wax, while parchment paper is treated with a food-safe silicone coating. Wax paper is not heat-resistant and can melt at low temperatures around 200°F/ 93°C, while parchment paper is safe to use in an oven up to 450°F/232°C depending on the brand. Wax paper is best used for foods at cold or room temperature, while parchment paper is best used for hot food tasks.