With the right sized boxes you can freeze portions of soups, stews and purées, and then defrost them in the microwave to produce home-made ready meals.

Plastic containers need to have snap-on airtight lids that are leak-proof even when tipped upside down. They'll seal in smells, and keep out bacteria.

Square and rectangular boxes make the most efficient use of storage space. The most useful are stackable and come in a range of modular sizes, so you can nest smaller boxes in larger boxes when not in use. They often have different coloured lids for easy identification. Some boxes have flip-up pouring lids to make pouring simple.

Large plastic boxes are handy for storing washed salad leaves and leafy herbs without risk of crushing them. Line the box with paper towel and your greenery may last for at least a week.

Plastic absorbs smells, grease and colours. Always wash your boxes thoroughly in very hot soapy water or preferably in the dishwasher. Dry them thoroughly before refilling them.

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